Robert Tackett

Robert Tackett, 68, of Viola died Saturday, October 27, 2012. Robert Lewis Tackett, 68, of Viola, died Saturday, October 27, 2012, peacefully at home after a long illness. Robert was born on May 26, 1944 in New Paltz, NY, to Robert and Olive (Van Leuvan) Tackett. Robert served our country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was a member of the Vietnam Vets Chapter 7. His military training was in Fort Campbell, KY, and Fort Bragg, NC. He served with the 101st Airborne Division and wore his Paratroopers Wings, Screaming Eagles patch and (CIB) Combat Infantry Badge proudly. Robert remained on Active Duty from 1963 to 1967. After his Active Duty in Vietnam, he joined the 108th Maintenance Company Army National Guard unit in Mauston, WI. On June 17, 1995 he was united in marriage to Rita Natschke. Robert was a long-time resident of Richland County, and spent the past number of years in Viola. Robert had many hobbies throughout his life. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing and hunting. He also enjoyed metal detecting, golfing, and playing cards (Rummy was his specialty) with family and friends. Robert is survived by his loving wife Rita of Viola; children from a former marriage, Jennifer Tackett of Las Vegas, NV and Adam Tackett of Richland Center; sisters Janet (Bill) Brager of Florida, and Evelyn Portier of Fond du Lac; half-siblings Eunice Shields, William Tackett and Charles Tackett; step-brother Donald Thornton; step-sons Kelly (Donna) King, Kevin King, Keith (Elizabeth) King and Kristopher King; step-grandchildren Evelyn and Elyse King; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his step-brother Eric Thornton. A visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, October 31, 2012 at Vosseteig Funeral Homes Henthorn Memorial Center, 320 Main St, in Viola. A prayer service with military honors will begin at 5:45 p.m. In lieu of flowers and plants, memorial contributions may be made to the Viola Fire Department or Vernon Memorial Hospice. The Vosseteig Funeral Homes Henthorn Memorial Center of Viola is serving the family.