Robert James Hall, age 85, passed away December 24, 2021.

He was born in Suring, WI on July 4, 1936, one of three children to Walter and Emma (Sonningberg) Hall. On June 17, 1958 in Traverse City, he married Kathryn Ann Haywood, who survives.

Robert proudly served his country for 22 years in the United States Coast Guard as a diesel engineer. He and Kathryn were stationed in multiple locations including Ohio, Texas, Alabama, Louisiana, Connecticut, Alaska, and Washington, moving back to Traverse City in 1977. Robert's second career took him to the Career Tech Center at the Traverse Bay Area Intermediate School District where he taught small engine repair for 24 years.

Robert was a member of the American Legion, the Chief Petty Officer Association, and the Fleet Reserve. He enjoyed painting, leather craft art, fishing, hunting, woodworking, and following the snowblower around. His big moment of fame came in 1985 for landing his airplane on South Manitou Island in Lake Michigan after the engine failed.

In addition to his wife, Robert is survived by many nieces and nephews and his sister, Donna Gretzon of Green Bay, WI.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Elaine Blohm and Joan Ambrose.

Following Robert's wishes, cremation has taken place.

Those wishing to give a memorial contribution in his name are asked to consider the Salvation Army.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.