Robert Arthur Rye

Robert Arthur Rye was the eldest son born to Marian J. Rye and Theodore Rye, July 16, 1944 in Johnstown, Wisconsin. He grew up just north of Clinton, Wisconsin on the Rye family farm with brothers Tom and Gordon (Gordy). He graduated from Clinton High School in 1961.

Bob held a variety of truck driving jobs and was a proud teamster. He ended his career as a concrete truck driver for Wingra Redi-mix, a job he very much enjoyed. He married Rita Gahagan in 1992, they later divorced, but stayed close for the duration of his life. Bob enjoyed people the most. He could talk to any stranger, particularly women, often getting their whole life story before the conversation ended. Bob was a rock hound and general collector of all things odd and needing a home. Rita once threatened to not speak to a niece if Bob collected one more thing from her to take home. Bob’s wit and double entendres were legendary and present until the very end. 

Bob is survived by his brother, Gordy (Kathy), nieces, Stacy Rye, Laura Rye, Merebeth Rye and nephew Andy Rye and their spouses, and wonderful friends, Rita Gahagan, Bob Borchers, and Julie Shaull. The last years of Bob’s life would not have been possible without the love, support and assistance of his friends and especially Abdul and Ume Tarawally.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents and brother Tom. Bob passed away November 5th, 2024 of natural causes. Cremation to take place by Informed Choice of Madison. Services to be held at the Clinton Presbyterian Church, Thursday, November 21st, 2024 at 11 am followed by a graveside service at Emerald Grove Cemetery.