Robert Nonnemacher

Robert “Bob” Nonnemacher, age 76, beloved son, brother, uncle and friend, passed away on October 31, 2026, leaving behind a family who will remember him for his steadfast faith, his love of fishing, and the simple pleasures that brought meaning to his life.

Bob was born on July 12, 1950, to Elmer and Marion (Noskowiak) Nonnemacher and grew up in a close-knit family in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. He was the youngest of three children, joining his brother Eugene “Gene” and sister Betty. Family was an important part of Bob’s life, and he remained connected to the people and traditions that shaped his upbringing.

Bob was a devout Catholic whose faith was a constant throughout his life. Daily prayers and regular support of his church and faith community reflected a deep and enduring commitment to his beliefs. A member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Manitowoc, his faith was not simply something he practiced on Sundays, but an important part of his everyday life.

Bob also enjoyed a career in the sciences, working as an assistant chemist at Heresite Protective Coatings in Manitowoc. Building on his two-year degree from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh, he applied his education and skills to his work before choosing to retire early. His professional life reflected his interest in science and his appreciation for a career built on knowledge and practical experience.

Outside of his faith and family, Bob's greatest passion was fishing. An avid fisherman, he enjoyed virtually every aspect of the sport. He developed an appreciation for fly fishing and the art of fly tying, taking pleasure in the patience, skill and craftsmanship that each required. He especially enjoyed salmon and trout fishing on Lake Michigan, as well as fishing the lakes and rivers throughout the Manitowoc area and other parts of Wisconsin. Whether casting a fly, pursuing salmon on Lake Michigan, or spending a quiet day on a nearby lake or river, Bob found enjoyment and peace in being outdoors. Fishing was more than a hobby; it was a lifelong interest.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Marion Nonnemacher; his brother, Eugene “Gene” Nonnemacher; his sister, Betty Naumann; his sister-in-law Joan Nonnemacher, his nephew, Steven Nonnemacher; his great-nephew, Mark Nonnemacher; and other beloved family members who had gone before him.

He is survived by his nieces and nephews: Jeff (Mary) Nonnemacher, Tim (Anne) Naumann, Jennifer Nonnemacher, and Cindy (Joe) VanderMeer; his great-nieces and great-nephews: Megan (Will) Harms, Nicole (Zac) Himmel, Connor (Olivia Kettleson) Naumann, Erin Naumann, Jacob Nonnemacher, Allison and Lexi VanderMeer; his great-great-niece, Maren Himmel; along with other relatives and friends who will cherish his memory.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2026, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church on Waldo, 1121 N. 14th St., in Manitowoc. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by the Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. A short ceremony of interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery, with family and friends invited to gather afterward for lunch and fellowship at Harrigan Parkside Gathering Center, 620 N. Water St.

Bob will be remembered for his steadfast Catholic faith, his dedication to daily prayer, his love of family, and his lifelong passion for fishing. His life reminds us that some of life's greatest rewards are found in faith, family, the outdoors, and the quiet moments we come to treasure. May he rest in eternal peace. 

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Bob’s name to either the Alzheimer's Association (920-469-2110) or NAMI Manitowoc County (920-320-7606).