Robert J. Connelly

I knew Bob from our work as lawyers and because Bob's son Ritchie and my daughter Sarah went to the same elementary school. Bob was hard working, sincere, knowledgeable and creative. Bob's son Ritchie, who left us far too soon, was one of the finest persons I've ever met.

For a time, early in my practice as a lawyer, I had a number of cases with Bob. I cannot now recall a single thing about those cases -but I remember Bob´s sense of humor. His quick wit was well-served by his love of words. He was smart and hilarious and he made me laugh. Such a gift. Sparring with him over the phone, both of us making our "stern" arguments through laughter is probably the most fun I´ve had as a lawyer. I regret losing track of him. Rest In Peace, brilliant, hilarious...

I worked with Bob at Meijer. I have very fond memories. He made me laugh. I called him helmet head because of his hair.

In the 1990’s Bob took on a legal battle to defend the rights of parents of children with autism. My son Tom was one of those children. Despite overwhelming odds against us, Bob won our case and forced KRESA to provide ABA for young children with autism- a program that is still offered today. Bob believed in our cause and spent countless hours with our family - his compassion for our son, our family and for the rights of children with disabilities was what impressed us most about Bob. We...

Remember working with Robert at Meijer. He and his son were great to be around.

I knew Bob since the early 1980s when he first started practicing law. Bob had a brilliant mind, was absolutely hilarious, and fiercely loyal to his friends. He had a few bumps in the road but he worked through them eventually. I will miss him...

Bob was a great legal scholar, law partner, and good friend. I always paid a visit with him whenever I return to Michigan to fish. I will miss him this coming trip for sure.

Bob wasn’t afraid to be kind. The world has lost a huge junk of kindness. Heaven has gained. My condolences to the family.