Robert "Rob" E. Butz

Robert, ‘Rob’ E Butz, age 64, passed away unexpectedly the evening of June 26, 2023.

Rob was the devoted husband to his wife, Terry (Norris) Butz and father to his daughter, Janessa Brown (David) and his son, Joshua Butz (Jaclyn). He was lovingly known as G-pa to his seven grandchildren- Ryley (20), Cameron (19), Kayden (14), Karson (7), Kylin (6), Emily June (2) and Kennedy (2).

Rob was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on December 21, 1958; the son of Robert ‘Bob’Ellsworth Butz and mother, Carol ‘T’ Louise (Theilmeyer) Butz.

After his six-year stint in the Navy he began working at Valley Forge Technical Communications making automotive service manuals. Over the next 40 years, through two acquisitions, his position evolved eventually into Director of Business Development, Bosch Automotive Service Solutions. His work-life allowed him to travel to multiple countries and work with many global associates. He was looking forward to his retirement at the end of this year.

Since 1989, Rob was an active member of the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Romeo. He was involved in many facets of thechurch, including, being a member of the choir, working on various committees including Worship, Stewardship, and Trustees andserving asboth Moderator andTreasurer. He alsohelped almost every year with the peach festival. As a lay person, he prepared and led some of the worship services and gifted the congregation with his musical talents on many Sundays and on special occasions. Rob was also a member of the core planning group for Rise UCC, a new church start-up.

Rob often involved himself in many benevolent projects through the church including, helping with MCREST and Sleep Out America. But most importantly, he was the founder of Angels Wing, a transitional home for homeless families with children. Over fifteen years, Rob and the team he worked with, housed nine families in need.

The thing that fed Rob’s soul more than anything was his family. For 22 years his side of the family has gathered every year in reunion and celebration. It was not uncommon for him to be found enjoying and helping his children and grandchildren as their lives unfolded. As various needs arose, his logical mind, unyielding patience and playful wit, filled their lives as they were encompassed by his unconditional love. Outside of his devotionto his family, Rob was a kind and creative soul with many passions. He had a deep love for music be it listening to, going to concerts, playing the piano or guitar and singing. And of course, he was an avid Ohio State Buckeye fan. GO BUCKEYES!!!

Rob lived a full life and impacted those he encountered. He had a timely wit that was often accompanied with playful pranks. His multi-faceted personality allowed him to create a balance between his methodically grounded wisdom and his playful personality. His calm and steadfast presence will be missed.

In addition to his wife, children and grandchildren, Rob is survived by his parents and his siblings, Andy (Anita), Joe, (Sandy), Jon (Susan), Amy (Brian), and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rob was preceded in death by his grandson Isaac.

Visitation will be Saturday, July 8, 2023 from 12:00– 3:00pm with a service at 3:00 pm at the Henry M. Malburg Funeral Home in Romeo, MI.

PEACE, LOVE, ROCK and ROLL