ROBERT MacDONALD

SPARTA, Mich. — Robert (Bob) Edward MacDonald of Sparta, Michigan passed away at the age of 89 on December 8, 2016 while at one of his favorite activities, an early morning workout.

Bob was born May 10, 1927 in Eureka, Montana to John Alexander and Isabella MacDonald and was raised on the family ranch in British Columbia, Canada. Bob graduated from Montana State University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He was truly an entrepreneur. Bob's career journey took many paths over the course of his life from being a sales engineer for Goodyear Tire in St. Mary's, Ohio; a sales engineer for Name Plate and Monogram in Spencerville, Ohio; and eventually owned and operated MacDonald's Industrial Products in Grand Rapids, Michigan and Spencerville, Ohio.

He leaves his wife of 60 years, Jean (Place) MacDonald; two sons - Robert MacDonald, Jr. and Scott (Jennifer) MacDonald; three daughters - Melanie MacDonald-Parent (Bob), Melissa (Clarke) Prichard, and Rachel (Paul) Bowers; his fifteen grandchildren; as well as many close friends. As a father, husband, and friend- with a larger than life personality- Bob impacted everyone with his love, energy, and generosity leaving all feeling better in his presence. His vibrant response of "I'm super good, but I'll get better" or "outstanding, but I'm improving" will always remind us of his positive attitude. Memories of him will forever be cherished and leave a lasting impression.

Friends and family are invited to a visitation at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, Ohio, 4:00-8:00 P.M. Thursday, December 29, 2016.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 11:00 A.M. Friday, December 30, 2016 in Lima, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to Tribes Church, 6070 Kuttshill DR NE, Rockford, Michigan 49341.