Robert Alan Ewald

Robert “Bob” Ewald, 72, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.

Bob was born at the Ladysmith hospital on November 9, 1953, to Harold and Lorraine of Bruce. He graduated from Bruce High School in 1972, where he was known as a gifted athlete. Bob turned down several offers to play football at the collegiate level, opting instead to stay in Bruce with his family and begin working. After a single 8-hour shift at the mink ranch, Bob began his 38-year career at Mid-America where he retired in 2010.

Bob was an avid outdoorsman, who could often be found chasing whitetails every fall and fly-fishing for bluegills in the spring. He was also a natural-born athlete whose talent was so evident that friends often remarked that he could master any sport he picked up.

In 1975, Bob married Julie Vierck of Bruce, and five years later they had one child together, a daughter, Erica. Bob’s most cherished role was father and grandfather. His world revolved around Erica, whom he brought camping with friends, took on endless bike rides, taught how to ski, went fishing and hunting with, and coached her in every sport, her favorite being softball. When Bob became a grandpa, he was over the moon for his grandchildren, McKenzie and Cole. “PaPa Bob” cherished every milestone and lived for the moments he shared with his grandchildren; he never missed an opportunity to be part of their lives and he made every memory special. On fishing and hunting trips, his greatest joy wasn’t his own catch, but ensuring his grandchildren were the ones shooting the big bucks and reeling in the trophy fish. Bob was a constant at his grandchildren’s activities and sporting events, rarely missing an opportunity to see them compete. Bob’s life was simple by design but rich in the memories he created with his family and friends whom he loved. His physical presence will be missed by many, but his memory will carry on by those who loved him.

Bob is survived by his daughter, Erica (Jeff) Schley of Tony; granddaughter, McKenzie; grandson, Cole; brother, Michael (Michele) Ewald; sister Jean (Al Desotell) Ewald; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Lorraine, brothers Wesley Ewald, Fritz Ewald, Jerry Ewald, and sisters Rose Worman and Lynda Westlund.

A visitation will be held, where the family invites you to share your fondest memories of Bob, at Nash-Jackan Funeral Home in Bruce on Saturday, March 7, 2026. Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A service will take place after visitation with Rev. Mark A. Bartlett officiating, followed by burial in the Bruce Cemetery. All are invited to the American Legion Hall in Bruce for lunch after services reside.

A complete obituary will also be published in the Ladysmith News.