Robert Emmons "Ike" Westfall

Robert "Ike" Emmons Westfall, 73, of Adrian passed away Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2015, at ProMedica Bixby Hospital, Adrian.

Ike had just celebrated his 73rd birthday on Nov. 14, 2015.

Born in Ann Arbor, Mich., Ike's parents were the late Robert Barton and RuthMary (Smith) Westfall. He graduated from Adrian High School in 1961 and went on to receive his bachelor's degree and MBA from U of M in 1966. In his continual strive for excellence, he then received an additional master's and specialist degree from Eastern Michigan University. On Nov. 28, 2008, Ike married Marilyn Marr in Adrian, and she survives.

Ike was an entrepreneur who started several businesses including Ike Westfall Sealing and Striping, BAM Ltd. and Southeastern Security. In 1974, he was named chairman of Siena Heights College business and economics program, where he was affiliated with Siena's Cooperative Education Program, serving as a liaison to local businessmen interested in employing students in conjunction with this program. He also worked at Adrian College as an accounting instructor and before that worked with the Ann Arbor Bank as marketing director and Eastern Michigan University as a guest lecturer and instructor. He had also been associated with Eastern Michigan University, the University of Michigan and Wayne State University continuing education programs and involved in sales, personnel or comptroller training with the Adrian Steel Co. and Chrysler Corp.

As a fourth-generation graduate of U of M, he was very proud that his daughter, Dionne, continued the legacy. Having a passion for euchre, Ike insisted on his family playing on what seemed like a nightly basis. Ike was also dedicated to daily exercise including paddleball, hand ball, tennis, and later in life, walking at the Adrian Mall. He was the YMCA State Paddleball Champion twice. His favorite stories included his old football memories. This spilled into weekly wagers with his buddy. Al please pay up.

Ike's pride and joy was his grandchildren. He cherished and enjoyed every moment he spent with them, regardless if it was at a sporting event or just a visit at home. They brought him so much joy and put a smile on his face. They loved grandpa "Boppy" and he loved all his grandchildren. His grandchildren include Anthony and Samuel Emmons Merkel, Travis and Isaac Jeffrey, Mariana Bernardo, Trevor and Tristan Hayes, Giavonna and Giselle Shipperbottom, Ella Newman and new baby on the way. He will be greatly missed, not only by his grandchildren, but by all who knew him.

In addition to his wife, Marilyn, Ike is survived by his children, Kathy (Miguel Flores) Westfall of Adrian, and Betsy (Joel) Jeffrey of Adrian; stepdaughter, Christina Hayes of Adrian, Tarrah (Kevin) Shipperbottom of Adrian, and Dionne (Rowan) Newman of Boca Raton, Fla.; and his favorite son, Rhett Westfall of Adrian; his siblings, Marnie (Hugh) Dilworth and Harley (Teke) Westfall. He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family requests that you wear your favorite U of M shirt or hat to honor Ike when attending his services and don't be afraid to capture his complete favorite attire with shorts. Ike was known for his many pranks and jokes. Please come prepared to share your favorite story, prank or memory that you have about Ike.

Funeral services for Ike will be 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, at Wagley Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21. In lieu of flowers, Ike would like you to not vote for Hillary. Online condolences are welcomed at www.WagleyFuneralHome.com.