Robert Thompson

Dec.20, 1943 — July 23, 2025

Robert Thompson, age 81, of Iola, Wis., passed away peacefully on July 23, 2025, after suffering from Lewy body dementia. 

He was born in Milwaukee, Wis., on Dec. 20, 1943, the son of the late Carl and Jane (MacEvoy) Thompson. 

Bob graduated from Lakeland College in Sheboygan and received his master’s degree in computer education from Concordia University in Mequon. 

He married Donna Gunness on June 14, 1969. 

After their marriage, they lived in Port Washington, Wis., where Bob taught math and computers for 36-1/2 years at Thomas Jefferson Middle School. 

After retirement, they moved to Iola to be closer to grandchildren.

Bob was a patient and kind soul who prioritized God, family, friends and fishing. He had a spark for coaching soccer and always had time to discuss local sports or the Packers. His hobbies revolved around meaningful conversations, whether he was at the fitness center, with his wood carving buddies or sharing his homemade wine. He took pride in his gardening and other hobbies. 

Bob was an active member of First Congregational Church in Port Washington and Scandinavia Lutheran Church in Scandinavia.

Bob is survived by his wife Donna; daughters Jennifer Wandtke of Amherst, Wis., and Christine (Kevin) Makuck of Iron River, Mich.; grandchildren Mia (Hunter) Mitchell, Kellan Wandtke, Carly Wandtke, Jessi Makuck and Wyatt Makuck; great-grandson Owen Mitchell; sister Wendy (Matt) Mahutga; brother-in-law Jim Novak; sister-in-law Sandy (Don) Tatman; and nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Carol Novak.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2025, at Voie Funeral Home, 120 S. Main St., Iola. Visitation will be  from 9:30 to 11 a.m. and the service at 11 a.m. 

Interment will be at Scandinavia Lutheran Church Cemetery, Scandinavia, Wis.