Robert L. Carnes

On the afternoon of September 13, 2025, Robert “Bob” Carnes, age 89, passed away peacefully after a brief illness. He spent the day at home, where he had lived for over 80 years, surrounded by friends and family in Portage, Michigan.

Bob was born in Ann Arbor, MI to Adelia and Ivan Carnes, though he spent most of his life in Portage Michigan. Dedicated to both his country and family, he served in the army until receiving an honorable discharge at the time of his father’s death so he could return home to care for his mother, who was blind. He was a man of many talents which led him to a career as a Glazier with Battle Creek Auto Glass, later working as everyone’s favorite “jack of all trades”. In retirement, he could be found building something, creating beautiful stained glass, or helping others utilizing his special skills.

Bob had a life-long love affair with racing. He was an accomplished driver for over 38 years. In 1995, #42 “Bobby Carnes”, was inducted into the Michigan Motorsports Hall of Fame. His enthusiasm for sports included playing roller hockey, football, bowling, and sailing as well as managing a little league team. He also enjoyed cheering on his favorite Detroit sports pro teams.

He is survived by family including his loving and dedicated wife Joyce; daughter Kelly Grimm and son-in-law Nick, son Bob Carnes and daughter-in-law Deverie, son Steve Totten and daughter-in-law Kim, daughter Rhonda Middleton and son-in-law Troy, his sister Karen Wesolowski and brother-in-law Butch. He has 9 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. His sister Marilyn Losiewski preceded him in death.

He was a dedicated member of the Schoolcraft Eagles, St. Monica’s Knights of Columbus, and St. Monica Catholic Church. He had a strong faith which upheld him during many difficult times.

Bob had an infectious smile, sense of humor, and an incomparable zest for life. He met each day with hope and faith, making a lasting impression on all who encountered him. He will be missed, but those who were lucky enough to have met him will have many special memories.

Family and friends are welcome to gather from 4 – 7 PM Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at Adams – Redmond Funeral Home, 4100 S. Westnedge Ave., Kalamazoo, where the Rosary will be recited at 6:30 PM. Visitation will continue Wednesday, September 17, 2025 from 11 – 11:30 at St. Monica Catholic Church, 4408 S. Westnedge Ave., Kalamazoo, where Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30, Fr. Daniel Hyman, Celebrant. He will be laid to rest at Mt. Ever – Rest Memorial Park, Kalamazoo, with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers the family requests any donations to be made to a charity close to Bob’s heart, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.