Robert "Bob" Edwin O'Rourke

Robert “Bob” E. O’Rourke, 87, of Silverwood passed away on February 23, 2026 with his family by side at Lapeer/McLaren Region Hospital. Bob was born on August 6, 1938 in Gaylord, the son of Clement and Rosemond (Ely) O’Rourke. Bob grew up in Silverwood. He was a 1957 graduate  of North Branch High School. Bob married Joanne June Allen on July 18, 1959 in North Branch. He retired from General Motors in 1985 as a fork truck driver. Bob loved hunting, fishing, and the last 23 years farming with Leonard and Cindy. He also loved riding his Honda Goldwing trike.

Bob is survived by his children, Cindy (Leonard) Sanford of North Branch, Carol (Keith) Roberts of Marlette, Cheryl (Glen) Sanford of Columbiaville, Mark O’Rourke of Clifford, 8 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, siblings, Rita Kelsey, Genevieve Mitchell, Charlene (Tom) Thieme, Sandy (Dale) Williams, sister-in-law, Nancy O’Rourke, many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Joanne, sister, Ann Marie Mann, brothers, Pat and John O’Rourke.

Robert will be laid to rest next to Joanne at Westlawn Cemetery. A private burial will be held.

You may share an online condolence and memories of Bob to the family at www.blackburnchapel.com

Arrangements by Blackburn Chapel-Martin Funeral Home

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