Nov. 21, 1941 — Nov. 12, 2014

Robert Lee Lear, 72, of Niles, Michigan passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2014 at Memorial Hospital in South Bend, Indiana.

Bob was born on Nov. 21, 1941 in Buchanan to Glen and Florence (McCall) Lear. He attended Dayton school until 2nd grade and then graduated from Galien in 1961. He served in the US Army. He is an honorary member on the Bertrand Fire Department and served for 28 years. He also served on Buchanan City and Township Fire Departments. Bob was a member of the St. Ignace American Legion and was a member of the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians. Bob retired from Norfolk Southern Railroad.

Bob loved to go up to his nephews hunting camp in the UP. He spent a lot of time going to St. Ignace & Sault Ste Marie visiting family and friends.

Bob is survived by his children, Casondra Compeau of Rotonda West, Florida, Craig (Julie) Lear of Niles, Michigan, Chellie (Victor) Estrada of Mattawan, Michigan; sisters, Clara (Bill) McKindley, Barbara (Larry) Lamb of Buchanan, Michigan; Aunt, Mary Haberle of California; six grandchildren, one great grandchild, many nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Robert Lear Jr; sister, Betty Lear; brothers, Bill Lear and Richard Lear.

Memorial service held by the family for Bob will be at 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2014 at American Legion in Buchanan, Michigan. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hoven Funeral Home, Buchanan. Online condolences may be made at www.hovenfunerals.com.