Robert Henry Raese

Robert Henry Raese, 87, of Eastpointe, MI, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025, the anniversary of his marriage to Shirley, the love of his life, who passed just two months earlier. After 68 devoted years together, they are finally reunited in eternity.

Bob was a lifelong teacher, dedicated to education both in and beyond the classroom. As a middle and high school teacher, he was known for his conscientiousness, kindness, and ability to inspire curiosity and confidence in his students. In the 1960s, he was honored with the rare “Master Teacher” award, one of only three given in Michigan at the time. His vision, adaptability, and enthusiasm for discovery (and gadgets!) drove him to pioneer the use of computers and internet technology in his district’s classrooms throughout the 80s and 90s.

He was also a patient and thoughtful guide to his friends and family—whether explaining theological concepts or demonstrating the best way to fix a leaky faucet, Bob communicated with clarity, kindness, and practicality. If anything was broken or anyone needed help, he was always there.

His deep faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life—not merely a belief system, but a lens through which he viewed the world with wonder, humility, and hope. Bob embraced an expansive view of God, continuously seeking deeper understanding and fearlessly exploring beyond conventional wisdom. His Bible, well-worn and filled with notes, underlines, and cross-references, was testament to his lifelong spiritual journey.

In his later years, Bob grew increasingly fascinated by the mysteries of faith, often reflecting on how little we truly understand. A favorite passage of his was Acts 17, which speaks of a God who is near to all and will ultimately redeem everything. Among the theologians who deeply influenced him were Dallas Willard, Frederick Buechner, and Reinhold Niebuhr.

Bob taught adult Sunday School, led youth groups, and coached the Grosse Pointe Baptist boys’ basketball team, emphasizing the importance of every team member. To his three children—two sons and a daughter—he was their rock: loving, wise, gentle, and endlessly supportive. His corny humor, quiet strength, and tender heart provided comfort and stability. He adored his grandchildren, who brought him tremendous joy.

Always generous with his time, resources, and attention, Bob was consistently present for family, friends, and neighbors. He enjoyed a good game of golf and, in younger years, basketball. Among his simplest pleasures were evenings with Shirley, watching Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune—or really, doing anything alongside her.

Bob is survived by his children, Rob (Elizabeth) Raese and Beth Raese; and daughter-in-law, Linda (Jerry) Ladue. He was the cherished grandfather of Ron Raese, Erin (Tyler) Hayward, Emily Raese, Annika Raese, and Henry Raese. Bob is also survived by two sisters-in-law, Maryann Raese and Ruth Penner, and four brothers-in-law, Dick Gunderson, Bill (Diane) Schmidt, Bob (Amy) Schmidt, and Fritz (Lou Ann) Schmidt. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley Raese; his son, Ron Raese; his parents, Henry and Elizabeth Raese; his sister, Marie Gunderson; his brother, John Raese; his father- and mother-in-law, William and Marian Schmidt; and his brother-in-law, Dave Penner.

While his passing leaves a deep ache, we rejoice knowing he is at peace, reunited with Shirley. A shared celebration of life will be held on July 12th in Interlochen, MI, for family and close friends.

“God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.”

— I John 4:16