Robert Lee Krotzer

Robert L. “Bob” Krotzer, 86, of West Branch, Michigan, formerly of Midland, Michigan, died September 21, 2018. Bob was born to George and Altha (Schautz) Krotzer on April 18, 1932. He grew up in Mt. Haley Township and graduated from Midland High School in 1951. He married Alice Huber on February 28, 1952, enjoying 41 years of marriage until her death in 1993.

Bob and his family spent their free afternoons visiting nearby relatives. When not driving Michigan back roads, Bob and his wife enjoyed playing games and inviting visitors into their home. Bob and Alice were active in the life of the Hope Church of God.

Bob served in the U. S. Army during the Korean Conflict. Bob worked 31 years for The Dow Chemical Company, retiring in 1982.

After Bob retired from Dow Chemical in 1982, he and Alice moved from Midland to West Branch to become the owners and operators of the Red Rose Motel for 9 years. Showing support for his community, Bob gave back, both as a volunteer driver and an office worker for the West Branch DHS for several years. They also served others through Christian Hope Ministries, temporarily providing a motel room for battered women, transporting people to necessary appointments and responding in whatever helpful way they could. They received special recognition for their service in 1987.

Bob had a zany sense of humor that kept everyone entertained, especially the nurses and other staff at MediLodge of Sterling and the various hospitals. He loved poetry, recipes, genealogy, playing cards and listening to Bill Gaither music, especially the Homecoming series. His favorite hobby was crocheting, and he made many afghans, hats and other articles for his family and as gifts to others.

Bob is survived by his children, Altha (Allen) Bitler of Midland, Roxann Ellis of St. Helen, and Mary Krotzer of West Branch; brother Lloyd (Sara) Krotzer; sisters-in-law Irene Huber, Alice Huber and Eva (Philip) Palmer; grandchildren Michelle Kourouma, Tara (Travis) Jones, Ashley (Tom Roberson) Bitler; Barry Marquiss, Elizabeth (Cody) LaHaie and Bandon (Brittany) Ellis; great-grandchildren, Hawa, Andreanna, Nala, Malachi, Levi, Kaemon, Fiona, Xavier, Allan, Zachary, Alyssah, Kayla, Conner, special friend, Pat McQueen’ neighbors, David, Crystal and Danniell who called Bob “Grandpa,” and many other nieces, nephews and cousins.

Bob was predeceased by his wife, Alice (Huber) Krotzer, his son, Rodney Krotzer, his parents George and Altha (Schautz) Krotzer, in-laws George and Grace (Tolles) Huber, brothers and sisters-in-laws Charlie Krotzer, Dale (Betty) Krotzer, Ed (Donna) Krotzer, and Mick Krotzer; sisters Evelyn (Bob) Hoggard and Arlene Brabaw; brothers-in-laws and spouses, Gerald (Gladys) Huber, Rex (Leola) Huber, Ronald Huber and sister-in-law Merlene Wixom.

The family would like to thank the staff of MediLodge of Sterling for their excellent and loving care of Bob.

Funeral services to celebrate Bob’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 29, 2018, at Edwards Community Church, 4520 Greenwood Road, West Branch, MI 48661. Rev. Jon Scott will officiate. Bob’s family will receive friends at the church on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Bikers for Kids or Edwards Community Church.

Online condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com