Robert Gratz

Robert C. "Bob" Gratz, age 90, of Platteville, WI formerly of Darlington, WI passed away Wednesday, December 13, 2017 at his home. He was born November 29, 1927 in Lafayette County, Wisconsin the son of Ernest and Mary (Horner) Gratz. Bob graduated from Darlington High School in 1945. He was united in marriage to Anne L. Schwartz on June 7, 1952 at United Methodist Church in Darlington. Bob grew up in rural Darlington and farmed in Darlington Township his entire life. Bob served in the U.S. Army where he began Basic Training at Camp Gordon in Georgia and graduated as a code clerk. He was assigned to the 25th Division of 27th Infantry which was known as the "Wolfhound Regiment." He spent 16 months as a messenger clerk in Korea. Bob earned several awards and badges: Combat Infantry Badge, a Korean Service Ribbon with two bronze service stars, the United Nations Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1954. Following his retirement in the early 90's, he and Anne lived on the farm until moving to Platteville in 2014. Bob is survived by his wife Anne at home; one daughter: Lori (Rod Davis) Gratz of Platteville; five grandchildren: Tim (Jen) Lyne, Tamara Lyne, Bethany (Gunnar) Crowell, Robert (Stephanie) Butson, and Angela Butson; two great-grandchildren: Aubree Butson and Charlie Goerdt; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter: Debra Lyne in 2012; and three brothers: Glenn, Harold, and Gervin Gratz. Bob was a member of Darlington United Methodist Church. He was Darlington Township Chairman for a number of years and was also instrumental in getting Rural Medical Ambulance in Darlington started. He loved to travel and spend time with his family creating memories they will always cherish. Bob will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by his family and friends. A funeral service will be held Tuesday, December 19, 2017 at 11:00 A.M. at Erickson Funeral Home (508 Main Street, Darlington) with Rev. Angela Utter of Darlington United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be in Union Grove Cemetery where military graveside rites will be accorded by Bates-O'Brien-Howe-Wiegel-Roelli American Legion Post #214 of Darlington. A visitation will be held Tuesday, December 19, 2017 from 9:00 A.M. until 10:45 A.M. at the funeral home. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com. For those who prefer, a memorial fund has been established in Bob's name.