Robert Sr. W. Holzwarth

HOLZWARTH, Robert W., Sr., Age 88 Portage, Michigan Bob passed away on August 19th, 2008 at Rose Arbor Hospice Residence after a courageous battle with cancer. Robert was born on August 14th, 1920 in Grand Rapids, the son of the late Mable and William Holzwarth. During World War II, Bob was a Signalman in the U.S. Navy and served his country proudly. He was a devoted father to his three children and loved his wife of 65 years, Phyllis Holzwarth, whom he married on December 7, 1942. Because of his creative mind, Bob worked as an automotive designer for Ford Motor Company. He also owned a Little Caesar's Pizza franchise as well as gaining his certification as a Realtor in the Kalamazoo area. During his children's teenage years, Bob and Phyllis spent many happy hours traveling around the Great Lakes aboard their Chris Craft Cabin Cruiser. In 1970, Bob and Phyllis moved from Allen Park to Portage, MI where he spent time sharpening his artistic nature by drawing, painting, making furniture, and working in his shop. Robert is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis, and three children, Karen Bob Kupovits of Allen Park, Robert Sandy Holzwarth, Jr. of Kalamazoo and David Linda Holzwarth of Portage. Also surviving are his sister, Barb Ray Sculley of Grand Rapids along with 6 grandchildren and 1 great-granddaughter. Bob was preceded in death by his brother, William. According to Bob's wishes, cremation has taken place and will be followed by a private graveside service with military honors at Ft. Custer National Cemetery. A memorial service celebrating Robert's life will be held on Saturday, September 6th at 4:00 pm at his beloved church, Lutheran Church of the Savior located at 3616 East "G" Ave. with the Rev. Dennis E. Remenschneider presiding. The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to the Lutheran Church of the Savior as an expression of sympathy. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick St. 343-1508 Please visit www.langelands.com to sign the online register book or leave a condolence to the family.