Obituaries

Robert V. Williams

Died November 4, 2014

  Robert (Bob) Williams, 87, of Midland, MI, died Tuesday, November 4, 2014 at Northport Highlands, in Northport, MI.

  Bob was born on June 19, 1927, in Lansing, MI, the son of Rev. Albert and Armina (Arnold) Williams.  He married Marcille Hockaday in June 1949.  To this marriage was born three sons, Ronald, Rodney, and Roger Williams.

  He was predeceased by his parents, his former wife, his sons, his brother Charles and his nephew Dennis Williams.  He is survived by his sister, Betty Lou Williams Schoneker, two grandchildren, Jeremy, and Astra Val, and three great grand children.  He is also survived by seven nieces and nephews.
  In 1945 Bob graduated from high school at Bible Holiness Seminary in Owosso, MI.  He then served in the US Army until 1947.  After his tour of duty, he attended Spring Arbor College in Spring Arbor, MI graduating with an associate degree.  Later, he transferred to Eastern Michigan University where he attained his BA degree in education.  He taught school for thirteen years.
  In l963 he decided to change careers. He spent the rest of his working life as a piano technician. He tuned as well as rebuilt pianos. For several years, he tuned pianos for many concert stars at the Midland Center for the Arts.
  Bob was a musician. He had a passion for gospel music and excelled in playing the piano. He played his first church service at the age of thirteen and then continued doing church music for most of his life.
  He also loved airplanes and flying. He owned his own airplane, which was his pride and joy.
  A graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2015 at 2:00 pm at Rose Lawn Cemetery, 2276 W. Ellsworth Rd., Perry, MI.  In lieu of flowers please send donations in Bob's memory to Munson Hospice, 1150 Medical Campus Dr., Traverse City, MI 49684.
  The family would like to express their gratitude for the loving care of the staff at Northport Highlands Retirement Community, Munson Hospice, and especially to Bob's devoted niece Denise Branch who oversaw his care for the last several years. 
  Please share thoughts and memories with Robert’s family below.