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November 21, 2016

Robbie Robinson Died Nov. 18, 2016



James W. Robinson Jr.
“Robbie”
Died Nov. 18, 2016

SUTTONS BAY – James Wilson Robinson Jr. “Robbie”, 96, of Suttons Bay, formerly of Grosse Pointe, passed away Friday, Nov. 18, 2016 at home surrounded by his loving family.

  Robbie was born Oct. 30, 1920 in Mt. Pleasant, Pennsylvania, the son of James Robinson Sr., and Grace (McFadden) Robinson.  On April 27, 1946 in Hopedale, Massachusetts he married Marjorie F. “Midge” (Eckles) Robinson who preceded him in death on Feb. 15, 2012.

  As a young man Robbie served his nation during WWII in the U.S. Navy as a Chief Quartermaster.  He saw service in the Pacific Theater surviving on the famed PT Boats.  After his service, Midge and Robbie first settled in the greater Detroit area where his successful manufacturing rep. company, The Robbie Robinson Co., began.  They later moved to Grosse Pointe where they raised their five children and resided there until his retirement to Suttons Bay.

  Robbie’s love of sailing was lifelong and passed on to his family.  He was a charter member of the Bayview Yacht Club and sailed numerous Port Huron to Mackinac Island races - earning the honored status of “Old Goat” by the yacht club.  After the races, he enjoyed cruising with his wife and children back home to Grosse Pointe via the North Channel and Georgian Bay.

  Robbie also loved to ski at the Otsego Ski Club and he enjoyed a good round of golf.  He loved year-round grilling, a cold Stroh’s, and watching his Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Lions.

  Robbie is survived by his children, Carol Robinson, Caryn (Gary) Leighton, Constance (Jeff) Rapp; seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; sister, Carolyn (Russell) Wentworth; and many nieces and nephews.

  He was preceded in death by his wife, Midge; daughter, Cheryl; son-in-law, Michael Springstead; son, James W. “Jay” Robinson III; grandson, Erich Springstead; and sister, Gwen Irene Wood.

  Private family services have been held.  Burial took place at Suttons Bay Township Cemetery.

  Memorials may be directed to Suttons Bay – Bingham Township Fire and Rescue, PO Box 280, Suttons Bay, MI, 49682 and/or to the PT Boats, Inc., PO Box 38070, Germantown, TN 38183-0070.

  Condolences may be shared with the Robinson family below:

2 comments:

  1. Anonymous9:03 AM

    we are saddened to learn of your dad's passing.We have so many fond memories of him and your family. Our deepest sympathy to all of you. Love,Clarinda and Dick

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  2. Carol,Caryn, & Connie,So sorry to hear of Robbie's passing. I thought of him often and should have stopped in to see him more. If there is anything you ladies need please let me know. My number is in the book. Debbie Beaton (former meals on wheels driver)

    ReplyDelete