Final Salute

Obituary for Robert J. Griffin

Robert James Griffin’s happiness overflowed January 11, 2019. He went home and Jesus welcomed him with open arms.

Robert was born December 2, 1924 to Raymond and Frances (Shattuck) Griffin in Pontiac. Robert and his brothers proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during WW II. God brought home alive all six of the Griffin brothers. Robert served in Africa as part of the Navy’s Construction Battalion.

On January 18, 1947 he married the love of his life, Violet “Denise” Catlin in Pontiac. Rarely are there two hearts with such affection and devotion to each other, as are Robert and Violet Denise Catlin, who celebrate 71 years of marriage. Bob was a hardworking man, spending 20 plus years working at Burton Abstract & Title Company.

Bob was a man of strong faith and a member of Calvary Baptist Church. His love for the Savior showed in his passion for Sunday school. His vision resulted in hundreds of people having a chance to worship and hear the Good News, as well as a new church: Faith Baptist Church of Waterford Michigan. Robert cherished the Gingellville Michigan years. Everyone loved the country life, and the deep sense of brotherhood and adoption by so many families in the community.

Bob was a talented artist and singer, performing as the “Griffin Brothers Quartet”. He was fond of storytelling. He will be remembered for always being happy, funny, and generous. Bob’s true joy in life was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Painter, Photographic Artist, Inventor . . . Space does not permit the chance to give a true picture of Robert James Griffin – A great man among all men.

Mr. Griffin is survived by his wife Denise Griffin of Coldwater; Generosity describes him perfectly. Robert gave so much of himself to his children (spouses): Robert Dean Griffin (Judy), Donald, Steven (Mary-Anne), Susan Hopkins (Dennis), Douglas, Timothy (Liz), Bonnie Kissling (Gerry); his brother Jack II Griffin; his sister Janice Fugate; fishing, golf and a multitude of games filled his life with his grandchildren: Gaelan Griffin, Siobhan Griffin, Cuinn Griffin (Corey), Kylie Lubben (Tom), Grady Griffin, Mehgan Gillis (Ed), Ian Conroy (Tanja), Jason Hopkins(Anabel), Mark Hopkins, Naomi Skiff (Corey), Robert Douglas Griffin, Mathew Griffin, Eric Griffin, Karla Godat (Tyler), Isaac Griffin, Josiah Griffin, Ryan Griffin, Jacob Kissling (Julia), Jessica Londo (Eric), Seth Kissling (Jessica), Alyssa Painter (Caleb), Preston Kissling, Justin Kissling.
The delight he took with his 12 great grandchildren (and one on the way), and three great-great grandchildren illustrates that he was truly a happy man. Also is his brother-in-law Dennis (Barbara) Catlin of Las Vegas, and many nieces & nephews.

Robert has joined a crowd of family and friends, including his parents; his son Donald Griffin; his brothers Reynolds, William, Edward, Tomas, Richard, Gene, Jack I, Charles (Robert’s twin) and sister Marjorie Rogers – all who are part of the heavenly throng.

A funeral service will take place at 11:00 am on Thursday, January 17, 2019 at Dutcher Funeral Home in Coldwater with Pastor Frank Snyder of Calvary Baptist Church of Quincy officiating and Military Honors being presented by Coldwater American Legion Post #52. Visitation will be prior to the service beginning at 10:00 am. A graveside service will take place on Friday, January 18, 2019 at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Middleville, MI at 1:00 pm.

Memorials may be directed to Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls. www.dutcherfh.com