Robert J. Bierman's Obituary
A life defined by loyalty, service and positivity, the world lost the blessed soul of Robert Joseph Bierman of Dearborn, Michigan on January 26, 2023. Robert passed away peacefully in the presence of his family and is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years June (Hopka) Bierman and four dear children Todd (Leslie) Bierman, Randy (Kathy) Bierman, Michele (John) Marrie, and Eric (Jamie) Bierman, siblings Patty Ann Schenk, Glenda Bruce, Jack Bierman (deceased) and Tom Bierman, as well as 13 grandchildren.
Known to his family and friends as Bob, he actively led a life that maximized the gift of every moment God presented to him.
Born in 1935, he was the son of the late Henry and Adeline Bierman of Dearborn, Michigan. Bob would spend his cherished childhood growing up in his Kendal Street home, surrounded by countless friends and family who helped define his life, and where he would define those of many others. As a talented basketball and baseball player, Bob always shared his pride of being part of winning the 1953 Michigan Basketball State Championship at his alma mater Fordson High School, and being nominated for two consecutive Dearborn All-Star baseball teams.
Shortly following his graduation from Fordson High School, Bob was employed by Ford Motor Company, starting his first job as a tour guide at the famed Ford Rotunda. He married his high school sweetheart June on August 2, 1958; however, Bob was drafted on their honeymoon and had papers waiting for him when he got home. He served two years in the U.S. Army in Olympia, Washington. He resumed his career at Ford upon his discharge and continued his education at Wayne State University at night school earning a BA degree in education. As his career flourished at Ford Motor Company in public relations, he was promoted and worked in many PR sectors within the company. Bob was relocated to Cleveland, Dallas, Dearborn, and Los Angeles. He retired in 1995 ending his Ford career after 41 years.
He and June moved to a beautiful waterfront community in Tennessee and while living there engaged in many activities where he could oftentimes be found golfing, exercising, square dancing, travelling, reading, and writing. Perhaps one of Bob’s most proud accomplishments is the publication of his memoir The Gang on Kendal Street, documenting the humorous memories of his childhood.
Bob was also a co-founder and president of the Ford Retirees Club in Tellico Village, and it is still active after 25 years.
The world will miss his contagious laugh, silly jokes, and positive outlook on life. Those who wish to carry on Bob’s legacy can remember these three simple concepts: be kind, be loyal, and be positive.
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