Robert A Frost

Robert Arthur (Bob) Frost, 74, passed away on Monday, March 2.

Born in Ann Arbor, Bob was the son of Leal and Rhoda Mallory. He was a proud son of Michigan whose life was rooted in family, friendship, faith in people, and the communities he served.

Bob was a loving and devoted husband of 52 years to Sharon K. Frost (Simmons). Together they built a life centered on family, loyalty, and generosity toward others. He was a gentle, wise, and steadfast father to his three sons, Robert L. Frost and his spouse Melissa A (Morrison), the late Andrew P. Frost, Joseph B. Frost and his wife Leah M. (Shaw), and their families. Nothing brought him greater pride than being “Papa” to his eight grandchildren Ellie, Robert Jr, Abigail, Liam, Stella, Ethan, Eamon, and Anders, who were the joy of his life.

Known for his laughter, warmth, and deep compassion, Bob had an extraordinary ability to connect with people. He met others where they were, treated everyone with dignity, and carried an empathy that drew people toward him. Slow to anger and quick to laugh, he was a loyal friend and a steady presence in the lives of many. More than anything, Bob loved people. He ran toward those who needed encouragement, offered friendship freely, and made others feel welcome wherever he went. His humor, generosity, and kindness left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.

Bob was a lifelong businessman and community figure. He was the owner of Van Boven Shoes of Ann Arbor and later the founder and owner of Robert Frost Fine Footwear in Petoskey, and Robert Frost Quality in Traverse City, Michigan. Through decades of work on the sales floor and in the community, he built relationships that spanned generations. Customers became friends, and friends became family.

Outside of work, Bob cherished the simple things that made life rich. He loved spending time with and caring for family and friends, cheering for his beloved Michigan Wolverines, Detroit Lions, Tigers, and Red Wings. Michigan’s forests, lakes, and rivers were some of his favorite places. He enjoyed fishing, boating, traveling the roads of northern Michigan, and spending time talking with people in the community he loved.

Robert’s presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his example of kindness, generosity, and devotion to family will live on through the many lives he touched.

The Frost family takes comfort in knowing that while he is gone from this life, the love he gave so freely remains with them always.

There will be a Celebration of Life event later with invites to follow.