Robert Zeilinger

Robert C. Zeilinger, “Zeke”, 76 of Gaylord, died suddenly July 22, 2021 at McLaren Northern Michigan.  He was born March 24, 1945 in Flint, the son of Charles and Edith (Shafer) Zeilinger.

Zeke was a retired Michigan State Police Trooper out of the Gaylord Post.  He was also known around Gaylord as a favorite school bus driver, retiring after 20 years of dedicated service.  In his final working years he was employed for Enterprise.

Bob’s greatest joy was being a grandfather and spending time with his family.  Gardening, camping, bowling, and watching the freighters in the UP were some of Bob’s favorite hobbies.  He was an excellent cook too.  Bob enjoyed intricate woodworking and building all sorts of stuff for his family.

On Feb. 15, 1969 he married Pamela Shaw Zeilinger who survives.  Also surviving are his children James (Sarah) Zeilinger of Gaylord, David (Jody) Zeilinger of Gaylord, Mike (Jenifer) Zeilinger of Clare, grandchildren Madeline, Jake, Parker, Josh, Bridget, Kaitlin, Charlie, Abraham, sisters Maryann Zeilinger and Kathy Zeilinger.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his aunt Lorena Zeilinger, and best friend Doc Ronald Kelly.

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, August 13, 2021 at the Gaylord Eagles, from 2 to 5 p.m. with a light luncheon being served.  Memorial contributions can be given to the Otsego County Commission on Aging.

Arrangements have been handled by the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.