Robert Hill
NEWBERRY, MI – Longtime Newberry resident, Robert Lee Hill, 86, died suddenly but peacefully Wednesday morning July 5, 2023 at his residence.
Born June 26, 1937 in Wells, Michigan, son of the late Robert and Edna (Polkey) Hill, Bob was a 1955 graduate of Baraga High School and attended Suomi College.
On January 7, 1958, Bob enlisted into the United States Army serving stateside at Fort Hood, Texas and, on February 22, 1959, married the love of his life, the former Ruth M. Hattula. Bob was honorably discharged on January 6, 1960 attaining the rank of Specialist Fourth Class and continued in the Army Reserves until his discharge on January 6, 1964.
Bob started his employment career as a Forester with Celotex, Mead, Superior Studs and Louisiana Pacific for 41 years of service until his retirement in 2000. Throughout his career in forestry, Bob established several lifelong relationships and rapport with his co-workers spanning the Upper Peninsula and Canada.
A resident of Newberry since 1965, Bob was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church and active member and former Exalted Ruler (1976-1977) of the B.P.O.E. #1705.
Bob enjoyed spending time with his family and friends at their camp, Frosty Acres, his daily conversations with the men at Rahilly’s IGA meat department and an avid fan of the Detroit Lions.
Survivors include his loving wife of over 64 years, Ruth, of Newberry; sons, Mark (Ann) Hill of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin and Michael (Tammie) Hill of Maple City, Michigan; grandchildren, Ashley (Matt) Klug, Tony (Michelle) Hill, Emily Giesseman, Jordan (Hallie) Hill and Madison (Trevor Needham) Hill; seven great-grandchildren.
A gathering of family and friends celebrating the life of Bob will be held Friday July 14, 2023, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Beaulieu Funeral Home. An Elks memorial service will be held at 4:00 pm with concluding military rites rendered by the United States Army Honor Guard and the American Legion Post #74 at the funeral home.
Memorials may be directed to the Tahquamenon Education Foundation, PO Box 482, Newberry, Michigan 49868 specified for a scholarship to a graduate entering the field of forestry in his loving memory.
Condolences may be expressed at www.bea ulieufuneralhome.com.
Beaulieu Funeral Home in Newberry is assisting the family.
Lessons from a Tree:
Stand tall
Stand proud
Go out on a limb
Drinks lots of water
Enjoy the view
Remember your roots
– Author Unknown