Robert Brandal

Robert George “Bob” Brandal age 82, of Ithaca, MI passed away Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at Woodland Hospice House, Mt. Pleasant, MI.

Funeral Services will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes Ithaca, MI, on Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at 11:00 A.M., with Rev. Jodie Diehl officiating.  Internment will be held at a later date at the North Star Cemetery, North Star, MI.  Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 2, 2018 from 2-8 P.M. with family present from 2-4 & 6-8 P.M. at the funeral home.

Robert was born in Alma, MI on August 29, 1935 the son of Lloyd Jacob and Helen Cora (Green) Brandal.  Bob graduated from Ithaca High School with the class of 1953.  He resided all of his life in the Ithaca area.  On July 7, 1956 Robert married Emma Lou Galloway at Edgewood Church of God.

Robert was a lifelong farmer.  He served the Gratiot County Sheriff's Department for 25 years as a deputy and undersheriff.  Following retirement, Bob was a bus driver for Ithaca Public Schools.  He enjoyed hunting, woodworking, camping up north and animals.  Bob was an avid storyteller.  He was passionate about his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Robert is survived by his wife Emma Lou; daughter Patti (Kim) Cotter of Mt. Pleasant; grandchildren: Kevin (Brandy) Cotter and Kari Cotter; and 4 great grandchildren: Emily, Jack, Logan, and Blake all of Mt. Pleasant.  He is also survived by his brother Ronald Brandal and sister Barbara (Mike) Kench, and numerous nieces and nephews.  Robert was preceded in death by his parents, and son Rodney.

Memorials may be made to Littlefield Outreach Center 3080 S. Littlefield Rd. Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858 or a charity of your choice.  Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, MI.