Robert Widmer Sterling Obituary, Death: Beloved Co-Founder of Widmer Brother’s Dairy Farm, Lifelong Resident, and Dedicated Community Member Passes Away at 92, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Family, Faith, and Agricultural Commitment
Robert E. “Bob” Widmer, age 92, of Sterling, Ohio, passed away on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at the Apostolic Christian Village after a period of declining health. Bob’s life was defined by hard work, family values, community service, and faith. He leaves behind a lasting legacy in the Sterling area, where his contributions as a farmer, community member, and family man touched the lives of many. His passing marks the end of an era for the Widmer family and the local community, as the co-founder of the iconic Widmer Brother’s Dairy Farm has left a remarkable impact on both agricultural development and the social fabric of the region.
Born on March 29, 1932, to John and Mary (Riggenbach) Widmer in Sterling, Bob grew up with a strong appreciation for farming and community values. The Widmer family was already known for their agricultural roots, and from a young age, Bob was actively involved in farm life. The local community shaped much of his upbringing, instilling a commitment to hard work and service that would guide him throughout his life. Bob attended Sterling High School and graduated with the class of 1951. It was during these formative years that he built the foundation for what would become a life characterized by dedication to family, faith, and agriculture.
Soon after graduating, Bob married Joann M. Imhoff on June 12, 1954. Their marriage, which lasted until Joann’s passing in 2016, was a model of enduring love and partnership. Together, they raised a family while managing the demands of farm life. For 44 years, Bob and his brother Joseph co-operated the Widmer Brother’s Dairy Farm, turning it into a prominent agricultural enterprise in the community. The farm not only provided livelihood for the family but also served as a source of pride for the area, where the Widmer name became synonymous with quality dairy production and sustainable farming practices.
Under Bob’s co-leadership, the Widmer Brother’s Dairy Farm flourished. He and Joseph invested in advanced farming techniques and maintained a commitment to sustainability, which earned them respect within the agricultural community. The farm became known not only for its high-quality dairy products but also for its role in supporting local agricultural initiatives and organizations. Bob was an active member of the Wayne County Farm Bureau, contributing to discussions on farming policies and advocating for the interests of local farmers. His involvement in the Ohio Holstein Association also showcased his dedication to improving dairy farming standards across the state.
Bob’s dedication extended far beyond the dairy farm. After retiring from full-time farming in 1997, he spent the next 18 years working at Sterling Farm Equipment. His expertise in agriculture made him a valuable asset, where he continued to contribute to the local farming industry by providing advice, guidance, and equipment sales to farmers throughout the region. His work helped many local farmers improve their own operations, underscoring his continued commitment to the community even after stepping away from day-to-day farming.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Bob was a devoted member of the Rittman Apostolic Christian Church, where he was actively involved in various church activities. His faith was an integral part of his life, shaping his character and guiding his actions. Bob’s commitment to his church community was evident in his involvement with church services and his participation in charity events and outreach programs. His generosity extended to offering a helping hand to anyone in need, often using his farming skills to assist those who were less fortunate or facing hardships.
Family was at the heart of everything Bob did. He and Joann raised four children: daughters Cindy (Roger) Maibach and Dawn (Richard) Dotterer, and sons James (Karen) Widmer and Jon (Mary) Widmer. Throughout his life, Bob took great pride in his children’s accomplishments and their ongoing commitment to the values he and Joann had instilled in them. He cherished the time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, passing on his love for the farm and his deep-rooted faith. His 12 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren will continue to carry forward his legacy, enriched by the values, wisdom, and love that Bob shared with them.
Bob was also a well-respected figure in various agricultural organizations. His role as a board member with Landmark showcased his influence in the local farming sector, where he was often involved in decision-making processes aimed at supporting sustainable agricultural practices. His leadership, insights, and dedication earned him the admiration of fellow farmers, community members, and churchgoers alike. His life’s work wasn’t limited to his professional endeavors; it extended to his unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those around him.
The Widmer family’s influence was widely recognized not only for their dairy farm’s success but also for their generosity and community spirit. Bob’s kindness was felt by many in the Sterling area. Whether it was through his involvement in local farming initiatives, his church activities, or the personal support he provided to family and friends, he was known for his willingness to give back to the community. Bob and Joann’s home was always open to friends, neighbors, and fellow parishioners, where gatherings were filled with warmth, love, and a deep sense of togetherness. His legacy of kindness and service continues to resonate, serving as an inspiration for future generations.
Bob’s passing is a profound loss for the Widmer family and the wider community. He is survived by his children, a large extended family including his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and his siblings: Harold Widmer and Addison (Georgia) Widmer, sister Jeanie Stoller, and sister-in-law Marlene Widmer. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Joann, brothers Joseph and Dale Widmer, and sister Margaret Everhard. His life was marked by numerous milestones and achievements that left an indelible mark on the agricultural landscape and community spirit of Sterling.
The community will come together to celebrate Bob’s life and pay their respects on Monday, October 28, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at the Rittman Apostolic Christian Church, with ministers officiating the service. Bob will be laid to rest next to his wife Joann at the Apostolic Cemetery, symbolizing the enduring partnership they shared throughout their lives. The church and funeral home will host visitation sessions on Sunday, October 27, 2024, offering friends and family the opportunity to honor Bob’s memory and share in the collective grief of his passing.
While Bob Widmer’s physical presence may be gone, his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. His contributions to the local farming community, his devotion to his faith, and his love for his family have left a legacy that transcends generations. As the Sterling community reflects on his life, they will remember a man who embodied the values of hard work, kindness, and service to others. The Widmer family’s dedication to the area will continue to be a testament to the lasting influence of Bob’s life and the values he upheld.
His story is a reminder of the impact that one individual can have on their community. The Widmer Brother’s Dairy Farm, the church, and the many organizations Bob was involved with stand as a testament to his commitment to service. His legacy is not only written in the history of the Sterling community but also carried forward by the family he loved and the values he imparted to them. The community mourns his passing, but they also celebrate a life well-lived, one that made a difference to so many and will be remembered for years to come.
