Robert Kenneth Woods

Robert K. Woods, 72, loving husband, father and Papa passed away on October 15, 2023. He courageously battled cancer until his final breath. Bob was born in Alpena, Michigan, to Orville J. Woods and Anna M. (Lenhart) Woods on December 22, 1950. After high school, he received his associate's degree in Criminal Justice. This would be the beginning of a long and noble career. On September 10, 1977, Bob married his best friend Elizabeth (Brown) Woods. They have two children, Christopher R. Woods (Erica) and Kelli A. Weber (Jay). Bob loved and supported his children in many ways, from coaching and cheering on his son's sports teams to proudly cheering for his daughter in her various animal endeavors. He was a hands-on 4-H dad. His grandchildren were the light of his life. It was always a good day when he could attend one of their sporting events, school activities, or simply sit at the playground he built for them, while watching them play. Bob and Beth worked together at Camp Roy-El and quickly fell in love. It became a very special place as they served at the camp for decades. Bob was proud to serve on the scholarship committee with Beth. That being said, it is no surprise that Bob loved to camp with his family. Bob was a distinguished officer with the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's department for 26 years. During that time, he received a distinguished service award and was recognized as an expert marksman. Perhaps his expert marksmanship skills are what made hunting in his spare time both enjoyable and a good way to fill the freezer for his family. Bob is survived by his brother, Thomas D. Woods, his sister-in-law, Kathryn Woods, as well as his nephews, Tim, Dave and Mike. It is important to mention Bob's close relationship with Beth's extended family over the years. Bob was proceeded in death by his parents, his brother, Richard J. Woods, and his sister-in-law, Karla Woods. A celebration of Bob’s life will take place at one of his favorite places, Twin Lakes Park, 6800 N. Long Lake Road, Traverse City, MI 49685. The service for Bob will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. in the Gilbert Lodge. There will be a time of visitation one hour prior to the service. Immediately following, you are cordially invited to join Bob’s family in sharing his favorite treat— ice cream with all the fixings . In lieu of flowers, those wishing to offer an expression of sympathy are encouraged to make a memorial contribution to Camp Roy-El Endowment for Scholarships, 800 Cottageview Drive, Ste. 1040, Traverse City, MI 49684 or online at: https://gtrcf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1117 ; or to Munson Hospice House, c/o Munson Healthcare Foundation, 150 Medical Campus Drive, Traverse City, MI 49684.

Robert Kenneth Woods

December 22, 1950 - October 15, 2023