Robert (Bob) Allen Ogle, Jr.

Robert "Bob" Allen Ogle, Jr., age 90, of Grand Haven, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on December 30, 1935, in St. Ignace, MI, to the late Robert and Minerva (Bellant) Ogle, Sr.

Bob graduated from LaSalle High School and then proudly served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956 in Korea. He belonged to the American Legion and enjoyed driving other veterans to their medical appointments.

Bob met the love of his life, Darlene Allsworth, and they were married on August 16, 1958. Together they built a life centered on faith and family. They were blessed with two daughters, Merodie and Renee, of whom he was immensely proud and whom he loved dearly. Following his honorable discharge from the Army, Bob attended Michigan Tech University and the University of Michigan.

Bob began his career at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where he proudly designed and outfitted research vessels with scientific equipment. He is named on five University of Michigan utility patents, the most notable of which is the PONAR dredge—named for its creators: Powers, Ogle, Novak, Ayers, and Robinson—which remains widely used today. In 1970, Bob and Darlene moved to Grand Haven, Michigan, where they raised their daughters. Bob worked for Construction Aggregates Corporation of Michigan (CACM) as Purchasing Manager and in Quality Control until his retirement in 2000.

In 2002, Bob's retirement turned into daily support for his daughter, Renee as she embarked on a new adventure, opening the boardwalk ice cream shop, Captain Custard. This also allowed his grandchildren and great-grandchildren to laugh, smile, and work with him on a daily basis. Bob quickly and affectionately became known as "Grandpa" to countless employees and friends at Captain Custard, where he could often be found working, fixing things, or cruising around on his Segway. Bob had a special way with people and could connect with anyone. He became a friendly ambassador for the Grand Haven community and will be greatly missed by all who experienced his humor, warmth and kindness.

Bob faithfully attended the United Methodist Church of the Dunes, where he played in the bell choir. With a deep love of music, he mastered how to play many musical instruments. He then passed his love of music on to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Bob was also a second-generation Master Mason and held a lifetime membership at Grand Haven Masonic Lodge No. 139. After moving to Grand Haven, he continued his interest in local government, regularly attending city council meetings where he always felt welcomed by our community.

Bob spent many joyful years calling and square dancing with Darlene and the Flutter Wheelers Square Dance Club. He belonged to the West Michigan Ham Radio Club - using ham radios and then cellphones as a local weather spotter. Bob also enjoyed helping others by delivering Meals on Wheels and volunteering at North Ottawa Community Hospital.

Bob is lovingly remembered by his wife of 67 years, Darlene; and their two daughters, Merodie Ann Ogle Tlachac (Steven Holke) of Muskegon and Renee Sue (Robert) Ogle-Page of Grand Haven; three grandchildren: Dan (Stephanie) Tlachac, Nicole (Dustin) Matusko, and Matthew Page (Stephanie Miller); five great-grandchildren: Caitlyn, Kristin, Henry, Teddy, and Charlotte; his sister, Betty Mae Closs; several dearly loved nieces, nephews and cousins; and countless friends whom he always treated like family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert, Sr. and Minerva (Bellant) Ogle; his beloved uncle and aunt, Dave and Fidele Potter; and his brother-in-law, Roy Closs, Jr.

Bob's kindness, generosity, and devotion to his family, church, and community will be remembered always.

The Memorial Service for Bob will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at United Methodist Church of the Dunes with Pastor Lou Grettenberger officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the church. Interment will be at Grand Haven Township Lakeshore Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to United Methodist Church of the Dunes.

** The Memorial Service was live-streamed on March 17, 2026. Please click to view:  https://www.youtube.com/live/wdSoLxLWHcQ.

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