School. After graduating from high school in 1952, Bob ...

A man who could always find the sunny side in any situation, Robert Vodry lived his life on purpose each and every day. He never worried about wealth according to the world's measure, but focused his time and attention on loving those around him whether his family, his friends, or someone in need of a warm smile. There was nothing that mattered more to Bob than his faith, and he was blessed to share the best years of his life with his true love. Known for his strong work ethic, he always had a project of some

sorts in the works around the house as he was a jack of all trades. The legacy Bob leaves behind is one that his children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren will proudly carry on.

The thirties were some of the most trying years in the history of our nation due to the unrelenting grip of the Great Depression. Not only was the unemployment rate in the twenties, but there was also a crippling drought in our nation's heartland that further exacerbated the problems that plagued us. Life continued on, however, as Americans clung to the hope of better days. It was amidst this time of great trial that one family from Grand Rapids, Michigan, had much to celebrate on August 28, 1934, with the birth of a healthy baby boy. His name was Robert Leon and he was welcomed into the arms of his parents, Owen and Martha (Vollema) Vodry, as the fifth of seven children in his family. His father worked at the local Kelvinator factory while his mother was a homemaker during his younger years.

Tragedy struck early in Bob's life with the unexpected death of his father died at age 50. With seven young children to support, his mother then went to work for Kelvinator. It was also after the death of his father that Bob moved with his family from their home on Ida NW to a home on Third NW. His love for hunting was established during his formative years although he was shot while deer hunting on one occasion and nearly died. Bob attended local schools including Oakleigh School and Union High

School. After graduating from high school in 1952, Bob continued his education at Ferris State University, graduating in 1956.

Life grew very exciting for Bob after he was set up on a blind date with the woman with whom he would share a lifetime of love. Her name was Phyllis and their first date found them at the bowling alley. That night marked the beginning of a new chapter in a love story that would span more than 50 years as their relationship took root. After dating for about one year, Bob and Phyllis became husband and wife on September 28, 1957.

The bride and groom enjoyed a honeymoon at Niagara Falls, but were eager to return home and begin their new lives together. They settled into an apartment on Knapp NE, and they later moved to a house on Balsam that they called home for 52 years. It was there that they raised their five children: Debra, Katherine, Susan, Mark, and Mike. In everything he did Robert worked hard to support his family. He served in the Navy Reserves and also had a successful career that began in a hardware store on the West Side. Bob later got a job with Lear, which became Smith Industries, where he worked as an electrician for 42 years.

Bob made the most of the time he had off work. He was a member of Sunshine Community Church for over twenty years where he accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior. Those who knew Bob knew that he was an outdoorsman who loved deer hunting and fishing, especially for walleye and bluegill. His favorite place on earth was the old farmhouse in Luther complete with 80 acres. Bob could often be found there riding on his John Deere tractor. In fact, it was spending time with their grandfather on his tractor that Bob's grandchildren will always remember. These were such special times since Bob was just the best grandpa. He was often tinkering with stuff around the house as he was accomplished at carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work. It wasn't only his own projects, either, as he was ready to help someone with a household need at a moment's notice. Bob loved his classic country music and greats like Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and

Hank Williams Sr. When it came to sports, Bob was a loyal Detroit fan who loved cheering on the Tigers and Lions, but especially the Red Wings.

Although Bob definitely enjoyed spending time doing the things he loved, there was never anything more important to him than the family and friends in his life. He treasured being a grandfather and later in life, a great-grandfather, too. Bob and Phyllis have many lifelong friends

who were also neighbors from their home on Balsam.

Throughout the last few years of his life, Robert struggled with serious heart issues but in keeping with his overall demeanor, his attitude was always upbeat and positive.

No matter what live brought him, Robert Vodry embraced whatever came his way. He was content in all things and never let anything ruffle his feathers. Bob was appreciated for his positive outlook on life

and his great sense of humor, too. Although his family and friends will miss him dearly, they find comfort in knowing that he is enjoying perfect health in his eternal home.

Robert L. Vodry died on Wednesday, April 27, 2011. Bob's family includes his wife, Phyllis; children, Katherine Kemp, Susan ( Joe) Baltruczak, Mark Vodry, and Mike ( Patte) Vodry; his grandchildren, Andrew and Alex Kemp and their father, Dale Kemp, Brad (Beth), Justin, Mallory and Lisa Baltruczak, Kathryn (John) Carl, Caleb Dieleman, Jennie and Steffanie Vodry; great-grandchildren, Michelle, Joseph, Abby, Ahlivia and Junee; siblings, Ray Vodry, Ken (Lucille) Vodry, Mavis (Ron) Tryon; sister-in-law Pat Vodry and many nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his daughter, Debra Lynn Vodry; brothers, Donald and Owen, Jr.; and sister, Arlene Markle. Funeral services will be held Saturday, 11a.m. at Sunshine Community Church, 3300 E. Beltline with entombment in Rosedale Memorial Park. Friends may meet the family on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Heritage Lifestory Funeral Homes - Van't Hof Chapel, 851 Leonard NW. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 3940 Peninsular Dr. SE Suite 180, 49546 or the American Cancer Society, 129 Jefferson SE, 49503. To leave a memory or sign the online guestbook, please visit .

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