Deacon Bob Bovitz

Deacon Bob Bovitz, age 89, of the Downriver Area, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2025.

Born on September 17, 1935, in Wyandotte to the late Anton and Lillian Bovitz, Bob was a devoted husband to Micki and a cherished father to Rob (Katie), Beth (Bill) Lyke, Jeanne (Mark) Jankowski, Cathy, and the late Ken. He took great pride in being a grandfather to nine grandchildren and a great-grandfather to three. He is also survived by his siblings, Rose Marie (Greg) Merkle and Joe (Christy) Bovitz.

Bob’s educational journey began at St. Patrick’s School in Wyandotte and continued at U of D Jesuit High School in Detroit. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the University of Detroit Mercy and became a Certified Public Accountant.

On September 6, 1958, Bob married Micki, they were blessed with a loving family that included their children Kenneth, Robert, Beth, Jeanne, and Cathy.

Professionally, Bob was a small business owner, operating Bovitz CPA. He dedicated part of his career to public service, serving as the Mayor of Trenton from 1977 to 1983. His leadership extended into various organizations, including serving as President of the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG), the Michigan Municipal League (MML), and the Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber of Commerce.

In 2000, Bob answered a calling from the Holy Spirit and was ordained as a Deacon by Cardinal Maida after five years of study at Sacred Heart Seminary, marking the beginning of a 25-year commitment to his ministry this year. He was a committed member of St. Pius Parish in Southgate, where he served alongside Father Peter and Father Bob McCabe and was instrumental in founding the Downriver Community Prayer Breakfast. Bob took pride in having received all seven Sacraments throughout his life.

Bob Bovitz will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his dedication to family, and his countless contributions to his community.