Robert Parrish

Bob went to be with Jesus on Wednesday, April 8, 2020 at Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo. He was born at home in Otsego on May 5, 1934, the son of James and Naomi (Punches) Parrish. Bob proudly served his country in the U.S. Airforce and was honorably discharged as an Airman 1st Class. He was a 1952 Otsego High School graduate and attended North Park College in Chicago and Western Michigan University. Bob had worked at several area businesses including Mac Sim Bar, D&C Stores, JCPenney, New York Life and eventually worked independently as an investment broker. Bob was a people person and made lifelong friends with many of his clients. In his free time Bob enjoyed traveling, spending time with his family, doing remodeling projects with his kids and building play structures for his grandchildren. Bob had a strong faith and was a member of several area churches over the years, most recently at Oakwood Bible Church. On September 1, 1956 at the Otsego Baptist Church he married Nancy Lancaster who survives. Also surviving are his son, Robert Jr (Sheryl) Parrish of Allegan; son-in-law, Robert Batey of Kalamazoo; grandchildren, Elizabeth (Eric) Rittenberry, Thomas (Aime) Batey and Nathan Parrish of Allegan; brother, Jack (Judy) Parrish; sisters-in-law, Barbara Parrish, Jackie Parrish, Terri Parrish, Irma Lancaster and Kathleen Patti and brothers-in-law, Michael (Pam) Lancaster and James Ellinger. He was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law, Lindon and Maida Lancaster; daughter, Deborah Batey; siblings, Jean Ellinger, Larry, Garry and Jim Parrish; sister-in-law, Elizabeth Lancaster and brother-in-law, James Lancaster. A private family graveside service will take place at Mountain Home Cemetery in Otsego. A memorial service will be held at a later time. Contributions in memory of Bob may be made to Oakwood Bible Church. Messages of condolence may be posted at WinkelFuneralHome.com.