Robert L. Ziolkowski, a resident of Northville, passed from this life on April 3, 2020, at the age of 75.

Robert was the beloved husband of Karen Maher and the dear brother of Thomas (Diana) Ziolkowski.  He is survived by his friend Lorri Cary.

Bob is a De La Salle Collegiate graduate from the Class of 1962, was enshrined in De La Salle’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2001.

The following is from the induction ceremony program:

“Bob Ziolkowski still remembers the exhilaration he fled running onto the field for his first DLS varsity football game. He was in the autumn of 1959; he was only a sophomore and he was a starter. Bob went on to have an exceptional career for the Pilots winning eight letters in three sports and being named All-Catholic in baseball and All-City and All-Catholic in football.

“His size and skills attracted the attention of recruiters from Notre Dame, Michigan, and Michigan State, but Bob wisely signed with the University of Iowa because of their immediate need for offensive linemen. His hard work and foresight were soon rewarded as Bob became a starter for the Hawkeyes at the end of his sophomore year. He then started every game at tackle as a junior before succumbing to serious injuries in the next two years. Despite that, Bob was still selected by the champion Green Bay Packers in the seventh round of the 1967 NFL draft.

“Bob and his wife of 27 years, Karen Maher, live in downtown Detroit where the Honorable Robert Ziolkowski presides as a Wayne County Circuit Court Judge. Bob fondly remembers Coach Joel Mason and his daily (frequently off-color) quips and he is thankful to DLS for teaching that “perseverance, preparation, and perspiration” lead to success.”  

Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers.

Due to the current pandemic, a Memorial Service will be held at a later date.