Robert Joseph Poenitsch, 91, of West Bend, WI was called home to heaven on Friday, April 3, 2026.

Robert (Bob) was born on November 15, 1934, to Max and Katherine Poenitsch (née Fillafer). Bob was united in marriage to Joann Patricia Rohde on December 4, 1954. They started out living in Milwaukee but eventually settled on a small homestead in rural West Bend, where they raised their family and worked to make it their sanctuary.

Bob learned the art of Masonry as a young boy, working in his father’s business, Max Poenitsch and Sons Masonry of Brookfield, WI. Mastering the craft, he built a career as a Mason working for Commercial Construction companies and was a lifetime member of the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers. Like his father before him, Bob passed the tools, wisdom and skills of his craft along with the character traits of hard work, commitment and work ethic down to all three of his sons.

Bob developed a love for hunting and fishing after being introduced to both by his father-in-law, Henry Rohde—and he passed that love down to his sons and grandsons. He dismantled a small house in Milwaukee, moved and reassembled it as a cabin up north on the Menomonee River. It was there that Bob, Joann, and the family built and spent nearly every weekend together—making memories that would last a lifetime.

Bob was a devoted husband to Joann for 71 years, a loving father and proud grandfather. He had a big heart, a great smile, a sense of humor, and a pleasant manor. Those he leaves behind to cherish his memory include his wife, Joann; children; Robert Max (Sandy), Ricky Wayne (Lynn), Randy Michael (Judy); grandchildren; Justin (Laura), Jacob (Julie), Grant, Elliot, Emily, Andrew, Garrett, Jeremy (Rochelle), Emily (Philip), Jacob; and 5 great-grandchildren. He is further survived by his brother, Thomas (Marty), as well as nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Max and Katherine, Bob was preceded in death by his brothers, William and Donald, and an infant grandson, Gerod.

Bob’s family will greet relatives and friends on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 140 N 7th Ave, West Bend, WI 53095. A celebration of life service in remembrance of Bob will take place at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Robb Kosky officiating. Burial at Washington County Memorial Park, 3358 Paradise Drive, West Bend, will follow immediately after the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating memorials in Robert’s name to a cause close to your heart.

The family would like to thank both the nurses and staff at Kettle Moraine Gardens and the nurses and hospice care team from Lily Hospice for their care and compassion.

Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Robert’s arrangements. For additional information or to leave online condolences on the tribute wall, please visit www.myrhum-patten.com