Robert Wendell Green, Sr.

Robert “Bob” Green, Sr., age 89, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2026, surrounded by the family he cherished.

Born on October 25, 1936, in Pontiac,Michigan, Bob lived a long, full life rooted in loyalty, hard work, and a deep love and respect for the outdoors and the people around him. In his youth, Bob was known across the region as an elite baseball player. His natural athleticism and competitive spirit made him a standout pitcher, often paired with his brother Linwood (“Red”), who was his catcher. Baseball was a family talent, and Bob and his brothers shared countless memories, on and off the field, forming a lifelong bond built on humor, mischief, and brotherly pride. Later, Bob became known throughout Northern Michigan as the “Slender Southpaw” and was drafted to the

Detroit Tigers and Kansas City Royals farm teams. On January 26, 1957, Bob married the love of his life, Mary Lou Gieseler, beginning a marriage that spanned nearly seven decades. Together they raised five children (four daughters and one son), building a family grounded in tradition, resilience, and laughter.

Bob spent 42 honorable years as a soil engineer for the Michigan Department of Transportation, where his expertise contributed to some of the state’s most iconic infrastructure projects, including the Mackinac Bridge, the Zilwaukee Bridge, and countless roads and bridges across Michigan. He took great pride in knowing his work helped shape the state he loved. Outside of work, Bob was happiest in the woods or on the water. He was an avid hunter, traveling across Northern Michigan and beyond with his brothers and friends. As president of the Bonehead Hunting Club for many decades, he led with tradition and humor. This past hunting season, he confidently won the buck pole with a 10-point monster buck, followed by “a dandy” 8-point. He delighted in bringing his children and grandchildren to the Bonehead Hunting Lodge, where he proudly instilled in them his knowledge and skills as an expert woodsman along with his love for the great outdoors.

Bob was equally at home on the Great Lakes. He spent countless hours fishing for salmon and lake trout aboard his beloved boats, “Old Blue” and later “Old Blue II.” He could tell stories for hours about “the one that got away,” and he often relaxed by listening to his marine radio while vacationing along the shores of Lake Huron between fishing trips. Over time, Bob became known as “The Shadow,” often sharing his wildlife photography with friends and relatives across the state. He also dabbled in videography, capturing various hunting and fishing trips, wildlife, and scenic or historic slice-of-life filmworks.

Bob was proud to be one of only five remaining charter members of the Comins Fraternal Order of Eagles – a tradition passed down from his father who helped organize the Comins, Michigan chapter. He valued community, camaraderie, and the simple joy of gathering with others. One of Bob’s favorite places was the Gilchrist Cabin, that he, along with his brothers and family friends, built deep in the woods near Comins as a tribute to his parents. It became a legendary gathering spot where friends and family would play cards, gamble, sing, and dance to classic country music. The cabin was a place where stories grew taller, laughter grew louder, and memories grew richer.

Bob was known for his strong opinions and unwavering convictions. He was straightforward, spirited, extremely patriotic, and never shy about sharing his views. He had little patience for waste or laziness and those who knew him best loved him for his honesty, quick wit, and unmistakable personality.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife Mary Lou and their children: Tamara Lee Green, Pamela Lynn ((Steven) Sendek, Melanie June Green, Robert (Mary Jo) Green, Jr., and Melinda Kay Green. Grandchildren Alex (Nida) Sendek, Stosh (Heather) Sendek, Nicholas (Shayna) Sendek, and Devin Chiodini (Kayla Mutterer), three great grandchildren, brothers Linwood “Red” Green and Steve Green, as well as extended family, and many friends.

Bob is preceded in death by his loving parents, Wendell and June Green of Comins, brother Don Green of Holt, Michigan, nephew Eli Green, and many cherished friends.

Bob will be remembered for his grit, his generosity, his storytelling, and the way he made every gathering more lively. His legacy lives on in the family he adored, the traditions he built, and the countless lives he touched.

In place of traditional services, a celebration of Bob’s life will be held later this summer. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the Comins Fraternal Order of Eagles

Aerie #3544 honoring Bob’s lifelong love of Michigan’s outdoors and community.

Arrangements by Lashley Funeral Home, Mio, MI