Robert Edward Kearns Sr.

Robert Edward Kearns Sr. of Slinger Wis. passed away on June 19, 2021, at age 88.

Robert, aka “Bob,” was born Oct. 26, 1932.

Bob was preceded in death by his son Richard James, daughter Diana Marie, his parents Francis (Tom) and Marie Kearns, brother Commander James Kearns and sister Kathleen Schneider.

Bob spent his early years in Port Washington, Wis., and attended elementary and high school there. While in high school, he worked at several jobs learning different trades.

After graduating from Port Washington High School, Bob enlisted in the U.S. Navy, and was honorably discharged after four
years of service. He returned to Port Washington and was employed by J&H Heating, learning the heating and sheet metal trade.

On March 2, 1957, Bob married Geraldine Gundrum. They resided in Jackson, Wis., and raised seven children.

In 1958, Bob started his own business, Kearns Heating Co., serving West Bend and the surrounding areas. Bob built several duplexes and constructed the main terminal at the Hartford Airport.

Bob purchased a condo on Sanibel Island, Fla., where he frequently spent his vacation time and which he also made available for his children’s use as well.

After retiring at age 65, Bob passed the family business to his eldest son, Robert Jr. Bob then developed and ran Country Sports Golf Practice Center in Slinger, Wis., assisted by his son Brian.

Besides being busy at the center, Bob took pride in being able to financially help his children whenever they needed assistance.

Bob was content and felt he had lived a full life.

He is survived by his children, Robert, Jr. (Joan), Lynn (Scott) Christenson,  Steven, Brian, Eric (Tricia) and Michelle (Robert) Russell; 18 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews and friends.

Funeral services for Bob will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, June 29, at the Phillip Funeral Home Chapel, 1420 W. Paradise Dr., West Bend, Wis. 53095 with Pastor John Bass presiding.

Visitation will be at the funeral home on Tuesday from 11 a.m. until 12:45 p.m.

Internment will immediately follow at Washington County Memorial Cemetery where he will be laid to rest next to his two children, Richard James and Diana Marie.

Rest in peace, Bob. You are loved and greatly missed.