BIG RAPIDS -- Longtime area dentist Dr. Robert R. Scharp, Jr., 76, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, Sunday, Aug. 18, 2019, at his residence.
He was born Nov. 11, 1942, in Ypsilanti, the son of Robert and Doris (Townsley) Scharp.
In 1950, his family moved to Belleville, where he attended grade school and high school. Bob was a member of the National Honor Society, a drum major in the marching band and played varsity basketball and baseball.
Attending the University of Michigan, he earned his undergraduate degree and, ultimately, his DDS degree, in 1969. He was an active member of the American Dental Association.
After graduating from U of M, Dr. Scharp practiced on Drummond Island for about a year. He then moved to Big Rapids, and opened a dental office with Dr. Richard Stern. For many years, he owned and operated Big Rapids Dental Health Care, and recently opened Reed City Dental Health Care. He loved new technology and was always looking for new ways to improve dental health care for his patients. He truly felt that his patients were friends, not patients.
Bob was a longtime member and former president of the Meceola Country Club and a member at Tullymore Golf Club. In his earlier years, he was an active outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, especially at the Scharp's Deer Camp, and fishing. He particularly enjoyed taking pictures of family gatherings, sporting events and wildlife. Traveling to watch their grandkids play hockey was a favorite for Bob and Susie. Hockey gave them a chance to visit Powell River in British Columbia, Massachusetts, Illinois, Maine and all around Michigan.
On Nov. 29, 1992, Robert married the love of his life, Susie, who survives. Also surviving are his two sons, Daniel Boone (Tam) and Thomas Scharp, both of Kingsley; his brother, Edgar (Deb) Scharp, of Brighton; step-children Wendy (Brett) Hawes, of Cedar Springs and Bryan (Dena) Marek, of Big Rapids; nine grandchildren, Haley (Zach) Troyer, Mitchell Hawes, Taylor Gibison, Bradley Marek, Taylor Cox Scharp, River Scharp, Eme Scharp, twins, Aiden and Addison Clarke; several nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Jacquelyn Kay (Scharp) Scott.
A celebration of Bob's life will be announced at a later date.
Memorial contributions in his name may be made to the Riley MacKenzie Fund, ARC of Mecosta County, BR Hospice or the charity of your choice.
Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Barb Christopher
August 25, 2019
Sue and family, Mark and I are truly sorry for your loss of Bob. He was one of a kind and will be so missed. One thing was for certain he loved you with all his heart Sue. You are in our thoughts during this sad time.
Julie Bonkowski
August 24, 2019
My heartfelt sympathy is extended to you, Susie, and to all who knew and worked with or who were treated by Robert. His family, and especially you, will never stop missing him. He truly is in a better place and adjustment for you and the others will come with time....Love you, Susie!! God Bless....
Leilani VanTrump
August 24, 2019
Our thoughts are with you and your family. Dr Sharp came to the aid of our son in a situation ~ he never forgot it! Greatest dentist ever ! Our condolences from Ken and Lani (Szot ) VanTrump
Roy Martin
August 23, 2019
R.I.P. Bob. I say Bob, as that is what he went by in high School. I remember him as one of only a handful of genuinely friendly class mates that always had a smile for you. I never knew that his birthday was exactly 2 days after mine of the same year and that he moved to Belleville in 1950. (I moved there with my parents in 1953.) Prayers for you and your entire family and all of your friends Bob and may you look back knowing you made this place on earth a better place to live with all that you touched.
Beverly Kalageorgi
August 23, 2019
On behalf of the Belleville High School Class of 1961 we send our Deep Condolences to Dr. Scharp's family & friends. Bob was always a leader & an outstanding classmate, excelling in many areas & activities. He was a friend to all & we will miss him a great deal!
Jim Nostrant
August 23, 2019
Doc you are a good friend and great competitor on the softball field. You will be missed
Kim Bradburn
August 23, 2019
My prayers for the family. Heaven certainly gained another angel. Dr Scharp was always a source of encouragement and positivity. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
Michael and Paula Jean Rushford
August 22, 2019
Very sorry to hear the news of Dr. Scharp. He was very kind and always a warm hug and smile. Our condolences to his family.
Marsha McDaniels
August 21, 2019
I adored this man. A loss for everyone. Condolences to his family.
August 21, 2019
he was the best at everything in life
John Anderson
August 21, 2019
Bob was a great man and will be missed. May he rest in peace.
Mary Wilson (Lewis)
August 20, 2019
A wonderful man and my childhood dentist. My condolences.
Perry Lewis
August 20, 2019
A good man, gone too soon. Very sorry.
Michael Shansky
August 20, 2019
Very sorry for the family's loss. Condolences.
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Mohnke Janowicz Funeral Home128 S Warren Ave, Big Rapids, MI 49307-1844
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