Robert “Bubba” Ronald Gwidt, born on Feb. 28, 1951, in Pulaski, Wis., passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on March 15, 2024 at his home in River Falls, Wis.
Throughout high school in Pulaski, Robert was a talented multi-sport athlete. He competed in football, wrestling and track and distinguished himself by placing second in State for wrestling, and holding the State record for discus for several years. Upon graduating, Robert attended the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, where he continued wrestling and track. He again achieved, and held for many years, the State record for discus.
Robert married the love of his life, Melanie Dree Mack on May 9, 1986 in Mankato, Minn. Melanie passed away from brain cancer on Dec. 1, 1998. Robert is survived by his sons Wes (Lauren) and Ryan (Theresa). He is also survived by his grandchildren Melanie, Nora, and Oak; many Gwidt family members in Pulaski; and his honorary Kubiak family.
Robert worked for Fedex Express for 33 years. He was an exceptional courier achieving over 30 years of safe driving. He delivered to his friends and neighbors in River Falls for much of his career.
Robert was a beloved member of the River Falls community. He was always there to lend a hand or provide a ride to where you needed to go. Robert was always making people laugh through imitating characters, quoting an old movie or telling a joke. He was very passionate about health and fitness. He loved attending and helping out with local sports events, most importantly, Green Bay Packer games. Robert also competed for many years in adult softball and racquetball leagues. He had been spending his retirement hiking and traveling with family and friends from his Johnnie’s Bar family.
Visitation for Robert “Bubba” Ronald Gwidt will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 23, 2024 at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (805 E. Division St.) in River Falls. A Memory Sharing service will be held at 3 p.m. (same location). A reception will follow the service at Johnnie’s Bar (116 N. Main St., River Falls, WI 54022). Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery at a later date. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family to be donated to the River Falls High School wrestling team.
