Clarence Robert Leser

Clarence passed away Tuesday, March 24, 2020 at home.  Clarence was born on September 22, 1931 in Bay City Michigan to the late Clarence Edward Leser and Evelyn Esther Leser (Blank).

Clarence (Bob to all who knew and loved him) graduated from Bay City Handy High School.  After graduation, Bob was drafted into the United States Army and served during the Korean conflict. After his discharge, he hired into the Ultra Carbon Corporation (now Carbone International) in 1954 and worked as a machinist and tool and die maker, and shop foreman. Bob worked for Ultra Carbon/Carbone for over 40 years, retiring in 1996.

In 1958, Bob married the love of his life, Sandra Kay Berthiaume.  They had three sons, Robert Scott, Kevin Francis, and Terry Thomas.  They enjoyed family get-togethers, watching and coaching their sons and grandchildren in their many sports and activities, camping, fishing, and were virtually inseparable until Sandy's death in 2004 after 46 years of marriage.  They lived in Bay City all their lives.

Bob was a very good athlete, and played baseball, fastpitch softball, blooperball, golf, and bowling, excelling in whatever he attempted. A powerfully built man, he was a long ball hitter on the golf course and on the ball field.

Bob enjoyed woodworking and woodcarving, and one of his greatest joys was to create something out of wood and have Sandy paint it to fit its purpose, whether lawn art for the holidays, home decor, or as gifts for family/friends.  Both Bob and Sandy were talented, creative and artistic.

Bob was known by his many friends as a kind, gentle man who put other people's needs before his own.  A child of the Depression, he was frugal and a "pack rat", saving any scraps from his many projects as they "could be used for something else". Bob was not frugal when showing his love and affection for his family and his many, many friends.  He was always bringing baked goods, candy, food, and any other manner of gifts to family, restaurant and bowling alley waitstaff, doctor's office receptionists and aides, and any other folks that he came in contact with and liked.  If you showed Bob kindness, he was sure to reciprocate.  He was well-loved, and will be missed by so many.

Bob is survived by his sister Carol Sherwood, brother Eugene (Bud) Leser, sons Robert Scott (Peggy) and Terry Thomas (Heather).  He is also survived by a daughter-in-law Linda (Kevin). Bob had several grandchildren, Amanda, Renee, Jessica (Shannon), Robert (Andreya), Matthew (Megan) and Cassandra.  Bob also inherited two step grandchildren, Mary Jo Smith and Stephanie Boyer.  Bob was blessed by several great grandchildren and step-great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by beloved wife Sandra Kay and dear son Kevin Francis. He was also preceded in death by a brother Donald and sister Patti.

A private graveside service will take place at Calvary Cemetery and a memorial service will take place at a later date. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions the American Cancer Society.