Robert Karnitz, age 90, of Barron, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 30, 2020 at Luther Hospital with his children and their spouses at his side.

Bob was born on July 3, 1930 in Neillsville, Wisconsin to Ed and Minnie (Wehrman) Karnitz. As a young child, Bob moved with his family to Barron where he was proud to say he lived on the east end of Barron all of his life. Bob was a true supporter of Barron, and reminisced often about the busy streets of Barron on a Friday night when the main street was filled with people and open stores. His mind was sharp, and he could recall details of the history of Barron, where former Barron residents lived, who their parents were and maybe even who the grandparents were. He liked people, and always wanted to know your name and where you were from as most likely he knew of the area or a relative of yours.

Bob worked at National Presto Industries in the 70’s where they made artillery shells to be sent to the troops in Vietnam. He made many friends while working there, and stayed in touch with them over the years. After the plant closed, he was employed by the City of Barron until his retirement. After retirement, he made sure to stop by the city shop, “just to see how things were going”.

Bob is survived by his daughter, Cindy (Ed) Watkins, son, Tom (Tammy) Karnitz; daughter-in-law, Sande (Dennis) Hause. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Mitch (Laura) Watkins, Hayden and Hunter Karnitz and Justin (Jen) Fonfara; great-grandchildren, Ava Grace Watkins, Eli Metcalf and a great-grandson, Oliver Watkins due in March, 2021, and a brother, Ron (Mary Ellen) Karnitz.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Minnie Karnitz; wife, Janice in 1995, son, Scott in 1996, and his brother, Harold in 1996. He was also preceded in death by his father and mother-in-law, Riven and Betty Clark, who he thought the world of.

The family wishes to thank the Barron Mayo Dialysis team, Barron Care and Rehab, along with Dr. Schumaker and his nurse, Bryna, who’s caring and kindness to him was extraordinary. We appreciate it more than you will ever know.

A family funeral service will be held on Saturday, December 12, 2020 at Rausch and Steel Funeral Home in Barron. Burial will be at Wayside Cemetery in Barron.

Arrangements are being handled by Rausch and Steel Funeral Home in Barron

Last Update: Dec 03, 2020 1:22 pm CST