Bob Apsey

Throughout the years, Robert I. Apsey worked hard, whether he was serving his country or putting in a long day at work. Then again, Bob Apsey was more famous for his captivating personality than his occupation. Many felt that Bob was a close husband, father, and friend because despite his somewhat gruff exterior, he showed love and affection with such entertaining charm.

In 1925, America was booming. Large cities were on their way to becoming metropolises and small towns began dotting the map. Bob’s story begins on November 28, 1925, in the lovely town of Grand Rapids, Michigan. This is where Robert and Hazel (Miner) Apsey happily welcomed the newest addition to their family.

Growing up, Bob played with his two brothers, Ted and Roger. He attended school until the 10th grade. But, the school day must have seemed too mundane for this rambunctious teenager. Hungry for adventure, Bob enlisted in the Navy and served in occupied Japan.

After returning from the war, Bob tried a number of different jobs. He attempted working at a bowling alley, a hide company, and a florist, to name a few. Eventually he settled into a job as a carpet and upholstery cleaner. Although the work was quite labor intensive, he was faithfully employed at B& B cleaners for 30 years.

Through Bob’s first marriage, he had a son, Bob Jr. Though, it was Bob’s second chance at marriage that brought him the true love of his life. On February 18, 1950, he married Donna Wells. Bob and Donna had 6 more children together, bringing the total number of children to 7. Later in life, Bob lovingly joked that he and Donna had been married for 100 years.

When the youngest child was born, the family settled into a house where they have lived for over 42 years. Most family time was spent around the house. Still, the Apsey clan was fond of getting away together by taking day trips to local lakes. These times were filled with fun picnics, swimming and fishing. For many years Bob really enjoyed fishing. He also spent time working on cars with his boys. Although Bob could tune up a car, he was not real handy when it came to home repair. Fortunately, the house did not need a lot of fixing-up.

After working all day, Bob was content to just come home and sit in his chair. Later in life, he experienced many aches and pains due to the difficult physical labor of his job. He would often relax with a shot and 7-Up to quench his thirst. He was partial to old comedy shows with stars like Carol Burnette, Archie Bunker, Jackie Gleason, and Vicki Lawrence.

For close to 30 years Bob and Donna frequented either Stoney’s or Cheers restaurant. They always arrived at 3 p.m. and sat at the same table. Bob’s kids knew they had a standing invitation if they wanted to enjoy his company there. Donna usually had coffee and salad while he had his customary shot and pop. The couple met lots of friends there, and boisterous Bob had a habit of flirting with the ladies.

When Bob went out, he liked to look dapper. He would deck himself out in dress slacks, a dress shirt, and lots of jewelry. He kept a huge collection of watches. He even had his ear pierced when he was 70 years old.

There were similarities between Bob’s personality and that of one of his favorite TV characters, Archie Bunker. Sometimes he was stubborn and came across as ornery, but he also had a great sense of humor. Now and then he would proclaim that he did not like a lot of “racket.” His bark was certainly worse than his bite, but he liked his opinion to be heard. He liked to argue or banter with people just to get a rise out of them.

Over the last few years, Bob’s life slowed dramatically as his health steadily declined. Finally he went to the hospital, probably knowing that there were more things wrong with him than he had let on. Bob clung to life until his family had all made the trip to see him before he passed away. Sadly, Bob Apsey died on Friday, June 20.

Bob was unique and lovable because he exuded such charisma. People were drawn to him like a magnet because of his outspoken demeanor and stylish appearance. Bob was not afraid to show that his loved ones were close to his heart. He will be dearly missed.

Robert I. Apsey was preceded in death by his son, Danny. Bob is survived by his wife, Donna; his children: Robert (Jill) Apsey Jr., Rennell (Joe) Carrillo, Mike Apsey (Paula Frank), Dawn Apsey (Ken Everling), Barbara (James) Lett, Kelly (Terry) Maguire; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; brothers and sisters-in-law Roger (Berta) Apsey, Ted (Nancy) Apsey, and several nieces, nephews and friends. A service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held on Wednesday, June 25 at 1 p.m. at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home – Van Strien Creston Chapel, Grand Rapids, MI. To share a favorite memory, or to sign the online register, please visit www.lifestorynet.com.