Robert Charles Luther

MCFARLAND - With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Robert Charles Luther of McFarland, a beloved husband, father, opa, brother, uncle, and friend. He departed this world on November 10, 2023, leaving behind cherished memories and a lasting legacy.

Robert was born on December 2, 1947 to Herman and Louisa (nee Laubmeier) in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Robert's life was marked by his unwavering commitment to his family, his tireless work ethic, his contagious laughter, and his genuine kindness.

After graduating from Baraboo High School in 1966, Robert answered the call to serve his country and enrolled in the United States Marines. He embarked on a courageous journey, deployed to Vietnam from 1969-1970 and honorably discharged as a Sergeant in 1970. His selfless dedication and bravery during this challenging time exemplified his commitment to a cause greater than himself.

Following his military service, Robert transitioned to a fulfilling career as a butcher and meat cutter for over 40 years, 35 of them working for the Metcalfe family. His dedication, customer and team focused attitude, and passion for his work were evident to all who had the privilege of knowing him. He truly enjoyed working with his favorite customers and co-workers.

Robert married the love of his life, Joann Colias, on September 16, 1972 in Baraboo. They were married 51 years and were blessed with 1 child, Jason.

Robert's love for his family and friends was immeasurable. He passed on the values of integrity, hard work, resilience, and the importance of celebrating each moment. His warm smile, big hugs, quick wit, and unwavering support were constants in the lives of those closest to him.

Robert had a deep passion for gardening, playing cards, wood working, traveling (including the trip of a lifetime to visit the Colias family in Greece), spending time with his granddaughter Eleanora, and cheering on the Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Badgers, and Milwaukee Brewers, which brought him times of great joy (and occasional frustration).

Robert is survived by his loving wife Joann, son Jason (Julie) and granddaughter Eleanora of Chenequa; siblings Caroline Schonasky of Waunakee and Mary (Norman) Capener of Fitchburg; brothers-in-law James Colias of Stamford, Connecticut, and John Colias (Patricia) of Menomonee Falls; sister-in-law Shari Luther (nee Baumgarten) of Madison; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends who will carry his memory forever in their hearts. He is also survived by Wilson, his dog and constant companion, who already misses him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Fred, Millie, Ralph, Lorraine, Alice, Rudy, Louise, Hermie, Bernice, Geri, and Clayton; father-in-law Peter Colias and mother-in-law Alma Colias.

A memorial service to celebrate Robert's life will be held on Friday, November 17, 2023 at Redlin-Ertz Funeral Home, 401 Madison Avenue, in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Visitation from 10:00am – 11:00am and service will begin at 11:00am. Family and friends are invited to join together, sharing stories and memories of a life well-lived. A burial with Military Funeral Honors will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in Baraboo, Wisconsin.

The family kindly requests that any donations be made to Badger Honor Flight, Inc. PO Box 258066, Madison, WI 53725, a cause close to Robert's heart. Robert had the privilege to travel on the 44^th Badger Honor Flight with his son and 88 of his veteran brothers to Washington D.C. on October 11, 2022.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. James Runo of the UW Health Pulmonology Department for his extraordinary care and advocacy for Robert. Additional special gratitude to Drs. Charles Stone and Samantha Shapiro of UW Health, and the incredible nurses and respiratory therapy staff at University Hospital in Madison.

Robert Charles Luther's legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering support will endure in the hearts of those who had the pleasure of knowing him. He will be deeply missed, and his memory will remain a source of comfort and inspiration during this challenging time and forever.

May he rest in peace, and may his memory shine as a beacon of light and love in our lives.