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ROBERT EUGENE DUMSCH

Robert E. (Bob) Dumsch of Alpena passed away Friday, Oct. 8, 2021 while in hospice care at MidMichigan Medical Center-Alpena. Bob was born June 27, 1933 in Rogers City to the late Reynold and Catherine (Thompson) Dumsch. He was preceded in death by sister Bernadette (Tootie) Smith, and son Jeff Dumsch. He is survived by his wife of 67 years Sally (Platz), daughters Debbie VanMassenhove (Tom) and Tami Dumsch (Fred Reid), grandchildren Jaime Bieber (Shane), Ashley Repke (Jason), Mark VanMassenhove (Shannon Salaja), Jennifer Dumsch, and Dillon Ried, and great-grandchildren Rowen, Kaelyn, and Rory Repke.

Bob lost his father at an early age and being the only son, he worked at any odd job he could find while growing up to help support his family. After high school he sailed on the Great Lakes for seven years. The last five of which were on the Carl D. Bradley, a ship very dear in his memory as it, and most of his shipmates, perished shortly after he quit sailing to spend more time with his growing family. He then began a career at the fledgling Abitibi Corporation where he worked for 35 years as a production and shipping supervisor. After retirement he devoted more time to his favorite hobbies including golf, bowling, hunting, and anything to do with wood and wood working. He would scour every sale he could for antique woodworking tools. He amassed an enviable collection which he recently sold to an auction house in New Hampshire. Bob was a life member of the Elks 505 and named Elk of the Year twice. He also was a member of the Alpena Eagles, Alpena Men’s Golf Association, and Alpena Men’s Bowling League. He reigns as the oldest bowler in league history to roll a perfect (300) game.

Per his wishes Bob has been taken for cremation with arrangements handled by McWilliams Funeral Home. A Memorial Service will be held for him at a later date. Register for online condolences at mcwilliamsfh.com and donations can be made to Hospice of Michigan.