Robert Wilke, 96, Owatonna

Robert W. Wilke, age 96, died peacefully early Saturday morning, Aug. 8, 2026.

He was born on Jan. 26, 1930, in Blue Earth. He was the son of William A. Wilke and Ella Emma (Kuenle) Wilke.

Bob graduated from Blue Earth High School in 1948. After high school, he attended Bethany Lutheran College, receiving an A.A. degree. He then transferred to Mankato Teachers College. There he majored in mathematics, chemistry and physics, and teaching. He graduated in May 1952 and was immediately called to duty in the Korean War.

He married Delores E. Wilke on Feb. 17, 1953, while on leave. He served honorably from October 1952 to August 1954.

Upon returning home, he was hired to teach math and science at Winnebago High School. He taught there for four years, followed by four years at Waseca High School. In 1962, he moved the family to Owatonna where he taught high school math until his retirement in 1991. One of his favorite memories was being an assistant coach to the State Champion OHS Math Team in 1988.

Bob loved to play golf, always walking for his daily exercise. He also loved spending time at the cabin fishing or just spending time with the grandchildren. He had a passion for woodworking and enjoyed playing cards and shooting pool at the Senior Center.

He loved to help out and volunteer. He was always willing to lend a hand when any of us needed help painting, wallpapering, watching the kids, etc. He spent many years volunteering at the Food Shelf, Meals on Wheels and the Hospital Auxiliary. He assisted with Meals of Hope and Table for All at Trinity Lutheran Church, where he also served as an usher for 50 plus years. He absolutely adored singing in the Golden Tones until they disbanded due to Covid.

Bob was a member of Golden Kiwanis, the American Legion, a life member of the Elks Club and the AmVets. As a proud Korean War veteran, he was privileged to be selected to go on an Honor Trip to Washington D.C. last October.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and younger sister Barbara Wilke.

He is survived by his children Chuck (Kathy) Wilke, Susan (Scott) Follese, and David Wilke; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Memorial service will be 11 a.m. on Oct. 12, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 609 Lincoln Ave., Owatonna. Friends may greet the family at the church from 10-11 a.m. Memorials can

be made to Honor Flight Twin Cities, P.O. Box 502, Lindstrom, MN 55045; Trinity Lutheran Church or donor’s choice.

For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com.