Robert James Killingbeck's Obituary
Robert James Killingbeck September 12, 1946 - March 28, 2021 Robert Killingbeck of Canadian Lakes passed away on March 28, 2021 lovingly surrounded by his family. Born in Wayne, Michigan on September 12, 1946 to Gerald and Helen (LaDuc) Killingbeck, Robert was affectionately called “Moe” by his lifelong friends and five siblings: Judy, Don, Betsy, Joanne, and Dave. Throughout his life, Moe held many titles. He was a student and graduate of Wayne Memorial High School (’64) and of Eastern Michigan University (’69). He was an outstanding athlete-turned-coach in multiple sports. He was a teacher for 27 years at Marshall Junior High. He was a builder who built three of their family homes. Most important to Moe were his titles of devoted husband to Kathy, father to Rodney, Casey and Julie and grandpa to Molly, Jack, Cate and Casey. Moe was the epitome of a family man from the time he met his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Kathleen “Kathy” Patterson in 1962. Moe and Kathy’s 54 ½ year, adventure-filled marriage reflects their love of time together as a family: Golfing, camping, fishing, RV trips to the U.P., building and enjoying dune buggies (and cars), and watching their favorite Michigan sports teams (especially the Tigers who Moe loved to watch even when there were playing like a bunch of saps). The adventures continued with a move to Canadian Lakes in 1999 where Moe honed his skills in golf (2 hole-in-ones), became a supreme dune buggy builder and developed a newfound passion for bridge. Known to his family as an expert tire cleaner, a great golf ball hunter, #1 Phoebe Buffay fan, dedicated Price is Right watcher and nonstop jingle-singer, Moe was simply an all-around wonderful husband, dad and grandpa. A memorial service will be held this summer. Memorial contributions in honor of Robert Killingbeck may be made to the Susan P. Wheatlake Regional Cancer Center.
What’s your fondest memory of Robert?
What’s a lesson you learned from Robert?
Share a story where Robert's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Robert you’ll never forget.
How did Robert make you smile?