Robert Thomas Taddei Jr.

Robert Thomas Taddei Jr., affectionately known as “South Side Bob,” passed away at his home in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin on November 6, 2026. He was born on March 20, 1957 in Chicago, Illinois and carried the spirit of the south side where he was raised with him throughout his life.

Bob graduated from Gage Park High School in Chicago in 1975.  He spent his entire life working with his hands doing remodeling and so much more. Being a third-generation carpenter was among his proudest accomplishments and that identity reflected both his dedication to his craft and the pride he took in honest, skilled work.

He earned the nickname “South Side Bob” from growing up on the south side of Chicago, a name that stayed with him and became part of how so many knew and loved him. After he met Mary she earned the nickname South Side Mary, a reflection of the bond they shared and the life they built together.

Bob loved motorcycles, back country riding and he found great joy in live music especially the Blues. He and Mary often went to local venues like Harry's and Fat Cat's in the good old days and Hogs and Kisses and Studio Winery more recently, to listen to music and spend time with their many friends in town. His dogs Bailey and Brownie also brought him immense joy and were a cherished part of his life.

Above all, Bob will be remembered for the love he shared with his family. He is survived by his wife and soulmate Mary Taddei and step-son Peter Grant, his brother Michael Taddei and wife Denise and by his brother John Taddei and wife Shirley. Bob was also a proud uncle to his nephews Steven Taddei and his wife Sara and Keith Taddei and his wife Asmat, as well as his great-nephew Asher. He also leaves behind numerous aunts and cousins who will remember him with affection and pride.

He was preceded in death by his father Robert Taddei Sr. and his mother Barbara Taddei.

Visitation for Bob will be held on Friday, November 13, 2026, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Derrick Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 800 Park Dr., Lake Geneva, WI 53147. A Mass will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 10 a.m. until 11:15 a.m. at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 148 W. Main St., Lake Geneva, WI 53147.

Bob will be remembered as a devoted husband, a proud carpenter, and a lover of music, motorcycles, and his Chicago Bears and Blackhawks. He was a man whose South Side roots remained close to his heart throughout his life and a man who was lovingly adopted by the community of Lake Geneva. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations in South Side Bob's name to either:

The American Cancer Society

Or 

Hope for Stomach Caner Foundation

To express condolences or post a memory of Bob please proceed to the bottom of the obituary under Guest Book where you can submit your post.

Derrick Funeral Home of Lake Geneva is honored to be assisting Bob's family.