Bob Materi

With a welcoming heart and ready smile, Robert "Bob" Materi lived a life rich in faith, family, and friends. A natural people-person, Bob was patient and kind. He got along with everyone and was well-liked. Whether working to provide for his family, spending time on the lake, traveling, or playing a friendly game, Bob welcomed each day as a gift and every person as a friend. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Bob will long be remembered and missed by those he so dearly loved.

In 1943, amid the challenges of World War II, Americans came together with resilience, hope, and determination. It was during this remarkable time that Thom and Marie Materi celebrated the joyful arrival of their son, Bob, who was born on February 24, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois.

Growing up in Bismarck, North Dakota, Bob was the youngest of six children. His father worked as a meat cutter, and after losing his mother at the age of two, Bob faced challenges early in life. Through it all, the Materi siblings remained a close-knit and loving family. His older sisters lovingly cared for "Little Bobby," helping to raise him and creating lifelong bonds that became a source of strength, support, and cherished memories.

As a young man, Bob loved spending time outdoors, especially fishing. Whenever he could, he'd hitchhike to the river with a friend and spend the day casting a line and enjoying the adventure. He also had a bit of a mischievous streak, once teaming up with friends to make homemade beer, not so much to drink it, but to sell it. A talented basketball player, Bob's love for the game began in school and remained one of his lifelong passions.

Raised in the Catholic faith, Bob carried his beliefs with him throughout his life. As a teenager, he moved to Kalamazoo to live with his father—a difficult transition that meant leaving behind the family and friends he loved. With resilience and determination, he graduated from St. Augustine Cathedral School and began working at Harding's Market on Kalamazoo's east side. It was there that fate stepped in. One of Harding's regular customers was Shirley's mother, who always greeted Bob with a joke and a smile. Impressed by his kind nature, she thought he would be a perfect match for one of her daughters. Thanks to her introduction, Bob met Shirley, beginning a love story that would last a lifetime.

From the moment Bob came by Shirley's house or took her out on a date, she was captivated by his warm smile, sparkling blue eyes, and kind, fun-loving personality. Although they briefly went their separate ways, fate had other plans. When Shirley's mother sent her to Harding's Market to pick up a loaf of bread, she unexpectedly ran into Bob. The moment they saw each other again, they knew they were meant to be together.

The two loved spending time along the shores of Lake Michigan. After Shirley finished work on Saturdays, Bob would pick her up, and they'd drive to South Haven to spend the day soaking up the sun, enjoying the beach, and simply being together. When Bob received his draft notice, he shared the news with Shirley. Without hesitation, she smiled and said, "Let's get married." They did just that, and their marriage changed his draft status, allowing the two to begin the life together they had always envisioned.

In 1966, with Shirley seven months pregnant, Bob and Shirley purchased their first home. Later that year, they welcomed their son, Steve, and, in time, their daughter, Kimberly. Nestled in Portage's West Lake neighborhood, with their home quickly became a place filled with love, laughter, and open doors.

The Materi home was a gathering place for family, friends, neighbors, and their children's many friends. Though it had just three bedrooms, there always seemed to be room for one more. One of Bob and Shirley's favorite traditions was using the glowing coals from the night's fire to cook breakfast the next morning—a simple ritual that perfectly captured the warmth and togetherness of their home.

Bob dedicated 30 years to the Parchment Paper Mill, often working long hours and overtime to provide for his family and make it possible for them to travel and create lasting memories. Even with his demanding schedule, he was a patient, loving, and devoted husband and father who was always present when it mattered most.

A lifelong sports fan, Bob faithfully followed Detroit's teams—especially the Tigers—and never started his day without a donut and the morning newspaper. Family members quickly learned not to touch his sports section! He also loved staying active, playing in men's basketball and St. Monica's softball leagues.

Faith and family were at the center of Bob's life. After they married, Shirley converted to the Catholic faith, and together they raised their family with strong values and cherished traditions. Whether teaching Steve and Kimberly to waterski, camping with their church in a giant canvas tent, attending the annual church pig roast near Decatur, or making trips back to North Dakota, Florida, Washington D.C., or Missouri, Bob treasured every opportunity to spend time with the people he loved.

After retiring from the papermill, Bob stayed active by painting homes and working at the Schoolcraft Car Auction, where he enjoyed driving cars. Later, Bob and Shirley shared many adventures together, from managing the rental of their income property to traveling the world. They loved exploring new places, sightseeing, and simply enjoying each other's company. Their travels took them to Australia, Italy, Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, California, and the East Coast, along with a special cruise celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary and a month-long motor home trip traveling through United States, with the goal of reaching Arizona.

When Shirley retired, they began spending winters in Florida, where they built a close circle of friends and enjoyed the beach, dancing, card games, and time together at the clubhouse. Bob especially loved dancing to oldies music with Shirley and spending years playing bocce ball at Thunderbird Park, where he enjoyed making coffee and visiting with the guys. He also looked forward to regular coffee gatherings and shuffleboard games.

In their later years, health challenges brought Bob and Shirley back to Kalamazoo. Through it all, Bob remained Shirley's devoted companion—patient, kind, and always ready to listen. He had a gift for bringing comfort and calm when she needed it most.

As we celebrate Bob's life, may we find comfort in the countless memories we hold dear and in the privilege of carrying forward the legacy he created through his faith, kindness, and love. Each time we welcome someone with a smile, listen with compassion, open our hearts and homes, encourage those we love, embark on a new adventure, share a cup of coffee, or dance with someone special, we honor Bob's memory. In these simple yet meaningful moments, his spirit continues to live on, inspiring us to cherish life and make the most of every day.

Robert Thomas Materi, Age 83, died on July 10, 2026. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Margaret (Schmaltz) Materi; his daughter, Kimberly Nadwornik; and his siblings, Hilda (Jack) Sullivan, Leo (Susan) Materi, Al (Karen) Materi, and Marie (Walt) Renden. Surviving are his wife of 61 years, Shirley Materi; son, Steve Materi; grandchildren, Austin Nadwornik, Lyndsey Caton, Paige Materi, Daisy Materi; sister, Nell (David) Chin; and many nieces and nephews.

Please join us for a Life Story Visitation on Monday, July 20, from 6 – 8 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo. The Rosary will be recited at 7:30 PM. Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, July 21, at 11 AM at St. Catherine of Siena Parish, 1150 W Centre Ave, Portage. A luncheon will follow in Marian Hall.

Celebrate Bob's life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Pretty Lake Camp, 9123 West Q Avenue, Mattawan, MI 49071.