Robert Bohnen Sr, 81, of Pewaukee (and formerly Kenosha), WI, was called home on Tuesday, March 18th, while surrounded by the love of his family. Robert was born on July 27th, 1943, in Chicago, IL, the son of the late Peter and Eleanor (Phillips) Bohnen. He graduated from New Trier High School in 1963. Robert married Diane on September 26, 1987, in Kenosha.

Born with a zest for life, Robert was a true American Patriot. He served his country with honor during the Viet Nam era as part of the Army Special Forces from 1963-1966 and was an Honored Veteran of the Stars and Stripes Honor Flight - Mission #66 on November 5th, 2022 out of Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport - one of his most cherished memories. A natural born sportsman, he shared his love of competition and camaraderie by coaching women’s softball and boys’ baseball, inspiring athletes with his dedication and encouragement. His tenacity and drive led him to establish two business ventures - Bohnen's Office Equipment of Lake Villa, IL, and Rainbow International Carpet Cleaning, a franchise of Lake County, IL. 

Robert’s talents and interests were as diverse as they were vibrant. He was an avid bowler and a spirited square dancer. His beloved Yamaha 750 Special was a source of pride and joy, reflecting his adventurous spirit and his love of the open road. He maintained a hobby farm in Pleasant Prairie and enjoyed many evenings riding his quarter horse, Misty, and raising his Australian Shepards. A man of community, he enriched the lives of others through his involvement in organizations like 4-H, the Kenosha Kennel Club, and the Boy Scouts. He belonged to First Assembly of God in Kenosha, where he was an active member in the various family care groups, choir, and drama productions during Christmas and Easter cantatas. Above all, Robert was a man of faith. On Easter Sunday in 1988, he gave his life to Jesus, a cherished commitment he carried with him for the remainder of his days. 

Robert retired with Chrysler in Kenosha, having served as a Chief Steward, but his most cherished role was that of a loving father, grandfather and great grandfather—a job he performed effortlessly, with unmatched devotion and pride.

Survivors include his children: Robert (Barbara) Bohnen of Kenosha, WI, Edward (Christine) Bohnen of Wood Dale, IL, Valerie (Gary) Olson of Pewaukee; stepdaughter Kelli Gayhart, stepson Donald (Erin) Waldman, both of Kenosha; sister-in-law, Gail Schwaiger of Sparta; niece, Karen Schwaiger of Kenosha; nephew, Mike Schwaiger (Amy) of Trevor, along with countless grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other family and friends. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, father-in-law, Leo Schwaiger, mother-in-law, May Schwaiger, his brother-in-in law, Larry Schwaiger, and his wife, Diane.