, WI - Age 81, of passed away on Wednesday, October 22, 2014 at his home. Robert Louis was born on February 19, 1933 in Racine, WI the son of William and Evelyn (Wilson) Vander Leest. Robert was raised in Racine and graduated from high school there. He joined the U.S. Army on February 19, 1953 in Milwaukee, WI and served during the KoreanWar. He was honorably discharged on February 3, 1955 and went to Blair, NE where he attended Dana College. Robert received a Bachelor’s degree in education and then took a teaching position in Rice Lake, WI. He began his teaching career as a sixth grade teacher but became the elementary art teacher where he taught until his retirement in 1992. Robert moved to St. Germain, WI where he lived for ten years before moving to Hayward, WI to be closer to his children. Robert was a gifted artist who painted in acrylics. He would often sell his work in local art shows. He also enjoyed golfing and fishing. He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Hayward. Robert is survived by his two children, Traci (Kevin Marshall) Bradburn of Boonville, MO, Brook (Amy) Vander Leest of Andover, MN; four grandchildren, Zach and Ali Bradburn, Maya and Alex Vander Leest; former wife, Sharon Pierce; two brothers, Dave (Geri) Vander Leest and Don (Inge) Vander Leest, both of Racine, WI; one sister, Sandy Legler of Racine, WI; and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service celebrating Robert’s life will be held on at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 27, at Hayward United Methodist Church with Pastor Gary Benzschawel officiating. Memorials may be directed to Shirley’s Place with the Salvation Army, in memory of Rob and as a special thank you to his good friend, Shirley, who was by his side through his illness. On line condolences may be left at www.bratleyfuneralservice.com. BRATLEY FUNERAL SERVICE P.O. Box 307, 15571 County Hwy B Hayward, WI 54843 (715) 634-2609 Fax: (715) 634-6767