Robert K. Eisen

Robert K. “Bobby” Eisen, of Gaylord, passed away from cancer Tuesday, March 5, 2019 at McLaren Northern Michigan in Petoskey with his devoted family by his side. He was 64.

Bobby was born June 28, 1954 in Royal Oak, MI to Robert and Margaret (Braidwood) Eisen. He grew up in Birmingham, MI, and was a star-athlete and graduate of Wylie E. Groves High School. After high school, Bobby attended Western Michigan University and later Northern Michigan University, before settling in Onaway, and eventually Gaylord.

Bobby had gone to work at UPS in Indian River and moved to Gaylord with UPS when the Gaylord facility opened in 1979.  He spent 11 years with UPS before pursuing a number of other things before eventually joining Laborers Union Local #1098, from which he eventually retired.

In 1981, Bobby married the love of his life Lori Ann Dell, whom he’d met at Black Lake where his parents had owned a cottage since 1940. He was an avid sportsman, deer hunter, fisherman, skier and golfer; a “jack of all trades and a master of none”.   When not at the family property at Black Lake, Bobby could be found spending time with his family, shooting the breeze at deer camp, or filling the room with laughter.  His smile and warmth would always include an invite to shenanigans, he loved people.  The life of the party with a spectacular laugh that would stay with you long after the party was over.

Bobby is survived by his wife, Lori; children, Aimee Eisen of East Lansing and Robert “Robbie” (Kylie Snow) Eisen of Gaylord; sisters, Robin Blackwell of Huntington Woods, MI, Lynne (Michael) Strelow of Salem, OR, and Randi (Gary) Cowan of Olney, IL; many nieces, nephews, and special cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Lee Eisen Roberts.

A celebration of Bobby’s life will be held at the Gaylord Eagles Hall, 515 S. Wisconsin St. from 11:00 AM-2:00 PM on Friday, March 15, 2019.  Memorial contributions can be made in his memory to American Cancer Society.

Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service.  Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com