Sussman-Laabs

Robert E. Granda, 80, of Midland, died Wednesday morning, Feb. 13, 2013, at Colonial Villa in Midland. He was born on Nov. 18, 1932, in Birmingham, son of the late Joseph and Martha (Garlitz) Granda. Robert served in the U.S. Coast Guard during the Korean Conflict. He worked for Progressive Machinery in Pontiac as a machinist for 23 years. Robert enjoyed traveling and seeing lighthouses, he also enjoyed going to the casino, but most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family. Robert is survived by his children, Denis Granda of Grand Rapids, Cheryl (Mike) Smock of Hope, Kathleen Harwood of Midland, Marianne (John) Hoffman of Indialantic, Fla., Gary Granda of Sanford, and Steve (Christy) Granda of Midland. Also surviving is his brother, David (Sue) Granda of Royal Oak; Robert's former wife, Donna Austin of Sanford; and special nieces and nephews, Sue (Mike) Anastassiou of Dallas, Texas, Joni (Tom) Kaiser of Midland and Tim Austin of Midland; 12 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Robert was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Richard Granda; and Shirley Hoots, his special friend and companion. The funeral liturgy will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013, from St. Agnes Catholic Church, with Fr. Daniel Fox OFM Cap. as celebrant. Burial will be in St. Agnes Cemetery. Robert's family will receive friends at the Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Home, 1200 W. Wheeler St., on Friday from 4-7 p.m., and at the church on Saturday from 10 a.m. until time of mass. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider St. Agnes Catholic Church or the Alzheimer's Association . Arrangements for Robert were entrusted to the care of the Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Directors. (www.legacy.com)