Robert William Sullivan

Robert William Sullivan, age 84, of Wyoming, passed away on Friday, September 29, 2017 after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. He resided for many years in Wellesley, MA where he attended the local schools. Bob attended Lafayette College and received a degree in finance and business administration from Babson College. He served in the U.S. Army as a communications expert in the Army Security Agency (1955-1958). Bob was first employed by Standard Oil of New Jersey, followed by a 32 year career with Ford Motor Company, rising to manager of dealer development U.S. division and retiring in 1995. Bob loved to be surrounded by friends and family. He was an avid and knowledgeable sports fan, always rooting for the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions. He enjoyed the game of golf and had a real passion for dogs, especially Middy. Bob was preceded in death by his grandson, Kevin Sullivan; brothers and sisters, Patricia Cloonin, Mary Tracey, James Sullivan, Eddie Sullivan, and Francis Sullivan. He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Gloria Sullivan; children, Steve Sullivan, Suzanne Pope, Betsy Fisk, Duncan Fricke; and many grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Calvary Church Chapel, 707 E. Beltline NE, Grand Rapids, with Pastor Eric Wogen officiating. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the National Parkinson's Foundation or your local Humane Society.

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October 10, 2017

October 10, 2017 I was also fortunate to have Bob be my boss at Ford Motor Company and a very good friend. Bob was a very patient and thoughtful person both in the work environment and just in general. He taught me much about the correct way to do things and the correct way to resolve difficult issues. We faced many of those together and I learned a lot from his actions and and his insight. As John mentioned, he had lots of friends on the retail side of the car business and always knew how to relate and how to make others feel good about themselves and what they had accomplished. When Bob retired from Ford, I came in to become his replacement and had some very large shoes to try and fill. His help and advice over the years gave me a chance to make a good attempt but Bob was special. Gloria, you know all of these things already and we know you will cherish the memories forever. We will always remember the time we spent with both of you and I will never forget my friend and mentor. Milan and Judy Rulich

- Milan and Judy Rulich

October 09, 2017

Dear Gloria and family: Our deepest condolences on Bob’s passing. My mother, Pat, always spoke fondly of Bob, her younger brother. May he Rest In Peace. Jack

- Jack, Linda and Jacey Cloonan

October 03, 2017

This will be difficult to write because Bob was not only my boss at Ford Motor Company, but a dear friend. I look at his smiling face in the obituary and that is how I remember Bob and will continue to remember him. We had some fun times together and you were always very supportive of me and my Team although sometimes you didn't always agree with my approach. You had such a great way with all of our dealers, supportive, respectful but firm when you had to be in such a gentle away that the result was mutual respect for one another. I remember your retirement party like it was yesterday and how you laughed when I presented you with the "Almost Heisman Trophy" (Bob tackled the guy who eventually won the Heisman when he played football in college). We also had some great times when you & Gloria were responsible for the DD Alumni program and Linda & I were honored when we asked to take on the same assignment several years later. The world has been a better place with you in it and with your loving wife Gloria by your side. God Bless You! We will miss you, but remember they still celebrate St. Patrick's Day in heaven so you'll be just fine.

- John & Linda Lynch