Robert J. Walls

Robert (Bob) Walls, age 85, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025.
Bob was born at home on February 10, 1940, in Hardburly, Kentucky. He was the beloved son of John and Sally Walls and the only boy among seven children. Bob's family moved to Michigan when he was just a young child. He left high school a year early to follow in his father's footsteps and serve his country, proudly enlisting in the United States Army and then serving in the National Guard. His deep pride in his military service never faded, and he remained a passionate supporter of the armed forces throughout his life.
Bob devoted 30 years to public service with the Madison Heights Police Department, rising through the ranks from patrol officer to detective, then sergeant and finally lieutenant. He was known by all as a man of integrity, with a strong presence and a dependable nature. He was someone you could always count on.
Bob had many passions that enriched his life. A lover of history and all things military, he could often be found watching war documentaries. He enjoyed the timeless charm of Greenfield Village and had a deep love for classic cars, particularly the annual Woodward Dream Cruise. He was also an avid golfer, often hitting the course multiple times a week. His love for music spanned from classic country to the smooth stylings of Frank Sinatra, and he was rarely happier than when he was dancing - especially country line dancing.
Family was at the heart of Bob's world. He cherished time spent with his daughters and found great joy in traveling, especially the unforgettable year he spent exploring the United States by RV. For the last 22 years, he shared his life with his partner Roberta, whom he met doing something he loved - dancing.
Robert is survived by his daughters, Pamela Fulcher (Jason) and Debra Zwolinski (James); his longtime partner, Roberta Nochton; his sisters, Mary Shea (Dennis) and Ruth DiLaura; his former wife and friend, Patricia Walls; and many nieces and nephews.
Family will receive friends on Friday, May 30, 2025, from 3:00 - 8:00 p.m. at A.J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Home, 2600 Crooks Road (between Maple & Big Beaver), Troy, Michigan 248-362-2500.
A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at A. J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Home, 2600 Crooks Road (between Maple & Big Beaver), Troy, Michigan, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment to follow at White Chapel Cemetery, 621 W. Long Lake Road, Troy, Michigan.
In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made in Bob's honor to the American Cancer Society online at www.cancer.org.