Leader Publications

Born: Nov. 2, 1927

Died: Aug. 29, 2012

Arthur Fred Rock, 84, of Sister Lakes, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012, at Borgess Medical Center, Kalamazoo.

Arthur was born Nov. 2, 1927, in New Troy, the son of Ryn and Pauline (Bandduski) Rock, both of whom preceded him in passing.

Arthur was united in marriage to Viola Stanley, and she survives along with their children: Wayne (Joyce) Rock, William (Deborah) Rock, Sonya (Robert) Bower, Sherrel Rock, Virginia Ritchie (Mark Morrison), Donna (Jeffery) Smith, Bradley (Stacey) Rock and Christina Castaneda. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; three great great-grandchildren; and a sister-in-law, Mila Lewis.

Arthur served his country proudly during World War II as a military policeman in the U.S. Army. He worked at Jessup Door in Dowagiac for a number of years. He was the greatest dad in the world. He did a lot of things for everyone and we are all going to miss him forever.

Last Tuesday night, he was watching a Cubs game and we watched it with him. He will always be a big Cubs fan, even from Heaven. If you ever wanted to know anything about baseball, he could tell you. He could also remember dates for just about anything. He loved playing cards (71/2 – 271/2), watching birds, plowing snow and cutting grass. He always enjoyed the family get-togethers on Sundays, holidays and birthdays. He loved getting cards for any occasion, especially the ones that had money in them.

As to Arthur’s wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will have a private celebration of Arthur’s life at a later date. His ashes will be placed at Mission Hills Cemetery, in Niles. The family has entrusted Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford with the arrangements.