Gross, Robert Francis

Dodgeville – Robert Francis Gross, age 83, of Dodgeville, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 15, 2025. Robert was born on March 16, 1942 in Darlington, Wisconsin to Frank and Gertrude (McKillip) Gross. Bob served in the Army Reserves from 1962 to 1968.

Bob married his sweetheart Laura “Toots” Crist on June 23, 1963. Bob and Laura moved to Dodgeville in 1964, where they raised their children, Paula, Scott, and Angie. He became an Assistant Manager at Ben Franklin and retired from Lands’ End as a courier. In between, he worked at Gardner Bakery, Stella Cheese Factory, and drove bus for Anderson Bus Lines. He coached little league softball and was involved in Boy Scouts. Bob never missed any events for his grandchildren whether it was a sporting event or a musical performance. As a true outdoorsman he loved to bike, fish, and cross country ski. He also never missed his daily walks. He will be missed especially for his mischievous pranks and sense of humor. 

Robert is survived by the love of his life, Laura (Crist) Gross; his children Paula (Gerry), Scott (Tracey), Angie (Brian); his grandchildren Geoff (Jess), Jake (Maggie), Kyle (Jaclyn), Jack (John), Courtney (Andrew), Katie (Nick), Karlie (Noah); two great grandchildren; and his sister Connie Kilcoyne. 

He is preceded in death by his parents Frank and Gertrude, siblings Shirley Bennett and Janette Johnson; brother in-laws Don Bennett, Leroy Johnson, Larry Kilcoyne, and Mark Higgins; and his beloved pup, Max. 

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials will be donated to Bob’s favorite organizations.

Gorgen-McGinley & Ayers 

Funeral Home

www.gorgenfh.com