Dr. Willey, of Farmington, passed away unexpectedly on Monday afternoon, June 6, 2022, in the emergency room at Beaumont Hospital, Farmington Hills.  He was 68 years old.

Bob was born November 19, 1953, in St. Louis Park, MN, to the late Russell and Beverly (Basterash) Willey.  He married Kathy A. (Keyburn) on his birthday, November 19, 1978, in Santa Ana, CA.

Bob was a highly educated teaching professional who began his education at California State University-Long Beach where he earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in English/Creative Writing from 1979 – 1981, followed by his Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in Creative Writing at the University of Arizona from 1981 – 1984, and finally his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies from 1985 – 1991, also at the University of Arizona.  He began his teaching career in Florida for two years, and was a highly respected English Professor at Oakland Community College from August 1990 until his retirement in December, 2016.  Bob loved travel, camping, kayaking, his electric bike, and walks.  He was an avid reader and trivia expert.  Most importantly, however, Bob was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.  May he rest in peace.

Surviving are his beloved wife of 43 years, Kathy; children, Jennifer (Daniel) Bowman, Zachary Willey, and Emily Willey; grandchildren, Spencer, Brendan and Makenna Bowman; his sister, Carol Hinkle; nieces and nephews, Stephen Siegel, Kimber Claveau, Ryan (Maria) Hinkle, Carrie (Bobby) Rounds, and JeNiel (Robert) Reyes; and a host of friends.  Sadly, Bob was preceded in death by his brother, James (Christine) Willey.

No services are planned.

In lieu of customary remembrances, those who wish to further honor Bob's life are invited to contribute to C.A.R.E.S. in Farmington Hills or the National Parks Conservation Association .