Robert J. Bergquist

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. - Robert J. Bergquist, 84, of Eau Claire, formerly of Ironwood, Michigan, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, March 8, 2023, with his wife, Judith, at his side.

Bob was born in Ironwood, on May 4, 1938, to the late George Wilhelm and Gertrude F. (Trier) Bergquist. He was the third of eight children.

Upon graduation from high school, Bob enlisted in the U.S. Army and proudly served his country for three years. He returned to Ironwood and attended Gogebic Community College and graduated with a degree in business.

On Nov. 9, 1963, he married Judith M. Brunell and they made their home in Ironwood. In 1965, Bob established his business, Bergquist Amusement, which he owned and operated until retirement in 2008.

Bob was an active member of Woodland Church, where he served on the trustee board and elder board, and made many cherished friends there.

Bob was a fan of country music and enjoyed playing his guitar and singing for and with family and friends. One of his favorite things to do was joining in a jam session weekly with friends, Gene and Brian.

Bob's happy place was his cabin on Long Lake, where he gathered with family and friends for more than 30 years making great memories.

Bob is survived by his wife, Judy; a daughter, Jodi (James) Grogan, Houston; two sons, Robert (Michelle), Boyne City, Michigan, and Todd (Shannon), Eau Claire; six grandchildren, Tillman (Taylor) Grogan and Eliot (Morgan) Grogan, both of Houston, Hali Grogan, Hinckley, Illinois, Annika Bergquist, Plymouth, Michigan, Sophie Bergquist, Boyne City and Mason Bergquist, Eau Claire; and a great-granddaughter, Piper Grogan, Houston.

Also surviving are four brothers, Nik (Judy), Tucson, Arizona, George, Ironwood, Jon, Iron River, Michigan, and Karl (Carole), Rocky River, Ohio; a sister, Merrie Giannunzio, Oshkosh; his sister-in-law, Sonia Bergquist, Ironwood; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Bob was preceded in death by two brothers, Chris and G.I .; and two sisters-in-law, Joanne Bergquist and Roberta Bergquist.

A few fond memories from his children:

Jodi, 'One of my favorite memories is that no matter which vehicle we rode in it had, according to dad 'turbo boost.' For us kids and grandkids riding with dad or grandpa you had to get ready for it. A 'turbo boost' vehicle could do anything and we could too because of the Turbo Boost Spirit.'

Rob, 'Dad had a passion for power sports including sports cars and snowmobiles. He raced both stock cars and snowmobiles in his younger years. He loved the outdoors and fishing at the cabin and always included family in all activities. He was a great guitarist and bowler.'

Todd, 'Dad was a kind, generous, warm person you enjoyed being with. He loved to grab his guitar and involve family and friends in a sing along that lit up the room and brought everyone together.'

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of Bob's life will take place at a future date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Woodland Church, N10234 Curry Road, Ironwood, MI 49938; or Hope Gospel Mission, 2511 Moholt Drive, Eau Claire, WI 54703.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, Michigan, is assisting the family with arrangements. To send online condolences or to share a memory, please go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.