Robert Gordon Delany

Robert (Bob) Gordon Delany, age 82, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, son, and friend to many, passed away on April 9, 2025. He was surrounded (literally) by his loving family as he passed peacefully at home.

Born in Detroit, MI on December 23, 1942, he spent his adolescence in Detroit and Redford Township. After the family moved to Livonia, he attended Bentley High School, where he met his future wife and best friend for life, Ruth Mauller. They were married on April 20, 1963. They went on to enjoy almost 62 years of marriage together! The family expanded in 1964 with the addition of Robert Brian, in 1966 with the addition of Patrick Michael, and in 1970 with Jeffrey Scott.

As a young man, Bob was employed by the Ford Motor Company. He was the youngest foreman at the Wayne Assembly plant during his time. He moved on to a career in advertising sales for The Observer Newspaper in Livonia, eventually advancing into management. Bob fell in love with the atmosphere and way of life of rural Central Ohio during family visits there. When the opportunity arose for a position with Michigan School Service in the Lansing area, it afforded him the chance to raise his young family in a similar manner in small town, Williamston, MI. He would live there for the remainder of his life, eventually retiring from the operation of a small family business.

Bob was well known as a very sincere and loyal man. These personal traits extended to both his personal and professional life. Personal interests included fishing, photography, and his extensive model train collection. However, Bob’s true passion was without question his family. His primary source of pride was the close relationships shared amongst his family. It must be said that his dog Mia is included in that group.

He is survived by his wife Ruth, his son Rob (Susan), his son Jeff (Tess), and grandchildren Sara, Josh (Emily), Michael, and Matthew.

He was preceded in death by his son Patrick Michael, sister Janeen, and his parents Marian and Edward.

There will be a “Celebration of Life” gathering at the Brookshire Inn and Golf Club in Williamston on Sunday, May 18 th from 2-6pm.