Robert Henry `Bobby` Racinowski, Jr.
Robert Henry `Bobby` Racinowski, Jr. , Age 44
Robert Henry “Bobby” Racinowski, Jr., age 44, of Reedsburg, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, July 5, 2026. Much like the way he lived, Bobby left without saying goodbye. His life was unpredictable, and those who loved him learned to love him in fragments — here today, gone tomorrow, back again after time spent waiting. We never got the goodbyes we wanted, but we always held onto hope for the next hello.
Bobby was the only son born to Robert “Bob” Sr. and Janice (Millette) Racinowski in Morris, IL on January 17, 1982. Always the family comedian, Bobby was the kind of kid who could make you laugh even when you were trying to stay mad at him. He had a spark that was witty and unpredictable, and he carried that into adulthood. He lived with intensity, for better and for worse, and left behind stories that only he could have created. His decisions were sometimes questionable, yet he was the first to give up his seat to an elder and never stopped (playfully) calling his siblings “dorks.”
Bobby graduated from Adams-Friendship High School in 2000. A dedicated night shifter, he enjoyed his work as a smelter at various foundries over the years and was looking forward to relocating in the fall to an exciting position in Duluth, Minnesota.
He loved spending time with his two children, Jaz and Emmy, discussing good books he had read, and video gaming. Like so many, he was still waiting for GTA 6 to come out. He had a passion for good food and was eager to try new restaurants and experiences. He took pride in his tattoos, his impressive shoe collection, and had a well-known appreciation for cologne. Second only to his kids, Bobby loved his beard with a special devotion. It went through phases — long, wild, trimmed, braided — and he was attached to every version.
Those who knew Bobby understood that he was complicated, his path wasn’t easy, and he never stopped trying to improve. His goals were consistent, even when they were temporarily out of reach. His family remains grateful for the good times, particularly in recent months, and comforted in the belief that he has found peace that was so elusive in this life.
Bobby is survived by his children: Jazlyn “Jaz” and Emberly “Emmy” Racinowski; his mother and lifelong advocate, Janice Racinowski; siblings: Tonya Millette, Tina Sutton, Rose Racinowski, Elizabeth Racinowski; nephews: Michael Oertel, Bradley Curtis, Nathan Curtis, Cayden Curtis; nieces: Alisha Aderholt, Amber Aderholt, Jennifer “Sam” Sutton; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert “Bob” Racinowski; partner, Chelsea Whelan; grandparents: Hank and Anna Racinowski, George and Margaret (Maggie) Millette; uncles: Casey Racinowski, George Millette, John Millette; aunts: Kathy Proud, Carol Racinowski, Cindy Brown, Margaret Wilkinson, Velva Millette, Allison Millette; and several lifelong friends.
Memorial services will be held at 4 p.m. on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Redlin-Ertz Funeral Home in Baraboo with Chaplain Jonathan Tipton officiating. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 3 p.m. until the service. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the family for final expenses or for the ongoing care of his children.
Condolences
Jennifer (Wampler) Armstrong July 07, 2026
Classmate Friendship , Wisconsin
I am so sorry for your loss. He was a good person. May God be with you in your time of need.
Donnie July 08, 2026
Best friends Baraboo , Wisconsin
I'm sorry this happened to you brother...you were a good friend...I will miss you...rest easy brother...
Krysta skaife July 08, 2026
Friend Poynette , Wisconsin
I just spoke with Bobby the other day...man this one hit me hard ..first off I send all of the positive energy inside of my heart to his mother during this time...I can't imagine the pain you are experiencing right now...in times like these i try to remember not to cry because we lost him but to smile because we had him ..he was a great friend and a good man!!! Not a day will go by that he won't be remembered...and to jazz...I am so sorry. You've been through so much...I'm sure your mom is giving him the tour and making sure that he finds his way around without any hiccups...I'm sorry baby. I know you don't know me but I know you...and your story and I'm here if I can ever do anything...your daddy loved you and there wasn't a day that went by that he wasn't telling me how proud of you he was....continue to live on knowing that he will always be with you and that where he is there is no more struggle no more pain and no more addiction....may you and your family find comfort and peace in the many memories people have of him and know that he lives on through all of us. This is not goodbye...it's simply see you when it's my turn...you are all in my thoughts tonight. .I love you Bobby...rest in power my friend...I will miss you more than words can say!!!!
Wendy Murphy - Brunner Mfg / Howmet Aerospace July 08, 2026
employer / family Mauston , Wisconsin
Though only for a short time, Bobby was part of our family. We are so sorry for your loss.
Jennifer Fait (Beach) July 08, 2026
Friend WISC RAPIDS , Wisconsin
I'm so sorry to hear this news. Condolences and Prayers to your family. He was someone no one could forget. His memory will live on with all who knew him.
Luis Cruz July 08, 2026
Luis Cruz Adams , Wisconsin
First off my deepest condolences to all you ladies. Bobby was close to my heart and he will truly be missed but NEVER forgotten. He loved my Puerto Rican food and him and I were always in competition on who had the coldest shoe collection. I will be wearing my best shoes to see him off on Friday
Melanie Nawrot July 08, 2026
Classmate Friendship , Wisconsin
Great memories as kids. I'm sorry for your loss but know heaven gained an angel.
Mr.&Mrs.Patrick Graf July 08, 2026
Cousin Lincoln , Illinois
Janice we are sorry for the loss of your son Bobby.Our prayers are with you and all the family..Bobby will always be remembered and never forgotten.GOD BLESS.
Jamison July 10, 2026
Good friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
God bless all of you this is Jamison friend of Bobby im sorry for your loss I still cant believe he's gone I was talking to him about family and friends too weeks ago then my mom called and told me about Bobby god bless you all I will see you all on the 10th love for all your family and good friends he was loved by all his friends...I dont no what else to say im all out of wards for now ........god bless
Lindsay Sedevic July 10, 2026
Friend Adams , Wisconsin
Rip my friend. You were for sure complicated but had a great heart. Your legacy will be carried through your beautiful children.
Gearoid July 11, 2026
Friend Ballinaboola , Wisconsin
Very Sorry for your loss Tina. Our Thoughts are with you and if you need anything just reach out.