Robert Cahow

Cahow, Robert (Bob) 10/11/1921 - 2/26/2015 Kalamazoo Robert (Bob) Doig Cahow, 93, Kalamazoo, MI. Peacefully departed this life, February 26, 2015, at Rose Arbor Hospice, with his family at his side. Robert was the eldest son of Paul and Winnifred Cahow. Robert was born October 11, 1921 in Ann Arbor, Michigan and earned a degree in Public Administration from the University of Michigan. Robert served in the U.S. Army from 1942-1945 in various training roles in Ordnance and Engineering. His final assignment was to familiarize military personnel with the details of the G.I. Bill, prior to their separation from the service. Bob's professional career was focused on finance and budget, first working in the State Department of Budget from 1948-1955, then as Finance Supervisor for the State Board of Education from 1955-1964. In 1961 he played a pivotal role in the re-writing of the portions of the Michigan Constitution relating to higher education, specifically ensuring that Western Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Central Michigan, and Northern Michigan universities were guaranteed their own Boards of Governors. In 1964 Bob became the Executive Secretary of the Michigan Community College Association. At that time there were 11 community colleges in Michigan. Through his efforts, at the time of his retirement in 1984, the number of community colleges in Michigan had grown to 29. In his free time, Bob enjoyed the outdoors. In addition to hunting and fishing, he was active in conservation groups that focused on ruffed grouse, pheasants and wild turkeys. Bob was a life-long member of the NRA. His interest in the outdoors led to his collecting of wildlife art prints and statuary. Bob is survived by his wife of 70 years, Lillian, his younger brothers Ted and Paul, son Richard (Anne) and daughter, Bobalee. Grandchildren: Meredith Callahan, Casey Chapman, Kelly Chapman, Leanne Cahow, Tracy Chapman, and Wendy VanderWeele. Great-grandchildren: Tanner and Kiera Callahan, Raelyn and Elin Chapman, Aleta and Izabel Chapman, Kahlan Chapman, Jonah, Teddy and Heidi VanderWeele. Memorial service and burial will take place in Reading, Michigan in June.