![]() By J.M. Boggs [email protected] Sitting Allen Park City Council member Robert Stites died last week at the age of 71. A longtime public servant with the Allen Park Police Department, Stites was elected to the City Council last year. This being the first time he had ran for an elected office. The City of Allen Park announced his passing on its Facebook page Jan. 22 “It is with great sorrow to inform you that Councilman Robert Stites passed away this morning. “Bob was a retired Police Officer for the City of Allen Park, had served on several Boards and Commissions for the City over the years, and was elected to the City Council in November. “He will be greatly missed.” Comments echoed that final sentiment. “Those of us that knew Bob, know the loss to his family and city are sorrowful as well as enormous,” Miles Archer posted. “He has big shoes that won’t easily be filled. For those that didn’t have the honor to know Bob, his charitable work affected our entire community. At some point, each of us benefited from his commitment to our community. You will forever be missed Bob. RIP.” His memorial wall, an online space where well-wishers could view his obituary and funeral arrangements and leave messages is filled with memories of Stites as a passionate Michigan fan and warm friend. “All our love to Melissa, Bobby, Sarah and the entire family. Bob Stites was a giant among men. His grace and dignity will never be forgotten. Our community has lost a tremendous leader and we have lost a great friend. May Eternal Light shine upon you. Jim and Denise Sombati, Go Blue,” one such message read. “On behalf of the Wayne County Police Lieutenants, Sergeants, and Corporals Association, we are shocked and saddened by this sudden loss. Our sincere thoughts and prayers to Melissa and family. Bob was the Secretary and a cornerstone of our Association for many years. God bless you. Jay Newcomb, President WCPLSCA,” stated another. Martenson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. His obituary reads: Stites, Robert L., age 71, January 22, 2020 of Allen Park, Michigan. Beloved husband of Melissa. Loving father of Bobby Stites and Sarah (John) Foss. Proud grandpa of Buchanan. Dearest brother of Charlene Vorva, Barbara Marsh, Janet (Pat) Dragone, Kathy (the late Dan) Berdich, Daniel (Terri) Stites and the late Donna Welsch. Also survived by his brother-in-law Jerry Welsch. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Bob's life may be made directly to the family. Following funeral services at St. Francis Cabrini Catholic Church, he was laid to rest at Great Lakes National Cemetery.
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