Robert Louis Desmond

Robert (Bob) Louis Desmond died peacefully in his sleep on April 2, 2021 at the age of 80.

Bob was an incredible man who loved his family with fierce loyalty. His passion for life and ability to see humor made him a terrific friend, relative, mentor and co-worker to so many.

Bob was born in Detroit, Michigan on October 19, 1940. He graduated from the University of Detroit High School and attended Georgetown University where he obtained his bachelor’s degree in business. He married Diane Bourne on October 7, 1968 and embarked on the adventure of raising 5 children. Bob started his career working for the Federal Reserve as a bank examiner in Washington, D.C. and continued a 40+ year successful career in banking and finance. His career took the family throughout the country to Washington, D.C., Detroit, MI, Barrington, IL and Mequon, WI. Bob and Diane made their last move to Georgia where they resided at Reynolds at Lake Oconee. Bob enjoyed living on the lake and spending his time golfing which happen to also include a lot of balls in the lake.

Bob’s commitment and connection with his kids continued throughout his entire life, to the very end. He served as their mentor, friend and biggest advocate. His dedication continued with his grandchildren, who have fond memories of vacations, time at the lake and his unwavering support. Bob never took life too seriously and never missed a social activity or time with great friends. He was an avid lover of jazz, cocktails, sports cars, reading, cooking and bargain shopping. His story telling and dry wit were legendary, and his many tales will live on for generations to come. He relished the summer weeks where he brought his family together in Charlevoix, Michigan to keep the Desmond tradition of “family first” alive.

Family was of upmost importance to Bob. He is reunited with his family in heaven, his parents Lou and Marge (Breaugh), his wife Diane (Bourne), his son-in-law Stephan Els and a multitude of relatives. They will welcome him with open arms, pasta and many shots of Crown Royal.

Bob is survived by his children; Robert Jr (Liz), Brigid Turrittin (Tim), Noah, Adam (Julia) and Jocelyn Els. His grandchildren; Carli, Page and William Turrittin, Maggie, Clay and Robby Desmond and Stephan and Hannes Els.

Family will receive friends Sunday, April 11th, from 3:00-7:00 PM with prayer service at 6:30 PM at A.J. Desmond & Sons, 2600 Crooks Rd., Troy (between Maple and Big Beaver), MI 48084.

Funeral services will be held at Christ Our Light Church (3077 Gouchester, at Coolidge, Troy, MI 48084) on Monday, April 12, at 10:30AM. Visiting at church begins at 10:00 AM.

A celebration of Bob's life will be held at Reynolds on May 1st from 3-6 at the Linger Longer Pavilion

Memorial Contributions suggested to University of Detroit Jesuit High School, 8400 N. Cambridge Ave, Detroit, MI 48221.
 

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