Dr. Robert Ray Scharp Jr.'s Obituary
Big Rapids - Long-time area dentist Dr. Robert R. Scharp, Jr., age 76, passed away peacefully surrounded by family Sunday, August 18, 2019, at his residence.
He was born November 11, 1942, in Ypsilanti, the son of Robert and Doris (Townsley) Scharp. In 1950 his family moved to Belleville where he attended grade school and high school. Bob was a member of the National Honor Society, a drum major in the marching band, and played varsity basketball and baseball. Attending the University of Michigan, he earned his undergraduate degree and ultimately his D.D.S. degree in 1969. He was an active member of the American Dental Association.
After graduating from the U/M, Dr. Scharp practiced on Drummond Island for about a year. He then moved to Big Rapids, and opened a dental office with Dr. Richard Stern. For many years, he owned and operated Big Rapids Dental Health Care, and recently opened Reed City Dental Health Care. He loved new technology and was always looking for new ways to improve dental health care for his patients. He truly felt that his patients were friends, not patients.
Bob was a longtime member and former president of the Meceola Country Club, and a member at Tullymore Golf Club. In his earlier years he was an active outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting (especially at the Scharp's Deer Camp) and fishing. He particularly enjoyed taking pictures of family gatherings, sporting events, and wildlife. Traveling to watch their grandkids play hockey was a favorite for Bob and Susie. Hockey gave them a chance to visit Powell River in British Columbia, Massachusetts, Illinois, Maine, and all around Michigan.
On November 29, 1992, Robert married the love of his life Susie, who survives. Also surviving are his 2 sons, Daniel Boone (Tam), and Thomas Scharp, both of Kingsley; his brother Edgar (Deb) Scharp of Brighton; step-children Wendy (Brett) Hawes of Cedar Springs, and Bryan (Dena) Marek of Big Rapids; 9 grandchildren, Haley (Zach) Troyer, Mitchell Hawes, Taylor Gibison, Bradley Marek, Taylor Cox Scharp, River Scharp, Eme Scharp, twins Aiden & Addison Clarke, several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Jacquelyn Kay (Scharp) Scott.
A Celebration of Bob's Life will be announced at a later date. Memorial contributions in his name may be made to the Riley MacKenzie Fund, ARC of Mecosta Co., BR Hospice, or the charity of your choice.
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