Dr. Robert W. Innis, 77, of Alden died on Wed, Aug 20, 1997, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City.
Robert was born on Oct 23, 1919, in the Rapid River Township house where he currently had resided, the son of William J and Neila (Black) Innis. He graduated from Mancelona High School in 1936 and Kalkaska County Normal in 1937.
Innis taught school in Kalkaska county for three years. He graduated from Central Michigan University in 1942, and immediately joined the U.S. Air Force during WWII. In 42 months, Robert was promoted from private to captain. On Jun 1, 1946, in Traverse City, he married Evangeline Scheffler. In the same year, he became the superintendent of schools in Williamsburg.
Robert was recalled to service in the U.S. Air Force in 1950 during the Korean Conflict. After returning to civilian life in 1956, he received his doctorate from Michigan State University. In 1980, Robert received emeritus status in the College of Technology at Bowling Green State University in Ohio and a laureate citation from Epsilon Pi Tau for his professional contributions to education in technology.
The Robert W. Innis Aerotechnology Award adn Robert W. Innis Industrial Teacher Education Scholarship were established at Bowling Green State University before his retirement in 1980.
Robert was a life member of the Bellaire Masonic Lodge #398 F & AM. He was also a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #7126, Rainbow Chain of Lake in Alden, the American Legion George Pucket Post #264 in Mancelona United Methodist Church. He was also the current president of the Pioneer's Association in Kalkaska County. He also enjoyed woodworking, photography and traveling.
Robert is survived by his wife, Evangeline Innis of Alden; children Patricia Ann Innis of Fairfield, IA, Nela Rose (Gary) Marks of Oak Ridge, TN; granddaughter Emilie Marks of Oak Ridge, TN; and brothers, Ralph (Helen) Innis of Litchfield and Paul Innis of Grand Rapids.
A masonic service was held Friday evening at the funeral home.
Funeral services were held on Sat, Aug 23, at the Paullin-Penzien Funeral Home in Mancelona. The Rev. Carol Floyd of the Mancelona United Methodist Church officiated. Interment followed at Westwood Cemetery, Rapid River Township, Kalkaska County.
Memorials may be given to the Mancelona United Methodist Church.
