Robert John "RJ" Seaser

Robert John “RJ” Seaser lived a life defined by connection to his family, his faith, his friends, and his heritage. He had a way of turning everyday moments into lasting traditions, and he leaves behind a legacy woven through stories, laughter, and love. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, and passed away surrounded by love and family.

RJ is survived by his loving wife of 18 years, Kristin; his son, Patrick (Lauren); his daughter, Tracy; and seven grandchildren, Taylor, Christopher, Madison, Brendan, Emerson, Tristian, and Jack, who brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his brothers Rayno (Patty) and Paul (Barb), along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

RJ shared a special lifelong bond with his brothers, Rayno and Paul. With Rayno, only 13 months apart, they were “Irish twins” and inseparable growing up. Their childhood memories were filled with time spent in Roscommon, Michigan, swimming in Higgins Lake, exploring the woods around their family cabin and acreage, and enjoying the outdoors that RJ continued to love throughout his life.

Family was at the center of RJ’s life. He was a man who made traditions meaningful and ordinary moments unforgettable. As a father, he was adventurous, intelligent, funny, and full of life. He had a magnetic personality and could talk to anyone. His children describe him as the person you turned to for hope and encouragement—someone who always made you feel that anything was possible.

RJ was passionate about sports and shared a deep love of the Michigan State Spartans and Detroit teams with his son Patrick. Through road trips, games, and shared experiences, he encouraged his children to follow their hearts and pursue their goals. His son remembers him as a constant source of belief, support, and inspiration. RJ also loved encouraging his many nieces and nephews, often sharing his love for Michigan State by taking them to the MSU Campus and to his favorite ice cream destination, the Dairy Store, creating memories they would carry with them for years.

RJ and his daughter, Tracy shared treasured traditions, including pancake breakfasts and nightly bedtime stories, especially 'Go, Dog. Go!.' That love of reading became a tradition he passed on to all of his grandchildren, who each received that same beloved book as their first story from Grandpa. He also shared life lessons in thoughtful ways — such as introducing his daughter to Jonathan Livingston Seagull, encouraging reflection, personal growth, and making wise choices in pursuit of one’s dreams.

RJ and his wife, Kristin, shared 18 joyful years filled with partnership, laughter, and adventure. They truly enjoyed doing life together and balanced one another beautifully. Whether running 5Ks, completing half marathons, participating in Michigander bike excursions throughout Michigan, visiting farmers’ markets, or enjoying their Saturday morning coffee traditions, they embraced life with energy and gratitude. Sunday afternoons often found them golfing with friends, ending the round with burgers and a beer. Together, they loved attending Irish festivals throughout Michigan and Ohio, exploring the Bourbon Trail in Kentucky, and seeking out wine trails across Michigan and throughout their travels in other parts of the United States. They loved learning, tasting, exploring, and sharing new experiences side by side.

RJ deeply valued his Irish heritage and became an enthusiastic genealogist, spending hours researching his family tree and mastering ancestry records. His pride in his Irish roots and deep faith were reflected in his service to both church and community through his active involvement at St. Colette Church as a weekly Bible study participant, usher, and member of the Knights of Columbus, where he served in many roles over the years, eventually becoming a Grand Knight. He also found fellowship and purpose through the Ancient Order of Hibernians.

RJ’s professional life was varied and impressive, including work as a test car driver, in sales, mortgages, and even as a flight attendant. Yet his most meaningful roles were always those within his family and community.

He was known for his warmth, humor, and ability to make everyone feel welcome. He formed friendships wherever he went. His infectious smile and charismatic presence put others at ease, and he had a gift for conversation that turned strangers into friends. RJ will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, generosity, faith, curiosity, and the deep love he had for his family. His traditions, stories, lessons, and laughter will continue to live on in those who were blessed to know him.

He is now reunited with loved ones who preceded him in death, and his family takes comfort in knowing his legacy endures in the hearts of many.

A gathering will be held on Sunday, May 17, from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48152, with a Knights of Columbus rosary service and memory sharing beginning at 7:00 pm.

An in state will occur Monday, May 18, from 10:30 to 11:00 am at St. Colette Catholic Church, 17600 Newburgh Rd, Livonia, MI 48152, followed by the memorial mass beginning at 11:00 am. RJ’s final resting place will be Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory are appreciated to the Knights of Columbus, Thomas Dooley Council.

Please Make Checks Payable to:

Dr. Thomas A. Dooley, Council 5492

7600 Newburgh Rd., Livonia, MI 48152

*Please put RJ Seaser on the Memo Line.