Robert Keyes

Dr. Robert “Bob” Leslie Keyes of Kewadin, Michigan entered into eternal rest November 21, 2023. He was born on October 27, 1931 to Leslie and Naomi Keyes. He graduated from Cooley High School in Detroit and joined the United States Air Force in 1951.

Bob graduated from Wayne State University and went on to earn a degree in Dentistry from the University of Michigan Dental School, graduating class of 1960. He was a beloved dentist in Warren, Michigan where he practiced for 30 years. He believed everyone should have access to dental care and no one was turned away because of financial hardship. Arrangements were always made. Grateful patients often brought treats to the office.

Bob was a member of the Adjunct Faculty Staff for the University of Michigan Dental School, and a member of the Peer Review Board for the Macomb County Dental Association. After retiring he continued working part-time as a dentist until he was 88 years old.

Bob met the love of his life, Mary Pert, at a dance in Detroit in 1958. They married on February 6, 1960 and were never apart. They started a family who will remember him as a devoted husband and father. In 1990, they moved to Torch Lake in northern Michigan. Bob and Mary loved lake life and created a welcoming retreat for family and friends, where many wonderful memories were made.

Bob was generous, humble, quick to lend a helping hand, and always put others ahead of himself. He loved his family and was loved in return for his always smiling, easy going, and fun disposition. His favorite thing to do was anything with Mary. If she was not nearby, he was often heard calling her name. After a busy life, they spent the last year side by side, holding hands on the couch. They enjoyed dinner with friends and family just before God called him home. He went peacefully with his beloved “Mary” by his side. Although he was 92 and loved life, he was gone too soon.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife Mary; daughter, Karen (Ken) May; sons, Bobby (Sue) Keyes, Allan (Launa) Keyes. Brothers, Walter, Ken, and Donnie. grandchildren, Scott Keyes, Leslie Verstraete, Kirk and Scott May, John, Chris, Thomas and Robby Keyes, Kayla and Ryan Keyes; great-grandchildren, Sydney and Austin Keyes, Jack, Luke and Max Keyes and Nolan Robert Verstraete who arrived on his birthday this year.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie and Naomi Keyes, and sons, Glen and Kevin Keyes.

Memorial contributions may be made to Elk Rapids AMVETS Post 114.

Please visit www.lifestorytc.com to share your thoughts and more.