Bob is preceded in death by his Father and Mother Raymond and Dorothy Harmant, brother Roger Harmant, sisters Bernice Fertitta, Sandra Canales, Father-in-law Paul Garwood and Granddaughter Paige Wolff.
Bob was best known for his perfect sense of humor, cheerful friendship, genuine helpful nature and caring, loving personality. After serving from 1965 to 1967 in the United States Army, Bob worked in the corrugated packaging industry for various companies until 1997. In 1997 he retired from the corporate world and took up work for the West Bend School District.
Working with students and staff touched his heart and he instantly made a connection with all the staff and students he met. While working at the West Bend High Schools the staff and students lovingly called him “Janitor Bob” because he went out of his way daily to help students and staff feel loved and cared for. He had an incredible way with his humor, his wisdom and his one-liners that were perfect for the situation at hand. Carrying around a pocket full of “Life Savers” candy to hand out, many students would say that most days Bob made their high school life better. This was always the case for all people who got to know Bob, he made all of our lives better.
A Memorial Service for Bob will be held on Saturday, June 1 at 1 p.m. at the Phillip Funeral Home Chapel (1420 W Paradise Drive, West Bend, WI, 53095). Visitation will be Saturday, June 1 from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Military Honors to follow.
Janitor Bob was the most amazing person a high schooler could come across! He ALWAYS had a smile on his face. It’s been 8years since high school graduation and I still miss him. It was a true honor to meet him. Janitor Bob you’ve been taken way to young and you will never be forgotten!!
Such an amazing person to grow up around. I got to West High a year after he started, he was always a staple there with Dennis the Janitor (Hulk Hogan). I can remember Bob worked and never complained never had a bad or off moment and if he had a bad day, we as students, never saw it! I truly hope the district recognizes his impact not only on the school but the many generations he interacted with and touched. God Speed Robert the school will not be the same with out you!
Thank you for being a great human being,
Tyler Komp
West Bend West Class of 2002
Janitor Bob was a great person and was the most recognizable face of the West Bend High School. He used to give the kids candy and would call us out when we were miss behaving. He ran those halls with such humor and love for the kids. If anyone deserves an amazing afterlife, it’s Bob. He changed lives and made an impact on all of us. Much love Bob, until we meet again!
Ryan Bero
West Bend West Class of 2005
Bob was a good classmate. Sympathy and Blessings to his family.