Robert Symons

Robert was born August 8, 1958, in Marquette, Michigan, to John and Mary Louise (Leveille) Symons and graduated from Negaunee High School, Class of 1977. He was employed as an auto body mechanic for many years at Symons Lincoln Street Auto Body, and most recently worked at UP Off Road.

Sy especially enjoyed spending time with his family. His most special moments were spent out at camp, surrounded by his wife and children, the place he, and they, loved the best. Sy also loved playing and spending time with his beloved Granddaughter; Annabella, who was his most recent pride and joy. He was delighted and grateful to Mitch and Krysten, for every minute he got to spend with her. Sy also held a very special place in his heart for his daughter-in-law Krysten. His unconditional love for all of his children and their accomplishments were entered into every conversation.

Along with his love for his family, Sy was passionate about baking goodies, and cooking many of his mother’s old recipes (her rye bread was the best) along with a multitude of his own creations. Some of his favorite memories were made and shared through family meals and it made him happy to send a meal over to family and friends.

Sy was a silly, stubborn, hardworking, compassionate, giving, and loving friend, husband, and father and you could always count on him to make you smile. You could often find him cruising around town, on a hot summer day, in his famous red charger. His kids were always amazed at how many people waved, hooted and hollered and gave thumbs up as he drove by.

Sy was also very well known in the music scene. He was an accomplished drummer starting off in the Negaunee High School Band. He worked his way up to being most known for his years spent in the renowned comedy band Da Yoopers. His years spent with them were truly cherished. In addition to Da Yoopers, Sy was the drummer for many local bands. Side Show and Radio Active were in his early years as a musician. He additionally spent many years side by side playing music with his wife (Bonnie) in The Black Horse Band, Just 4 Fun, and Swampberry Moonshine. Playing drums was his true passion and it gave him much joy. He especially liked classic rock music and would often play the game “who is this” with his daughters when a song came on the radio while driving.

Sy was a recognized member of the community and will be missed by many.

Surviving are his loving wife, Bonitia (Hillis) Symons; children: Shawna Lee Symons, Marissa Louise Symons, Natasha Corrine Symons, Katrina Ann Symons, John Daniel O’Neill and Mitchell Kenneth (Krysten) O’Neill; Granddaughter: Annabella Louise O’Neill; Siblings: John Symons, Kathleen Symons, Patricia (Howard) Garbett, Sheree Pelletier and Julie Heidtman; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Michael Symons.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Sy’s memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com.