Robert (Bob, Jr.) Blanck
Robert (Bob, Jr.) Blanck of Fond du Lac passed away peacefully with his family by his side on August 13, 2024, at Harbor Haven Health & Rehabilitation after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease.
Bob was born on May 28, 1950, to Bob and Hazel (Merten) Blanck. He grew up in Johnsburg attending St. John the Baptist School and St. Mary’s Springs Academy, graduating in 1968. He married his wife of 53 years, Barb Peebles on November 28, 1970, at St. John the Baptist Church in Johnsburg.
Bob began his career in the family business at Blanck’s Supper Club in Johnsburg. His friendly demeanor and outstanding conversational abilities became even more pronounced during his time at Bob & Barbs, Hickory Hills, and Mascoutin Country Club. In 1992, he returned to his beloved “Holyland” to partner with his brother Kevin and father, co-owning and operating The Pipe Express, and later B & B Express, before retiring.
Bob and Barb’s family life was centered around their two daughters, Beth and Brenda. Bob was always there for his girls, taking great pride in their accomplishments and enjoying their time together, whether at family gatherings or on vacations. Theirs was a unique bond, centered in love, a competitive card game, watching sports or Holyland adventures, and strengthened by inappropriate humor. Bob loved his “girls” and they loved him back.
Then came the grandchildren and his heart exploded. He cherished his role as Poppa and took immense pride in Ellie and Grant Haselow. Bob couldn’t wait to share stories about their achievements and experiences with anyone and everyone who would listen.
Bob had a unique way of making everyone feel like family, becoming a beloved friend, dad, and poppa to many. He had a passion for golfing, playing pool, traveling to Packers road games, socializing at East Shore Baseball games, or simply enjoying good conversation and laughter at the bar. He was a regular at the softball diamond, cheering on not only his daughters but also their friends with tons of enthusiasm and a few pitchers of beer. Bob was also known for joining his daughters on nights out, effortlessly blending into their circle of friends. His ability to embrace and connect with those around him made him a cherished person in the lives of many.
Bob is survived by his wife, Barb, daughters Beth Blanck of Oconomowoc and Brenda (Dave) Haselow and grandchildren Ellie and Grant Haselow of Madison. His brothers Chuck and Kevin (Kay) Blanck. Sisters-in-law Patti Schaeve and Susan (David) Gilbertson. He is further survived by nieces and nephews, Paul (Alicia) Shaeve, Alvin Hammer,
Carven (Juli) Blanck, Ben (Colleen) Blanck, Sam (Dawn) Blanck, Mike Blanck, Vickie (Noah) Krumbein, Ashley Blanck, Stacy (Brian) Meyer, Steve (Anna) Blanck, Scott (Nichole) Blanck and many cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, mother-in-law Mary Peebles, sister Cheryl Hammer, brother Dale Blanck, sister-in-law Nancy Blanck, and nieces Christine Hammer and Melissa Blanck.
Bob’s family invites relatives and friends to a time of visitation on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Zacherl Funeral Home, 875 E. Division Street, Fond du Lac. A second visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 21 from 9:00 am – 11:00 am at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church Johnsburg with Mass following at 11:00 am.
The family wants to thank the staff at Harbor Haven Health and Rehabilitation for the exceptional care given to Bob over the past four years and the incredible love and support shown to our family. Additionally, thanks to the staff at Heartland Hospice for their kindness and compassion in Bob’s final days.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that friends make a donatation to Harbor Haven Health and Rehabilitation or the Johnsburg Athletic Club in Bob’s name.