By Jennifer Eisenbart
Editor
In a week where most political pundits were predicting Wisconsin could turn the tide of the Republican Presidential nomination, one of the party’s biggest local supporters died without seeing all the action.
Bob Geason, who spent his early years in Union Grove before moving to Burlington, died unexpectedly April 2. Geason had been an active part of the Republic Party of Wisconsin, serving as the Racine County delegate to the 2008 Republic National Convention.
Politicians across the state honored his passing Monday. The Republican Party of Wisconsin Chairman Brad Courtney issued this statement:
“Bob was an outstanding individual, who made a positive impact in his state and community. We reflect on his service to the Republican Party of Wisconsin and to the overall conservative movement, helping to elect great leaders like Scott Walker, Ron Johnson and Paul Ryan.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. He will truly be missed as a great man and tireless advocate for the cause.”
State Assembly Speaker Robin Vos remembered meeting Geason before he was elected to office.
“We were both activists when I first recall hanging out with Bob,” said Vos, who called Geason’s involvement gradual.
“He became more and more active,” the State Assembly Speaker said. Vos went on to say “you couldn’t have asked for someone who was more interested or more passionate about all things Republican.”
“Bob owned a small business, so I think he always leaned Republican,” Vos said, adding that Geason’s retirement led to his further involvement.
In fact, Vos said, retirement led Geason to find something to volunteer for.
“Lucky for us, it was the Republican Party,” Vos said.
Geason served on the Racine County GOP board, becoming known as “Burlington Bob.” He also served on the Republican Party of Wisconsin Executive Board.
Outside of his political involvement, he served in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1969, including 12 months in Vietnam. He worked as an insurance agent, and started B J Builders, building homes until he retired in 1999.
Geason is survived by his wife of 36 years, Jackie, and several children and grandchildren.
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