Peter Michael Robinson

November 12, 1937 – November 11, 2025

Peter M. Robinson, 87, beloved husband to Marianne, devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend to so many, passed away peacefully on November 11, surrounded by love.

Known to many as “Big Red,” Pete leaves behind a legacy of warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love. A man of quiet strength and deep integrity, he touched the lives of all who knew him with his generous heart, quick wit, and his love for a good time.

Throughout his life, Pete was known for his devotion to family, his thoughtful nature, and his ability to find joy in the simple things. Whether he was sharing old stories over a round of golf with buddies, or offering sage advice over a cocktail, he made everyone feel embraced and engaged.

Pete earned his famous nickname in his early years, thanks to his large stature and bright red hair. It was affectionately given to him by his “High School Buddies” - a close-knit group of lifelong friends from St. Benedict’s High School in Highland Park, Michigan. After a difficult childhood, Pete found a home and brotherhood there, and those friendships remained an essential part of his life until his final days.

Following an early career in purchasing at Ford Motor Company, Pete co-founded Howting Robinson & Associates in 1980 together with his partner Jack Howting. The firm, which remains active to this day, specializes in representing and consulting for automotive suppliers. True to Pete’s spirit, it became a family business, eventually employing three of his four children and a son-in-law - a source of great pride and fulfillment for him.

Over the years Pete developed a love for golf and was fortunate to join Red Run Golf Club in 1983 where he remained a member for 36 years and serving a two-year term as club president in 1994 – 1995. After retiring and relocating permanently to Indian Wells, California, he and Marianne built a wonderful life together and became long-time members of Indian Wells Country Club. Any foursome that included Big Red was sure to enjoy lots of laughs, cigars, a friendly wager or two, and a cocktail afterward in the grill room over a game of Gin Rummy- a favorite of Pete’s!

Peter’s presence was steady, endearing, warm, and reassuring. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, and his influence will continue to echo through generations.

He is survived by the love of his life Marianne, his children Donna (Jim) Rouse, David, Karen (Scott) Kennedy, Rick (Kristi) and daughter-in-law Judy Robinson; step-children Susan (Vince) Fox, and Galen Byron (Susan) Maddy; 11 grandchildren, 12 great- grandchildren, and countless dear friends who will miss him deeply but carry forward his legacy with pride.

He was preceded in death by his beloved mother Laurel Attenberger, father Arthur Robinson, step-father John Attenberger, brother Robert Hess, Matthew Barsamian (husband of granddaughter Lauren) and great-granddaughter Grace Tallman.

A celebration of life luncheon will be held at Red Run Golf Club Saturday January 10, 2026 to honor Peter’s life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Evans Scholars Foundation (wgaesf.org) in memory of a man who gave so much and asked for so little.