Bob Nonte

Bob passed away on Saturday, December 3, 2022.

Everyone has stories. They tell who we are, what we value, as well as who and what we love.

Bob’s stories illustrate the life of a quiet, modest, and intelligent gentleman who loved his family, friends, music, nature, helping others, and his Good Shepherd.

His story on earth started in Indianapolis on a cold December day. He grew up in an extended Irish family – making memories on car trips, during summer vacations in cabins near forests and lakes, and attending the Indy 500 each year.

His deep respect for nature started during those summer vacations and it continued as a Boy Scout, hiking and camping throughout southern Indiana.

Bob’s love of music developed early. He sang in the church choir. He decided he wanted to play an instrument after attending a Young People’s Concert in grade school. He went on to play flute and saxophone in school concert, pep, and marching bands.

Math, science, and music were favorite subjects. He earned a degree in accounting at the University of Evansville.

He and wife Sue met while working on the student newspaper, where he was a photographer and the business manager. They were married in a candlelight ceremony at the university’s chapel.

After graduation, they moved to North Carolina where they hiked along the Blue Ridge Parkway and parts of the Appalachian Trail. The Great Smoky Mountains were one of their favorite places on earth. They attended stock car races, went to concerts, and enjoyed North Carolina BBQ. Favorite South Carolina areas were Kings Mountain and Myrtle Beach.

After moving to Sun Prairie, he became part of the music community. He performed with the Sun Prairie Area Community Band, Victoria Rockman’s Flute Studio, the Madison Flute Choir, and various Sun Prairie United Methodist Church groups.

His devotion to his children and love for them was endless. They shared many adventures camping, canoeing, and hiking in Wisconsin and New Mexico. Attending their band and choir concerts was a joy.

Family traditions were important. Watching the Indy 500 was a must. Once a week, there was a family movie with popcorn. Thanksgiving Eve was all about his stellar Chex Mix and the movie “Raiders of the Lost Ark”. Christmas Eve Candlelight Services at SPUMC were a highlight of the holiday season.

He valued and demonstrated kindness, honor, humor, doing the right thing, and helping others.

His story does not end now. It just changes.

He is survived by wife Susan Grace Nonte; children Michael and SR Nonte (J. Nonte); as well as his music, church, and Scout families.

Visitation will be from 12-1:00 PM on Friday, December 9, 2022 at Sun Prairie United Methodist Church, 702 North Street, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 with a memorial service to follow at 1:00 PM.

Memorials may be directed to the music ministry at Sun Prairie United Methodist Church or the Sun Prairie Area Community Band .