Robert E. Michael

Robert “Bob” E. Michael, 87, of Dowagiac, passed away, Sunday September 8, 2013, at Lakeland Continuing Healthcare, Berrien Springs, MI. Robert’s life began on July 12, 1926, in Eau Claire, Michigan, the son of Earl & Margaret (Dwan) Michael. Robert enjoyed agriculture, especially growing grain, hay, and black raspberries on the family farm in Dowagiac. In addition to farming, he was employed at Clark Equipment Transmission Division in Berrien Springs, and later the Whirlpool Corporation (1900 Corporation) in St. Joseph, where he retired after 38 years and one month of employment. A true patriot, Robert proudly served in the United States Army during WWII on the European Theatre, serving as a military policeman in Munich, Germany at the end of the Nazi Regime. Robert was a kind, gentle, and knowledgeable man, who basically kept to himself but his bellowing, infectious laughter was shared with many. He also had a unique talent in gathering listeners as he told his stories and jokes-especially when an Irish or Scottish brogue was required. Throughout the years, he played Santa Claus, which brought smiles to many people, along his hearty laugh that could fill a whole room. Robert was an avid reader, enjoying historical text and western fiction written by Zane Grey. He also loved country music and ballads. Robert cherished his animals as well. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Eva (Walter) Van Arkel and Mary (Tom) Hutton. Robert is survived by his loving family, his nephew, Robert (Rosemary) Van Arkel; two great nieces, Karen (Bill) Barnes, Roseann (Jerry) Lowry; and three great nephews; Robert (Sarah) Van Arkel, Kevin Van Arkel, Michael (Linnie) Van Arkel, and five generations of relatives and many friends. A Celebration of Life will be held 10:30 A.M Thursday September 12, at Yazel & Clark Chapel, 405 Center St., Dowagiac, with Father Kevin Covert officiating. Burial will follow at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens, with military rites being performed by the American Legion Post # 51 of Buchanan. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 P.M., on Wednesday September 11, with the Rosary being said at 7 P.M. Memorials may be made to the Dowagiac Moose Club & Dowagiac Veterans of Foreign Wars.