Robert Jerome Kollar

Robert Jerome Kollar, a distinguished businessman, community leader, and devoted family man, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2026, in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan. Born on January 12, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, Robert’s life was marked by dedication, perseverance, and a deep commitment to both his professional pursuits and the communities he cherished.

Robert graduated from St. Joseph High School in downtown Detroit in 1954, where he not only excelled academically but also showcased his athletic talents playing football. He pursued higher education with determination, attending St. Mary’s University, Winona College in Minnesota from 1954 to 1955, before completing his studies at Eastern Michigan University. In 1958, he proudly graduated from Eastern Michigan University’s School of Business and was a member of Phi Sigma Epsilon, affectionately known as the “Bear” fraternity.

His professional career was both diverse and remarkable. From 1958 to 1963, Robert served Chrysler Defense Operations and distinguished himself as one of the youngest branch managers in the division’s history. He continued his journey at McDonnell Douglas Aircraft from 1963 to 1970, contributing to the development of military and commercial hardware. Demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit, Robert founded Graphic Communications in Plymouth, Michigan, an advertising and printing company, where he worked until 1976. Later, from 1977 to 1981, he was involved with Preservation Systems, an automotive aftermarket supplier based in Grosse Pointe Woods. He concluded his professional career as Senior Vice President in Marketing and Sales at Clark Graphic in Warren, Michigan.

Beyond his career, Robert’s passions reflected his character. An avid golfer, he enjoyed spending time on the greens and participated actively in community causes, notably supporting “iCare of Michigan,” an organization devoted to raising funds for the disadvantaged. Since retirement, he cherished winters spent in Florida with Barbara Hornsby, his loving companion of over 19 years.

Robert was deeply involved in numerous organizations and cherished activities that underscored his leadership and community spirit. He devoted over forty years to the Michigan Hockey Association and the U.S. Hockey Association, undertaking roles in coaching, managing, and directing. His love for horses led to seventeen years of active participation with the Michigan Horses Association as a racing enthusiast. A committed member of the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club since 1990, Robert also contributed to the Christian Business Men’s Community, the Kiwanis Club in Plymouth, the Grosse Pointe Crisis Club, and the Moravian Nells County Club in Mount Clemens. Robert was also a devoted Catholic, going to Mass every Saturday for years at his home parish of St. Paul on the Lake.

His personal life was filled with love and family. Robert married the late Lynda Louise Baumgarten on August 31, 1957. Together, they raised their son, James Lewis Kollar, whom married Mary Kathleen Martin. Robert was predeceased by his brothers John and James, sister Carole Rakoczy, sisters-in-law Shirley and Sharon, and brother-in-law John Rakoczy. He is further predeceased by his son James and his companion Barbara Hornsby. He is survived by his loving grandchildren, Robert Kollar and Elizabeth Ulrich (Roger Ulrich), as well as two great-grandchildren, Levi and Faye Ulrich. He is also remembered by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

Robert's greatest joy was being a Grandpa and Great-Grandpa, and he loved spending time with his family and supporting those he cared about most. He took special pride in coaching his grandson’s hockey teams and watching his granddaughter ride horses, always encouraging their passions and achievements. His love, support, and pride in his grandchildren and great-grandchildren were evident throughout his life, leaving behind cherished memories and a lasting legacy of love.

Robert Jerome Kollar’s legacy is one of dedication to excellence, unwavering commitment to family, and heartfelt service to his community. His life’s work and benevolent spirit have left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, and the many communities fortunate to have benefited from his devotion and leadership.