Robert "Bob" Arthur Lenden, 93, of Traverse City, passed away Thursday, March 24, 2016 surrounded by his loving family.
Bob was born on March 18, 1923 in Detroit, MI to the late Frank and Elizabeth (Tucker) Lenden. He married the late Mary Ann Gilbert on June 5, 1943 in California. Together they lovingly raised four children.
Honorably dad served our country in the United States Army Airforce during WWII, serving in 9 campaigns. He was a devoted member to St. Francis Catholic Church and was a lifelong Detroit Tigers fan (even when they were losing!). He also loved to watch the Detroit Red Wings. Dad loved nothing better than baking pizzas and playing cards with his family - that was a perfect day for him. Most importantly our dad was a devoted husband, father and grandpa loving his family immensely. His sense of humor, never ending advice and peaceful smile will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Surviving Bob are his children, Bob (Lupita) Lenden Jr., Betsy (Bill) Gratiot, Mike (JoAnn) Lenden; granddaughters Kristi (John) Meier, Suzy (Billy) Shrum, Elizabeth (Frank) Bravo, Sarah (Mike) Smith, Megan Gratiot, grandson David (Brittany) Gratiot, great grandchildren, Alexis, Mikayla, Chad, Isabel, Madilynn, and Grace and many other loving family members and friends.
Bob is preceded in death by his daughter Karen in January, 2012 and his wife Mary in June, 2012.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Thursday, March 31, 2016 at St. Francis Catholic Church at 11am with a visitation held one hour prior. Entombment will take place at Oakwood Catholic Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Father Fred Foundation.