Rob Wrisberg passed away peacefully on July 19, 2024 at MercyOne Medical Center in Waterloo at the age of 63. Born on April 21, 1961, in Mason City, Iowa, Rob was the cherished son of Robert Duane Wrisberg, Sr. and Rosalie (Kinder) Wrisberg Thumm.
Rob’s early years were spent in Clear Lake. The family then moved to Missouri before settling in Davenport, Iowa. While there he attended school at Davenport West before embarking on a life filled with varied experiences and adventures across the country. From Davenport, Iowa to Portland, Oregon, and later Missouri and Florida, Rob’s journey was marked by his work with owning and operating a vending machine company, retail management, janitorial work, and most notably, as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). His compassionate care as a home health aide and nursing home worker was a testament to his dedication and kindness.
A man of many interests and talents, Rob had a sweet tooth and a particular love for chocolate. He was meticulous and detail-oriented, qualities that served him well throughout his diverse career. His love for gardening was nurtured from a young age, thanks to his grandmother’s influence and their shared activities at Clear Lake. This passion extended into his adult life, reflecting his deep connection to nature and the simple joys of life.
Rob’s curiosity and creativity were evident from his childhood. He enjoyed improving classic games like Monopoly, building a massive model train collection with his father, and his fascination with Hot Wheels and Legos. His inquisitive nature led to shenanigans which included disassembling and reassembling various items, a hobby that highlighted his hands-on approach to problem-solving. Rob also took great pleasure in watching shows like Star Trek, The Twilight Zone, and Doctor Who, and had a deep fondness for animals. Over the years he had a pet mouse, goldfish, and even a turtle, who happened to wander off one day while they were in the garden. As much as he loved all his pets, his favorite first and foremost were his cats. He never met a cat he didn’t like, but had a particular fondness for Siamese.
In addition to his personal interests, Rob was a devoted fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and had a keen fascination with mass transportation, studying routes of major cities and delving into the origins of languages, becoming self-taught in German.
Rob cherished time spent with his family, particularly during Thanksgiving and Christmas, and valued the moments shared with his sisters and their families. His vibrant personality was balanced with a love for solitude, yet he could light up a room when surrounded by others.
Rob is survived by his two sisters, Jackie Ostrander and Kelly (Richard) Heppe; nieces and nephews, Aleah Ostrander (fiancé Andrew Chandler), and her children, Donald “Cricket” Barton, III and Amileah Ostrander; Kyle Ostrander and his son, Darryn Ostrander; Corbyn (Latavia) Heppe; Hunter Heppe; and Madison Heppe; as well as his special friend, John Cheff.
Robert is preceded in death by his parents, Robert Wrisberg, Sr. and Rosalie Thumm; and many aunts and uncles.
A Graveside service for Rob will be held 1:30 pm, Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City, Iowa.
colonialchapels.com