Robert Esmond

Robert Bob Esmond, 88 of La Crosse died Saturday, February 25, 2012 at the Hillview Healthcare Center. He was born in Great Falls, MT to Henry and Malena (Knudsen) Esmond. Bob graduated from Logan High School and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he participated in the capture and occupation of Guam during WWII. Following his discharge he graduated from the College of St. Thomas in St. Paul, MN.

On April 2, 1947 Bob married Virginia Gittens. Bob worked in sales for the La Crosse Rubber Mills for 40 years and was Sales Manager at the time of his retirement in 1988. He enjoyed golfing, ice fishing and traveling. Bob was a caring and devoted husband, gently caring for Virginia, who was stricken with Multiple Sclerosis for 10 years until her death in 1999. He was a volunteer at Gundersen-Lutheran Medical Center and a member of St. Joseph the Workman Cathedral Parish in La Crosse.

Bob and Virginias greatest joys were their children and grandchildren. He is survived by his daughter, Julie Guess (Jim Hunsberger) of Scottsdale, AZ; his son, Anthony (Sydney) Esmond of La Crosse; grandchildren, Graham Esmond of Newport Coast, CA and Whitney (Jeremy) Miller of Holmen, WI; his sister, Alice Humphrey of La Crosse, and a very special friend and companion Kathy Flanagan of La Crosse.

Bob will be remembered for his gentle guidance, integrity and character and will be forever loved and missed by his family and friends. Per Bobs wishes his body was donated and accepted at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine for further education of students.

A memorial service with military honors will be held at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, March 7th at the Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home, 200 West Ave. S. La Crosse. Very Rev. Robert J. Cook will officiate. Friends and family may call at the funeral home on Wednesday from 10:00 A.M. until the time of services. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given in Bobs name to the WAFER Food Pantry or the Salvation Army of La Crosse