Obituaries

Robert “Bobby” Anthony Gutcher, age 59, of Charlevoix, Michigan, died on May 19, 2023. He was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on November 20, 1963, to Robert and Edith (Cole) Gutcher.

Bobby grew up in DeTour, Michigan, and attended DeTour Area Schools where he participated in cross country and lived out his passion of being in a band. His first band was called Midnight Arrival. He was a self-taught drummer and showed a passion for music young; his mother would often find him drumming with the kitchen cooking utensils and pots and pans. Bobby graduated with the DeTour class of 1982.

After graduation Bobby continued as a drummer and lead singer with many other talented local musicians including Gary VanAlstine, Tim VanAlstine, Scott Maciag, Ray Mayer, Russell Mayer, and Alan Huff. Over the years he played in multiple bands including Main Street, Bits N’ Pieces, Rock -N- Rhythm, and The Bob Van Martin Band. Bobby was best known for playing and singing “Wipe-Out”, “Brown Eye Girl”, “He Stopped Loving Her Today” and “Turn the Page”. He had a special talent for making his own versions of songs. He absolutely loved to do voice impersonations and would randomly burst into song at any given time.

Bobby loved and cherished his job as a security officer for Bay Harbor and dutifully worked for twelve years; however, family and friends meant everything to him. He was a very proud dad and grandpa. He was well known for his slew of jokes and his infectious smile and laughter. His favorite person to tell jokes with was his grandson, Jeice. No one ever left him without a smile on their face and a belly ache from laughing so hard! He made everyone he met feel special and loved. You would always receive the biggest smile from him by simply stopping by with food (especially with his favorites; mozzarella sticks, burgers, or chips and queso).

Bobby is survived by his daughter, Rebecca (Christiana) Gutcher-Hunt; son, Timothy Gutcher; grandchildren, Vincent, Jeice, Rowan and Ellyott; sister, Edith “Lynn” Fierack; brothers, Ronald (Joanne) Gutcher, Vic (Dodie) Gutcher, Tim (Laurie) Henson, and Sam Henson.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Edith “Sue” (Cole) Gutcher.

The final resting place will be at Maple Grove Cemetery, in Chippewa Twp., Michigan.

Galer Funeral Homes & Cremation of Pickford, Michigan, is serving the family. Condolences may be left to the family at www.galerfuneralhomes.com.