June 19, 1946 — January 1, 2025
Robert J. Kleisner, age 78, began the New Year in the arms of Jesus, surrounded by the comfort of loved ones. Bob was born on June 19, 1946 in Wisconsin Rapids, WI to James and Amelia Kleisner, and was the youngest of two sons. He attended Lincoln High School and later the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point. It was around this time that he began his service in the Wisconsin National Guard.
Bob married his “one and only,” Joanne Terril on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 1968. Shortly after, they started their family and welcomed three children. Together they shared 56 years of marriage.
Bob turned his passion for cars into a lifelong career. In addition to working as an auto dealer and auctioneer, he owned and operated three small car dealerships throughout the years. His favorite being “Ripon Classics,” as it showcased his affinity for classic cars.
Bob was an avid golfer and a long time member of Mascoutin Golf Club, where he established many friendships participating in golf league. He also enjoyed spontaneous trips to the casino and frequenting “Kristina’s Family Restaurant” in Ripon with his wife, Joanne.
Bob was an exceptional man who put his family first and always made sure those he loved were taken care of. He was a supportive husband and father, and a true protector of his family.
Although Bob lived with cancer the last 9 months of life, it did not diminish his faith in God or his joy. In the face of his mortality, his humor and smile remained. His family will remember him with a sweet treat in hand, lounging in his favorite leather arm chair.
Bob is survived by his wife, Joanne Kleisner of Ripon, WI; their children, Janmarie (Tom) Hamil of Sun Prairie, WI; Robert Kleisner of Neenah, WI; Christopher (Katie) Kleisner of DeForest, WI; his grandchildren, Dayton, Ashlyn, Olivia (Liam), Cade, Samuel, and Jacob; three great-grandsons, Finnley, Weston, and Leo, whom he referred to as the three musketeers; his brother, James (Patricia) Kleisner; his sister-in-law, Diane Riggs; and his brother-in-law, David (Cathy) Terril.
The family is deeply grateful to his care team, especially his doctors, at the Agnesian Cancer Center in Fond du Lac, WI for their excellent care & support. A special thank you for the kindness & compassion shown by his Hospice team & those who cared for him in his final weeks.
There will be a private celebration of life for the family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made to an organization of your choosing, supporting cancer research in Bob’s honor.
