Robert Emery Sali

     With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Robert Emery "Bob" Sali, age 73, of Perrinton, MI, on Monday, November 18, 2024.  A man whose life was marked by love, laughter, and devotion; Bob’s spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
     Born on January 2, 1951, in Lansing, MI, Bob was the cherished son of James E. and Greta R. (Chaffin) Sali. A proud graduate of the Fulton High School Class of 1969, Bob’s journey was one of passion, hard work, and above all, a deep love for his family. He met his true companion, Mary Barrett, and on February 14, 2021, they were married in Perrinton, MI, creating a bond that would last through the years.
     Bob’s work life was spent with Oldsmobile, where he became a proud member of Local #652. Yet, it was his love for cars that truly defined him. He owned a 1968 Camaro—his pride and joy—since his high school days, and he poured his heart into restoring it, earning the car the affectionate name “Olive Oyl.” Bob was relentless in his dedication to this car, and his passion for it shone through as he won numerous awards at car shows. Bob was a driving force behind the Perrinton Car Show and served on the Perrinton Council. He also served the community through the Perrinton Fire Department, where he was a past Assistant Chief, always putting others before himself.
     Beyond his love of cars and service to his community, Bob had a heart that was larger than life. He loved fishing trips with friends, especially to Canada, and he found joy riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle, the wind in his hair, feeling free. But it was as a grandfather where Bob truly shined. His grandchildren were the center of his world. He never missed a single sporting event, and he proudly took them on road trips in his Camaro, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Bob also had a special gift in the kitchen, cooking the best breakfasts for his grandkids—a tradition that they will forever treasure.
      Those who were lucky enough to know Bob remember him for his warmth, generosity, and his larger-than-life presence. His bear hugs were legendary, and he could always be counted on to wear shorts, no matter the weather. Bob was a true MacGyver, able to fix anything, and he had an unmatched ability to see the good in others, always willing to lend a hand. His love of Michigan football and wrestling ("wrasslin’") was a well-known part of his character, but what made Bob so special was his unwavering belief in people.
       Bob leaves behind his devoted wife, Mary Sali of Perrinton, MI; his children, Robert "Brent" (Jennifer) Sali of Oxford, PA, Brandi Sali of DeWitt, MI, and Tori Sali of Pompeii, MI; his nine beloved grandchildren: Zammery, Jaden, Rhett, Darian, Raven, Cameron, Chandler, Elijah, and Nolan; his sister, Anne Lockwood of St. Johns, MI; and his brothers, Mark (Lisa) Sali of Perrinton, MI, and James (Kathi) Sali of St. Johns, MI. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, Tom Lockwood.
     Funeral services will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, MI, at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, November 23, 2024, with burial following at Fulton Center Cemetery in Perrinton, MI. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024, from 2-8 P.M., with family present from 2-4 & 6-8 P.M. to greet friends and loved ones.
      To honor Bob's caring way, the family asks that memorials be made to the American Cancer Society in honor of those family members who have passed away due to cancer. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, Michigan.
     Bob, your legacy of love, service, and joy will forever live on in the hearts of those you touched. You were one of a kind, and you will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, dear Bob.