Robert George Whitford

     Robert George "Bob" Whitford, age 80, of St. Johns, MI, passed away Sunday, July 12, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family.
     A Memorial Service will be held at Lowe United Methodist Church, St. Johns, MI, at 2:00 P.M. on Thursday, July 16, 2026, with Pastor Kathy Leydorf-Keck officiating. Burial will take place at Duplain Township Cemetery, St. Johns, MI.
     Bob was born in Lansing, Michigan on October 13, 1945, the son of Kenneth Elmer and Bertha Lucille (Scott) Whitford. He graduated from Eastern High School with the class of 1964. On June 7, 1968, he married Alberta Belle Tompkins at his brother’s home in Holt, Michigan. Alberta passed away on July 9, 2007.
     After a career as a car detailer for Shaheen Chevrolet, Bob enjoyed retirement doing the things that brought him the most joy. He had a lifelong passion for trains, especially steam engines. Growing up beside the railroad tracks, he developed a love for the sound of trains rolling by and could often recognize them long before they came in to view. He took pride in his collection of model trains, VHS tapes and DVDs. He also loved working on cars, riding bicycles, and watching classic cowboy movies. Chocolate fudge was a favorite treat and french fries were by his own standard, practically a food group. His unique sense of humor and the little things that made him smile are the memories his family will carry with them.
      He is survived by his children: Robert and Roberta Whitford of Maple Rapids, MI; Cindy and Pete Dershem of St. Johns, MI; and Kathy and Tim Vincent of St. Johns, MI; his grandchildren: Brandie (Jeremy), Katie, Tyler (Cassondra), Leeann (RJ), and many other grandchildren; his great grandchildren: Tucker, Brynn, Hendrixx, and Lenoxx. He is also survived by his sister Ann Poppe, sister-in-law Terry Whitford, several nieces and nephews, special neighbors Darlene and Billy, and friend Mike. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Alberta, brothers: Gerry, Kenny and Keith Whitford, brother-in-law Herb Poppe, nephew Walter Whitford and his cat Lucky.
      Memorials may be made to Lowe United Methodist Church or the wishes of the family. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes - Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, Michigan.