Robert L. Smalla, 80, of Allegan, passed away Sunday, Nov. 27, 2016, at Stanford Lodge in Plainwell.
Mr. Smalla was born Jan. 18, 1936, in Allegan, the son of the late John and Donna (Jackson) Smalla.
He was a Class of 1954 Allegan High School graduate and a veteran of the U.S. Army. Robert attended Trowbridge United Methodist Church. He was also a lifetime member of the Allegan Eagles Club.
During his lifetime, Robert worked at various places: Goodwin and Sons; Pickett and Schreur for over 20 years; Equipment and Gravel in Grand Rapids for 15 years; and then, during his semi-retirement years, he delivered flowers for Wieland’s and snowplowed. He was a member of Local 324 Operating Engineers for over 50 years.
When Robert wasn’t working, he loved to camp and go bowling. Spending time with his family and friends, enjoying the outdoor life, was something he thoroughly enjoyed.
Robert is survived by his devoted wife Judy; his children, Laurie Smalla, Chrisanne and Greg Erb, David and Judith Smalla, and Scott Smalla; two grandchildren, Daniel and Iris; his brother, Roger and Nancy Smalla; his sister Doris Janulis; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his son, Timothy Lee Smalla; his brother and sister-in-law, Jack and Alice Smalla; his sister Beth Thomas; and his two brothers-in-law, Russell Thomas and John Janulis.
Friends may meet with the family on Friday, Dec. 2, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel. Funeral services will be Saturday, Dec. 3, at Trowbridge United Methodist Church at 1 p.m., Celebrant Bill Rose and Pastor John Moore officiating. Interment will be at Blackman Cemetery, Trowbridge Township.
Memorial donations may be made in Robert’s name to Hospice of S.W. Michigan and the Alzheimer’s Association. Arrangements were made through Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel www.gordenfuneral.com.
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