Robert F. Schlei

Robert F. Schlei of Wausau died December 22, 2008 under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services at Hospice House, after a long and courageous fight with multiple myeloma. He was 74 years old. Bob was born January 20, 1934 in Wausau, the son of the late Benjamin and Sophie (Tyskiewicz) Schlei. Bob was a 1952 graduate of Wausau High School. He was married to the late Shirley (Tischer) Schlei-Larsen for 19 years. On July 2, 1976 he married Lou Ann Hotchkiss, who survives. Bob served his country in the National Guard. He worked along side his father in the Rothschild paper mill for several years. For the last 50 years he was a contractor and landlord. He was a member of Christ Lutheran Church. Bob was a long-standing member of the Wausau Elks Club and a very active Lions Club member serving as their President in 1983. Survivors include his two sons, Jeff (Jamie) Schlei and Steve (Mary) Schlei, both of Wausau and two daughters Dee (Brian) Jorgenson, Kronenwetter and Tami Campanaro, Mayer, AZ.; three step-children, Julie (Todd) Zumach, Phillips, Vicki Avila, McAllen , Texas and Craig (Tasha) Hotchkiss, Antigo; four grandchildren, Jason and Adam Schlei, Wausau, Matthew (Kris) Schlei, Mosinee and Sidney Miller, Kronenwetter; seven step-grand children, Megan Zumach, Milwaukee, Tara Zumach, Park Falls, Morgan, Alec and Mitchell Hotchkiss all of Antigo; two great grandchildren, Benjamin and Kyndal Schlei, Mosinee and many nieces, relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, and most recently by his sister, Maryann. A private memorial service will be held this spring. In lieu of flowers, the family will establish a memorial. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 6th Street, Wausau, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com