A beloved resident of Chelsea, Michigan, Robert E. “Bob” Noch has sadly passed away on January 8, 2026, at the age of 91, bringing a gentle close to a long and meaningful life. Bob passed peacefully at Chelsea Hospital, surrounded by the quiet familiarity of the community he cherished in his later years.
He was born on May 7, 1934, in Detroit to Fred G. and Olga L. (Herman) Noch, and grew up during a transformative time in Michigan’s history. After World War II, his family moved to Taylor, and in 1970 they settled in Southgate. Over the decades, life took him to West Bloomfield and Gregory before he found a welcoming home at the Chelsea Retirement Community, where he spent his final chapter.
For 43 years, Bob dedicated himself to his work at the K-Mart Headquarters in Detroit, showing the kind of steadfast commitment that defined his generation. He approached his career with reliability and pride, contributing to a company that was a staple in American retail during its heyday. Those who knew him through work remembered a man who valued doing things right and building lasting relationships along the way.
Faith played a central role in Bob’s life as an active member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea. The church community offered him fellowship and purpose, a place where he connected deeply with others through shared beliefs and service. His involvement reflected a quiet devotion that touched those around him, providing comfort and strength throughout his years.
Bob had a creative spirit that brought joy to his days. He loved composing music, finding expression in melodies that captured his thoughts and emotions. Writing poems was another passion, allowing him to weave words into reflections on life, love, and the world he observed. These pursuits revealed a sensitive and artistic side, one that enriched his own life and likely delighted family and friends who heard his compositions or read his verses.
Family held a special place in Bob’s heart, even as time brought losses along the way. He is survived by his two nieces, Yvonne and Yvette, who will carry forward his memory with affection. Bob was preceded in death by his brother, Frederick Nock, in April 2007; his sister, Eleanor Bechtel, in June 2008; and his niece, Diane Inloes. Though his immediate family circle grew smaller over the years, the bonds he maintained remained strong and enduring.
Friends and community members are invited to honor Bob’s life at a funeral service on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea, officiated by Rev. Daniel Pezzica. The family will receive visitors at the church from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Glen Eden Lutheran Memorial Park in Livonia. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church at 1515 S. Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118.
Though Bob is no longer here, his legacy of faith, creativity, and quiet dedication lives on in the Chelsea community and in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be remembered as a man who lived fully and kindly, leaving behind melodies, poems, and memories that continue to resonate.