Robert J. Bookout, 97, of Niles, MI passed away on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2013 at his home.

Robert was born on Aug. 7, 1916 in Hartford City, Ind. to Leonard and Ruth (Hiles) Bookout. He married Virginia Boyle on Dec. 12, 1961

Robert was a U.S. Army Veteran serving in World War II. He founded Bookout Furniture in 1952, and was later joined in the business by his brother Raymond. He sold the business in 1998. Robert was a member of Buchanan Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Robert is survived by son; Gary (Carolyn) Bookout of Clearwater, Fla., two daughters; Joyce (Gayle) Simmons of Marion, Ind. and Roberta (Bob) Sanders of Wash., step-daughter; Candi Moore of South Bend, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren, two nieces, one nephew and special sister-in-law Donna Weller.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Virginia, daughter Rebecca, two step daughters, Robyn and Sherry, and two brothers; Melvin and Raymond.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2013 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1107 N. Red Bud Trail, Buchanan, Mich. with visitation from 2-3 p.m. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hoven Funeral Home of Buchanan. Online condolences may be made at www.hovenfunerals.com