Robert "Dobber" Gerritts

Robert “Dobber” Gerritts

Robert “Dobber” Gerritts, age 76, passed away on July 22, 2019 at his home in Sherwood surrounded by his loving family. Born November 19, 1942, he was raised in Little Chute and attended St. John Elementary and High School. He graduated from UW-Oshkosh with BS & MS degrees in Education and taught intermediate grade levels for 34 years in the Kimberly Area School District. While in college, he met his wife Joanne (Jacque) of Port Washington and they married on June 11, 1966. Together they proudly raised two daughters and a son.

  Dobber spent many years in various community clubs including Jaycees, Optimist, and eight years on the Little Chute Village Board. He enjoyed following local high school, college and professional sports. As an avid golfer, he was in numerous golf leagues throughout the Fox Valley.  In his younger years he also enjoyed being involved in bowling and softball leagues. Attending Packer and Badger football games as a 50 year season ticket holder was a much enjoyed pastime. 

  His wife and children hold such fond memories of family road trips and international travel and will miss his humor and love. His grandchildren, who he especially cherished, have many fun memories of “Gramps” including him dressed up as Santa each Christmas. He had an impressive memory for former students’ names and always enjoyed running into them around town.  Dobber was known for his friendly demeanor and some trademark sayings that provided ongoing laughs.

  Survivors include his wife Joanne and their three children: Cassie (Luke) Demerath of Kimberly, Jana (Greg) Schreiber of Combined Locks, and Richard (Shoko) Gerritts of Kenosha. His grandchildren: Elizabeth (Eric Fleishman-fiancé), Kathryn and Will Demerath; Lydia and Elise Schreiber; Nami and Kai Gerritts.

  He was preceded in death by his parents Richard and Catherine (Marks) Gerritts, sister Dorothy “Dolly” Nardella, parents-in-law Nicholas and Dorothy Rita Jacque, and many other special relatives and friends.

Thank you to so many friends and neighbors, as well as St. Paul Elder Service and Ascension at Home Hospice for their wonderful care and support. 

  Funeral services will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Monday, July 29, 2019 at St. John - Sacred Heart Catholic Church, N369 Military Road, Sherwood, with Fr. Michael Betley officiating. Visitation will be at the church on Monday from 1:30 p.m. until the time of the Mass. Dinner immediately following. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Robert Gerritts Memorial to be used for various charities. Interment will be in St. John Cemetery, Little Chute. For online condolences, please visit www.verkuilenfh.com.

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