Robert F. Dostalek

Dostalek, Robert F.
(Aka Mr. Softee, the ice cream man)

Found comfort and peace after a long battle with Alzheimers and Dementia on Monday, January 4, 2016. Bob had a rich, full life of 85 years that began on December 26, 1930. He was born and raised in Racine, Wisconsin as the son of John and Iola Dostalek along with his brother James (Maggie) Dostalek and cousin, Dolores Janecky. He was a graduate of Park High School and married his sweetheart, Ruth Mae Bahr, a Horlick High School graduate. They began their married life in Kenosha but soon moved their family to Oak Creek, Wisconsin where they raised four children Robert (Laura), Susan (David) DeWitt, Richard (Lori) and Sandra (Daniel) Khoury. In addition to his many talents as a draftsman, designer and engineer, Bob also became an icon in Oak Creek as “Mr. Softee”, bringing joy and tasty soft serve ice cream to many Oak Creek and South Milwaukee families in the 70’s. While a resident of Oak Creek he also owned his own engineering firm, U-Con Corp. and was an active member of the Kiwanis and the American Legion Post.

Next to his family, Bob’s second love was sports, whether he was a boy on his own high school teams, the coach of his sons’ softball teams, an armchair quarterback or cheering on his grandchildren with their sports teams or other school events. Bob could always be spotted with a Team shirt or baseball cap. His favorites included his beloved “Cubbies” and Packers but he was happy to discuss any and all sports. He also loved golf and earned the nickname of Ollie for his unique style of rolling a bowling ball. Playing sports and talking sports with his family and friends was a true passion.

Bob was proud to have served his country as a Korean War veteran in the U.S. Army.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Ruth, his daughter, Debra, and a grandson. He was a loving dad to his children and very proud Grandpa of 13 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, a loving friend to Georgianna Schultz and her family, as well as many other special relatives and friends. He will be dearly missed.

The family would like to thank the members of Casa Del Mare (Kenosha), Cambridge Castle (Milwaukee), Heritage Court Memory Care (West Allis), and Vitas Hospice for the loving care Bob received during his battle with Alzheimers and Dementia.

Visitation Friday, January 8, 2016 at the funeral home from 4-7pm with a sharing of memories at 7 pm. Private interment at Graceland Cemetery, Racine, Wisconsin.

Heritage Funeral Homes
9200 S. 27th Street 414-761-2750
heritagefuneral.com