Robert “Bob” Gillesse, age 77 of Ada, passed away Thursday, January 15, 2026. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Sharry; daughter, Christine (Jim) Ruder; grandson, Jim; stepsons, Adam (Evelyn) Smith, Matthew Smith; sisters, Vivien Murphy, Ellen (Earl) Miller; niece, Barbara (Shawn) Blough; and nephew, Troy Drayton.
Bob graduated from Forest Hills High School and GRJC. He served four years in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. Bob went on to work for 30 years for General Motors as a skilled journeyman tool and die maker. He was an avid hunter who loved the outdoors, wildlife, competitive shooting. and belonged to the NRA and Rockford Sportsman Club. Bob had a dry sense of humor and loved westerns and mysteries. He wasn’t one to show a lot of emotion but loved his family immensely. The family would like to meet with friends and relatives on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 2-4pm, and Military Honors at 4pm at Roth-Gerst Funeral Home, 305 N. Hudson, Lowell, MI 49331.
5 Responses
Thank you for your service 🙏🙏🙏 And I enjoyed every chance we had to chit chat at Meijer . You weren’t just a regular customer , you became family to me . R.I.P And I will never forget you 🙏❤️
My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Thank you for your service Daddy, I am so sorry that you paid the price while keeping us safe.
Rest in peace my Friend.
I remember when we had a chili cook off at MFL and
he made a white chili and won. Such a nice man. Res in peace.
Thank you for being such a steady, strong presence in my life. Your humor, your stories, and your kindness meant more than you ever knew. I’ll miss you, Papa G. Love the kid next door .