Robert Eugene Taylor's Obituary
Mr. Robert Eugene “Bob” Taylor, 67, of Norton Shores, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on October 23rd, 2020, after a courageous three-year battle with cancer. Bob was born May 22nd, 1953, to Harold & Ruth (Oppenlander) Taylor, in Muskegon, Michigan. He served in the US Army in the early Seventies in Fulda, Germany. After leaving the service, he returned to Muskegon and eventually made his way to New York, where he began his career in electronics with IBM. Bob’s career brought him back to Michigan where he worked for numerous well-known companies throughout the West Michigan area — as well as starting his own company, Taylor Electronics, which specializes in computer programming and Printed Circuit Board design. He married the love of his life, Diane (Plichta) Kotlewski, on October 11th, 1983 in Vestal, New York, at the home of his good friends, Terry & Patti Dornbos. Together they built a wonderful life and home, enjoying many family dinners, holidays, and birthdays. On weekends, Bob could be found taking care of his lawn, tinkering with his newest gadgets, or watching Michigan football, Detroit Tigers baseball, or Detroit Lions football with Diane. They also spent nearly every anniversary weekend in Traverse City, enjoying the lake and the fall colors. Bob was a kind and giving person who would do anything for his family and treated his stepchildren, Kevin Kotlewski and Jennifer (Kotlewski) Brewster, as his own. He stressed the importance of education throughout their lives and made an indelible impact on both of them. He was also blessed with three grandchildren, Cole, Carson, and Cohen Brewster. They all referred to him as “Papa” and they always brought a huge smile to his face every time they visited. He also spent a lot of time on the phone, as well as hanging out, with his best friend and brother, Edward Taylor, who provided so much support — especially these last few years. He also loved spending time with his buddy and “granddog” Yoshi, and they went on many walks together before she passed in 2017. Bob lived life with an inquisitive mind and a thirst for knowledge. He was always teaching himself new things and picked up numerous hobbies and interests throughout his life. He played guitar, took up woodworking, built LED light devices, and made laser-cut decorations — just to name a few. He loved relaxing out on the backyard deck with whiskey and some Classic Rock or Blues. He even owned a hang glider back in the day. Bob is survived by his loving wife Diane, stepson Kevin Kotlewski (Dianne Saumenig), stepdaughter Jennifer (George Jr.) Brewster, grandchildren Cole, Carson, and Cohen Brewster, brothers Edward (Dianne) Taylor, Thomas (Debbie) Taylor, and John (Kim) Taylor. Nephew Eric Taylor, Niece Skylar Taylor, sister-in-law Nita Wells, and brother-in-law Nick (Janet) Plichta. Bob was preceded in death by his parents Harold Taylor and Ruth Taylor, his grandparents, mother-in-law Beatrice Plichta, and father-in-law Anton (Tony) Plichta. There will be no service at this time due to COVID-19, but a celebration of his life will be planned for Summer of 2021, so that we may all share our memories of Bob together. He was loved by many and will be missed immensely. Memorial contributions can be directed to Cancer & Hematology Centers of West Michigan - Norton Shores or Harbor Hospice. Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6391 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444.
What’s your fondest memory of Robert?
What’s a lesson you learned from Robert?
Share a story where Robert's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Robert you’ll never forget.
How did Robert make you smile?