Robert Stephen Orwat

Robert "Bob" Orwat, 82, passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 17, 2024, at the University of Michigan Health Sparrow in Lansing, MI, after a courageous battle with a long illness. Bob was a beacon of strength, loyalty, and joy, and his unwavering love for his family touched all who knew him. Even in the most challenging times, Bob never lost his radiant smile, his sharp wit, or his positive attitude, which brightened the lives of everyone around him.

Born on September 19, 1941, in Buffalo, NY, to Stephen F. Orwat and Helen Jada, Bob lived a life full of love, laughter, and dedication. He married his soulmate, Sandra Pieprzny, on May 4, 1963, in Buffalo, NY. A graduate of St. Mary’s High School (1959), Bob devoted 42 years of hard work to General Motors as a machine repairman. His career began in Tonawanda, NY, before he transferred to Lansing, MI, in 1984. He retired in Dewitt, MI, in 2004, where he and Sandy enjoyed their golden years.

A passionate sports fan, Bob cheered on the Michigan State Spartans, Buffalo Bills, and Detroit Tigers with fervor. In retirement, he and Sandy indulged their love for travel, spending their winters in Green Valley, AZ, where Bob continued to embrace life with enthusiasm.

He was an avid bowler, golfer and cook. He enjoyed golfing with his family, friends, and always knew how to fix your swing! He also loved deep sea fishing with his sons, Steve & Jeff. He definitely knew his way around the kitchen and enjoyed his personal favorite Bouillabaisse. He developed a deep passion for lapidary, creating beautiful, handcrafted jewelry for family and friends. Bob also loved the thrill of the casino, scratch-off tickets, and betting on his favorite numbers—2 and 5—for the daily double.

Throughout his life, Bob lived in Buffalo, NY, Dewitt, MI, and wintered in Green Valley, AZ. His quick wit and incredible sense of humor made him the life of any gathering, always ready with a joke—good or bad—to bring a smile to those around him.

Bob's greatest pride and joy, however, was his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved "Sanju" for 61 wonderful years, and a loving father to his “Sonny Boys.” He cherished his five grandchildren and was endlessly proud of their accomplishments.

Bob is survived by his wife, Sandy Orwat, of Dewitt, MI; his sons Robert (Allison) Orwat of Grand Ledge, MI; Stephen Orwat (Sherry Boyer) of Montague, MI; and Jeff (Bridget) Orwat of Chapin, SC. He was a proud grandfather to Lindsay Orwat Mink (Wesley), Hannah Orwat Geers (Brent), Madeline Orwat (Mark McBride), Bobby Orwat, and Maudie Orwat. He is also survived by his sister Diane Kolb (Ron Kolb) of Louisville, KY; sister-in-law Carol Kosmowski; beloved nieces and nephews Kim Kish (Joe), Jackie Smith, Fr. Gary Kosmowski, Garrett (Cyndi) Kolb, and Aaron Kolb; as well as many extended family members and dear friends.

A private family Mass will be held at St. Jude’s Catholic Church in Dewitt, MI. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Bob's memory be made to the Michigan Multiple Sclerosis Society (https://www.nationalmssociety.org/resources/get-connected/in-your-area/mig).