Robert Loren Steifer

With great sorrow yet deep gratitude for his remarkable life, we announce the passing of Robert Loren Steifer, age 65, who went home to the Lord on December 11, 2025, at Trinity Health Livonia. Born on September 20, 1960, in Detroit, Michigan, Robert L. was the beloved son of Robert A. Steifer and the late Catherine Steifer (Gardner). His big, generous heart-one that spent a lifetime pouring love into others-finally found its rest.

Robert faced years of heart troubles and physical pain, yet he carried himself with a quiet strength that defined him. He never complained. He simply showed up, got the job done, and lived as the role model he wanted his sons to see. The values that shaped his life-hard work, grit, love, and perseverance-were first taught to him by his father, lessons Robert carried forward and lived out every day.

A true outdoorsman, Robert loved fishing-especially salmon fishing-where he felt most at peace. A drywaller and plasterer by trade, he was a craftsman in every sense of the word. And if he wasn't building or fixing something, he was under the hood of a car, teaching his sons Austin and Andrew the value of working with their hands. Those long hours spent side by side sparked Austin's passion for mechanics and are what ultimately led him to become a skilled mechanic, while instilling in both sons patience, problem-solving, and pride in a job well done-lessons that will echo for a lifetime.

Robert was immensely proud of both of his sons, and he never missed an opportunity to talk about the men they had become. He was especially proud of Austin and his brave service in the United States Marine Corps. Robert made sure his son had his mother's blessing before he enlisted-a testament to the way he honored family, respect, and doing things the right way. That pride never faded; it only grew.

Robert shared a deeply special relationship with his son Andrew. Andrew always felt comfortable and at ease talking with his dad-whether he needed advice, reassurance, or simply someone who would listen without judgment. Those conversations, filled with care and support, strengthened Andrew and deepened their bond.

One of Robert's greatest joys was the cabin up north-a place that became more than just a retreat. It was a tradition that began with his father, who taught Robert to learn as much as he could while growing up, to value hard work, and to never quit when things became difficult. Robert carried those lessons forward, and at the cabin, generations of fathers and sons worked side by side-fishing, building, repairing, and taking pride in what they created together. The cabin was a place of laughter, learning, and connection, a living testament to family, perseverance, and the legacy of love passed from one generation to the next.

Robert was also a phenomenal cook, known for his legendary homemade pizza and his world-famous BBQ ribs-recipes that became traditions, flavors that meant "home," and meals that brought people together. He had a knack for turning ordinary days into memories and was always into something-always moving, building, fixing, cooking, laughing.

Friends and family still fondly recall an unforgettable road trip to the Kentucky Derby-one of many adventures made brighter, louder, and more memorable by Robert's presence.

Robert shared a bond with his brother-in-law, Steve, that went far beyond family ties. Steve was more like a brother and best friend. Robert was also a devoted and loving uncle to his niece, Shae, who was like a daughter to him. Robert always went above and beyond to show her how deeply he cared.

Kind, generous, and big-hearted, Robert was the type of man who made everyone feel supported. His sons knew-without a doubt-that their dad was always in their corner. That love and guidance shaped them, sustained them, and will continue to guide them through the years ahead.

Robert is survived by his loving father, Robert A. Steifer; his beloved sons, Austin and Andrew; his dear sister, Debra (Steve) McKay; and his cherished niece, Shae (Mike Holtz) McKay. He is preceded in death by his mother, Catherine.

A memorial gathering will take place on Tuesday, December 16, from 2:00–8:00 PM, with a Sharing of Service beginning at 6:30 PM.

Donations may be directed to the Michigan Humane Society or the Wounded Warriors Project, causes that reflect Robert's compassion and deep respect for service.

May we honor him by living with the same generosity, strength, humor, and love that he gave so freely.

Forever cherished. Forever missed. Forever Dad.