Obituary of Bob Farris Jr.
Robert V. Farris Jr. was born on February 9, 1963, in Monroe, Michigan. He was one of four children and the only son born to Robert V. Farris Sr. and Shelcie J. (Pate) Croley.
Bob worked as a press operator and served as a union steward for many years at Bing Blanking. However, following their closing he reinvented himself and pursued his calling to becoming a respiratory therapist. Upon graduation from Monroe County Community College with an Associate’s Degree of Applied Science in Respiratory Therapy, Bob began his new career at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor in 2007. A compassionate and competent caregiver, he was frequently awarded “stars” from his patients. In 2014, he was honored to receive the PHIL Award from the nationally recognized FACES Foundation, a distinction given to outstanding respiratory therapists. Bob was nominated by his patients and other caregivers for his exemplary care.
After a thirteen-year courtship, Bob wed the former Michelle Krug at Whitehouse Chapel in Warren, Michigan on October 26, 2018. The couple shared a love of the great outdoors and frequently visited Michigan’s Upper Peninsula where they enjoyed sitting around bonfires, eating fresh, local whitefish and bird watching. Bob always made sure he found a heart-shaped rock to gift to his wife whenever they were walking along a shoreline. Every spring he planted large vegetable and flower gardens including milkweed for the butterflies and his wife’s favorite lavender.
A talented musician, Bob played the guitar, singing, and writing his own songs. His creative nature extended to pencil drawings and sketches. Bob also had an eye for photography and videography, capturing many memories of his children when they were young. Tech savvy, he always had the newest gadgets and could build a computer from basic components. Bob was famous for doing extensive research prior to making any big purchases and graciously offered his advice to friends and family. A news junkie, he always kept up on current events. Bob also enjoyed comedy and action movies and reality television shows such as Impractical Jokers, Shark Tank, and Food Network programing. Despite being an introvert, Bob was very funny in a subtle way and would do anything to make someone smile.
Robert V. Farris Jr., age 59, of Newport, Michigan passed away peacefully at home on Friday; July 15, 2022 under the care of Hospice of Michigan . His passing was preceded by his sister: Shelly Farris and stepmother: Sherry Farris.
To cherish his memory, he leaves his wife: Michelle Farris; two daughters: Megan Farris and Melanie (Mike) Menard; three grandchildren: Miranda Menard, Mason Menard, and Devyn Sims; father: Robert Farris Sr.; mother: Shelcie Croley; two sisters: Robin (Sean) Schmidt and Tara Farris; a host of nieces and nephews; many friends; a tight-knit group of co-workers; and feline companion: “Chloe”, a rescue who was a birthday gift from his wife and made herself comfortable on Bob wherever she pleased.
Friends may gather on Wednesday; July 20, 2022 from 2:00pm until 6:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of Bob’s Life will be held at 6:00pm also at Merkle’s. Cremation will take place through Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan.
Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.
