Robert Clawson

Although quiet in nature, Bob Clawson's actions spoke volumes for the wife he was so devoted to, the daughters he cherished, and the grandchildren he treasured. A man of faith, he lived by his convictions and set a loving, Christian example of God's goodness. Dearly loved, he will be fondly remembered and deeply missed.

Robert's story began during a time of economic prosperity rich with optimism and innovation. The stock market soared, and people everywhere were brimming with hope during the Roaring Twenties. In the riverfront city of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Clair and Loretta (Van Eck) Clawson had reason to celebrate when they welcomed the birth of their son, Robert Clair on November 7, 1925.

As an only child, Robert grew up on Plainfield Avenue on the city's northeast side. His parents ran a bar where they made their home in the downstairs apartment. Bob was quite close to his grandparents on his father's side, and spent a fair amount of time with them. Filled with typical boyhood adventures, he enjoyed a simple childhood for the times. He attended Fairmont and North Park Schools before beginning Creston High School.

When hard times took over the nation with the onset of the Great Depression, Bob's family took no exception to economic struggles. His parents bought a business on Bostwick Lake, and they moved to the area and called it home. In school he was a punter for the Rockford Rams football team, and rather quiet, he shared a few close friendships with several pals.

Since his childhood, Bob loved the outdoors, and living on the lake was right up his alley. He loved to swim. One summer he was pleased to have met a young girl whose sparkling eyes, beautiful smile and wavy light brown hair quickly captured his heart. Emajean's family had a cottage across the lake, and he often swam the lake to talk and spend time with her.

With America's involvement in World War II, Bob knew before long he'd be drafted, so at the age of 17, he enlisted in the Navy. He served as a machinist aboard ship, spending most of his three years of duty overseas in the South Pacific. After his discharge, Bob returned home, reunited with Emajean and they fell deeply in love. Blessed in marriage on March 12, 1947, they spent the weekend honeymooning in Chicago.

Bob found work doing various jobs while taking extension classes through Michigan State University and the University of Michigan to become a mechanical engineer. He worked as a mechanical engineer through the course of his career, first for Lear Siegler, and for the last 20 years before retiring, he worked for the Steelcase Corporation. Bob loved his work, and it was a perfect fit for his personality. With strong attention to detail and his fix-it mentality, he did well for himself and provided a good, stable lifestyle for his family.

When their two daughters came along, Cathy and Carol brought them great joy. While the girls were young, many memories were made enjoying time away at summer cottages, often on Glen Lake, where they spent time in the sun and had fun-filled times boating and fishing. As a father, Bob was loving and available. Devout in their faith, they raised their daughters in a faith filled home where their unending love for one another set a fine example. He was caring, and his concern for them was unconditional in all circumstances. Having lived right next door to his own father for several years, he came to enjoy the special time they were able to share together, as well.

Shortly after first meeting Emajean, Bob accepted the Lord as his personal Savior and soon became a longtime member of Northlawn United Methodist Church where they attended faithfully for over 50 years. He and Emajean enjoyed a wonderful marriage, and although they had a few close friends, they were content enjoying each other. Nearly inseparable, they did everything together and loved being side-by-side. While she enjoyed crafts, Bob got involved through his woodworking skills. He cut pieces for her, stained and finished them before she added her special touch to the finished product.

It wasn't surprising that Bob was an all around handyman. He could fix just about anything, especially around the house. His know-how allowed him to work on small engines, and he did so often for family and friends. Along with his detailed demeanor, Bob desired to learn things and expand his knowledge. He wanted to know more than the make of a car, but also all about the model year, tire size, and the like. Over time he acquired a vast amount of knowledge that served him well.

Having grown up with very little, Bob was a self-made man. He possessed a cunning and dry sense of humor, but was cautious in all he did. When he was able to afford some of the finer conveniences in life, he often bought the best and cared for them with precision. Whenever he purchased a car, many asked when he'd be ready to sell, jumping at the chance to buy his well maintained, like-new vehicle. In their free time, Bob and Emajean both volunteered at Blodgett Hospital where he served in the emergency room. In fact, under different life circumstances, he would have loved to become a doctor. In his later years he took up golf and thoroughly enjoyed it.

During retirement, Bob simply loved being with his beloved Emajean. He spent more time puttering around the house, and took great pride in his John Deere mower and meticulously cared for his lawn. For 20 years they spent many summer weeks at Paradise Cove, north of Grand Rapids on Sand Lake. They began wintering in Florida, enjoyed several cruises and a few trips to Hawaii. Most of all, Bob loved being able to spend time with their grandkids. He was extremely proud of them and loved them beyond words.

About seven years ago, Bob underwent major heart surgery. As he and Emajean aged, he spent much of his time caring for the woman he loved. It was time for a change, and about a year ago they moved to Clark Retirement Community. On August 18, 2011, Bob's Emajean sadly passed away. He relied on his faith and the love of family, just as he did when his daughter, Cathy died in 1979, but with age and failing health, the loss was truly intensified. He enjoyed spending time with his daughter, Carol on outings, but soon suffered a stroke. At the age of 86, Bob passed away Sunday, November 27, 2011, reuniting with his wife, Emajean and daughter, Cathy in the presence of their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

A quiet sort and not outwardly affectionate, Bob's actions spoke for the way he felt about his Lord and the family he loved. He showed his love through deep concern for those entrusted to his care, and encouraged them to focus on the important things and to show nothing but love for one another.

Bob is survived by his daughter, Carol (Dale) Stadt; grandchildren: Darrin (Brandy) Stadt and Carrie (Travis) Zimdar; great-grandchildren: Keegan, Kobe, Cade, Eli, Lochlyn, Cohen and Hudson; sisters-in-law: Eleanor Roggow and Marilyn Forsetlund; nieces and nephews. A service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held Wednesday, November 30, 2011, 12:00 PM at Northlawn United Methodist Church, 1157 Northlawn NE where friends may visit with his family from 10:30 AM until the time of the service. Burial at Fairplains Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Northlawn United Methodist Church are appreciated. His family thanks the loving staff at Clark Retirement Community for their devoted care for both Bob and Em during the last year. To share a favorite memory, photo or to sign his online register book, please visit www.lifestorynet.com.