Robert Edward Bomer, age 70, of Kewadin, MI passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2026 following a brief battle with cancer, with family by his side.

Bob was born on June 21, 1955, in Traverse City, Michigan, and was a proud graduate of Traverse City Central High School, Class of 1972. He went on to build a life rooted in hard work, dedication, and connection with others. Bob spent 34 years at Max’s Service in downtown Traverse City, where he became more than just an employee—he found a second family. The people he worked alongside meant the world to him, and the friendships he built there lasted a lifetime. He retired from Max’s in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of loyalty and a strong work ethic.

In addition to his time at Max’s, Bob spent many years delivering milk for Michigan Milk. He took great pride in his work and especially loved the relationships he built along his routes. On drives through the area, he would often point out the farms he had delivered to, sharing stories and memories that reflected just how much those experiences meant to him.

Bob also worked with the Bendix seismic crew at United Geophysical, a job that took him to Texas. During his time there, his daughter was born, adding one of the greatest joys to his life.

Bob was a man full of life, expressed through his positive demeanor and contagious smile. The outdoors was his sanctuary. He enjoyed any and every outdoor activity including downhill skiing, mountain biking, boating, snowmobiling, 4 wheeling, fishing, raquette ball, softball, and sailing. He was often called the “whale on the rail of the Kokomo.” He also found joy camping and taking his dog, Marley, around in the golf cart.

Above all, Bob loved his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving father and involved grandfather. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren grow up and thrive in their sporting and musical passions.

Bob and Laurie shared a deep love for the simple joys of life, especially the time they spent exploring the beauty of Michigan together. They cherished camping trips around the state, where many of their favorite memories were made. Whether they were walking the shoreline, searching for rocks along the beaches, or heading out on four-wheelers through the countryside, those adventures brought them so much joy. Just as special were the quiet moments spent sitting on the porch of their beautiful home, watching the birds that Bob loved so much. He even gave many of them names, something that always brought a smile to those around him.

For his daughter, Risha, a lot of times were spent just him and her. She was “his girl” and being an only child growing up, it gave them a special bond that was one of a kind.

Bob will be missed by his wife of 26 years, Laurie Bomer; daughter, Risha (Kevan) Maguire; grandchildren, Landon, Molly; siblings, George (Rose) Bomer, David Jankowiak, LuAnn (Dan) Lautner, Chris (Doug) Baudoux; siblings-in-law, Shari Redman, Susie Powell; mother-in-law, Kay Powell; and former wife, Shawn Bomer.

He was preceded in death by his father, Geroge Bomer; mother, Beatrice (Paul) Jankowiak; siblings, Sandy Bomer, Jim (Delise) Bomer, Paula (John) Leavey; father-in-law, Dick Powell; sister-in-law, Sandy Nagy; and nephew, Justin Bomer.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth St. Traverse City. Family will welcome visitors an hour prior to the service from 10:00 am – 11:00 am. A light reception will follow. Memorial contributions may be given in Bob’s honor to the Cherryland Humane Society.