Robert Arthur Garrod

Robert Arthur Garrod, 92, of Lawrence, died Sunday, Feb. 26, 2017, at his residence, surrounded by his family. He was born July 28, 1924, in Arlington Township, MI, the son of Fred Sr, and Edith Garrod.

Robert was a 1941 graduate of Lawrence High School, and graduated from Michigan State College's Agricultural (East Lansing) short course. He returned to the family farm that he later purchased, continuing the dairy and crop farming until his retirement in the early 1990’s. The family farm was designated a Centennial Family Farm in 1998 by the Michigan Historical Commission. He was a life-time member of the Lawrence United Methodist Church.

Robert was united in marriage to the former Rachel Lietzke on June 2, 1951. He is survived by his wife of nearly 66 years, Rachel; siblings, Gertrude Sparks of Granger, IN, Charles Garrod of Grand Rapids, MI (Marcile, deceased), Fred, Jr, Garrod (Pat) of Lawrence; four children, John (Lissa) of Galesburg, MI, Kathy West (Mark) of Carol Stream, IL; James (Brenda) of Sheridan, IN and Paul (Cyndee) of Paw Paw; 10 grandchildren, Chris Garrod, Stephanie Garrod, Holly Kelley, Amy Reed, Brittany West, Jennifer Arnold, Kaitlin Schlobohm, Lauren Edsall, Brandon Garrod, and Olivia Garrod; and four great-grandchildren, Charlotte Arnold, Sadie Arnold, Duncan Kelley, and Lincoln Kelley.

He faithfully loved and provided for his family all his life. Bob was always ready to help friends and neighbors.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, March 2. The family will welcome friends at the Lawrence United Methodist Church from 1 – 3 pm, service to follow at 3 pm. Pastor Wayne McKenney officiating. Burial will follow in Colburn Cemetery, Arlington Township. Memorials may be directed to the Lawrence United Methodist Church or the Lawrence Alumni Association. Arrangements by Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, MI. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.