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BORN
1921
DIED
2017
FUNERAL HOME
Robert Mahoney Obituary
ROBERT age 95 of East Lansing went to his heavenly home on March 30, 2017. He was born in Duluth, MN to Daniel and Isabelle Mahoney on October 16, 1921. Robert married Jennie Kubinger (who was also blind) on November 29, 1941. The biggest joy of Bob and Jennie's lives were their 10 children. Gary (deceased), Roberta Staton (Chuck deceased), Rosemary Sinutko (deceased), Dennis (Jackie), Colleen Sinutko (John), Joseph (Marlene), Mark (Kelly), Mike, Bill (Mary), Bob (Dari). Robert and Jennie have 22 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Robert lost his sight at the age of 15; however, he never let that handicap hold him down. After his career as a door to door salesman he got involved in politics. In 1954 Robert Mahoney became the State of Michigan's first blind State Representative. He served the people of Detroit's northeast side for 18 years. During his tenure as State Representative he was responsible for several significant pieces of legislation. He sponsored the bill to provide state identification for handicapped people who did not have their driver license. He also sponsored the Vending Stand Act, which required that all State-owned buildings would require a vending stand run by a blind proprietor. Robert was also responsible for getting the funding for WKAR radio for a sub-channel for the blind "Talking Book" program. After leaving the legislature in 1972, he was appointed to serve as a Wayne County Commissioner for three years. Robert came back to Lansing and lobbied for the Michigan Hospital Association for several years. He and Jennie have lived in East Lansing for the past several years. Robert loved his family, his many friends, enjoyed playing cards and discussing politics. Robert was a lifelong Catholic and would attend daily mass whenever he was able. He and Jennie would pray the rosary daily and their faith was truly a gift from God. In 1995 Robert, self-published a book, "Living Out of Sight" about his and Jennie's life. Funeral Mass will be held Monday, April 3, 2017, 10:00 a.m. at St. Thomas Aquinas, 955 Alton Road, East Lansing, MI 48823 and visitation one hour prior at the church. The family will receive friends Sunday, April 2, 2017, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. with the rosary being said at 7:30 p.m. at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, 1730 E. Grand River Ave., East Lansing, MI. Christian burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in Lansing, MI. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Capuchin Soup Kitchen, 1264 Meldrum St, Detroit, MI 48207. The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, East Lansing Chapel. On-line condolences may be made at
www.greastlansing.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Robert Mahoney
Fay Humphrey
December 2, 2017
So so sorry for the lost of Bob what a great friend so many great memories. We went back so far and think of you folks often. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. God Bless Fay, Dar Humphrey
Ron & Ann Thompson
May 1, 2017
Bill and Mary,
We are so sorry for your loss. While we did not know Robert, we know how much he meant to you from our many conversations in the neighborhood. We know how much you will miss him. He was an amazing person who we wish we could have known. We miss you also.
Bob Alger
April 29, 2017
So many great memories growing up in late 60's and early 70's. I remember walking in side door and Mrs. Mahoney cooking in the kitchen asking if I was hungry. They both made me see nothing was out of reach. they raised 10 great children while serving our state. hope to get together with Mark or Mike for a round of golf. Again, so sorry for your loss. God bless. Bob Alger, Casco Mi.
Marcie Brink-Chaney
April 11, 2017
He spoke at a career day at the Michigan School for the Blind when I was in secondary school. I was really impressed and I still admire Mr. Mahoney and his wife who I never met. My sympathy to the family. I am sure Jesus said to him, "You did a great job my follower. Come and join me in the place I have made for you.
April 6, 2017
Dear Jennie, Roberta, and the Mahoney family,
I wish to express my deepest sympathy to all of you on the passing of Bob. But what a well-lived life Bob has had! It was my pleasure and privilege to have known and cared for him.
My warmest wishes for comfort and peace.
Linda Coniglio
Paul Cavalli
April 4, 2017
Jennie and the Mahoney Family--my condolences to all of you. Many years ago, in Detroit, our two families were close and spent many times in each other's company. You and Bob were such, very close friends with our parents--you seemed a part of our family. Bob was truly a legend and an inspiration.
Paul Cavalli (formerly from Detroit)
Janet Rourke
April 3, 2017
Bob and Dari, so sorry to hear about your Dad. Remember the stories you shared when we worked together and how proud you were of your parents and how much you loved them. My thoughts and prayers are with you both and your family!
Leo Greenawalt
April 3, 2017
Dear Jennie, Joe and family,
What a wonderful friend and mentor Bob was for me! Truly one of the joys of my life to have known Bob and Jennie so well. Nancy and I wish you the best as you celebrate and grieve the life of such an exceptional human being...one who touched so many of our lives.
