Robert C. Stephenson

Robert “Bob” Clyde Stephenson, age 73, of Appleton, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family, on March 3, 2021 after a brief yet courageous battle with leukemia resulting from exposure to Agent Orange during his service in Vietnam. Bob was born on October 23, 1947 in Appleton, WI to Clyde and Elayne Stephenson. Bob graduated in1965 from Appleton High School and had a life-long career in the electrical/construction trades. Prior to becoming a journeyman electrician and working for Stephenson Electric, Bob proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1969. During that time he served in the 82nd Airborne (Detroit riots), followed by the 101st Airborne in Vietnam from 1968-1969. During his service in Vietnam, he earned three bronze stars for his courage and bravery. Bob was a true patriot and very proud of his country and service in the military. He continued to serve by volunteering for multiple veteran organizations such as the Military Veterans Museum in Oshkosh, Veterans Court of Outagamie County, and was a member of the VFW, Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), and the American Legion.

Bob retired from Faith Technologies in 2006 after many years of working in the electrical trade. He gave his time to Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Wisconsin, serving on the apprenticeship committee. Bob loved this role as he would help guide many people into success in the electrical field. He spent the last few years working at Lowe’s in the electrical department, making numerous friends and helping anyone who needed it.

Bob met the love of his life, Martha Vanderhyden, in 1969 and were married September 26, 1970 and went on to have three children. Together they raised their family and recently celebrated 50 years of marriage.

Bob was preceded in death by his parent’s Clyde and Elayne Stephenson.

Bob is survived by his wife, Martha Stephenson, children, Rob (Lena) Stephenson, Tim Stephenson, and Sara (Tom) Lornson, daughter-in-law, Dorothy Stephenson, and grandchildren, Emma Stephenson, Jonathon Steindorf, Luciano Stephenson, Vincenzo Stephenson, Serafina Stephenson, Ella Lornson, Owen Stephenson, Jacob Lornson, and Olivia Stephenson. He is also survived by his siblings, Dr. Larry (Carol) Stephenson, Rollie (Sue) Stephenson, Jim (Lisa) Stephenson, and Patti Stephenson, and numerous nieces and nephews for whom he cared deeply.

Bob had a love for his Lord, Jesus Christ, and he deeply loved his family and friends. Bob lived his life with integrity. He will be remembered for being easygoing, selfless, compassionate, faithful, and kind. His quick wit and humor brought joy to many who knew him. He was the world’s best father, husband, grandfather, brother, and friend. To know him was to love him, and he will be missed dearly.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 20, 2021 at Calvary Chapel, 2136 E. Newberry St., Appleton, WI 54915 and officiated by Pastor Dwight Douville.  Visitation will be from 10:00am to noon, with service and military honors immediately following.

Bob’s family would like to thank Dr. Coenen and the staff at the VA Clinic in Appleton for the excellent care they provided to Bob over the years. They would also like to thank the staff at Heartland Hospice for the kind and gentle care they provided throughout this short, but very difficult time.

Bob may have lost his last battle with cancer here on earth, but won the war as he is now in heaven with our Lord and Savior.

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