Robert Ketchum age 85 of Baldwin died peacefully Thursday March 17th 2016 at his residence following an illness with cancer. ‘Bob’ was born on June 1, 1930 in Sparta, Wisconsin; the son of Frank and Irma (Holberg). He attended Deronda Elementary School in rural Amery prior to graduating from Amery High School in the class of 48’. He would further his education with a degree in accounting from Minneapolis Business College. On November 10, 1951, he was united in marriage to Barbara Carlson at Immanuel Lutheran Church in rural Clayton. This union would be blessed with two sons Bruce and Brooks. He enlisted in the armed forces, where he proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953.

Bob worked many years as an accountant. His detailed, task oriented demeanor led him to a prominent career. He began with the Radison Hotels in Minneapolis and Hills Brother Coffee. He then worked in Wisconsin for Heebink Lumber and the Baldwin Coop Creamery. He will be remembered most for working 26 years for St. Croix Electric in Hammond, formerly located in Baldwin. Bob was a simple man who loved his family, the outdoors, and was a devoted Christian. Bob and the family had fond memories of camping trips to local parks and campgrounds. He enjoyed fishing, the Packers, and watching the Brewers on tv. He also cherished their many friends, putzing around at his son Brook’s welding shop, and the 17 years wintering with friends in Arizona. He served on the Baldwin Village board for a couple terms as was instrumental in bringing what is now Mill Pond Park to Baldwin.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Irma; and brothers, Wesly and Franklyn. He is survived by his wife, Barbara of 64 years; sons, Bruce (Sue) Ketchum and Brooks Ketchum; grandchildren, Alex (Heather), Barry (Gina), and Brad; step-grandson, Charlie (Shara) Lindstrom; 3 great-grandchildren; and 5 step great-grandchildren.

A Memorial Service for Bob will be 11:00 AM Tuesday, March 22nd at Gethsemane Lutheran Church in Baldwin. Military honors provided by the American Legion Post of Baldwin. Burial will be in the Baldwin Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Baldwin and one hour prior to the service at church Tuesday morning. Memorials are preferred.