Robert L. Townsend Jr.

Robert L. Townsend, Jr., age 88, a beloved longtime resident of Northville, passed away on June 22, 2025. Born on January 1, 1937, in Franklin Township, Houghton County, Michigan, he was the son of Robert L. and Eva (Tomasic) Townsend. Bob graduated with the Class of 1955 from Cass Technical High School in Detroit.

Bob was first united in marriage to Joan K. Wylie in 1965; together, they shared 33 years of devoted companionship until her passing in 1998. Later in life, Bob was fortunate to find love again with Julie A. Kennedy. They were married in 2003, and recently celebrated 22 wonderful years together. Bob and Julie’s happiness with each other was remarkable.

Bob began his career with Ford Motor Company in 1956 and dedicated 43 years to the company, retiring in 1999 as Lead Designer. He highly valued his work and the lasting friendships he formed along the way. His strong work ethic and knack for drafting made his career deeply fulfilling.

Papo, as he was lovingly known by family, took great pride in being a Yooper. He had a passion for woodworking and liked finding antique tools at estate sales. Antiquing, estate sale outings, traveling, and visiting wineries up north were favorite pastimes he shared with Julie.

Since 1978, he spent many weeks in the summer at his cottage in Elk Rapids, where he watched his daughters build sand castles as young children, embarked on new house projects, and stored additional tools (since he didn’t have enough already).

In his younger years, Bob enjoyed playing hockey and fixing race cars alongside his buddies. In his later years, he took great delight in spending time with his grandchildren. One of his favorite routines was getting pastries from downtown Northville’s Tuscan Cafe, satisfying his well-known sweet tooth. Bob never missed the NBC Nightly News and followed shows such as This Old House, The Curse of Oak Island, and Antiques Roadshow.

Bob shared a wonderful relationship with his neighbors, who respected him and often admired his perfectly manicured lawn. When Bob was out mowing, it was the signal for others to do the same. Above all else, he cherished his family and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Bob is survived by his wife Julie; his daughters, Sarah (Jesus Costantino) Townsend and Molly Townsend; his stepchildren, Len (Cat) Mazzola, Elisha (Marc) Zuccato, Brian (Eileen) Mazzola, and Patricia Mazzola; his brother Donald (Judi) Townsend; and 13 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Joan Townsend.

Visitation will be held, Friday, June 27, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. with a celebration of Bob’s life beginning at 1:00 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Northville Civic Concern, 43275 7 Mile, Northville, MI 48167.