Robert “BoB” John Kerman
Robert “BoB” John Kerman, age 71, passed away unexpectedly in Palm Springs, California on March 20, 2024 as the result of a motorcycle accident.
Bob was born on December 17th, 1952 in Chicago, IL. Heavily influenced by his parents Harold and Joan (Steiner), he developed a lifelong passion for business and the arts. Early memories included trips with Nana to museums and the zoo where he would enjoy exploring the world with his younger brother Rick. Their diverse childhood was full of imagination and adventure. Things like, modeling for an art class taught in the basement of their home, were not uncommon. He was constantly absorbing lessons from life through his experience and the guidance of his mentors.
He loved learning from his rights and wrongs. From skipping school to catch a ballgame, installing a private doorbell outside his bedroom window to sneak out of the house late at night, undetected, to party with his friends; building a shortwave radio to listen to local police calls, or tracing the power line at boy scout camp to keep the lights on longer to achieve his cooking merit badge.
Leading by example was one of his greatest attributes. He and his wife Diane raised children. Both biological and inherited, all receiving the same love and attention. They started purchasing homes to provide affordable housing. This evolved into a business of restoring historical properties in Janesville, creating more jobs and opportunity.
Following in the footsteps of his father, he took education seriously. He graduated from Niles North High School in 1971, then received a bachelor’s degree from UW-Whitewater in the years to follow. He is very proud of his children and grandchildren, who he encouraged to take education to their desired levels.
From being a paperboy, to understudy, to a business owner, he always had a tireless work ethic. Businesses he has owned in his life include Electrolarm
Security Systems, JVLNET, Bobbleheads, BDK Properties, Back of the Yards Sports Complex, BKDK Management ... and of course, BoB and Diane’s Back Bar, their endless quest to support the music community with a safe venue bringing local, regional and national live music performances in the city he called home. The Back Bar also hosts an annual charity car show, creating tens of thousands of dollars in donations to benefit animals and people in need.
Bob is survived by his wife Diane (Rehr) of Janesville. Five children: John Kerman, Ft. Atkinson; Kyle (Alyssa) Pucek, Janesville; Joe Kerman, Washington DC; Laura Jane Meyer, New Brighton, MN; Jacob (Angela) Zimmerly, Janesville. Eight grandchildren, Louden (Maddie) Pucek, Milwaukee; Chaise Pucek, Madison; Colten Pucek, Elm Grove; Madissen Kerman, South Beloit, IL; Holden and Maddox Meyer, New Brighton, MN; Watson Pucek, Janesville; Turner Zimmerly, Janesville. His brother, Richard “Rick” (Carol) Kerman, Northbrook, IL. Many nephews, nieces, cousins and very special friends.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Joan Kerman and granddaughter, Iverson Pucek.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday April 3, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at SCHNEIDER FUNERAL DIRECTORS, and again on Thursday April 4, from 1:00 PM till time of service at 2:00 PM, interment will be in Oak Hill Cemetery. Following the cemetery everyone is invited to The Back Bar, 1901 Beloit Avenue, there will be an open mic for sharing of stories and acoustic music.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to one of the following charities: GIFTS Men’s Shelter 1025 N Washington St, Janesville, WI 53548, ECHO 65 S High St, Janesville, WI 53548, Paddy’s Paws, W2186 WI-106, Jefferson, WI 53549, JRs Pups-N-Stuff dog rescue, 8848 Fox River Rd, Burlington, WI 53105
For online condolences and guestbook, please visit: www.schneiderfuneraldirectors.com