April 3, 2017
Roberta & family ----very sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this time. Fred and Karen Kayne
Fr. George Kuryvial OMI
April 3, 2017
To Jennie and the entire family, my condolences. This morning, I presided at our Community Mass and offered the Mass for Bob and for you all.
May I add to the litany of appreciation and thanks for Bob's life: Bob was a great man, great Christian and great Catholic! His reward now in heaven is great.
Joyce Kapp
April 3, 2017
Jeenie, It has been many years since I've scene you and the family. I remember the many dinners and functions I attended with Elmer & Genevieve and shared fun conversations with you and Bob. I didn't know that Gary had passed. I remembered him working at the office- my,so many years ago. I just read this new in the paper today, I'm sorry to hear about Bob. I want to offer my sincere condolences to you and the family at this difficult time. May God wrap his arms aroud all of you and bring you comfort. Joyce (Dennis' wife)
Patrick Laughlin
April 2, 2017
Farewell to wonderful friend and servant of the people. Bob was always kind and respectful of others feelings and, yet, a tremendously effective advocate of the oppressed, suppressed and depressed.
For me, Bob Mahoney was a role model as a father, husband and Catholic.Rest in piece good friend!
Gary Augustyn
April 2, 2017
What a great asset Mr. Robert Mahoney was to the blind people of Michigan. To accomplish what he did during his years as a state representative was a huge achievement. And also to raise 10 children with his wife who is also blind was truly remarkable. What an outstanding person Mr. Mahoney was.
Chip Rogers
April 2, 2017
Joe and Marlene,
My condolences to you both on the loss of one of the finest men I ever met and the among the most witty as well! The years have not diminished my appreciation for the Mahoney family and the kinship I feel with them. Thank you for sharing your wonderful family with so many of us who were fortunate enough to know them.
Chip Rogers
Athens, OH
Ann (Volz) Parker
April 2, 2017
Bob, I am so sorry about your Dad's passing. I loved the stories you used to tell us "newbies" at BCBSM. I miss those days. You were so much fun & it was an enjoyable pleasure working with you. I've thought of you often over the years & wondered how you were doing. My thoughts & prayers are with you & your family at this difficult time. Allow God to hold you & comfort you through your loss. God loves you & so do I.
Jim & Nancy Golembiewski
March 31, 2017
Joe, Our prayers and thoughts are with you, your mother, Marlene, your brothers, sisters, and all of your father's loved ones. May our Good Lord bless you all with peace, comfort and hope as you mourn his passing but also celebrate his life.
March 31, 2017
I went to grade school with Dennis and Rosemary. I also attended high school with Dennis. Your parents were exceptional people and I admired how they raised their family with their disability. Please know he is safe in heaven with God.
March 31, 2017
Joe and Marlene, so sorry to hear of your fathers passing, Joe. I remember those days in the 1960's and 1970's and always remembered fondly Bob Waldron asking your dad to watch the clock and let him know when they reached midnight on those long extended sessions. A finer person never served in the legislature. God speed. Bill Gnodtke
maureen (Ross) Karges
March 31, 2017
I went to grade school with Roberta and I remember her parents. They were an amazing family and a wonderful part of the St. Raymond Church family. May he rest in peace.
March 31, 2017
Bob (Dari & Evan), I'm so sorry to hear about your Father's passing. Dari has told me great stories about your wonderful parents. God bless you and your family while you go through this difficult time. Love and prayers to all of you.
Craig and Colleen Dawson (Lansing, MI)
Michael Hudson
March 30, 2017
With love to the entire Mahoney Family,
Bob and Jennie, you befriended us, inspired us, provided countless memories, and welcomed us as family. In reconnecting, us to the Catholic faith as newlyweds, you inspired us to raise a family with confidence that blindness would deepen family connection rather than represent hardship. You led your family with confidence in God's love and we will carry on as you did with love, good humor, and a recognition that life brings all sorts of challenges but each is workable with persistence and faith.
Bob, your quick wit, lessons from the legislative floor, precious family moments, and leadership in all you did lives on in the hearts and actions of many.
With much love and eternal friendship,
The Hudson family - Michael, Karla, Lily and Marshall
BARBARA gALEHOUSE
March 30, 2017
Great memories of Uncle Bob and Aunt Jenny and all the family, He will be missed.
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Memorial Events
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Apr
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Calling hours
5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes1730 East Grand River Ave, East Lansing, MI 48823
Apr
2
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Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes1730 East Grand River Ave, East Lansing, MI 48823
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