Rob Radtke, Sr., 62

Robert Radtke, Sr., age 62, of Sturgis, passed away comfortably in his home on Monday, March 7, 2016, surrounded by loved ones after a brave battle with cancer.
Rob was known for his zest for life and was always the life of the party.
He loved his family and made sure everyone knew how proud he was of his children and grandchildren. Rob loved to hunt, fish, make wine for friends and family and float in his pool. He loved music and in addition to DJ’ing weddings he became an ordained minister in 2007. He also loved rock concerts and taking his grandkids to the zoo. He was a leader with St. Joe County Shooting Sports club, which his youngest sons were involved with. Rob always had a smile, an inappropriate joke and always wearing his sunglasses, even in photos. He loved life and loved to make people laugh.
Rob was born Nov. 17, 1953, in Dowagiac, to Herman “Harry” and Florence (Werhand) Radtke. He graduated in 1971 from Dowagiac Union High School.
On April 16, 1994, Rob married his beloved wife and best friend, Tammy (Gregory). Frito-Lay was lucky enough to have Rob as their “Chip Guy” for 31 years, retiring in 2008. In true Rob form, he couldn’t sit still for long and worked part-time mowing at Klinger Lake Country Club and then as a substitute bus driver for Sturgis Public Schools, until illness prevented him from working.
Rob is survived by his wife, Tammy; his children, Kara (Greg) Williams of Orland, Ind., Robbie (Brianne) Radtke of Sturgis, Alec Radtke of Sturgis and Evan Radtke of Sturgis; his grandbabies, Delaney, Vivian and Jagger Williams, all of Orland; his siblings, Elaine (Bill) Carter of Niles, Tom (Lois) Radtke of Cassopolis and Lauri (Jim) Bowers of Palmer, Ark. He also is survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
Rob is proceeded in death by his constant companion of 13 years, his labrador, Copper; and his parents, Harry and Florence Radtke.
Rob insisted there would be no funeral or viewing, but instead a party celebrating his life at his home that his family will announce at a later date.
Elkhart Cremation Services is entrusted with his arrangements.