Robert "Bob" Kopf

Robert "Bob" Kopf of Farmington Hills, Michigan passed away on June 3, 2024 at the age of 89.  He was born in the backseat of a car on his way to the hospital on June 27, 1934 in Detroit, Michigan to Hans and Grace Kopf.  Beloved husband of Barbara Jean McGowan.  Loving father of the late Randy (Pat) Kopf, Kim (Deb Hall) Kopf, the late Patti (Scott) Hayward, Ken (Allison) Kopf, and Kelly (Chad Dutcher) Kopf.  Dearest grandfather of Evan, Jessi, Lisa (David) Hammond, Jessica (Alex) Lee, Morgan (Austin) Rogers, Kendal (Brent) Vaccaro, Josh, Jordan, Luke, Mason, Brooklyn, Alexa, Addison, and Beckett. Dear great-grandfather of Finn, Theo, James, Sophie, Matthew, Elizabeth, and Brandt.  Brother of Darlene (the late Stan) Bohinc.  He was predeceased by his parents.

After graduating from Grosse Pointe High School in 1952, Bob pursued his passion for engineering at Michigan State College (University), a field he dedicated himself to during his professional career. With a two-year stint at Chrysler and a remarkable 35 years at Ford Motor Company in product development, he made lasting contributions to the automotive industry.

Bob was a man with many hobbies and interests. Using his woodworking and engineering skills he completed many projects including building benches, walkways, steps, and the dock at the cottage. He made his own wine and enjoyed sharing a bottle of red wine with friends and family. A connoisseur of classic rock music from the 60's, 70's, and 80's, his eclectic taste in music mirrored his vibrant spirit.

He found joy in creating and sharing his talents. Golfing was a passion throughout his life. From building golf clubs to playing and teaching others, golf was never far from Bob's mind. He never passed up an opportunity to hit the links.   For over 40 years, Bob thoroughly enjoyed an annual golf trip with his friends to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. 

He cherished his time golfing, fishing, and boating at the family cottage in Lewiston, Michigan.  Bob loved riding motorcycles and when riding in Northern Michigan, he would visit the many lighthouses along the Great Lakes. In retirement, the winter months were spent shell collecting, golfing, riding motorcycles, and watching the sunsets in Bonita Springs, Florida.  

Visitation Wednesday, June 12, 2024 from 3-8 pm at Thayer-Rock Funeral Home, 33603 Grand River Avenue, Farmington, Michigan 48335.  Instate Thursday, June 13, 2024 from 10:30 am until time of Mass at 11 am at St Gerald Catholic Church, 21300 Farmington Rd., Farmington, MI 48336.  Interment will follow at Oakland Hills Memorial Gardens, Novi, Michigan.  Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Heart Association 

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