Robert Kevin Dillman Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Robert Kevin Dillman, 64, of Wild Rose, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2022, with his loving wife of 42 years, Phyllis, by his side, at the Patriot Place in Berlin. Born in 1957, in Mauston, Wisconsin, he was raised by his devoted mother and father, Burton and Helen Dillman, in Berlin. He had a wonderful childhood with them, and aunts and uncles including the late Bob and Cathryn, learned how to fish, began a lifelong love for animals with his dog Spooky, and took trips to Pennsylvania to visit relatives on his mother’s side. Upon marrying Phyllis, the daughter of Philip and Alice Testin, they made their home in Wild Rose, where they raised their daughter Heather Marie and son James (“Jimmy”) Edward. They were blessed with many good years and made happy memories in the close-knit village where the values of kindness and commitment to community are cherished and practiced. During his work life, Robert worked in several canning factories, including Green Giant and Del Monte, as a crate pusher and a forklift operator. He also did side jobs to provide for his family, including shearing Christmas trees. Fond of the outdoors, he enjoyed camping trips with the kids, hunting, and fishing. Ever the conversationalist, he would often speak about memorable fishing expeditions in great detail, beaming with pride as he recounted certain catches he or Jimmy made. He loved taking his boat out on the lake, taking trips to casinos with Phyllis as well as friends, and special trips to Las Vegas and Branson, playing cards, bowling, shooting pool, and keeping up on sports, especially football (Go! Pack Go!). But most of all, he loved being a father and gave his children boundless affection. In recent years, Robert was very fortunate to discover his biological sister, Donna, after they both had wondered their whole lives about each other. This connection was a dream come true and brought him great comfort and peace. Donna, your grace in coming to visit him in person to embrace him will never be forgotten. Although he was raised as an only child and lost his father at the age of 12, Robert nevertheless developed an enduring sense of family that remained an intrinsic part of his nature for his entire life. Indeed, any new friend who came into his presence experienced his charming warmth, jovial personality, and brilliant smile and was soon told by him, “You are family now.” May this be his legacy and an intention for all of us to emulate! Robert is survived by his wife Phyllis, daughter Heather, son James (Rocco) of Albany, New York, sister Donna Benda, of Friendsville, Tennessee, and many nieces and nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents Burton and Helen, and aunts and uncles. The family has always been there for each other in countless ways, but a special mention is made for the steadfast support of nieces Misty and Alicia, who sacrificed their time to ensure that their uncle was never alone. We also acknowledge the care and support of Stacey and Angie, two angels from ThedaCare Hospice, who kept him comfortable in his final days. Husband, father, uncle, brother, he will always remain in our hearts and minds. Our bond is unbreakable. Family and friends are invited to Slugger's Bar and Grill in Wild Rose after services for or a time of sharing and caring.