Robert Carl Van Wie, age 79, of Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin unexpectedly passed away at St. Mary's Hospital surrounded by his loving family on October 4, 2023.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, October 12 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Cecilia's Catholic Church in Wisconsin Dells with Father Eric Sternberg and Father Paul Arinze co-celebrating. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be held at St. Cecilia's Catholic Church on Wednesday, October 11 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. and again on Thursday at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. Following the burial, please join the family for a Celebration of Life at Field's at the Wilderness in Lake Delton.

Bob was born December 31, 1943 in Portage, Wisconsin, the son of R. Jack and Dorothy (Bisely) Van Wie. He graduated from Wisconsin Dells High School and later attended St. Norbert's College where he earned a bachelor's degree in economics. In June of 1965, he married the love of his life, Evelyn Tessmer, in New Lisbon, Wisconsin.

Bob's professional journey led him to work at the family business, Dells Lumber, before forging his path as a realtor, establishing Rafters Realty. He also ventured into tax consulting, founding Van Wie Tax Preparations. His work was not merely a profession, it was a labor of love. His clients held him in high regard and he reciprocated with dedication and care.

Bob's love for his family was without end. He cherished every moment spent with them, capturing countless memories through his camera lens. Whether he was cheering them on at sports events, applauding their performances in dance recitals and plays, or attending various functions, Bob's pride in their accomplishments knew no bounds. He was a loving husband, a dedicated father, and an adoring grandfather. His family was the center of his world and he served as a role model for the many lives he touched.

Bob was a man of deep values, always putting family, God, and his faith first. His selflessness, kindness, and caring nature touched the lives of everyone he met. A devout member of St. Cecilia's Catholic Church, Bob dedicated his time to his faith community. Over the years, he served on the Parish Council, lent his voice as a lector, extended his hand as an usher, and was a respected member of the Knights of Columbus - 4th degree.

Bob enjoyed savoring a great fish fry, indulging in a Korbel Manhattan (or two), big bowls of ice cream with chocolate topping, and relishing a Coca-Cola along with a few sweets (which he hid in his secret stash in the den). Photography was a passion that adorned every corner of his home, a testament to his love for capturing life's beautiful moments. Despite numerous times when the camera "malfunctioned", we are so thankful for the timeless memories that we will be able to cherish forever. He reveled in the joy of dance, often showcasing his unique moves, including the famous "gator" on the dance floor and one-armed push-ups that left admirers in awe. He was the life of every special event, a source of endless cheer, and his presence was celebrated by all. He was known by many nicknames, but "Morty" was perhaps the most memorable.

As we mourn Bob's passing, we find solace in the image of him "Dancing with the Stars" in the heavenly realms. We are comforted in the knowledge that he is reunited with God, his heavenly family, and dear friends who preceded him in the journey to eternity.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Evelyn (Tessmer) Van Wie, and their devoted children, Robby, TJ (Kelly) and Melissa (Vijay) Mandyam. His legacy endures through his six cherished grandchildren, Zachary Van Wie and fiancé Rachel Pawlak, Paige (Josh) Helminski, McKensey and Madison Van Wie, Kiran and Kavya Mandyam; sisters, Elizabeth (Van Wie) Wolfram and Mary Van Wie, as well as his sisters-in-law, Paula Van Wie, Joanne Van Wie, Donna Razner, Linda Keichinger, Paula Tessmer, and brother-in-law, Irv Tessmer. Numerous nieces and nephews also hold him close in their hearts. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, R. Jack and Dorothy Van Wie, and his brothers, John, Bill, and David. Also preceding him in death were his brothers-in-law, Cliff Wolfram, Lee Ormson, Bob Razner, Orvin Zunker, and sisters-in-law, Darlene Ormson and Ethel Zunker.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to St. Cecilia's Catholic Church, St. Vincent De Paul, Community Action of Wisconsin Dells, or PBS Wisconsin in Bob's memory. Let us honor his legacy by perpetuating the love, laughter, and kindness that he so generously shared with us throughout his remarkable life.