Robert K. Thorburn

Robert (Bob) Thorburn passed away on December 6, 2025, at the age of 80. Bob was born on March 14, 1945, in Lansing, the son of Majel (Keller) and J. Russell Thorburn. He retired from Grand Ledge Public Schools after 33 years of teaching mainly middle school. He graduated from Sexton High School in 1963, Lansing Community College (A.A.) and Michigan State University (B.S., M.A.).
He was preceded in death by his parents. Surviving to cherish his memory are Barbara, his wife of 55 years; his New Jersey family: son Matthew, daughter-in-law Lillian Koo, and grandson Preston; his sister Phyllis Thorburn of Washington, D.C.; and his beloved sisters- and brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews, and many friends.
Bob lived a life focused on family, church and community, always helping others in whatever ways he could. He was a member of St. Gerard Catholic Church for more than 50 years, serving on the parish council for two terms. He also ushered and took communion to the homebound for many years.
He was a member of the Lansing Delta Lions Club for 22 years, serving as president and secretary several times. After the Lansing Delta Club disbanded in 2016, he joined the Bretton Woods Lions Club and served as secretary for many years. He was also a Melvin Jones Fellow and served as District Editor for Lion Pride Magazine for five years. Bob was recognized with the Lion of the Year Award in 2025 for his 30 years of service and dedication as a Lion.
Bob's family wishes to express our gratitude to his sister-in-law, Sue Wheeler, for her incredible guidance, support and care during Bob's fight with cancer, along with the many other family members and friends who supported Bob and us in so many ways.
The funeral mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, December 30, at 10:30 am at St. Gerard Church. Visitation will be on Monday, December 29, from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at the Palmer Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes, Delta Chapel, 6301 West St. Joseph Highway, Lansing, and on Tuesday, December 30, for one hour prior to the funeral service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Lions of Michigan Foundation, 5730 Executive Drive, Lansing, MI, 48911.