Robert ‘Bob’ Lee Carter

ESCANABA — Robert “Bob” Lee Carter, 92, of Escanaba, passed away on Thursday, June 29, 2023 at UP Health Systems – Marquette.

He was born on March 22, 1931, in Escanaba, son to Charles Lee and Eunice Margarite (Decent) Carter. Bob graduated from Escanaba High School, class of 1949. He was a lifelong resident of Escanaba.

Bob proudly served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War from March 3, 1951 until his honorably discharge on November 13, 1953. He was awarded a National Defense Service Medal.

On August 4, 1955, Bob married Mary J. Swaby at St. Patrick Church in Escanaba.

He had a long-time career with Michigan Bell, retiring as a lineman.

Bob loved visiting the library and reading, gardening, and spending time with his family and grandchildren. He was talented in many ways and could accomplish anything. Bob enjoyed staying busy and always found something to do. While busy with his career, Bob began building their family home in 1959 spending three years on all the details until completion. He and Mary moved into their finished home in 1961 where they raised their two children.

He was a member of the St. Joseph and St. Patrick Church and a past member of the Elks Lodge 354.

Survivors include his loving wife of 68 years, Mary of Escanaba; daughter, Carol (Mike) Maeder of Plover, Wis.; grandchildren, Matthew (Jade), Sarah, Emily, Mark (Dacota), and Luke Maeder; great-grandchildren, Grayson, Ronan, Beckham, and Elianna; brothers, Gary (Violet) and Gerald (Lori) Carter; and sister-in-law, Marlene Carter.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Mark Carter in 1997; brother, Wayne Carter; father and mother in-law, Maynard and Stella Swaby; sister-in-law, Catherine Millane; and brother-in-law, George Swaby.

Private graveside services will take place in Holy Cross Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may be directed to Mary Carter, c/o Crawford Funeral Homes, 302 S. 13th St., Escanaba, MI 49829 or online by visiting www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net.

The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the Carter family.