Robert Geraldine Cox
April 9, 1915 – Aug. 14, 1990
Robert Geraldine Cox died on 14 August 1990 in Ann Arbor, Michigan; he was born in Bannister, Michigan on 9 April 1915. His parents were Leon Thomas Cox (1886 – 1971) and Jennie Mae Seeley (1884-1947). His lineage on the Seeley side descended from Robert Seeley (1601-1666), thru Obadiah, Jonas, Samuel, John, John, Daniel, Alanson, John N. and Jennie Mae Seeley, his mother.
Bob Cox married Violet Ester Harter on 12 June 1937 and they had five children: Gloria, Barbara, William, Richard and Fred. Robert and Violet were divorced on 10 January 1965; he subsequently married Marianne G. (Chamberlain) Dickinson on 25 June 1966, in Jackson, Michigan.
Bob had many interests and talents. In early manhood he designed, built and flew is own airplane. This strong mechanical ability was the basis for his obtaining a job at Aeroquip Corporation on 3 March 1941. a manufacturing firm in Jackson specializing in providing parts for the aircraft and other industries. His inventiveness contributed many innovations and patents to the company until his retirement in 1977. He wrote a book on his experiences at the company entitled “The Early Years”.
Bob was a gifted painter and followed this avocation throughout his adult years, working mostly in oils during his early and middle years, then developing a special fondness for watercolor work in later life. His paintings were exhibited and sold at many art shows in the Jackson area during the 1970’s and 1980’s. He was president of the Jackson Civic Arts Association in 1979, 1980 and 1982.
After retirement, Bob became increasingly interested in genealogical research. He was a member of the Jackson County and the Mid-Michigan Genealogical Societies. He was president of the Seeley Genealogical Society from 1983 to 1989. During his presidency of the society he began editing the newsletter for the SGS and continued in that office until his death.
Whether he was doing engineering or sales work, painting, sailing, building the house in which he lived, growing Christmas trees or searching for more information about his ancestors, Bob Cox was known among his family and friends for his enthusiasm, dedication, imagination and capacity for hard work. He leaves a heritage of ideas, memories and example as extensive as his many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
He was buried at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Jackson Michigan on 18 August 1990.
Prepared by Phillip J. Chamberlain, brother-in-law to Robert Cox
