Robert Alley

Robert Lemone Alley, 81, of Interlochen, died unexpectedly on Monday, April 4, 2022. He was born on September 22, 1940, in Black Oak, AR, the third of thirteen children born to John and Mary Alley.

Bob loved work of any kind. He was a jack-of-all trades and worked incessantly in his younger years. He found his home in manufacturing in suburban Detroit and in Traverse City.

He was passionate about Right to Life, was a church volunteer, and was dedicated to his beloved Catholicism. Bob loved helping others with anything. An avid Nascar fan, Bob also loved to cook! He biked, built homes, then designed, built, and cared for the Labyrinth in addition to personally maintaining five acres of land. Bob enjoyed being outside as much as possible.

Bob shared a passion for travel with his wife of 45 years, Pauline. Earlier in life, they owned a boat at Pier 500 in Wyandotte. Many a party was had there as this couple loved to have fun! In later years, they owned a motorhome and experienced this grand country, including a nine-month trip across the USA, spending months in Alaska - a highlight of their travels.

Bob met his beloved Pauline on the ninth day of a Novena. They married June 3, 1977. His faith grew over the years and he converted to Catholicism before they were married in the church at St. Patrick’s. Pauline preceded him in death a few months ago. Bob was her devoted and patient caregiver for years. Though a difficult period, watching them grow was a testament to maintaining strength through the Holy Spirit. Faith can overshadow all. He was resilient and strong in his grief and had solid plans to move forward in this life before his sudden death.

Bob was an endearing soul, kind, hardworking, smart, funny, well-informed, energetic and handsome! Popular family sayings include, “Ask Bob,” “Where’s Bob,” “Get Bob,” “Call Bob.” You could ask him anything, anytime, and he would always help.

Robert, Dad, Bob, Grandpa Bob, Grandpa, Gpa will always be with us in spirit. We will never forget. We have learned so much from your life as a model for our own. Not sure how we will move on without you, but you do deserve eternal life and to be rejoined with your heavenly family.

Bob is survived by a wealth of children and grandchildren as well as a few remaining siblings across the country: children, Margaret (Greg), Paula (John), Lamona (Bernie Sr), Michael (deceased) (Sharon), Kimball, Bridget, Marty (Trina), Bernadette (Tony), and Maria (Carey); grandchildren, Bernie Jr (Krissy), Trena, Trisha (Jason), Michael (Ashley), Kyle (Catherine), Jessica (Michael), Melanie (Eric), Alexander (deceased), Travis, Carmen, Jacob, Sierra (Chris), Mason, Nicholas, Jacob, Brett, and Christopher; as well as great-grandchildren, Austin (deceased), Chase, Gabe, Cole, Graham, Henry, Rory, Clark, and Piper.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Pauline; and parents, John and Mary; son, Michael; grandson, Alexander; and great-grandson, Austin.

A memorial Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 22, 2022, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church. The family will greet friends starting at 10 a.m. Private burial of Pauline and Bob will be at the Oakwood Catholic Cemetery, Traverse City.

Memorial Contributions can be made in Bob's memory to St. Vincent de Paul Society, 1207 Woodmere Ave., Traverse City MI 49686, or SVDPUSA.org for national donation.

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