TRAVERSE CITY — Robert "Bob" J. Zaebst, 90, longtime resident of Traverse City, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, April 7, 2012, after a brief illness. Bob was born on April 19, 1921, to the late John and Gladys (Lepard) Zaebst in Cleveland, Ohio.Bob served his country, joining the U.S. Army in Cleveland during World War II. He served in the 79th Infantry, Cross of Lorraine Division in Anti-Aircraft Artillery throughout Normandy, France, Belgium, Holland, Luxemburg, Czechoslovakia and Germany. Bob was awarded the Bronze Star and was honorably discharged from service as a Captain in 1946.After returning from WWII, Bob and his future wife, Dorothy E. Schneider, eloped and were married in Granville, Ohio, on Feb. 2, 1946.In 1946 Bob and Dottie moved to Detroit, where Bob worked in the automotive industry for 34 years. He was always good with his hands and had an interest in woodworking, displaying his building skills in their first home in Walled Lake. Bob was a member of Grace Episcopal Church.Bob is survived by his two sons, Richard Zaebst, of Traverse City, and Robert (Jean) Zaebst, of Phoenix, Ariz.; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; his sister, Marilyn (Herman) Izor, of San Diego, Calif.; and many other loving family members and friends.Bob was preceded in death by his loving wife of over 60 years, Dottie in 2006; young daughter, Mary Lou Zaebst; and his parents.Visitation for friends and family will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, April 11, 2012, at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. A memorial service will take place at 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 12, at Grace Episcopal Church. The Rev. Daniel P. Richards will officiate. Memorial contributions may be directed to Grace Episcopal Church. Please share thoughts with the family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.