BOSTON LOCATION - Robert A. Janke, 88, a resident of Boston Location, passed away early Wednesday morning, December 22, 2010 at the Franklin House of PortagePointe where he had been a resident patient since March of 2009.
He was born in Rosendale, Mich., a son of the late Arthur and Edna Janke and was raised in the Detroit area.
He was a graduate of Birmingham High School, University of Michigan with a degree in physics, Michigan Technological University, where he received a master's in physics and the University of Colorado where he received a doctorate in biology.
In 1944, Robert was united in marriage to the former Nadine Key. The couple had resided in the area for over 50 years; first in Houghton and then in Boston Location.
Nadine preceded him in death in 2006.
Mr. Janke had also resided at The Bluffs Senior Living Community before moving to the Franklin House at PortagePointe.
Mr. Janke taught physics and biology for over 40 years at Michigan Technological University and worked over 50 summers at the Isle Royale National Park for the park service and MTU with research projects.
He attended Portage Lake United Church in Houghton where he had been active in the choir. He was active with the Isle Royale Natural History Association and various professional associations.
He enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially his time spent on Isle Royale, cross country skiing and hiking. He also enjoyed singing in the Copper Country Chorale, the Ecumenical Choir and enjoyed folk dancing.
Preceding him in death were his wife; his parents; his brother, Ken.
Surviving are his children, David (Jackie) Janke of Texas, Daniel (Patricia) Janke of Dollar Bay, Steven Janke of Indianapolis, Ind., Janet (Ernest) Letson of Ishpeming; his grandchildren, Stuart, Sherri, Aaron, Sarah, Christopher, Kevin and Jeremy; his great-grandchildren, Jaden, Ashton, Taylor, Caleb, Olivia and Analise; his step-grandchildren, Jim and Jeff; his sister, Betty Dunwoodie of Grosse Pointe; several nieces, nephews and cousins.
A memorial service for Robert will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, December 27, 2010 at Portage Lake United Church in Houghton with Rev. Cindy Method to officiate. Friends may call on Monday from 10 a.m. until time of services at the church.
To view Robert's obituary or to send condolences to the family, please visit memorialchapel.net.
The Memorial Chapel Funeral Home in Hancock is assisting the family with arrangements.