Robert Charles Draftz

Robert “Bob” C. Draftz, 82, formerly of Benton Harbor, passed away on Sunday, August 13, 2006 at the Whitcomb Tower in St. Joseph. A Memorial Service celebrating Bob’s life will be held Friday, August 18 at 1:00 P.M. at Kerley-Starks & Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph with Rev. Dr. Robert Braman officiating. Friends may visit with the family beginning at 12:00 noon at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Berrien Cancer Society or to Hospice at Home. Those wishing to send the family a message of condolence may do so online at www.starks-menchinger.com. Robert was born on June 11, 1924 in Chicago. He was the son of Harry C. & Lorraine Daftz. On December 24, 1946 he married Jane Smith in Tampa, Florida. Together they had three children, Carolyn, Susan, and Randall. He had two strong interests in life.aviation & sailing.both of which he enjoyed upon his early retirement as Director of Transportation from Whirlpool. He was pleased to have been elected Commodore of the St. Joseph Yacht Club in the 1980’s. In recent years he became involved with annual reunions with his unit of WWII U.S. Army Air Corps buddies. They flew the P-51 Mustang and were proud to have served and survived. Among other awards, he received the distinguished Flying Cross Metal for his service to his country. Bob was known for his “slow jokes and his long stories.” Robert is survived by his children, Carolyn Draftz of Philadelphia, Sue Draftz of Cuernavaca, Mexico, and Randy (Anna) Draftz of Charleston, SC; his grandson, Alex Draftz; and his brother Raymond from St. Joseph.