Robert G. Rice

Robert G. Rice, “Bob”, age 92, passed away Thursday, August 8, 2024, at Hospice House, Pleasant Prairie. He was born in Madison, WI, November 30, 1931, son of the late Ted and Gladys (Nee: Halverson) Rice.

Bob graduated from Madison East High School and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He proudly served in the U. S. Army as a corporal stationed in Korea from 1951 – 1953. On November 28, 1975, he was united in marriage to Dianne J. Bianchi, who passed away on January 30, 2016. Bob was employed at AT&T for 32 years, retiring in 1984 as assistant analyst. Bob was a member of St. Mary’s by the Lake Catholic Church. He enjoyed traveling the world especially Europe, South Africa and Egypt. Bob was a sports enthusiast who enjoyed jogging, running marathons, playing handball, golf, and tennis. He was also a member of the Racine Bridge Club and enjoyed playing in the Stock Market. He will be remembered for his innate ability to make anyone, friend or stranger, smile. Bob had a kind word for everyone he encountered. Bob will also be remembered for sharing with his wife, Dianne, their roles as aunt and uncle for their two nieces, who they dearly loved and enjoyed.

Surviving are his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Dennis and Barbara Bianchi of Santa Fe, New Mexico; nieces, Carmen Stubbs of Manhattan Beach and Nicolette (David Gubernatis) Bianchi of Santa Fe; cousins, Shirley Mickelson and Janet White both of Madison; other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held on September 6, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery with full military honors and entombment.

The family wishes to thank Grace and Diane for their kindness and care over the years and for everyone at Hospice House, Pleasant Prairie, for providing great comfort to Bob during his final days.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in honor of Bob’s love for cats to the Wisconsin Humane Society.