Robert "Bob" Crorey's Obituary
On January 14, 2022, a sweet five year old boy called out “Bye, bye, Poppa Bob” bringing tears to the eyes of all who heard him. His grandpa, “Poppa Bob” had passed away at home that day, in his own bed—which was Bob’s final wish—following a medical emergency after playing pickleball the week prior. He was 91 years old.
Robert “Bob” Crorey was born on August 5, 1930 in Roseville, Michigan—the second of nine children to William and Florence (Morris) Crorey. In 1950, Bob married his high-school sweetheart and the love of his life, Ruth Hulsberg. Ruth predeceased him in 2007. Our family is planning a future gathering at St. Mark Lutheran Church in Roseville, to lovingly memorialize both Bob and Ruth, who were married there. ❤️
Robert “Bob” Crorey was a firefighter with the Roseville Fire Department, retiring with the rank of Captain. He enjoyed a long, healthy, and busy retirement—and fondly recalled the retirement years he spent wintering in sunny Bradenton, Florida.
Bob was the sportsman of our family. He excelled in every sport he tried! Even as a senior citizen of advanced years, there was no stopping him whether he was playing tennis, pickleball, bowling, horseshoes, or cornhole. Bob was featured twice in “The Times Herald” newspaper for the many medals he won in the St. Clair County Senior Olympics. A proud accomplishment!
Robert “Bob” Crorey is mourned by five children and their families: Colleen (Dale) Kelley, Cynthia (Robert) Gaffigan, Carolyn (Richard) Zryd, Robert Crorey Jr., and James (Molly) Crorey.
Grandpa “Poppa Bob” is sadly missed by 10 grandchildren, between 5-45 in age, and 14 great-grandchildren. Bob is survived by his younger siblings: Jane Van Howe, Marion Majewski, David Crorey, Christine Savage, as well as many nieces and nephews. He is also mourned by his long-time childhood friend Vic Taranta. ❤️
Bob’s loving family asks for your thoughts and prayers during this sad time. Thank you. Plans are being made to honor his memory in the summer of 2022, with good food...Pickleball, horseshoes, and cornhole. Somehow we think he would approve and be pleased!
“Bye, bye, Poppa Bob. We love you and miss you VERY much!” 💔
Memorials may be made in Robert “Bob” Crorey’s name to the Washington Life Center, St. Clair Council on Aging, or St. Mark Lutheran Church in Roseville, Michigan. Arrangements by Young Funeral Home, China Twp. To leave a message of comfort visit www.youngcolonial.com
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