Robert Neal Lamb

Robert Neal Lamb, 91, of Traverse City passed peacefully on to heaven on Saturday, June 24, 2017 while surrounded by his loving family. Robert was born the son of a Wesleyan Methodist pastor, the late Rev. William and Lilah (Reed) Lamb in Bendon, MI on June 22, 1926. Bob honorably served in the United States Navy during WWII. He was stationed in the Pacific as a Motor Machinist’s Mate. He married Mary L. Gould on October 22, 1946 in Bay City, MI and they enjoyed 68 years of marriage. Together they lovingly raised one son Elden. Upon return from the Navy, Bob went to work for Cone Drive Textron for over 38 years as a talented machinist. Bob was a life-time member of Cherryland VFW Post #2780, Bayview Wesleyan Church (founded by his Father), and the Snowbirds Snowmobile Club. Bob loved his family, church, and many close friends. He was a passionate snowmobiler until age 75 and averaged 1,500 miles per year with daily rides frequently totaling up to 200 miles. Bob equally enjoyed summers with lifelong friends on Silver Lake by swimming, boating, and waterskiing, which he did until well into his sixties. On summer weekends, Bob with Mary and Elden frequently transported the boat for outings on Torch, Elk, Bellaire, and Leelanau Lakes. This love of water enjoyment was passed on to their two granddaughters who spent many weekends splashing, laughing, and waterskiing on Silver Lake. For 15 years, Bob and Mary spent their winters in Chino Valley, AZ where they regularly worshipped at Prescott First Church of the Nazarene. Until reunited in heaven, Bob leaves behind his wife Mary; son Elden; daughter-in-law Sharon; granddaughters Shaina (fiancé Mark Tavares) and Shelby (fiancé Tyler Huizenga); sister Marie Hart; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Bob joins his brother-in-law Raymond Junior Hart, his parents, and his brother Leo. Heartfelt thanks are sent by Bob’s family to the caregivers at Culver Meadows AFC for the compassionate attention shown to Bob throughout his two-year stay. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Hospice of Michigan. A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, July 9, 2017 at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral home at 2p.m. with Pastor Jerry Mitchell officiating. Visitation begins prior to the service at 1p.m. Internment will take place at the Inland Township Cemetery. Kindly share thoughts and memories with Robert’s family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.

Robert Neal Lamb

June 22, 1926 - June 24, 2017