Robert Wayne Dzurka Obituary
Robert W. Dzurka, known affectionately as Bob by his friends and family, passed away unexpectedly on August 8, 2025, in Petoskey, Michigan. Born on March 30, 1948, in Bay City, Michigan, Bob was the son of the late William and Frances (Zielinski) Dzurka. His life was marked by joy, hard work, and an enduring love for his family and community.
Bob's journey began in the tight-knit community of Auburn, where he formed lifelong friendships and met the love of his life, Janice Maxwell. They married on March 28, 1969, at St. Joe's Catholic Church (Bay City), just a stone's throw from where he was born. Their union was blessed with a loving son, Scott (Ashley) Dzurka. Bob's family circle included his devoted sisters, Mary Jane Williams, Paulette Gillman, and Clarice (Paul) Ventrone; brothers-in-law, James VanAanhold, and William (Lisa) Maxwell; sisters-in-law, Robin Dzurka and Patricia Dzurka; two cherished grandchildren, Ashlyn Wilkie and Jason Simon; and several adored nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Sandra VanAanhold and brothers Rich and Jeff Dzurka, along with brother-in-law Joe Gillman and daughter-in-law Yvonne Dzurka.
Bob's professional life was characterized by dedication and leadership, as he served for 27 years as a supervisor in the Maintenance Department at Delta College. His commitment to his work was matched only by his commitment to his faith and community. He was a lifetime member of St. Gabriel Catholic Church and the Eagles of Bay City, where his presence was a source of strength and camaraderie.
Farming was not just Bob's occupation; it was his passion and way of life. Alongside his beloved brother Rich, he poured his heart into the family farm, cultivating both crops and memories that would last a lifetime. Bob also found solace in the simplicity of gardening, the freedom of boating, and the challenge of a good game of golf. Yet, it was his role as a jokester that many will remember fondly. Bob had an unparalleled ability to light up a room with laughter, leaving a trail of smiles wherever he went.
Bob was a man who was funny, handy, and friendly. His hands were rarely still, always fixing something or tending to someone's needs. Being the ultimate handy man in the family, anyone that needed anything to be fixed, remodeled or just spruced up, he was the man. Leaving a piece of himself and his labors for others to cherish for a lifetime. His sense of humor was a gift that he shared generously, and his friendly demeanor made him a beloved figure in his community. Go Green!
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at St. Gabriel Church, 84 W. Midland Rd, Auburn, MI with Fr. Mark Hobbs presiding. The family will greet family and friends at Rivertown Funeral Chapel, Kawkawlin, MI on Friday, August 15, 2025, from 3:00 – 8:00 pm and on Saturday, August 16, 2025 from 10:00 am until the time of service. Those wishing to express a memorial donation, please consider the Tunnel to Towers or St. Gabriel Church.
