Robert "Bob" Laverne Edsall

One of the things that Robert “Bob” Edsall will be most remembered for are the vibrant stories he told and with a life that spanned many decades, he had so many to tell. He saw times of war and times of peace, times of plenty and times of want – all of which helped shape him into the distinguished man who was loved by so many. It was easy to see that Bob adored his children and grandchildren and in fact, some might even say that the sun rose and set with this youngest generation to grace his family tree. Bob was a man of integrity and a love for life that guided his every moment.

The 1920s were predominantly a prosperous time in America when jobs were plentiful and culture was full of diverse choices as people were looking to enjoy themselves a bit. The year 1928 was a year in which jazz music saturated the airwaves and Walt Disney released his first Mickey Mouse cartoon. It was also during this same year that Theodore and Ethel (Halladay) Edsall were celebrating the birth of their son, Robert Laverne, on March 16th in Muskegon Heights. Robert, who often went by Bob, was the oldest child in his family and was joined by his younger sister Aimee a year later. Bob’s father owned Edsall Disposal Company while his mother stayed home. Bob experienced a typical childhood for boys of this generation and his family enjoyed many activities together including camping, hunting, and attending family reunions and memorable holiday celebrations. He established special friendships with Ike and Mike Rollenhagen, and Bob Pickard. As a young man Bob developed a love for horses and enjoyed competing in horse shows for years with his Paint horse. He also played both basketball and baseball during his years at Holton High School.

It was also during Bob’s formative years that he became active in Boy Scouts of America, an activity that would stay with him throughout his life. Bob was initially a Cub Scout, then a Boy Scout, and he became an Eagle Scout when he was just 14. Later in life he belonged to the Order of the Arrow, the national honor society of the Boy Scouts of America which uses American Indian-styled traditions and ceremonies to bestow recognition on scouts selected by their peers as best exemplifying the ideals of Scouting. Bob also received the Boy Scout Oscar in 1962. He remained active in both the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, even becoming the local advancement director.

Bob joined the United States Navy in the Submarine Service when he was 17. He was released on a medical discharge after injuring his knee.

Life took a sudden turn for Bob when he noticed a pretty gal across the street one day. Her name was Jacqueline “Jackie” Wantz and she was introduced to the young Bob by her brother, Mel Wantz, one fateful day. After dating for a time and falling deeply in love the couple was married on June 17, 1949 in Muskegon. They were soon blessed with joy beyond measure with the births of their children, Denise, who was followed by Ted four years later. Bob’s children proudly hail him as the “best dad in the world” who was always active in their lives. Their family enjoyed many happy times together camping in their 19-foot trailer and celebrating the holidays throughout the year. Bob supported his family as co-owner of the Edsall Disposal Company with his father for over 40 years.

Although working and spending time with his family certainly took much of his time, Bob did pursue additional interests as well. He was a longtime member of Unity United Methodist Church and was a volunteer with the Muskegon Township Fire Department. Bob coached both Little League baseball and football too for many years. He was also proud to work on the Reeths-Puffer High School Football “chain gang.” He and his best friend, Floyd Seigfried, attended many of their grandson's sporting events together through the years and every Wednesday Floyd took Bob to Mr. Quick’s where they were proud members of “Mr. Quick’s Round Table” as they called it. He also enjoyed playing golf as often as he could.

First and foremost in Bob’s life, however, was always his family whether he was active in raising his children or having fun with his grandchildren. In fact it was only his granddaughter Kristin who was able to talk him into eating at McDonald’s! No matter what someone in Bob’s family was doing, Bob was always their greatest supporter. His dogs were always important to Bob as well, especially his beloved Taffy, and he also loved his granddog Cooper and his sister’s dog Elmo. Bob also got to spend his 50th wedding anniversary at Disney World with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He also was able to celebrate his granddaughter Kristin’s wedding with the rest of his family.

Robert “Bob” Edsall was a man of great character who naturally shared his love for life with all those within his reach. He was a funny guy who loved making others laugh yet he could be serious and supportive when he needed to. Bob was a man with a kind heart and a deep love for his family that was plain for all to see. He worked hard throughout his life, but also enjoyed having fun too, and he was generous with his time whether being active within the local Boy Scout community or cheering on his favorite local sports team. Bob was a loyal friend, a great storyteller (some of which were actually true), and a dedicated family man who will be so dearly missed by those he leaves behind.

Robert "Bob" L. Edsall of Muskegon Township died on Sunday, November 1, 2009. Bob’s family includes his wife of 60 years, Jacqueline; daughter, Denise (Bob) Bray of Roosevelt Park; son, Ted (Terry) Edsall of Whitehall; grandchildren, Kristin (John) Lumpp, Matthew Bray, Jaren Edsall, Katlyn Edsall; sister, Aimee Edsall of North Muskegon; special friend, Floyd Seigfried and other family members. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 5, 2009, 12:00 p.m. at Unity United Methodist Church with Pastor Gil Boersma officiating and with Military Honors provided by the Muskegon County Council of Veterans. Visit with Bob’s family and friends on Wednesday, 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Clock Life Story Funeral Home – Muskegon location – Muskegon, MI. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can leave a memory, sign the online guestbook, or make a memorial contribution to Unity United Methodist Church.