Robert “Bob” Norman Stein, age 83, of Munising, died peacefully in his sleep at home on Sunday, August 23, 2026.

Bob was born on June 21, 1943, in Melrose Park, Illinois, to the late Louis and Amelia Stein. He graduated from Leyden High School before beginning his military service. Bob proudly served his country in both the United States Navy and United States Air Force, serving four years in the Air Force and spending time at Kinross. It was there that he fell in love with the Upper Peninsula, especially its winters and snow.

After returning home, Bob met Lorraine “Lori” Stein. The two were married on November 23, 1969. Bob worked for Illinois Bell Telephone, and together he and Lori began their family. They welcomed their daughter Brenda in 1973, followed by their daughter Julie in 1977.

In 1975, Bob and his family made the move to the Upper Peninsula and purchased the Alger Falls Motel in Munising. Running the motel became a true family affair and a labor of love. Over the years, Bob formed relationships with countless guests, many of whom returned year after year and became familiar faces and friends.

Bob retired in 2001 and moved full-time to 16 Mile Lake, a place that became an important part of his life. He knew the surrounding forests well and loved everything the Upper Peninsula had to offer.

Bob played an integral role in creating and marking Alger County’s snowmobile trail system and drew the area’s first snowmobile map. He also helped start and remained active with the Munising Visitors Bureau, continuing to share his knowledge of the area and help guide others.

Throughout the years, Bob was involved with the Lions Club, American Legion, Chamber of Commerce, and Pictured Rocks Golf Course.

When he wasn’t helping his community, Bob could often be found enjoying the things he loved most. He loved golfing, snowmobiling, riding his side-by-side, taking the pontoon boat out on the lake, making pizzas, eating desserts, spending time with friends, and, of course, finding a great sale. He especially loved family days on Sundays, when he could spend time surrounded by those closest to him. Some of his happiest times were spent at 16 Mile Lake with family and friends.

Bob is survived by his wife of more than 56 years, Lori Stein; daughters, Brenda Walther of Munising and Julie (Nick) Johnson of Marquette; grandchildren, Alexis Walther of Marquette, Blake Walther of Munising, and Lauren Johnson of Marquette; and his sister, Penelope (Paul) Swiech.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Amelia Stein; his brothers, Louis Stein and Ken Stein; and his son-in-law, Daniel Walther.

Services will be held at Bowerman Funeral Home in Munising on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. Visiting time with family and friends will be from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. Vicar Elaine Robbins will conduct Bob’s memorial service at 3:00 p.m. A gathering will take place at the Barge Inn following the memorial service.