Robert Bruce Tarpley, 65, of Crystal Falls, Mich. passed away Friday, September 4, 2009, at his home. He was born September 13, 1943, in Danville, Illinois, son of the late Robert and Phyllis L. (nee Parker) Tarpley. Robert graduated from Carterville High School, Carterville, Ill. and attended Southern Illinois University for two years. He had been a member of the Illinois National Guard. He worked for McDonnell Douglas Space Systems Company several years and in marketing for the soft drink industry many years retiring in 2005. Survivors include one son, Kenneth Tarpley, Sandusky, Ohio; three sisters, Joan (Gary) Cooper, Carterville, Mary Elizabeth (Ed) Belcher, Sonoma, Calif., and Linda (Daniel) Fry, Pontiac, Ill. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Thomas P. Tarpley. At a great loss to Bob and to his survivors, his cousin and dear friend, Willis "Bill" Tarpley died just weeks ago on August 13th of this year. There will be a combined memorial service for Robert and Bill Tarpley, 3:00 p.m. Saturday, September 12, 2009, at Grace Presbyterian Church, Sagola, Michigan. In lieu of flowers the family directs memorials to your local Humane Society in Robert's name. Family and friends may light a candle in remembrance and leave condolences online at www.JacobsFuneralHomes.com The Jacobs-Plowe Funeral Home, Crystal Falls, is serving the family. There will be a combined memorial service for Robert and Bill Tarpley, 3:00 p.m. Saturday, September 12, 2009, at Grace Presbyterian Church, Sagola, Michigan. In lieu of flowers the family directs memorials to your local Humane Society in Robert's name.