Robert W. Klaiss

Robert W. Klaiss Kalamazoo Robert W. Klaiss, 85, of Kalamazoo and formerly of Battle Creek died at home, with his family at his side, on Sunday, June 14, 2009. Bob was born to Clyde H. and Mayme J. (Bestel) Klaiss on August 30, 1923. He was raised in Battle Creek and was a 1942 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School. He was a WWII U.S. Army veteran, serving in the European and African Theatres, and awarded three Battle Stars. In 1980, after 39 years, Bob retired from the Kellogg Company, where he was employed in Food Technology. Bob married Doreen J. Raymer in Augusta, MI on April 26, 1946. Surviving are Doreen, his wife of 63 years; two daughters, Marianne (Larry Potgiesser) and Doreen "Jan" (Mark) Taber, all of Kalamazoo; five grandchildren, Robert (Terry) Taggart, Scott Taggart, John (Amber) Taggart, Robert Hewitt and Jessica Hewitt; and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother and sister. He attended St. Joseph Catholic Church in Kalamazoo and was a member of the Kellogg 25 Year Club. Bob enjoyed sketching and after retiring enjoyed building and remodeling. Bob's greatest joys were his wife, children, helping his grandchildren grow and seeing his great-grandchildren join the family. He was the family matriarch and will be deeply missed by all, especially by his little buddy, C.J. At the request of the family, friends may call after 6:00 p.m. Thursday at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home where they will be received 6:00-8:00 p.m. Services to celebrate Bob's life will be officiated by Chaplain Barbara Van Eck at the funeral home 11:00 Friday, June 19, 2009. Military honors by the U.S. Army and interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Bob's family appreciates your kindness and after the committal, invites you to join them at the Holiday Inn in Battle Creek, to share memories and refreshments. Memorial contributions may be made to Borgess Visiting Nurse and Hospice or the American Cancer Society. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.