Robert VanVleet, Jr.
Robert VanVleet, Jr., 81, of Bronson, MI, formerly of Charlotte, MI, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, November 22, 2022. Bob was born July 1, 1941, in Battle Creek, the son of Robert Stevens VanVleet Sr. and Eva (Rice) Butler. He attended Pennfield Schools in Battle Creek and eventually moved to Charlotte, where he met his wife of 63 years, Donna L. (Baker) VanVleet. They were married on April 4, 1959 and happily raised four children. Bob worked two jobs for many years. In the mornings, he went to work at the Charlotte Iron and Metal Scrap Yard, then worked afternoons at General Motors Parts Division. After 31 years of service, he retired from GM and he and Donna moved to Bronson to live out their dream on Lake LaVine, where they have resided for over 30 years.
Bob was a handy man in every aspect of his life. His passions included his dogs Buddy and Penny, woodworking, telling jokes, fishing with Donna, and especially hunting. He was at his happiest in the woods. Above all, Bob cherished and loved his family, especially time spent with his grandchildren.
He is survived by his loving wife, Donna VanVleet; daughters, Diana (Robert) Lake of Charlotte and Kathy (Tony) Reeser of Waldron, MI; sister, Ruby VanVleet of Coldwater; 13 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and many close friends and family. Bob was preceded in death by his two sons, Robert L. VanVleet and John C. VanVleet; grandson, Lance Wireman; his parents; his brothers, Ronnie, David, and Jerry VanVleet; and infant sister, Patricia VanVleet.
Friends are encouraged to support Bob’s family at the visitation Monday, November 28, 2022 from 2-4:00 p.m. and 6-8:00 p.m. at the Pray Funeral Home, 401 W. Seminary St., Charlotte, and at the funeral services at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 29, 2022 at the funeral home with Celebrant Laura Cooper officiating. Interment will follow at Center Eaton Cemetery. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the American Diabetes Association. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Bob on his Tribute Page at www.PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.