Obituaries

Robert G. “Bob” Bucala, aged 97, passed away peacefully after a severe but short-term illness. Bob was the beloved husband of the late Betty (Wrobel).

Born and raised in (Southwest) Detroit, Michigan, Bob attended Most Holy Redeemer Church and Western High School. Bob and Betty were married in 1953. They were fortunate to have 62 years together, blessed with five children and ten grandchildren.

He proudly served his country as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Army from 1948 to 1959. He served in Germany, France, Alaska, and Texarkana.

Following his military service, Bob enjoyed a long and respected career as a UAW Master Tinsmith, earning the admiration of coworkers and friends through his dedication and craftsmanship. He worked at the Cadillac Foundry, Ternstedt, Chevrolet Spring and Bumper, and Fisher Body. The bulk of his 37-year General Motors career was spent at Fisher Body Fort Street. In his later years at GM, he enjoyed putting his skills as a metalsmith to work, hand crafting retirement gifts for management and co-workers.

After retiring himself, Bob found time for many hobbies. He enjoyed attending car shows where he could show off his sunny yellow Shay Model A. He loved hunting and fishing and was happy to be able to do both in his later years. Bob loved many genres of music, often singing along with his favorites.

Bob and Betty traveled to Australia for their fiftieth wedding anniversary, hopping around the country to different cities, landmarks, and beautiful vistas. Bob made a few long-distance trips in the last decade, including trips to Poland to explore his ancestral roots. He was met with loving arms by family members at the homestead where his father was born. He often spoke of the wonderful times spent in our little village of Bucałówka. On these trips he also visited London, Paris, and Munich, reminiscing his time in the Army as a young man. Bob also traveled to Chicago where his mother was raised and where he spent time as a child.

Bob will be remembered for his strong work ethic, service to his country, love of family, and the many memories he created with those who knew him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his wife Betty (Wrobel) Bucala, parents Gabriel and Mary (Pajor) Bucala, sister Florence (Kovalic), and brothers Theodore and John.

Bob will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his children: Michael, Matthew, Julie Terberg (Robert), Deanne Purkiss (Paul), and Robert (Carla), and his grandchildren.

Bob will be interred with his wife at Great Lakes National Cemetery in a private ceremony.