Robert Stanek 03/31/2026

Robert Wayne Stanek, July 10, 1953 to March 31, 2026 of New Richmond, Wisconsin
Robert Wayne (Bob) Stanek was born July 10, 1953, the third child of Frank and Virginia Rose (Scott) Stanek in Dowagiac, Michigan. He grew up on the Stanek family farm and learned at a young age how to work where he developed a love for gardening. He started his elementary education at Glenwood Elementary School. After Glenwood annexed with Decatur, Bob finished his schooling there and graduated with the class of 1971. As a youth Bob competed with the amateur roller-skating association and won many trophies locally and nationally for speed skating. He also played football for the Decatur Raiders. Bob furthered his education at Michigan Technological University.
After leaving collage he moved to the Minneapolis area. It was there, while working at a Church of Scientology event, that he met his future wife, Josyanne Hollingsworth. Even though she would not buy any of the books he was selling, he continued to pursue her. On December 24, 1984, they became husband and wife. Bob worked several contract jobs, mostly as a legal secretary. He enjoyed his work but really enjoyed his gardening which he continued on even after he was disabled. In 1985 they moved the family to New Richmond, WI.
In the early 2000’s Bob was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). He spent the last 20 years confined to a wheelchair and many years with very little ability to take care of himself. Eventually Jo quit her job and took care of her husband 24/7. Bob was always appreciative of her caring for him and never complained.
Bob was preceded in death by both of his parents. He leaves behind his wife Jo, children Vanessa (Chris) Rupert of Savage, MN, Jason Stanek of Minneapolis, MN, and Jude Orion Stanek of Minneapolis, MN, as well as two step-children, Sandy (Tim) Bell of St. Paul, MN, and Tanja (Shawn) Reding of Red Wing, MN, and twelve grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He is also survived by his three brothers: Bill (Carolyn) Stanek of Big Rapids, Michigan, Jim (Marlane) Stanek of Dowagiac, Michigan, and Tom (Patti Wenger) Stanek of Decatur, Michigan.
Per his wishes, Bob has been cremated, and the family will be holding a celebration of life at a later time.