Robert Franklin Kluzak

Robert, “Bob” Franklin Kluzak, 81, of Traverse City, passed away Saturday, June 15, 2019 at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. Bob , an original “Slabtown Westsider” was born on Tuesday, March 8, 1938 to the late Edward and Frances (Larson) Kluzak in Traverse City. After graduating from Traverse City Central High School in 1956 he continued his studies at Ferris (Institute) State University, where he earned his associate’s degree in business. On Saturday, August 25, 1962, Bob married the former Barbara Zmudzinski in Detroit. They lived in Big Rapids while finishing their professional degrees. He moved to Traverse City in 1963 with his beautiful bride and love of his life. In his last days he referred to her as, “ his rock” , expressing his eternal gratitude for her non- wavering love and support throughout all their days together, through sickness and through health. Bob thrived as a salesman and a jack of all trades at Pine Grove Homes for forty one years. He truly loved his work and would have stayed for a life time if he could. Bob loved to whistle while he puttered around the house and maintained one of the finest lawns on the, “hill”. He enjoyed suspense novels, boating on Grand Traverse Bay, family gatherings, pickled bologna and Czech Sunkafleky. He looked forward to wintering at The Villages, Florida and co-piloting golf cart rides all over the grounds, including under the highways with Barb. He is remembered by his family for his honesty, selflessness and,“always being there for everyone”. His kindness and ability embrace the light in every situation was his recipe for a great life. Bob loved to laugh and had a bubbly, fun sense of humor that lit up the room. More than anything, he adored his wife and family and enjoyed every moment of being with them. Surviving is his wife Barbara; his children: Brian (Paula) Kluzak of Traverse City; Beverly Kluzak of Kalamazoo, Julie (Joseph) Janiga of Almont; his grandchildren, McKenna and Emily Kluzak, Joe and Jared Janiga and his great grandchildren, Blake and Damien Janiga. Bob is also survived by several nieces and nephews, including a very special nephew, Bill (Linda) Kluzak of Traverse City. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Richard. Visitation for Bob will begin at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 22 at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home with a service celebrating his life following at 3 p.m. Light refreshments and casual gathering to immediately follow at the funeral home. Pastor Marshall Holtvluwer, a close family friend, will officiate. The family has asked that Bob be remembered through memorial contributions in his name to The Cowell Family Cancer Center c/o Munson Healthcare Regional Foundation, 1150 Medical Campus Dr., Traverse City, MI 49684.

Robert Franklin Kluzak

March 8, 1938 - June 16, 2019