Robert R. Behnke

Robert Russell Behnke 81, of Mussey Township, died Thursday morning December 11, 2008 at MediLodge of Yale. He was born August 2, 1927 the son of the late Edward and Emma (Kehn) Behnke. His marriage to Clarabelle Stine was November 29, 1947 and they bought his parents farm where they lived for 61 years. “Bob” was a dairy farmer and had worked at the former Herd-Lock, Orchard Molding, and Capac Metal Products. He also worked as a truck driver and a house mover for Christian's of Berville. He has always been known by family and friends as someone to call on for help with almost any home repair or building project. He enjoyed deer, pheasant, and especially coon hunting. He loved dogs particularly hunting dogs. He loved riding horses, was a member of the Michigan Trail Rider’s Association, and once rode across the state of Michigan with them on his horse Blue. He was a member of Michigan Milk Producers Association and the N.R.A. In recent years, he spent a lot of time visiting with friends and neighbors at Louie's Restaurant, Capac, where they discussed the news of the area and the world. Surviving in addition to his wife Clarabelle of 61 years are sons Raymond (Wanda) of Capac, Dale of GA., Pat (Cindy) of Lake Orion, daughter, Gail (Don) Firman of Forest, Ontario. Grandchildren, Tanya (Jeff) Weatherholt, Matt (Jessica) Firman, Josh Firman, Jeremy (Laurie) Firman, Kelsey Behnke, Allison and Zac Crosley ; great-granddaughter, Riley Weatherholt; brother, James (Catherine), sisters, Ruth McCoy, Vera Miller, and Muriel McLaren; and several cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by brothers, Edward (Bill), Stuart (Jack), and sisters, Bernice Belles, Lucille Behnke, and Lois Schultz. His family honors the memory of Bob and invite you to visit and share Sunday 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Kaatz Funeral Directors, Capac. Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Monday with 10:00 a.m. visiting. Rev. Joan Christoffers, pastor of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Capac, will officiate. Burial will be in Pine Hill Cemetery, Mussey Township. Memorials are suggested to St. John’s Lutheran Church or “Wishes of the Family”. For information and Guest Book kaatzfunerals.com

Robert R. Behnke

August 2, 1927 - December 11, 2008