Obituary of Robert DeMain

Robert "Bob" DeMain, 81, of South Bend, Indiana, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, February 7, 2016 with his family by his side. Bob was born on October 23, 1934 in Rochester, Michigan. He graduated from Imlay City High School in 1952 and earned a teaching degree at Central Michigan University. While in college, Bob married and to that union was born four children: Dawn, Deirdre, Rebecca and Rob. Bob began his career as a middle school English/History teacher in Frankenmuth, Michigan. He went on to earn his Masters Degree in guidance and counseling from the University of Michigan; Bob served in that capacity in Berea, Ohio for three years before moving his family to Davison, Michigan where he was employed as a high school guidance counselor until his retirement in 1991. On February 14, 1981 Bob wed Helene Rutty in Beverly Hills, Michigan, acquiring four stepsons: Steve, Doug, Greg and Dan. Bob enjoyed various outdoor activities including camping, hiking, biking and particularly tennis which he continued into his late 70's. Over the years, Bob and Helene were active in training caregivers for the Stephen Ministry, mentoring at-risk families for Lapeer County and facilitating DivorceCare Ministry. After retirement, the couple worked at church camps and children's homes across the U.S. Bob was passionate about helping others; his primary goal in life was to make a difference. Bob is survived by his wife, Helene DeMain of South Bend; children: Dawn (Jim) Payne of Niles, Michigan; Deirdre (Michael) Leets of Niles, Michigan; Rebecca Fisher of Cleveland, Ohio; Robert (Kim) DeMain, Jr. of Meridian, Idaho; Steve (Vickie) Kellar of Millersburg, Michigan; Douglas Kellar of Fenton, Michigan; Gregory Kellar of Napa, California and Daniel (Melissa) Rutty of Charlotte, North Carolina; seventeen grandchildren, fourteen great grandchildren and a host of extended family and friends. In keeping with Bob's wishes, a private gathering will be held. Those wishing to make memorial contributions in Bob's memory may do so to the Center for Hospice, 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, Indiana 46637; St. Mark Missionary Church, 55240 Bittersweet Road, Mishawaka, Indiana 46545; or American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478 Oklahoma City, OK 73123.