Robert John Gorzek Obituary
Robert John Gorzek passed away on August 2, 2024, at age 87, surrounded by family. He's preceded in death by his father, mother, brother, and sister. His survivors include his wife, Nancy (Van Gemert) Gorzek, children (Ann Marie (Brian Perkovich), Steve (Anne), John (Linda), Mike (Roberta), Jim (Cara), Jeff (Carrie), and Jean (Jake Riojas), 24 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren.
Bob grew up in Milwaukee, attended Catholic grade school, Messmer High School, and St. Norbert College, where he was quarterback on the football team. After graduating with a B.S. in Chemistry, he attended Navy OCS in Newport, RI., returned to Green Bay to marry Nancy, and the couple rushed off to his first assignment in Coronado, CA. On his first Navy tour, he traveled to Japan and climbed Mt. Fuji. He left active duty in 1962 as Lieutenant-Junior Grade and the family moved to Brown Deer, WI. He balanced family life and a new job at Aldrich Chemical Company, with night school at Marquette University, graduating with a Masters degree in Organic Chemistry. Bob worked 38 years at Aldrich Chemical Company, retiring as V.P. of Operations.
Bob's hobby was scuba diving. He dove near (Lake Mendota) and far (Great Barrier Reef). Throughout his life, he enjoyed music and played many sports, coached Tosa League baseball, and loved watching his kids and grandkids concerts and sports. His happy place was at the cottage in Little Suamico, where he fished and played cribbage. Family brought him great joy, even up until the end. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He will be missed dearly by all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Paralyzed Veterans Association or St. Vincent dePaul Society.
Visitation for Bob Gorzek will be held on Thursday, August 8, 2024 from 4:00-6:30 p.m. at Schmidt and Bartelt Funeral Home (10121 W. North Ave. in Wauwatosa). The funeral mass will be held on Friday, August 9, 2024 at 10:45 a.m. at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Parish. There will be a private burial on Saturday, August 10, 2024.
