Obituary of Robert Emmett Pope
Robert Emmett Pope was born on February 21, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan. He was one of four children and the only son born to Robert and Mable (Kemp) Pope. Bob graduated from St. Agnes High School in Detroit and later attended trade school where he became certified as an electrician.
Robert was a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 58 for more than sixty-five years. A Foreman for much of his time with the IBEW, Bob was very well respected.
On May 10, 1968, Robert wed the love of his life, the former Sandra Lee Dubnicay, whom he had met on a blind date. The couple enjoyed fifty-five years of marriage and were blessed with three daughters. Bob cherished spending time with his family and was totally devoted to his girls. He even joined the Girl Scouts as a driver for the troupe to ensure he was involved in their activities. The Pope family made good use of their pop-up camper every summer. They traveled to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Gaylord, Port Huron, and as far as Pennsylvania.
A talented bowler, Bob shared his love of the game by teaching bowling to kids. He had several 300 games during his time on the leagues at Taylor Lanes, Monroe Sports Center, Flat Rock Lanes, and the Thunder Bowl in Allen Park. Bob welcomed his wife’s family to their home to play poker nearly every week. A wonderful cook, he made delicious stuffing and perfected his father’s rice pilaf recipe. Bob enjoyed tuning in to Western movies and classic games shows. He also enjoyed relaxing with a crossword puzzle in hand. Bob’s friendly and talkative nature allowed many people to meet his acquaintances. To know him was to love him.
Robert Emmett Pope, age 84, of Temperance, Michigan passed away peacefully at home on Friday; November 17, 2023. His passing was preceded by his parents; a daughter: Kelly Roberts in 2022; a son-in-law: Brian Roberts; a sister: Pat Brown; and three brothers-in-law: Larry Miller, Ray Brown, and Henry Sterling.
To cherish his memory, he leaves his wife: Sandy Pope; two daughters: Kimberly (John) Rose of Monroe, Michigan and Kerry (Frank) Soleau of Carleton, Michigan; six grandchildren: Keith Pope, Kassandra Alexander, Haliegh Baehr, Nickolas Roberts, Cory Soleau-Pope, and Zachary Soleau; twenty great grandchildren; two sisters: Sue Miller and Denise (Charlie) Bowling; a sister-in-law: Dee Sterling; a brother-in-law: Edward (Gloria) Beale; and many nieces and nephews.
Friends may gather on Saturday; November 25, 2023, from 11:00am until 2:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway, Monroe, Michigan 48161 (734) 241-7070. Cremation will follow at the on-site crematory, Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.