Robert Gordon Van Ness, age 90 of Hudson, WI, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on September 6, 2013 at the Christian Community Home.  Robert was born October 2, 1922; the son of Bernard and Gunda (Nelson) Van Ness.  He was united in marriage to Elizabeth Margaret “Betty” Cronk on February 26, 1948 in Rice Lake, WI.  Their marriage was blessed with three children, Susan, Rebecca and Robert. Robert worked as a Brick Yard Foreman for Corning Donahue in St. Paul until his retirement.  

Outside of being a hard worker, Robert enjoyed pheasant hunting and was a devoted Green Bay Packer fan.  He had a special love for dogs, especially his beloved chocolate lab, “Lady,” who preceded him in death.  Lady was very dear to Robert’s heart and he was very proud of all he had trained her to do.  In his earlier years, Robert owned and operated a kennel in North Hudson in which he boarded and trained dogs.  Robert also enjoyed socializing at many of the area businesses and with friends over coffee.  He was known by many to come in with a smile, good conversation, cookies and treats.  
Robert will remain in the hearts of his children, Susan (Dennis) Rohl, Beckie (Jerome) Flattum and Bob (Kathleen) Van Ness, all of Hudson; 9 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth “Betty”; siblings:  Lawrence Van Ness, Mary Van Ness, Bernie Van Ness and Leona Johnson; and his parents.  

Mass of Christian Burial will take place 11:00 AM Tuesday, September 10, 2013 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1500 Vine St., Hudson, with Fr. John Gerritts officiating.  A visitation will take place one hour prior to Mass at the church.  Interment will take place at St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery.  Urn bearers will be Robert’s grandchildren.  Funeral services have been entrusted to the O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Hudson (715) 386-3725.