Robert James Capling of Watrousville, age 87, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 26, 2013. Bob was born August 30, 1925 in Caro, the son of the late Druit and Esther (Binder) Capling. Bob was a World War II veteran, having served as a Navy Signalman in the Japanese Theater and witnessed the dropping of both bombs. He was united in marriage with the former Irene Churchill on January 5, 1973 in Watrousville and they have been blessed with over 40 years together. Bob was proud of his 41 year career as a lineman, the last 38 of which were with Detroit Edison, retiring in 1987. Bob’s passion was Harley Davidson motorcycles, and he was a Road Representative for the American Motorcycle Association for 25 years, earning his 900,000 mile pin. He was a hunter and sportsman who enjoyed hunting in Montana in his younger years. Also known to many as a horseman, Bob was a member of the Tuscola County Sheriff’s Posse and Special Deputy to Sheriff Tom Kern. He was a former trustee and supervisor of Juniata Township and township representative for the Vassar Area Ambulance Service Board. Bob was a member of the Watrousville United Methodist Church and held many offices over the years, was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local #17 of Southfield, Christian Motorcycle Association, Gideon’s, Juniata Farmers’ Club, Sterling Heights Area Masonic Lodge, Citizens Radio Watch, Tuscola County Conservation Club, a lifetime member Fairgrove VFW Post #7486, a benefactor member of the National Rifle Association, life member of Whitetails Unlimited, and a life member of the North American Hunting Club. During his summers growing up in this area, Bob worked with his cousins on the Binder Farm on Graf Road, known to many as the Gamble Farm, and continued his passion for farming on his own land prior to his retirement. He will be remembered as a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Left to cherish Bob’s memory are his wife, Irene Capling of Caro; son, Ron Capling (Michele Brown) of Caro; daughter, Carol Capling of Shelby Township; step-daughter, Michele (Tom) Hile of Caro; three grandchildren, Christina Capling of Sterling Heights, John Hile of Rochester, Allen Hile of Warren; the mother of his children, Jean Capling of Sterling Heights; many nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by two sisters, Eva Capling and Thelma Trudeau; and two brothers, Philip Capling, Sr. and Jack Capling. In keeping with Bob’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of his life will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 30, 2013 at the Ransford Collon Funeral Home in Caro with Rev. Michele Hile officiating. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Saturday from 4-8 p.m. and on Sunday from 2 p.m. until the time of the service at 3 p.m. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the Watrousville United Methodist Church, Gideon’s, or the charity of the donor’s choice.
The family was assisted with these arrangements by the Ransford Collon Funeral Home of Caro. Friends may share memories, thoughts and prayers online at www.RansfordCollon.com.