Robert M. Wygant's Obituary
Robert "Bob" M. Wygant (age 90) passed away peacefully on April 8 at Poppen Hospice Residence. He was born in New Haven, Connecticut. He received his B.S.E. in industrial engineering from Ohio State University, his M.B.A. from Western Michigan University (WMU), his M.S.I.E. in industrial engineering from University of Michigan, and his Ph.D. from University of Houston.Bob's first career was flying. He served in the Marine Corps as a jet pilot and primary flight instructor. While stationed at El Toro air base in California, he met his wife, Mary (Larson). After service he entered civilian aviation as a commercial pilot for TWA.He then started his next chapter in engineering, working as chief industrial engineer, manufacturing manager, and plant manager. Bob joined the Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering department at WMU as a professor from 1978-2004. While pursuing his teaching career he established two significant programs around developing child restraint and handicap enabled closures and the International MODAPTS Association at WMU.He had many publications and research endeavors focusing on the themes of ergonomics and work design and measurement. As well as being a certified manufacturing engineer, licensed MTM, MODAPTS and MOST Practitioner, Bob was appointed by the governor to Michigan's General Industry Safety Commission. In 1995, Bob moved back to Muskegon and focused his energies on developing two programs for WMU. He taught a variety of graduate courses in Muskegon, Holland, and Grand Rapids. In his retirement, Bob volunteered for several West Michigan organizations. He enjoyed traveling, building things with friends in his woodshop, birding, spending time by Lake Michigan and with nature, and being with family.He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Mary; his brother Lloyd (Norma) Wygant of Ashland, OH; children Robert Jr. (Karen) Wygant of Muskegon, Jane (Mark) Horrocks of Ionia, Susan (Brian) Jackson of Kalamazoo, and Barbara Wygant of Grand Rapids; grandchildren Briana (Jeff) Ruthkowski, Ross (Elizabeth) Jackson, Cassie Wygant, Elizabeth Horrocks, Kellie Jackson, Robbie Wygant, and Dan (Kayla) Horrocks; and three great grandchildren.Honoring Bob's wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation. A memorial service will take place later this summer.
Shoreline Memorial Services of Muskegon Ph. 231-722-5050
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