Robert Patrick "Bob" Griffin Sr.

Robert Patrick "Bob" Griffin, age 88, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Bob was the son of the late John and Kathleen Griffin (née Leddy). Bob was a proud graduate of St. Kilian School where he cultivated lifelong friendships. As U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Bob cherished the training, brotherhood, and the opportunity to serve, including his tour in Okinawa, Japan.

Bob was a proud member of Local 17 Heat and Frost Insulators Union for over 40 years. His dedication to union labor in Chicago was a defining part of who he was. Bob also invested in apartment buildings, later expanding into real estate in South Haven, Michigan.

Bob was the devoted husband of Marilyn (née Pinn) Griffin, the love of his life for 59 wonderful years. They raised five children and were blessed with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Together, Bob and Marilyn proudly owned and operated Griff's Inn Sunset Cottages and other properties in South Haven for over 30 years.

Bob's greatest joy was his large, lively family. Bob created countless memories with his wife and children skiing in Colorado and boating on Lake Michigan. Known for his sense of humor, he loved telling jokes-especially to his grandchildren-and took great interest in their lives, always offering support and advice. A devoted reader, he enjoyed sharing books and engaging in thoughtful discussions and debates up until the end of his life.

Bob is survived by his children Robert (Mary Kay) Griffin, Michael Griffin, Daniel (Patti) Griffin, John (Kristi) Griffin and Nancy (Michael) Hills; his grandchildren, Ryan (Nancy) Griffin, Caitlin (Andrew) Galvin, Michael (Jenny) Griffin, Shaun (Jena) Griffin, Raeann (James) Burke, Christopher Griffin, Connor (Sydney) Griffin, Brendan Griffin, Abraham (Vanessa) Gomez, Katherine Griffin, John Griffin, James Griffin, Griffin Reidy and McKenna Hills; his great-grandchildren, Evan Griffin, Miles Griffin, Rhys Griffin, Michael "Mickey" Griffin, Clare Griffin, Josephine Griffin, Kennedi Griffin, Delilah Griffin, Reagan Galvin, Jack Galvin, Lillie Galvin, Ciara Galvin, Faye Galvin, Reese Burke, Hattie Burke and James "Buddy" Burke. Also survived by his siblings; Maureen Scanlon, Patrick (Patty) Griffin, sisters-in-law Cora Griffin, Doreen Griffin, brother-in-law Frank "Butts" (Barbara) Pinn and sister-in-law Judith Brice along with many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by brothers: Jack Griffin, Daniel Griffin, Thomas Griffin and brothers-in-law Patrick Scanlon and Jack Brice.

Bob shared a special bond with his youngest brother, Patrick, who often joined his young family on vacations, creating lasting memories and a lifelong connection.

In his later years, Bob was lovingly cared for by Deb Renner Smith, who became a close friend. Her unwavering compassion and constant presence brought great comfort to Bob and his family, who are deeply grateful for her dedication and kindness.

Family and friends will gather on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 W. Hoff Road, Elwood, IL, for interment with military honors. Guests are kindly asked to arrive promptly.

There will be a celebration of life after the interment from 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. at Chicago Gaelic Park at 6119 147th Street, Oak Forest, IL.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Caring Circle (hospice) of South Haven, or a Charity or your choice, would be appreciated. To those who choose to leave a memory or condolence please visit: www.starksfamilyfh.com Arrangements are entrusted to Filbrandt Chapel-Starks Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Services.