Robert J. Gothe, age 79, of Kingsford, passed away Wednesday, December 13, 2006, at the home of his daughter, Patricia (Don) Kauppila of Marquette.
He was born October 27, 1927, in Kingsford, Mich., son of the late Walter Emil and Rose Marie (Schlicht) Gothe. Bob graduated from Kingsford High School in 1946. Shortly after graduation, he entered the army and served until January, 1947.
Upon returning from the Army, Bob married Maxine Sleik on April 26, 1947 at Immaculate Conception Church in Iron Mountain. Bob and Max set out building their own home on Hoadley Avenue where they resided for 56 years until Maxine’s death in June of 2003. Bob continued residing in his home until his cancer required constant care. Bob retired from the Breitung Township Schools after 28 years of service.
Bob is survived by one daughter, Patricia (Don) Kauppila, Marquette, Mich.; two grandchildren Kirsti Rose (John) Way, Sunol, Calif., Zachary Matthew (Michelle) Kauppila, Jackson, Mich.; one great-grandson, Samuel Henry Way; one great-grandchild due in July of 2007; two sisters Geraldine Weber, Aurora, Wis., Eileen (Reuben) LeRoy, Kingsford, Mich.; one sister-in-law, Peggy Gothe, Canton, Mich.; other relatives include Douglas and Gloria Sleik, Don and Margaret Sleik, Oliver and Ardie Paternoster, Terry and Dee Paternoster, Sharon and Hans Strom; very special family members, Norman Paternoster and Sandra and Chuck Macy; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceding Bob in death were his parents; wife, Maxine; brothers, Gerald, Walter, Eugene; sister, Beverly; and infant sister, Delores.
A celebration of Bob’s life will take place in the spring with Post 363 of the American Legion providing a military tribute. Memorials may be directed to the American Legion Post 363, 1227 West Breen Avenue, Kingsford, Michigan, 49802.
Friends may leave condolences and tributes to the Gothe family online at www.jacobsfuneralhomes.com
The Jacobs Funeral Home of Iron Mountain is serving the family.