ROBERT I. WILLIAMS

Robert I. Williams, 60, of Gwinn, passed Wednesday afternoon, July 12, 2017 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Robert was born on July 20, 1956 in Coloma, MI. Son of Wayne and Joyce (Jarvis) Pugh. A graduate of Coloma High School Class of 1974 then entered the military. He was the commander of the American Legion Post 362 in Coloma, MI.

Robert and Trudy were married on November 14, 1975 in Marquette. He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, son, friend and mentor. He was well known as "Coach Bob" and loved by many. His passion in life was coaching. Teaching tough love as well as discipline to his ball players so they would succeed in life. He coached baseball as well as football for 20yrs at various levels and locations including Coloma High School, LMC College, Clermont, Groveland, and South Lake High. He took pride in all that he did. He took time out of his days to personally take care of Bishop Baseball Field before games, etc. 

Robert was a religious man, a member of Midway Baptist Church in Watervliet, MI, and Sawyer Free Will Baptist Church of Gwinn. He was the youth minister at Sawyer Free Will until he became too ill to proceed with the program.

Robert is survived by his wife, Trudy Williams of Gwinn; children Robert I. Williams II & wife Melody of Negaunee, Pennie Williams of Gwinn and Heidi Black of Marquette; 10 grandchildren, Chelsea, Mariah, Marlin, Robbie, Chloe, Zoey, Layla, Jatasia, Takye, and Jamareon; one great-grandchild, Spencer Reese; his mother, Joyce Pugh of Coloma; four sisters, Robin Weaver, Dawn Pugh, Debbie Pugh, and Joy Pugh; his in-laws the Black family as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Wayne Pugh; brother Ronald Lee Williams; and in-laws, William O. and Hazel Mae Black.

A memorial service for Robert will be held at a later date in Watervliet, MI.

Canale & Pennock Funeral Service of Ishpeming is assisting the Williams family where memories may be shared at canalepennock.com

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