Robert S. Frellick, age 92, of Northville, MI and Asheville, NC, passed away on December 31, 2024. He was born on March 23, 1932 in Brockton, Massachusetts; son of Ralph and Ethel (Shepherd) Frellick. Bob, as his friends called him, graduated from Brockton High School, class of 1950. He went on to attend Franklin College in Indiana, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1954. Shortly after he joined the United States Army where he proudly served from 1955 until 1957.
Bob married Charlene Theall on August 9, 1958, and together they shared a love and devotion that spanned more than 66 years. Eighteen months ago, Bob moved to Novi from Asheville, NC, where he had lived for 24 years. Before retiring in Asheville, he raised his children in Northville. Bob and Charlene formed many lasting friendships throughout their journey, wherever life took them.
Bob spent 30 years in management at Ford Motor Company, where he was recognized upon his retirement at age 50 for an incredible record of never missing a single day of work. After taking two years off, he returned to the workforce as the General Manager of Windsor Plastic Products, ultimately retiring for good at the age of 60.
During his time in Northville, he was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Northville, where he and Charlene founded a Mariners Group. After moving, he became a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Asheville, where he formed many new and enduring friendships.
Bob’s true passion was baseball, and in Northville, he became a local legend. After his honorable discharge from the Army, he established youth baseball in the community, serving as a Little League coach. He also coached varsity baseball at Northville High School for several years and earned the title "Mr. Baseball," commemorated on a plaque at the local baseball diamond in recognition of his dedication to the Northville baseball community. Bob introduced a National Baseball Tournament to Northville, running it successfully for 23 years, and served as President of the National Amateur Baseball Federation from 1991 to 1992. His guiding motto for the youth emphasized sportsmanship over winning, always encouraging players to give their best effort. He was recognized for his outstanding commitment to the Northville community and was named the Citizen of the Year in 1996.
Bob’s greatest joy in life was his beloved family, who affectionately called him Joe. A world-class dad, he always prioritized his family, happily joining in whatever they wanted to do. He loved the outdoors, whether playing tennis or trail riding with his wife and friends. His unwavering support for his family was evident in his attendance at every sporting event, music concert, or family gathering. For those unable to attend, Bob made it a point to share every detail, ensuring no one felt left out. He cherished the home-cooked meals his wife prepared with love, especially favorites like lobster and whole belly clams. And no matter the occasion, he never passed up a chance to enjoy his favorite treat at Dairy Queen.
Bob was a man of great integrity who always chose the right path. He was kind, compassionate, generous, and dedicated, with a playful spirit and an infectious sense of humor. His absence will be deeply felt.
Bob is survived by his wife Charlene; his children, Steve (Donna) Frellick, Lynn (Mike) Zelek, Brian (Melissa) Frellick, and Dean (Dana) Frellick; and his grandchildren, Emma, Alexandra, Madeline, Eryn, Reed, Dane, Sophie, Cole, Olivia, Noah, Addison, Luca, and Cooper. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Jean Roberts and Barbara Campbell.
A celebration of Bob's life will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. with a time of gathering from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Northville, 200 East Main Street. In his memory, contributions may be made to the National Amateur Baseball Federation, PO Box 4099, Brandon, MS 39047 to be used for scholarships.
Saturday, February 1, 2025
Starts at 11:00 am (Eastern time)
First Presbyterian Church of Northville
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