ARDELT, Robert, Jr, age 51, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2024, with family by his side. He was born to Robert “Bob” Ardelt and April (Kienbaum) Ardelt-Furman on May 29, 1973, in Fort Atkinson, WI. Along with his parents, Robert is survived by his stepmother Connie Ardelt, sister Nicole (Greg) Leason of Milton, WI, and brother Ross (Annette) of Whitewater, WI., nephews, Cash and Cooper Leason, and Harrison Ardelt. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Robert was predeceased by his grandparents Carl and June Kienbaum, Donald and Katie Ardelt, stepfather, George Furman, aunt, Mariann “Mickie” Kienbaum and uncle, Rommel Kienbaum.
Robert graduated from Whitewater High School in 1991. Moving to Sarasota, Florida to attend Ringling College of Art & Design, he received his associate degree in graphic design. It was there that he fell in love with the beach, but even more, found a deep desire to always expand his horizons.
Robert was given the opportunity of a lifetime to visit Israel, but amongst all his travels, it was his two years working in Nantucket, MA at Wayne Pratt Antique Sales where he truly fell in love with the world, being immersed in art history.
Faced with ongoing health issues, Robert would find his way back to Whitewater in 2007 to be near his family. Fighting Renal Failure with dialysis for 11 years he received a kidney transplant in 2018, but it eventually failed due to complications. Although these health issues would plague him to the end, his spirit never dimmed. Just as he would seize every opportunity, so would he embrace every challenge, in a special way that only Robert could. Unwavering, he went to UW-Whitewater where he finished his Art History degree with a minor in World Religion.
Always adventurous, so was Robert’s creativity, never confined to one simple thing. Taking up baking and cooking, he immediately shined, bringing his artistic flare to every gathering where a meal would be had. But of all Robert’s talents and pursuits, it was in the relationship with his nephews that he truly glowed and found purpose. Infinitely patient and thoughtful, always playful and present, being an uncle was his best craft.
Although in the end his body gave out, he fought the good fight, and we are extremely proud of his bravery. As Robert was always inspired, so shall we be by his strength.
Visitations are from 10 am until 12 pm on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 N. Newcomb Street, Whitewater. The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation beginning at 12 pm.
In lieu of flowers please consider a charitable donation in Robert’s memory to First English Lutheran Church or to be distributed amongst Robert’s other favorite causes.
Nitardy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com
