Robert "Bud" Earhart journeyed in peace to his new place Aug. 7, 2008.
Bud was born on Aug. 18, 1950, in Superior. He graduated from Superior Senior High School in 1968.
He served in the U.S. Navy from 1968-1972. After an honorable discharge he traveled the United States extensively. For 10 years he was a bridge operator and clerk for Burlington Northern Railroad. He then started Earhart Water Conditioning with his father. Until recently he was the GIS coordinator for Douglas County and the city of Superior where he received a commendation for his excellent service, hard work, and commitment to the citizens of Superior.
His main hobby was woodworking with and emphasis on children and home furnishings. Bud built his entire home. He enjoyed camping with family and friends, playing softball, and fishing. He proudly coached the Nemadji Roadrunners Little League team. Scuba diving and snorkeling were also his passions and always looked forward to his annual hunting week with son-in-law Keith and friends Todd "Ernie" Ashauer and Pat Garvey.
He recently spent time in the Florida Keys and a beautiful trip out West.
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Bud is survived by his loving wife, Mila; three children, Laura (Keith), Melissa (Steve) and Jason (April); papa to grandchildren, Dillon, Leslie, Zachery, Devon, Jake, Sierra (Arreis), and Forest; his devoted mother Delores Earhart; five sisters, Debbie (Tom) Clarke, Jeannie (Jim) Graskey, Laurie (Jeff) Effertz, Judy (Dan) Klimek and Jamie (Kirk) Fraser; one brother, Glenn Earhart; mother-in-law Hazel Salo; and he was blessed with many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and cherished friendships.
He was preceded in death by his father, William Earhart; beloved sister, Mary; and nieces Mckenzie and Cassandra Jones.
Our family would like to extend a special thank you to St. Luke's Cancer Center, Greg Medis, M.D., Steven Foltz, P. A., and the attentive care by all staff during his stay. A thank also to St. Luke's Hospice angels who treated us with dignity, respect, and loving care during this challenging time. Dr. Steven Long's commitment to Buddy's quality of life is especially appreciated. Most of all our heartfelt thanks to our family and friends who have supported us through this journey.
Everyone enjoyed his seemingly endless supply of bear hugs.
Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the noon funeral service Thursday at the Darrow Road Wesleyan Church with the Rev. Mark A. Holmes officiating. Interment will be at Lakeside Cemetery.
Pallbearers Paul Starhia, John Purdiak, Ron Liebaert, Gary Galliford, Rollie Edmund and Gary Blaisdell. Honorary pallbearers are Heather, Eric, Joshua, Jonas, Ryan, John and Tom.
If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Darrow Road Wesleyan Church for a reflective memorial garden.
God saw him feeling tired,
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A Cure was not to be
So he put his arms around him
And whispered, "Come to me"
With tearful hearts they
Watched him slowly fade away.
Although they love him dearly
They could not make him stay.
A golden heart stopped beating
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Hard working hands to rest.
God broke their hearts to prove to them.
"He only takes the best."
Downs Funeral Home, corner of N. 19th Street and Ogden Avenue, is assisting the family with arrangements.
