Dr. Robert C. Manz

Dr. Robert "Bob" Carl Manz, 50, died peacefully on November 9, 2021, at his parent’s home in Eau Claire, WI after an extended battle with cancer.

Bob, affectionately known as "Bobber," was born on January 27, 1971 in Edina, MN to Carl and Diane (Johnson) Manz and raised in Eau Claire, WI. He graduated from Eau Claire Memorial High School in 1989, and received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in English from St. Olaf College in 1993.  He went on to earn his medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin in 1997, where he also completed his orthopedic residency and fellowship.

Bob was a gifted surgeon best known for his compassionate care of his patients. In 2015, he started his own private practice, M-Ortho, in Cedarburg, WI with his longtime friend and fellow orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Kristen Maskala. Bob took great pride in his practice to the benefit of his patients and community. He cared deeply for his colleagues, nurturing lifelong friendships. Friendships in recent years which took him to Greece, Cabo, Montana, Charleston, and Hawaii.

Bob had an endless capacity for love. He loved his family, his friends, and his dog Madi. As the youngest child, Bob adored his older siblings but had a penchant for mischief. In his youth his innate cleverness and sense of humor was at times a treacherous combination for his siblings. As an adult Bob developed special bonds with both Barb and Jim. He loved watching WI sports with his mom and dad, especially the Brewers. More than anything, he just enjoyed spending time with his family, friends and beloved dog, Madi.

Bob shared his distinct perspective on life through various creative endeavors. He rarely traveled without a camera. In college, he wrote and illustrated a childrens’ book titled "Little Worlds"—of much acclaim from his family, but not yet the world. We wish he could have edited these paragraphs as Bob was truly gifted in his writing.  His affection for music was also pervasive throughout his life.

His love for swimming began in the backyard pool and grew into a lifelong passion. He started competitive swimming at the age of five and continued through college where he excelled as a backstroker. Bob was able to share this passion with his nieces and nephews, attending every swim meet he could and being one of their biggest fans.

Bob was an incredible uncle, actively participating in his nieces’ and nephews’ lives. He took this role in life very seriously, providing an education in classic movies and music, and passing on the art of staying up late. He was the “cool” adult who took time to go to concerts and events with his nieces and nephews. Bob treated them as equals, listening and valuing their perspectives.

Bob had so many friends in his life; there were no strangers. He found humor in any situation and never resisted the temptation to crack a joke, just as long as it made someone smile. He touched countless lives. Everyone has a Bob story and we would love to hear them all. Many were there to care for him at the end of his life, and we thank you all for the support you provided to Bob and to our family.

Bob was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Kurt Friesth. He is survived by his parents; his siblings Barb Friesth and Jim Manz (Sharon); his nephews Wesley and Trevor Manz; and his nieces Sarah Manz, Emma and Kristen Friesth.

Due to increased risk of COVID-19 infection, there will no longer be a visitation prior to the service.  The service will be held via live stream, but in person only for immediate family.  In lieu of the visitation, a celebration of Bob’s life with live music and photos will be streamed the 40 minutes leading into the 2 o’clock service. Inurnment will take place at a later date in the Forest Hill Cemetery in Eau Claire. You are welcome to view the service virtually at Trinity Lutheran Church website link at http://www.trinity-ec.org/

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, Pablo Center at the Confluence, 128 Graham Ave., Eau Claire, WI 54701; or a charity of choice. To donate to the Pablo Center please use the link provided  https://pablocenter.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n3u00000RWEFFAA5&  To donate please click on the Robert Manz Memorial Fund in the drop down options, under “Designate a Specific Fund”.   

Friends and family may offer condolences online at www.hulkefamilyfh.com. Please continue to check our website for a link to view the service virtually. 

Hulke Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 3209 Rudolph Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 is assisting the family with the arrangements.  

The family would have loved to have seen all of you to share memories and stories of Bob.  We are hoping to recreate that virtually later today at 6 pm through what is called Gather Town. This link will get you there and will walk you through a couple of steps to join in the conversation.  It works best on a computer, but it can be accessed through a smart device (iPhone/iPad). Hoping this works—we have never done this before, so please bear with us.  If you are having difficulties try refreshing the page.  We will also be monitoring Caringbridge or you can email me (macmanz@charter.net) to help with trouble shooting. Come join us at "Bob Manz (Virtual) Visitation": https://gather.town/events/L2xFrprUI8CiNck9WEdO

Description: A virtual space to meet with the family, share stories about Bob, and offer condolences.
 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.