Robert “Bob” Jay Garfinkel, 76, of Luxemburg, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 22, 2023. Born on January 3, 1947, in Milwaukee to Elias and Beatrice (Weber) Garfinkel. On August 19, 1972, he and Kathleen M. Nyman were wed in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Bob dedicated his life to service, helping others, and making Northeast Wisconsin a better place to live. He was a caring and compassionate man known for his unwavering dedication to volunteer work. Even in retirement, Bob would often put in 50-plus hours a week, selflessly giving his time to various causes.
Bob was a beloved husband to Kathy, a father to Anne (Steven) Laurent and Sarah Garfinkel (Michael Sheeter), and brother to Neil (Mary) Garfinkel. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elias B. Garfinkel and Beatrice Joan (Weber) Garfinkel, of Milwaukee. Bob's pride and joy were his three grandchildren, Lily, Aubrey & Zoey Laurent. He could often be found cheering them on at sporting events and music concerts, supporting them with unconditional love and encouragement. His love for spending time on White Clay Lake with his granddaughters, wife, and dog brought him immense joy throughout his retirement.
Bob's educational journey began in Milwaukee, where he graduated from Washington High School (where he was later inducted into the Hall of Fame alongside great individuals like Gene Wilder and Bud Selig). He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from UW Oshkosh and a master’s degree in School Administration from UW Milwaukee. These qualifications laid the foundation for his career as a sixth-grade teacher at Luxemburg-Casco Elementary School and as a co-owner of Bob's Bait & Tackle in Green Bay.
In addition to his professional pursuits, Bob was passionate about community involvement. He helped create Fox Valley Volunteers, an organization dedicated to taking disabled individuals fishing, and played an instrumental role in improving the lives of adults with literacy struggles through Literacy Partners of Kewaunee County.
A memorial service to honor Bob's life will be held on his birthday, Wednesday, January 3, 2024, from 3-7 pm (eulogy and memory share at 6:30 pm) at McMahon Funeral Home in Luxemburg, Wisconsin. Bob Garfinkel will be remembered as a kind-hearted and selfless individual who dedicated his life to helping others. His legacy of service and compassion will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers a memorial fund will be established. www.mcmahonfh.com
