Robert Hess

Robert Julius "R.J." Hess, 72, of Madison, WI, passed away in his home on May 21, 2019.

R.J. was born to parents Sara and Jacob Julius "Jay" Hess, on August 29, 1946, in El Dorado, KS. After High School, R.J. graduated from Butler County Community College and headed to St. Louis to begin his distinguished electrical engineering career earning many awards/recognitions for his dedication, strong work ethic and expansive knowledge.

R.J. was married to and survived by Mary Stevenson of El Dorado, KS and Kathryn Eustace of St. Peters, MO. R.J. was proceeded in death by his wife Beverly Hess (Fulks), who passed away on May 9, 2008, and step-granddaughter Kelsi Ferren. He is survived by daughter, Ericka, son in law, Michael Wagner and grandchildren, Justin, Brendan and Sean of Naperville, IL, stepdaughters Wendi Vittitow (Joe) of Augusta, KS, Staci Lewis (Brian) of Leon, KS, and Lauri Maly (Mitch) of McFarland, WI, step-grandchildren Carri Guy, Tyler Watters, Karson Lewis, Brandon Maly and 6 step-great-grandchildren.

R.J. had a brilliant sense of humor and ardently loved sharing time, stories and games with his friends/co-workers, hunting/fishing/lake buddies, family and beloved dogs. Like his mom, he was proud of his Pennsylvania Dutch/German heritage and had a strong sense of community involvement - supporting the El Dorado Elks Lodge and most recently, assisting the Dane County Board of Supervisors in various projects. Before his stroke, most evenings would find R.J. grilling out with friends/family, reading, listening to his favorite music or sports team (Cardinals, Badgers and Packers) with preferred beverage in hand (Coors - with salt, Budweiser or high ball - with cherries!). As dad, and papa he will be lovingly remembered for his "Hi Sweetie," big bear hugs, fun family outings, and sage advice.

R.J.'s celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2019 at 2:00 PM at Cress Funeral Home, 3325 E. Washington Ave., Madison, WI 53704. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Saturday, June 29, 2019 from 12:00 PM until time of service. A smaller, family memorial will also be held in El Dorado, KS with a date and time to be determined.

Cress Funeral Service
3325 E. Washington Ave.
Madison, WI 53704
608-249-6666