Robert L. Szyperski “Polka King”
Mr. Robert L. Szyperski, of Pinconning, age 97, dedicated father, grandfather and brother, passed away peacefully, with his loving family by his side, on September 1st, 2024. Born on October 3rd, 1926, he was raised and resided his entire life in Pinconning, MI. Born to Charles & Viola (Daniels) Szyperski. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, stationed in Korea. He worked for 25 years at Kraft Foods; on to GM until retirement. He had married Thelma Szyperski in 1951, who preceded him in death in 2019. Together they had: Darlene Szyperski (Texas); Colleen Dombrowski; Rita Doyen (Texas); Diane (Ben) Salgat; Mary Ann Szyperski (Colorado) and Bobby Szyperski, who survive him. Also, his lady and dancing companion, Ms. Betty VanPelt; Grandson Drake & Granddaughter Journie, as well as many nieces and nephews.
After raising his children, you could find Robert on his way to the next dance. Robert was known around the Polka Arenas as the Polka King and danced with his partner Betty, all over Michigan, Ohio, and beyond; they had attended countless events throughout the years and a lot of people would come to the Polkas just to watch them dance.
Robert was the last of his family and was predeceased by brother Thomas Szyperski; sister Rita (Alex) Kerr, brother Charles (Eunice) Szyperski, brother George (Lou) Szyperski, sister Dorothy Szyperski, Warren and a special nephew Jeff Szyperski.
Funeral Mass was celebrated Saturday, September 7th at 11 am at the Holy Trinity Parish with Father Matthew Frederico presiding with burial at St. Michaels’s Cemetery with full military honors. Friends visited at the Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home on Friday the 6th, from Noon to 8 pm with a Prayer Vigil at 7 pm. On Saturday, friends may visit, at the church from 10:00 am until time of mass at 11:00 am.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the VA Aleda Lutz Hospital CLC unit and staff, for their compassionate & loving care given.
Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home, Pinconning, MI, was in charge of arrangements.