Mr. Robert Martin Sodemann

Robert Martin Sodemann, 69, passed into the loving arms of his Savior on December 11, 2022. He is survived by his wife Patricia, his children Steven, Angela, and Jonathan, and siblings Tom (Ronda), Sue (Pete) Monfre, and Bill (Kay).

 

Bob was born in Milwaukee, WI on January 8, 1953 to the late Robert and Betty Sodemann. He was baptized and attended Lutheran elementary schools and confirmed his faith at Hales Corners Lutheran Church. During Bob’s early years, he spent summers at the family’s cottage on Lake Ellen. He grew to love water sports (especially water skiing) and his skill and style left an impression on friends and family. He also learned to scuba dive, sail, and drive a boat. 

 

While attending New Berlin West High School, Bob enjoyed wrestling and earned conference wrestling champion for his weight class.  After graduation, he embarked upon an adventure (with the blessing of his father) to boat the Mississippi River from Wisconsin down to New Orleans. He researched and became Coast Guard certified. On a 15-foot aluminum boat with an outboard motor (with younger brother Tom) he accomplished that amazing feat at age 17. 

 

A lifelong fascination of Bob’s was electronics and computers. Early on, he learned how to build technological projects, such as a “bug” that could listen in on his parents during their sheepshead card parties.  As a grade-schooler, he even attempted to build his own computer.  

 

Bob’s love of science led him to Concordia Teachers College in Seward, Nebraska, where he earned his B.S. in Secondary Education. This was also where he met his lifelong love and partner, Patricia. Upon graduation in 1975, Bob received a call to Martin Luther High School in Greendale, Wisconsin to teach science and math. While there, he designed and taught a class called “The Science of Everyday Things”. Many students still remember his creative and entertaining classes. 

 

On December 21, 1975, Bob and Patricia (Bruns) were married at Zion Lutheran Church in St. Libory, Nebraska. Bob would describe this event as the most wonderful moment of his life. Bob and Pat’s lifelong adventure was blessed with three beautiful children: Steve, Angela and Jon. He loved his family deeply, and they were also blessed by his character, kindness and love. His daily life would leave a lasting impression on his children as they grew. 

 

Through the years, Bob also enjoyed downhill skiing and biking. He and Patricia regularly biked the beautiful trails around Milwaukee and nearby towns. His children also joined him for many adventures, such as camping, boating, and traveling cross-country.

 

Bob had an entrepreneurial spirit and went on to start several companies incorporating his love of technology. He developed software systems that would improve the lives of many people. 

 

The most important quality of Bob’s life was his lifelong devotion to his Savior, Jesus. All throughout his life, he had an intense desire to study God’s word. He loved reading about apologetics, especially from his favorite author C.S. Lewis. Blessed to be a part of the men’s Bible study group at Hales Corners Lutheran Church for many years, he participated in both teaching and learning more of God’s wonderful and loving plan for us. This lifelong ambition was evidence of Bob’s love and reverence for his Savior and of the sure promise of his awaiting gift of everlasting life. 

 

Bob was a beautiful and genuine soul whose deep faith in his Savior was displayed in his daily life.

 

A memorial service will be held at Hales Corners Lutheran Church at 12300 W Janesville Rd., Hales Corners, WI 53130 on January 14^th at 1:00pm, with visitation from 11:00am-12:45pm.

 

Memorials are welcomed by the family to help with medical expenses.