Obituary for Robert Joel Burrell
Robert Joel Burrell departed this world on the afternoon of October 11, 2021. Bob was 94 years old, born on March 4, 1927 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Robert was the son of William E. Burrell and Selma A. Wright.
Robert is survived by his Wife, Carole; Stepson, Aaron; Daughter, Jessica (Victor) Gieske; Grandchildren, Joshua (Katie) and Daughter Alexandra; Great Grandson, Gavin Gieske; and Son, Robert J. Burrell. He was preceded in death by his Grandson, Justin Gieske in March of 2021.
Bob graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1945 and joined the United States Navy where he was one of the first Sea Bees. Bob served in Guam and at the end of the war he was at sea headed for Japan. After serving in WWII, Bob attended Michigan State University where he received a degree in Urban Planning and Horticulture. Bob and the former spouse, Kizzie Harris (deceased and lived in South Bend, where daughter Jessica was born). Bob was a well-known business owner in town and owned Wright Beauty Academy, Kalamazoo Beauty Academy, Columbia Hairstylists and Spring Lake Lanes Beauty Salon. Bob was appointed President of the State Board of Cosmetology by Governor William Millikin and served for 8 years. Bob was known for his quick wit and generous demeanor. He had many friends, loved golfing and was a member of Riverside Country Club, where he golfed daily until his illness 14 years ago. Many friends and extended family members will miss him dearly.
Burial of Ashes will take place on November 5, 2021 at the Fort Custer National Cemetery at 3:00 pm.
A memorial luncheon will take place on November 6, 2021 at the Baxter Funeral and Cremation Service from 3:00 - 7:00 pm.
Arrangements entrusted to the Baxter Funeral and Cremation Service. 269-788-9800. www.baxterfuneral.com
Robert is survived by his Wife, Carole; Stepson, Aaron; Daughter, Jessica (Victor) Gieske; Grandchildren, Joshua (Katie) and Daughter Alexandra; Great Grandson, Gavin Gieske; and Son, Robert J. Burrell. He was preceded in death by his Grandson, Justin Gieske in March of 2021.
Bob graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1945 and joined the United States Navy where he was one of the first Sea Bees. Bob served in Guam and at the end of the war he was at sea headed for Japan. After serving in WWII, Bob attended Michigan State University where he received a degree in Urban Planning and Horticulture. Bob and the former spouse, Kizzie Harris (deceased and lived in South Bend, where daughter Jessica was born). Bob was a well-known business owner in town and owned Wright Beauty Academy, Kalamazoo Beauty Academy, Columbia Hairstylists and Spring Lake Lanes Beauty Salon. Bob was appointed President of the State Board of Cosmetology by Governor William Millikin and served for 8 years. Bob was known for his quick wit and generous demeanor. He had many friends, loved golfing and was a member of Riverside Country Club, where he golfed daily until his illness 14 years ago. Many friends and extended family members will miss him dearly.
Burial of Ashes will take place on November 5, 2021 at the Fort Custer National Cemetery at 3:00 pm.
A memorial luncheon will take place on November 6, 2021 at the Baxter Funeral and Cremation Service from 3:00 - 7:00 pm.
Arrangements entrusted to the Baxter Funeral and Cremation Service. 269-788-9800. www.baxterfuneral.com