Robert "Bob" J. Henning

Robert J. "Bob" Henning, 83, of Wausau, WI, passed away on May 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family following a courageous battle with cancer. Known to many as "Hammer," Bob lived a life defined by faith, family, and an unwavering commitment to community service.

Born in Milwaukee to Walter Henning and Mary (Nepp) Carriveau, Bob grew up in Grafton, where he graduated from Grafton High School. He attended UW-Stout, where he met the love of his life, Yvonne Peterson. The two were married on May 7, 1966, at Big Elk Creek Lutheran Church and eventually settled in Wausau to raise their three daughters.

Bob's passion for education led to a distinguished 35-year career at Northcentral Technical College (NTC). He was remembered by colleagues and students alike as a dedicated mentor who championed every student's success. A staunch advocate for his profession, he was deeply involved in the Central Wisconsin Uniserv Council (CWUC) and the Wisconsin Education Association Council (WEAC), continuing his service well into retirement as the President of WEAC-Retired.

Bob's leadership extended through countless organizations. He was a devoted member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, serving on the church council and as a graduate of the lay ministry school. His community impact was felt through his roles as District Governor for the Rib Mountain Lions Club, Exalted Ruler of the Wausau Elks Lodge, and Board President for both the Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin and Homme Home.

For many in Wausau, Bob was the spirit of Christmas. For years, he portrayed Santa Claus for the Wausau Christmas Parade and local gatherings, always donating his "Santa proceeds" to the Elks Lodge Fellowship program to provide gifts for families in need.

An accomplished woodworker, Bob found great joy in his workshop, creating everything from animal carvings to furniture. He shared this passion by founding the Legacy Woodworking Academy to teach others the art of wood turning and carving. Even in retirement, he stayed busy helping others through his handyman business, "Bob's Extra Hand".

Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Yvonne (Peterson) Henning; mother Mary (Nepp) Carriveau; father Walter Henning; brothers Ronald Nepp, William Henning, Jerald Henning, and Dennis Henning; and sister Marilyn (Henning) Kayl.

He is survived by his three daughters: Laura (Thomas) Olson, Elizabeth Henning (Brian Bornheimer), and Amy Henning. He also leaves behind two grandchildren, Emma and Hannah Olson; brothers, Edward Henning, Ervin Ruhe, Sr., and Norman Ruhe, Jr.; sisters Eadie (Henning) Berndt, Carol (Ruhe) Wollner, Sharon (Ruhe) Varisco; and a large community of nieces, nephews, and friends.

All services will take place at the Elks Lodge, 414 Scott St, Wausau, WI, on Saturday, May 30th. The visitation will begin at 10:00 AM with celebration of life service following at 12:00 PM . 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Bob's name to the Legacy Woodworking Academy, Homme Home Foundation, or the Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin.