Robert Charles Thimke, 97, of Shawano, passed away at 12:12 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 31, 2020, surrounded by his family and his companion, Shorts the cat. Bob was born Sept. 26, 1922, to the late William F. and Emma (Engel) Thimke in Shawano.
Bob grew up with his brother, Harry, and his sister, Ruth, during the Depression, residing on Lafayette Street and having lots of adventures with his gregarious neighborhood friends. When World War II broke out, he helped form the Civil Air Patrol in Clintonville, flew a plane and collected numerous stories to regale in his later years.
Bob spent his entire life in Shawano running the family jewelry store with his wife and partner, Mary. He raised three children (Bill, Mark and Claire), all of whom survive him. He remained active throughout his adult life with his community and Peace Church. Bob loved to travel, and his stories of the places he had been and the people he had met were a joy and comfort to him. He always valued friendship and had friends of all ages throughout his life.
Though our father lived to be 97 years, we his children are already missing him. We hope everyone who knew or came in contact with Bob will have the same feelings of joy at his long and fruitful life and sadness at his passing.
A funeral service for Bob will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020, at Peace United Church of Christ, with the Rev. Lew Worthington officiating. Burial will be held in Woodlawn Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Saturday at the church from 12:30 p.m. until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Shawano County Humane Society or the local charity of their choice.
Bob’s family would like to extend a special thank you to his neighbors, caregivers Terri, Brenda and Paula and to Jenny’s Assisted Living.
www.swedbergfuneralhome.com
Robert Thimke
