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Robert Cornelisen
Robert Paul Cornelisen, 86, of Pentwater, passed away Friday, February 27, 2025. Born on January 20, 1939, in Detroit, he was the son of Paul and Pauline Cornelisen.
Bob (nicknamed Corny) grew up in Riverside, Illinois, and attended the University of Illinois, where he joined Sigma Chi and met his future wife, Carol. He graduated with a finance degree and served in the Naval Air Reserve. While living in Park Ridge, his career began at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, where he rose to vice president of General Services. He later worked as a banking executive at three different commercial banks in Des Plaines, Illinois and served as chairman of the Des Plaines Economic Development Commission. He also served on the Maine Township High School Board of Education, founded the Park Ridge Cultural Arts Council, and co-founded the Brickton Art Center.
An avid fly fisherman, Bob and Carol retired to Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, where he co-founded the French Broad Fly Fishers Club and helped establish a delayed harvest trout fishery. He and Carol spent their final years in their beloved home in Pentwater, where he played a key role in relocating the Pentwater Museum.
Bob is survived by his sons, Dana (Sandra) Cornelisen of San Antonio, Texas, and Christopher (Amy) Cornelisen of Mapua, New Zealand; as well as nine grandchildren.
Bob was preceded in death by his daughter, Erika (Eno) Cornelisen.
Bob was a happy soul who never met a stranger. A resourceful businessman and strong survivor, he enjoyed mentoring others and finding practical solutions. He will be missed sitting at the head of the table at the family lake house offering his sage advice to his children and grandchildren.
Graveside services are being planned by family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Casting for Recovery (www.castingforrecovery.org), supporting fly fishing retreats for breast cancer survivors.
Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.
www.beaconfh.com
