Robert William De Claire

Robert (Bob) William DeClaire, age 87, of Higgins Lake, formerly of St. Clair Shores, passed away on November 24, 2022 at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City, MI. Bob was born May 21, 1935 in Detroit, Michigan to the late Donald and Helen (Bagley) DeClaire. He married Fay Ann Martin on July 9, 1960 at St. Basil Catholic Church in East Detroit, MI. Bob’s early career started at 8 years old working at his family’s grocery store, D & H Market, in St Clair Shores, MI. At the age of 15 he worked for the US Post Office as a substitute Mail Carrier. After Graduation from South Lake High School in 1952. He served in the Army Reserves and went to Lawrence Technological University at night and studied Engineering. Bob was employed with General Electric Carboloy in Warren, Mi for 19 years. He started as a Draftsman and eventually worked in the experimental Man-Made Diamond Lab. He helped develop the process for Man-Made Diamonds. He was promoted to the Purchasing Department and was a Tool Buyer until the plant closed in 1972. He was employed with The Budd Company in Detroit, MI from 1972-1997. He was the Head Buyer for Tooling, Machinery and Productive Materials for 25 years before retiring on his 62nd birthday. The highlight of his career was going to Europe to tour supplier plants for special projects. Post retirement Bob served as the Secretary for the Roscommon Rotary Club for 13 years. He was elected to the Coor School Board and served a 7 year term. He was the Secretary for his local Dock Association for many years and he was also a member of the Knights of Columbus. Bob and his wife Fay also volunteered at St Vincent De Paul for many years. Bob and Fay enjoyed their retirement boating on Higgins Lake, Traveling and spending time with family and friends. His pride and joy was his family especially his Grandchildren. He also enjoyed Fishing, Hunting, Camping and building Model Boats. Bob is survived by his loving wife of 62 years Fay DeClaire, Children; Susan (Steven) Vansteel, William (Brenda) DeClaire, Michelle (James) Skoney. Grandchildren; Victoria Skoney, Michael Skoney, Marissa Skoney. Step Grandchildren; Clay (Kali) Vansteel, Russell (Caitlin) Vansteel. Step Great Grandchildren; Reagan and Rylee Vansteel. Sisters; Judy (Paul) Rupersburg, Janet (Danny) Tinnette and several Nieces and Nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and nephew Steven Tinnette. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 29th from 2-7 pm with a Service at 4:00 pm. Wasik Funeral Home, 35259 23 Mile Road, New Baltimore, MI. Interment at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, MI on Wednesday, November 30. Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, Alzheimer’s Association & St. Vincent de Paul Society.

Robert William De Claire

May 21, 1935 - November 24, 2022