Deacon Robert John Zietlow, 75, of Onalaska, Wisconsin, passed away on October 26, 2026, following a courageous battle with glioblastoma.

Bob was born on June 16, 1951, to Edwin and Leona Zietlow at St. Ann's Hospital in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He graduated from Holmen High School in 1969 and began his working career as a bagger at Skogens IGA in Onalaska. What started as his first job turned into a 20-year career and, more importantly, the place where he would meet the love of his life, Judy. The two were married on August 5, 1972, beginning a beautiful journey together that spanned 54 years of marriage. Together, they welcomed two children and built a life centered around family, faith, and love.

Following his years at Skogens IGA, Bob went on to work for Fleming Companies in La Crosse, St. Croix Hospice, and in sales at La Crosse Radio Group. His career eventually led him to a different calling, one rooted in his deep faith and desire to serve others.

Bob was ordained as a deacon on October 27, 2012. His calling to serve the Lord was an important part of his life. He embraced his ministry with faith, compassion, and a servant's heart, eventually dedicating himself to serving as a deacon full-time at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church in West Salem and St. Mary's Catholic Church in Bangor, which later consolidated to become St. Teresa of Kolkata Parish. Through his ministry, he touched the lives of many, sharing God's love through his words, actions, and dedication to others. His faith was not simply something he believed in, but something he lived each day.

Bob was also an active member of his community and proudly served as a member of the Oktoberfest Grenadier Corps for five years. He was also involved with Rural Life through the Diocese of La Crosse, where he played an instrumental role in making Project Milk a tremendous success. His dedication to this initiative reflected his commitment to serving others and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.

Above all, Bob treasured his family. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he cherished the time spent with those he loved. The love he shared, the lessons he taught, and the memories he created will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Judy; his two children, daughter Libby (Nick) Dobbins and son Ben (Jamie) Zietlow; and his four beloved grandchildren, Samuel (Haley) Dobbins, Emma Dobbins, Beau Zietlow, and Ellenora Zietlow. He is further survived by his sisters, Paula (Dave) Hilby, Barbara (Dick) Konrad, Karla (Tim) Weihrouch, and Geralyn Zietlow; his brother, Joe (Kathy) Zietlow; his brother-in-law, Dennis Weigel; his sister-in-law, Bonnie Zietlow; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Leona Zietlow; his brothers, Deacon Richard Zietlow and Edgar Zietlow; and his sister, Donna Weigel.

Although Bob will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that his suffering has ended and he is now resting in the loving arms of the Lord. His legacy of faith, love, and service will continue to live on through his family and the many lives he touched.

The family would like to extend a special and heartfelt thank-you to the Hospice team at Emplify Health for the wonderful care, kindness, and compassion they provided to Bob and his family during his final days. Their support and dedication brought comfort during a difficult time and will always be remembered with gratitude.

Funeral Services

Visitation will be held at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Onalaska on Sunday, November 1, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A rosary will follow from 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, November 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Onalaska, Wisconsin. Monsignor Jeffrey Burrill will serve as the main celebrant, and Father Kyle Lang will be the homilist. A private burial will take place at the Catholic Cemetery in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Teresa of Kolkata Parish, Aquinas Catholic Schools, or Project Milk.