Robert W. Charlton
Robert "Bob" W. Charlton, 68, died on November 1, 2020 at his home on Walloon Lake, surrounded by his loving family. Born on February 19, 1952 in Kansas City, Mo. to Cordelia and Stan Charlton, Bob lived a full and blessed life. After graduating from North Kansas City High School, Bob studied at the University of Missouri School of Journalism. While in school, he worked as a dishwasher at nearby Stephens College where a beautiful, young brunette caught his eye—his future wife, Maggie. Maggie and Bob were married for 44 years and were blessed with three sons. Bob spent 30 years with The Dow Chemical Co., retiring as global vice president of public affairs and communications (he undoubtedly would have liked to edit this before going to print). A four-year stint in Zurich, Switzerland created so many memorable experiences for the family.
Bob retired from the corporate life but it was only a change of scenery. He and Maggie settled in Breckenridge, Colo. for the winter season, where Bob spent over 100 days per year on the slopes—as a patroller for the Breckenridge Ski Patrol, and as a Level 3 professional ski instructor for the Breckenridge Ski and Ride team. Many thanks to Boyne Mountain for teaching Bob the fundamentals of being a great patroller! After 10 winters in Breckenridge, he and Maggie migrated to the west valley of Phoenix, Ariz. to enjoy a warmer climate. Bob's pickleball play improved each season in Arizona. Bob's dedication, determination and focus made him just good enough in order for Maggie not to consider him a liability in mixed doubles tournaments.
Bob spent summers on Walloon Lake—his favorite place in the world. The family settled on Walloon Lake in 1996 after returning from Europe. Originally landing on the lake for the winters (because of the close proximity to Boyne Mountain), the family ultimately stayed for the incredible summers. Whether it was maintaining immaculate landscaping, happy hour cruises, or family gatherings, Bob cherished every moment on the lake. But most importantly, Bob treasured the time he spent with his grandchildren on the lake. "Poppy Time" at the lake was a favorite of all five grandchildren.
Bob was strong in his faith, and had a robust network of Christian brothers and sisters through his affiliation with Walloon Lake Community Church in Michigan and Dessert Springs Community Church in Arizona. He felt strongly about being invested in the communities where he lived, and contributed time with many local organizations, including: The Salvation Army of Petoskey, Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy, Petoskey-Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation, Petoskey-Bay View Country Club, Goodyear PebbleCreek Rotary Club and Phoenix West Valley ESL Literacy Association. Bob was also a mediator with Northern Community Mediation.
A son, brother, husband, father, father-in-law, poppy, cousin, uncle, friend, colleague, mentor, teacher, and brother in Christ—Bob will be missed by so many. Bob is survived by his loving wife, Maggie; his three sons, Brad (Kristen), Brian (Chelsea), Scott (Genevieve); his five grandchildren, Jack, Thomas, Claire, Beau, Ford; and his two sisters, Ann Lester and Mary Beth Meyer (Doug); and so many more loving family and friends.
A celebration of life will be held at Walloon Lake Community Church on Saturday, November 7, 2020 at 11 a.m. EST, with a luncheon to follow. The family will be available beginning at 10 a.m. at the church to share memories about Bob.
In lieu of flowers, Bob asked that donations be made to The Salvation Army of Petoskey, specifically The Pathway of Hope Program. Donations can be made through the link below. Please check the "In memory of someone" box and put "Charlton 4 POH" or "For the Pathway of Hope Program in Honor of Bob Charlton" in the message area. https://donate.sawmni.org/give/194255/#!/donation/checkout?c_src=WebWMI&c_src2=Slider. Donations can also be made by check with a notation on the bottom of the check in memory of Bob Charlton for the Pathway of Hope Program. Checks can be mailed to: The Salvation Army of Petoskey, 712 Pleasant St., Petoskey MI, 49770.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Midland Daily News on Nov. 3, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Charlton

11 Entries

Jeff Hart

October 28, 2024

Still miss you, Bob...such a kind, stand-up guy...

