Robert Webster, US Navy Veteran, Owned a Tool & Die Shop, Operated a Turkey Farm

Robert R. Webster Jr. 97 of Saline, Michigan passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by his family on Saturday, May 2, 2020.  Robert was born on July 19, 1922 in Redford, Michigan to the late Robert R. Webster Sr. and Clara M. (Jefferies) Webster of Redford, MI.

Robert graduated from Redford High School in 1937. He attended Ford Apprentice School and soon after, enlisted in the United States Navy, as a Motor Mechanic. He was an Active Serviceman in WWII and was discharged honorably in 1946. After the war was over he was employed by Fisher Brother Industries as the General Manager, where he met Florence Malik, his late wife of 54 years. At the time, Florence was employed as a cosmetologist in the Fisher Building where they met in the lobby; [it has always been rumored that she was doing hair and nail services for Lucille Ball and other celebrities].They were married in 1949 and soon after started a family. 

In the Mid-1950s he established “Webster Tool and Die Co” which he owned and operated from his residence on Maple Road in Saline, Michigan. He built dies for years and became well-known for his expertise in the field, as well as his honesty and integrity. He quickly became the “Go-to-Guy” for all local machine repair and welding. He also held various die-making contracts with local factories in the area; Tecumseh Products, to mention one.

After the death of his father, in 1975, he took over the family tradition of raising turkey and became sole proprietor of Webster Turkey Farm in Saline, MI until he retired in 1997.

He was a hardworking and humble man who loved his family. His presence will be missed and felt by all who held him dear.

Robert is survived by Daughter, Peggy Ann (Alan) Hogan of Ypsilanti, MI; Son, Robert R. Webster of Webster, FL.  (4) Grandchildren- Kristie Macomber, Matthew (Rasa) Macomber, Katie Macomber-Thompson, and Carmen Webster.  (8) Great Grandchildren- Amanda Brown, Andrew (Julia) Trout, Madisin Thompson, Makenzie Freeman, Vivienne Miller, Hailey Macomber, Ryder Macomber, and Madalyn Wilson. (1) Great-Great Grandson- Kolbin Trout.

Robert is preceded in death by Florence Webster, Daughter Laurie Albanice, Granddaughter Leanne Spencer (daughter of Laurie Albanice), Grandson Shawn Macomber (son of Peggy Ann Hogan). Burial has taken place in the Oakwood Cemetery in Saline, MI and a private family service has been held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Robert’s name may be made to the American Kidney Fund. To sign Robert’s guestbook, to leave a memory, or for more information please visit www.rbfhsaline.com.  

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