Robert James Paquette, Sr.

     Paquette, Robert James (Sr.) went to be with the Lord on November 29, 2018 at the age of 88.  Beloved husband of Ruth Mary Paquette (Monday) for 68 years and the loving father of Robert Jr. (Tammy), James (deceased) (JoAnn), Michael (Cathy), Ruth (Gary), Judith (Dennis) and Joseph (Anastasia).  He is also the loving grandfather of 21 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren - all of whom will miss him dearly.  Of his ten siblings, only his eldest sister survives - Lorraine Zirnhelt of West Allis.  Many other relatives and friends will greatly miss him.

     Robert was born on December 18, 1929 in the Merrill Park area of Milwaukee near Marquette High School.  He grew up attending the St. Rose Parish and school, remaining in the area his entire life.  Many years were spent working with his children and hundreds of other youth of the school and neighborhood, teaching sports, gymnastics, trampoline and diving - giving his love and attention to each of them.

     Prior to marrying Ruth in 1950, Robert served in the Army Air Corps from 1946-1948.  Robert began his own business, Select Sound Service, in 1958 where during the 70's and 80's he was responsible for the sound and lighting for the Wisconsin State Fair, Summer Fest and all the ethnic festivals.  Along with the success of his business to this day, was the accomplishment of his dream of acquiring rare microphones - eventually opening up his own microphone museum known internationally.  His legacy of microphone knowledge has been written in his book "The History and Evolution of the Microphone"- he was a world renowned expert.

     God has richly blessed Robert with a happy life and family.  In return, Robert has been a blessing to all who have known him with rippling effects that will last forever.  His was a life well lived - a life of love and giving.

     In August 2017, Robert experienced the dream of his life - to fly in a P-51 World War II fighter through the generosity of the Commemorative Air Force.  Therefore, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the organization  at CommemorativeAirForce.org.

     Wake at Becker Ritter Funeral Home on Tuesday, Dec 4th, from 4 - 7 pm.  Memorial Catholic Mass on Wednesday, Dec 5th at 10 am.  St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 540 N 31st St, Milwaukee.  A private family interment will be held at Holy Cross Cemetery with Military Honors.

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