Robert “Bob” Rose, age 59, of Waupun, passed away on Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison.
A Funeral Service for Bob will take place on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Paul Ev. Lutheran Church in Mayville with Rev. Traci Maass officiating. A visitation for Bob will be held at church on Sunday, June 28, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service at 2:00 p.m.
Bob was born on June 9, 1967, the son of Terrance and Diane Senda, and was later adopted by Larry and Lois (Kebler) Rose. He was a proud graduate of Markesan High School. On July 12, 1997, Bob married the love of his life, Brenda Walters. Their son, Tyler, completed their perfect little family.
A faithful member of St. Paul’s Church, Bob lived his life guided by faith, humility, and service to others. He was also a dedicated member of the Dodge County Emergency Response Team (DCERT), where he proudly volunteered his time and talents. Bob especially enjoyed installing emergency lighting on DCERT vehicles, often jokingly referring to himself as an “Emergency Light Technician.” His dedication to helping his community was evident in everything he did.
Bob found great joy in the outdoors. He loved hunting and fishing and treasured the countless hours spent out in nature. Some of his happiest moments were shared with his beloved wife, Brenda, exploring the beauty of the Horicon Marsh together. Whether on the water, in the woods, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, Bob felt most at home in nature.
A gifted woodworker and avid gunsmith, Bob had a talent for working with his hands and creating things with care and precision. He took great pride in passing his knowledge and skills on to his son, Tyler, teaching him everything he knew and creating a bond that will endure forever.
At home, Bob enjoyed relaxing with a good movie or classic western. These quiet moments were often shared with his faithful cat, Feather, who loved nothing more than curling up on Bob’s chest while they watched together. Feather misses his companion immensely, just as all who knew Bob miss his steady presence and gentle heart.
Bob’s kindness was legendary among family, friends, neighbors, and strangers alike. He would truly give you the shirt off his back. More often than not, he was already offering a helping hand before anyone even had to ask. He saw people in need and simply stepped in to help. Bob was, at his core, a true helper.
Family has always meant more than biology to Bob and Brenda. They lovingly embraced Jordan, Tyler’s childhood best friend, as their “adoptive son” after years of watching him grow up alongside Tyler. As time passed, Jordan became an integral part of the family and was loved just like a second son. Bob also found immense joy in being a grandfather, delighting in every opportunity to play with Jordan’s children, Lincoln and Evelyn. Whether sharing laughter, playing games, or simply spending quality time together, Bob treasured the special bond he had with his grandchildren and the memories they created as a family.
His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the friends he cherished, the community he served, and the countless lives he touched through his generosity and compassion. Though he will be deeply missed, the example he set through his life of service, love, and selflessness will never be forgotten. Bob was the kind of person who made the world a better place simply by being in it.
Even in passing, Bob continued helping others. He gave the ultimate gift by becoming an organ donor.
Bob is survived by his loving wife Brenda Rose; his son Tyler Rose; his fur baby Feather; his sisters Cindy (Randall) Crook of Markesan, Cheryl Kracht of Markesan, Candy (Terry) Yanda of Manitowoc, Lynda Miller of Twin Lakes, Kristine (Donald) Pellmann of Burlington, and Jennifer (Dave Pearson) Lampton of Waupaca; his “adoptive son” Jordan (Sienna) Riel; and Jordan’s children Lincoln and Evelyn Riel; as well as nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.
Bob is preceded in death by his parents Lois and Larry Rose; biological parents Terrance Senda and Diane Rateike; his brother Timothy Lampton; and his brother-in-law Dewey Kracht.