Robert J. Kenworthy

Robert (Bob) J. Kenworthy, 79, of South Branch, Michigan, formerly of Belleville, passed away peacefully at home on November 27, 2025. Born on December 1, 1945 in Wyandotte, Michigan,
Bob lived a life marked by dedication to his family, faith, and his country. Bob enlisted in the United States Navy in 1964 and during active duty was a plank owner – a member of the first crew – of the aircraft carrier USS America. He was honored with the National Defense Service Medal. After his time in the service, Bob was educated at Henry Ford Community College and went on to spend 39 years with TRW, formerly known as Kelsey-Hayes, as a CAD designer of antilock brake systems. In retirement, Bob found joy in the quietness of nature and home. He enjoyed fishing on the Au Sable River, woodworking, and watching the deer wander through the yard he tended with love. He was also a big fan of the Detroit Tigers and Lions.
Bob is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Betty; his daughters Holly (Jeff) Flynn of Dansville, MI, and Kelly (Jamie) LaFramboise of Fargo, North Dakota; and his beloved grandchildren Abby and Grace Flynn and Andrew, Sarah, and Simon LaFramboise, who were great joys in his life. He also leaves behind his sisters Kathleen Roberts of Belleville, MI and Pam (Mike) Kerpet of Apollo Beach, Florida; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews, including Mike Petrie, Shelly Chernick, Allison Edwards, Victoria Root, and Bryan Fenton. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Marie Kenworthy, and his sister, Shirley Bader.
Visitation will be held Thursday, December 4, from 9:00–11:00 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Tawas. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Pastor Gabriel Martin. Interment will take place at Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Tawas.
Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, 720 2nd St, Tawas City, MI 48763.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to his nursing aide Angie and his nurse Denise of Heartland Hospice for their compassionate care and Pastor Martin for all of his encouragement.
Bob will be remembered for his quiet strength, his devotion to family, and warmth he shared with all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever held in God's embrace.