Robert Joseph Kartes

Robert Joseph Kartes, known fondly as Bob, was born on Thursday, September 9, 1926, in West Branch, Michigan, where he also passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. He led a life filled with hard work and talent, making significant contributions both in his career and through his love for music.

Bob worked at Murray Body in construction with L.E. Myers Electrical company and was a talented musician. He was a livestock hauler and hauled milk for Kraft. Bob could often be found singing, playing the piano, and strumming his guitar. His passion for music led him to be recognized in several esteemed establishments, as he was a proud member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the Great Lakes Country Music Hall of Fame. Over the years, he wrote and released numerous CDs that reflected his deep love for music. He was also a member of the Michigan Farmers Hall of Fame.

In 1956, Bob purchased land and started a farm from the ground up, which is now known as Circle K Farms. He graduated from St. Joseph High School 1946, where he excelled as a basketball player. His dedication to his family and community was further exemplified by his membership at St. Joseph Catholic Church and his honor as a Fourth Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus.

Bob leaves behind a loving family. He is survived by his children, Larry (Mary) Kartes of West Branch, Stan (Micky) Kartes of West Branch, Tom (Linda) Kartes of West Branch, Brad (Debby) Kartes of West Branch, Rosemary (Lonnie) Ward of Whitehall and Cecile Kartes of West Branch. He was the proud grandfather of 16 grandchildren, almost 40 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews. Bob’s family spans five generations.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Stephen and Agnes (Grezeszak) Kartes; his wife, Margaret (Schneider) Kartes; his great-grandson, Luke Kartes; as well as his siblings: Pauline Sumner, Steve Kartes, Irene Schmidt, Alvena Illig, Johnny Kartes, Lawrence Kartes, Marie Kort, Rose Reminder, Theresa Lucas, infant Tony Kartes, and half-sister Francis Clymer.

Visitation will be on May 19, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Homes in West Branch, Michigan. A Mass will be held the following day, May 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church in West Branch, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to leave a memorial please consider the St. Joseph School Endowment Fund.

Bob will be remembered for his hard-working spirit, musical talent, and devotion to family and friends. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the music he created.