Bob was born in Yokahama, Japan March 17, 1953 to George and Miyoko (Fujii) Avery. He lived in several countries and Okinawa, while growing up and graduated from Caro High School in 1971. For several years he was a photographer for the Tuscola County Advertiser and was a professional photographer for weddings in the area. He attended Saginaw Valley State University, graduating in 1975. He was selected for St. Luke's School of Medical Technology in Saginaw, finishing in 1977 and worked for St. Luke's Hospital as a medical technologist for several years.
On October 1, 1977 he married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Clark, and accepted a position with the Bridgeport State Police Crime Lab as a forensic scientist in 1981. While there he helped to create DNA test guidelines for the state. In 1990 he took a position with the Department of Environmental Quality in Lansing, becoming the laboratory director in 1998. While director, he worked with the EPA to create a universally accepted standard for measuring analytical procedures. He retired in 2011. Most recently Bob crafted Mission style lamps and tables for Ragsdale Home Furnishings of Holt.
Bob loved the outdoors, traveling, fishing, reading, woodworking, cooking, and making wine and beer. He was also a marine aquarium enthusiast, helping to form the Mid- Michigan Marine Club serving as a board member and president. This club annually held the most successful coral swap in the state. He also enjoyed making wood toys with friends to give at Christmas to several local organizations. Bob had a strong desire to learn and in return shared his knowledge with all ages. He was well liked and a friend to many and will be greatly missed.
Surviving him is his wife Nancy, son Laren of Mt. Pleasant, daughter Alyssa of Lansing. He is also survived by his mother, Mickey Avery, sister, Linda (Steve) Coursey and brother Jack ( Lynnette) Avery all of Helena, Montana. He also leaves several nieces and nephews. His father predeceased him.
A Celebration of Bob’s Life will be held from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 9, at the Prairie Creek Golf Course, 800 East Webb Drive in DeWitt.
Those desiring may make a contribution to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, MarineBio Conservation Society or a charity of their choice.
The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes DeWitt Chapel. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.grdewitt.com.
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