Robert C. Dieterle

Age 94, passed away on Tuesday, June 4, 2013 at the home of his daughter in San Clemente, CA. Robert was born on February 1, 1919, in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of Chris and Vera (Zeluff) Dieterle. On February 1, 1940, he married Louetta Lillian Finkbeiner who preceded him in death on January 7, 2011. Robert spent his entire life working the 95 acre family farm that his father purchased in 1917. They raised cows, hogs, sheep, chickens, produce, and flowers. Robert started taking produce and flowers to the Ann Arbor Farmer’s Market with his father and mother in 1926. This tradition was continued with his wife Louetta. They were the longest-selling vendors at Ann Arbor's Farmers' Market, never missing a Saturday from 1940 until they retired in 2007. Robert attended Cleary College and received a degree in accounting prior to purchasing the farm from his father. He took immense pride in his farm and his skills as an agriculturist, veterinarian, carpenter, and mechanic. Robert was a life-long member of St. Paul's United Church of Christ. He served in numerous roles on the church council, including as its president. Robert and Louetta traveled extensively including trips to Alaska, Israel, Egypt, and China. Robert will always be remembered for his faith, easy smile, hard work and willingness to lend a helping hand. Survivors include: his son Bob (Dianne) Dieterle Jr. of the Village of Loch Lloyd, MO; and daughter Sue (Braden) Farmer-Quinn of San Clemente, CA; his grandchildren Robert, Sarah, Kristin, and Michael Dieterle, and Garret and Collin Farmer. Robert was preceded in death by his parents and wife of 70 years. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, June 15, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at the St. Paul United Church of Christ in Saline, MI, with Rev. Dr. Wallace Tatara officiating. Burial will take place following the service in the Oakwood Cemetery in Saline. Memorial contributions may be made to the Church. Envelopes will be available at the Robison-Bahnmiller Funeral Home in Saline, where friends may begin calling on Friday, June 14, 2013 between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. and at the Church on Saturday, June 15, 2013 from 10:00 a.m. until the Time of Service at 11:00 a.m. To sign Robert’s guestbook, to leave a memory, or for more information or directions please visit www.rbfhsaline.com.

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Robert C. Dieterle

February 1, 1919 - June 4, 2013