Robert Allen Sporleder

Robert Allen Sporleder, 77, of New Buffalo, MI passed away on Friday, February 23, 2018. Arrangements have been entrusted to Sommerfeld Chapel in New Buffalo, MI. A private family service was held and the family is planning a memorial luncheon at a later date in the spring. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association. Robert was born on Sept. 23, 1940 in Chicago, IL to the late George and Mary (Schmidt) Sporleder. He graduated from Taft High School in 1959 and received his Bachelor’s degree in Education from Western Illinois University in 1965. On August 22, 1964 in Chicago, IL he married Sandra Giese. Prior to his retirement in 1996, Robert was a P.E. and Driver’s Ed teacher for 33 years at Thornton Township High School in Harvey, IL. Robert also coached football, gymnastics, tennis and cross country. He enjoyed being a private pilot, playing golf, gardening and taking care of his house and was an avid Chicago Cubs fan. Sandra and Robert lived for 35 years in South Holland , IL before retiring to Michigan in 2002. Robert is survived by his wife Sandra; daughter-Melissa (Bert) Gonnella of Dyer, IN; son-Brad (Britt Westergard) Sporleder of Guilderland, NY; granddaughters-Kayla and Kara who were so special to Robert; brothers- Richard (Alice Terry) Sporleder of Chandler, AZ & Davis, IL and Donald (Peggy) Sporleder of Donaldson, TN; sister- Sharon (Dennis) Carey of Phoenix, AZ; nieces- Barbara, Patty, Megan, Deborah, Rhonda; and nephews- Brian, Scott and Kevin. Robert will be greatly missed by family and friends. He was a sweet and kind man