Robert Keith Funderburg

Robert Keith Funderburg was a generous man in heart and soul. He cared for his family and neighbors out of love and conviction. His humble spirit and quiet nature earned him the respect and appreciation of all those who had the privilege of knowing him. Bob was born in Muskegon, Michigan on January 18, 1929, the youngest of Benjamin and Violet (Barnhard) Funderburgs four sons. Later that year, the U.S. stock market crashed and countries around the world experienced long years of scarcity. Sacrifices were made and parents willingly did what they could to better the lives of their children. Roberts father, originally from Indiana, worked at the paper mill in Muskegon while his mother, a Michigan native, cared for the boys at home on Francis Avenue. Bob experienced a fairly typical childhood, filled with the right amount of work and play. He and his brothers camped up in Shelby in the summertime to pick cherries to earn money. Part of what he liked best about the out-of-doors was the time spent fishing with his father. Bob worked a paper route with the Muskegon Chronicle, a job he inherited from Raymond, Lyle and then Wayne as the responsibility was handed down from brother to brother. Bob attended Oakview Elementary and Jr. High School through the 9th grade, but each summer, he was more than ready to quit the books and start his vacation. The family trip to visit grandparents in Indiana was an annual event. Always close to his father, Bob followed in his footsteps and was employed at the paper mill, but he also worked as the custodian at the Muskegon County Courthouse. A pulp machine operator, Bob was a valued employee of S.D. Warren Company for 20 years and a needed player on the companys baseball team. Quite naturally, he was a Detroit Tiger fan, but he also liked playing golf and bowling. At one time, Bob was on six bowling leagues, all the while working the swing shift at the paper mill. Bobs preference for Country and Western music and watching Westerns on TV or at the movies accompanied his love for playing guitar. He even gave lessons. Bob loved his family and was devoted to his parents. Having never married, he remained at home to care for his father to care for him until his death in 1960. His consideration extended to his neighbors at Jefferson Towers, where he lived most recently. His kindness of heart and quiet spirit made him a good friend of many. Mr. Robert Keith Funderburg, age 83 of Muskegon, Michigan, died Sunday, April 29, 2012. He is survived by his brother, Wayne Funderburg; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Raymond and Lyle. Memorial service is planned for Saturday, May 5, 2012, 3:00 PM and visitation 1 hour prior to the service at the Clock Chapel - Muskegon with Pastor Dennis Lassanske officiating. Memorial contributions to Trinity Lutheran Church's MAP Supper House Fund, where Bob was a member, are greatly appreciated. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to leave a memory or sign the online guest book. Clock Life Story- Muskegon