JEFF HART

October 28, 2022

As I prepare to begin my 19th season as a part-time ski instructor at Breckenridge, I can't help but think of Bob and Maggie who I first met and became friends with when we all became certified instructors in 2004...so many wonderful memories.

Shelly Hornback

February 6, 2021

Bob was a new friend and mentor to me. I was deeply inspired by his grace, intelligence, and professional experience. He generously helped me learn and grow in the few short months we served together on the Board of Directors for the Rotary Club of Goodyear PebbleCreek. I'm very sorry I did not get the opportunity spend more time with him. His absence is a major loss for our organization. My heart goes out to Maggie and Bob's many friends and loved ones.

JEFF HART

December 10, 2020

Roxy and I are heartbroken and virtually speechless...choked up and teary-eyed...for Bob, and for Maggie and his entire, wonderful family...

What a full, wonderful life he lived. Roxy and I feel so blessed to have known him, to have worked with him at Breckenridge ski area, to have spent time at his and Maggie's beautiful lake house in Michigan, to meet their wonderful boys, and to have maintained contact with Bob and Maggie both over the years. We were looking forward to spending more time with them both as we plan to spend more time in Arizona in the coming winters.

We still can't believe Bob is gone from this earth...such a loss...we can hardly imagine how difficult this must be for Maggie and all those that knew and loved him. A kinder man I have never known...

Matt Krane

November 28, 2020

My fondest memory of "Bobby C." has to be the bluebird morning in March 2010 at 13,000 ft. in Breckenridge when he and I and Stuss Leeds embarked on a ridgeline control route to the north. It was a chance for Bobby to complete his bomb-throwing checklist. He and spent an hour together kicking cornice, preparing and deploying three-pound charges for avalanche control. I could tell he was a deeply-connected man. Best part of the route after we called it clear: watching Bobby enjoy some fantastic turns to the bottom of Whale's Tail. Always enjoyed our talks, lift rides-super-kind, caring, generous man. He lit up the Patrol roster for sure. Sorry to hear of his passing, yet there's a smile on my face. Love to all. Matt Krane

Rick Canterbury

November 15, 2020

What a great childhood buddy. Remember playing catch with Bob and his Dad in their backyard. Sorry thru the years that i fell out of contact. The whole Charlton family were so great to be around in the old neighborhood. Remember starting school with Bob and he was always so nice, respectful and just a great friend to grow up with. My deepest sympathy to his Wife, Children and Grandchildren and sisters, Ann and Mary Beth.

Robin & Lori Wright

November 10, 2020

They say the mark of a man is how he treats someone who can do nothing for him. I say, in that case, Bob was one of the finest men I've had the privilege to meet . He made this carpenter feel like one of the most important people in the world. Maggie and boys, Lori and my thoughts and prayers are with you. RIP Bob

Monica Widhalm

November 5, 2020

My family was honored to have spent time on the dock at Walloon with Bob. His genuine interest and care for others and his generous spirit and love of life will be sorely missed. Much love to his family.

Lynn & John Gordon

November 4, 2020

Bob was the real deal. He talked the talk and walked the walk. Devoted husband, father, & friend. Just an outstanding human being. Bob was the kindest & most generous friend that we have ever had.
I will miss him dearly. He always cared about others. No words can express our sadness for Maggie and the boys. We have known Bob & Maggie for over 40 years. Life just doesn’t seem fair sometimes.
Bob, I know you are up in heaven. God has a special place for you. We should all use Bob as an inspiration for how we live our lives. I will miss you, dear friend. And he was one hell of a skier.

Bob Beil

November 4, 2020

Maria & I were so sad to hear of Bob's passing. We were unaware of his battle. It's hard to imagine someone with Bob's energy & enthusiasm losing his ability to live life to its fullest. We take solace in knowing he is with the Lord & we'll see him again someday. Maggie, please let us know when you are back in Phoenix. Sending you all our love.

Bill & Phyllis Donberg

November 3, 2020

Bob was the kindest, most thoughtful person our entire family has known. We will miss him dearly.

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