Robert Arthur Nielsen (Bob) of Ruby Creek (Branch), Michigan passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 5, 2016 at his home at the age of 89.

Bob was born on November 7, 1927. He was the son of the late Charles Sr. and Selma Alvena (Anderson) Nielsen, in Muskegon. He graduated from Muskegon High School in February 1946. He immediately enlisted and served 2 years in the US Navy. Upon discharge, he married the late Virginia Hudson who was the mother of his five children. He attended the University of Michigan where he received a BS in engineering. He moved his family back to Muskegon to work for his father at Muskegon Marking Equipment Co. In 1966, he married Marie Cramblit who preceded him in death this spring. Together they raised his four surviving children in Muskegon. Robert was a charter member of the St. Mark Lutheran Church in Norton Shores, as well as an active member of the Breakfast Optimist Club.

After retiring in 1986, he was able to enjoy the hobbies he loved such as woodcarving, hunting, fishing, gardening and collecting antiques. He participated in conservation efforts in the area and was the original builder and owner of The River City Inn in Ruby Creek. Bob enjoyed life in general; especially spending time with his friends and family. He was always willing to help or assist those in need.

Robert is survived by his children: Susan (Scott) Woodruff, Nancy Johnson, and David (Suzanne) Nielsen; grandchildren: Sarah (Ryan) Lucas, Jacob Laime, Evynn Johnson, Victoria (Dave) Martel, Stephen Woodruff, and Olivia (Evan) Hagen; four great grandchildren; his younger brother, Thomas (Margie) Nielsen, and several nieces and nephews. He also leaves his best friend, Max, his loyal and loving Golden Retriever.

He was preceded in death by his parents; the mother of his children, Virginia E. Hudson; two sons, Robert Michael and Charles Thomas; and his loving wife Tesaline Marie (Cramblit) Nielsen to whom he was married just days short of fifty years.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held on Saturday January 28, 2016 at 12:00 P.M. at Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington. A one hour visitation will take place prior to the service at 11:00 A.M.

Memorial contributions in memory of Robert may be directed to Harbor Hospice of Muskegon.