Robert Gabriel Chopp

Robert Gabriel Chopp Grand Ledge Robert "Bob" Gabriel Chopp, 82, of Grand Ledge, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2011. Born on March 14, 1929 in Laurium, Michigan, he is the son of the late Gabriel and Eleanor (Murphy) Chopp of Ahmeek, Michigan. Bob graduated from Calumet High School in 1947 and was always proud of being awarded the George Gipp Award for outstanding athletics and academics. After serving with the 31st Infantry during the Korean War, he married Clarice Rauch. He was a life member of the American Legion VFW Post 230 in Mohawk, Michigan. Bob went to Suomi College, in Hancock, Michigan and graduated from Michigan State University in 1958 with a degree in Business Administration. He worked in the insurance business, and specialized in providing insurance to nursing homes in Michigan and Wisconsin for over 25 years. From 1985-1997 Bob fulfilled one of his life-long dreams by opening and operating the Keweenaw Pasty Shoppe in Grand Ledge. Bob took pride in his Upper Peninsula heritage, and pasties, a meat and vegetable turnover pastry, are very much a part of the U.P. culture. Bob was an excellent and creative cook who offered many varieties of pasties and muffins. Children who came into the Shoppe used to call him "the Muffin Man," and he was quite generous in giving them muffins. Bob was known for his hearty laughs, jokes, and his willingness to help anyone in need. His friends, family members, and strangers were touched by his generosity. He enjoyed spending time with his family. Bob is survived by his wife of more than 55 years, Clarice; their five sons and grandchildren: Gary (Vanessa)- Spencer and Myra, great-granddaughter Astrid; Dennis- Lauren, Garett, and Gabe; Rob (Laura); Kevin (Kelly)- Alex and Justin; Greg (Lisa); his brother Donald; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be Saturday, September 10, 2011 from 10 a.m. until time of Funeral Mass 11 a.m. at St. Gerard Catholic Church, 4437 W. Willow Hwy, Lansing, Michigan, Rev. Fr. John Klein, Celebrant. Those desiring may request Holy Masses in Bob's name. Committal and military graveside services will be held at Lakeview Cemetery in Calumet, Michigan Monday, September 12, 2011, at 10 a.m. Arrangements by Holihan-Atkin Funeral Home Grand Ledge. www.holihanatkin.com