Frankfort, Michigan, October 10, 2025
News Summary
Robert ‘Bob’ Widman Appleford, a beloved lawyer and athlete, passed away after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. His legacy includes a commitment to sports and community service, impacting both his profession and local governance. A star quarterback in high school, he excelled in sports at university while dedicating 40 years to law in Detroit. Bob’s community involvement and love for his family were profound elements of his life, and he leaves behind a cherished legacy.
Frankfort, Michigan – Robert “Bob” Widman Appleford, a respected lawyer and celebrated athlete, passed away on September 26, 2025, at the age of 90 after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. His death marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to both his profession and athletics.
Born on March 8, 1935, in Detroit, Michigan, Appleford was the son of Alexander A. Appleford and Marguerite W. Appleford. His early years were characterized by notable achievements in sports, particularly tennis and football, where he exhibited significant talent. Bob’s athletic journey began as a star quarterback for Birmingham Seaholm High School, showcasing his skills on the field long before pursuing higher education.
Following high school, Appleford continued to excel in sports at Williams College, graduating in 1957. His respect for education led him to earn a law degree from the University of Michigan, after which he practiced law for 40 years in the Detroit area. Throughout his legal career, Appleford became known for his integrity, honesty, and commitment to his clients, establishing a legacy of trust and reliability in his field.
Appleford’s dedication to his community was evident through his active participation in various boards and committees. Notably, he served as a commissioner for the City of Birmingham and was elected mayor in the 1980s, contributing significantly to local governance and development.
In his personal life, Bob met his wife, Molly Olson, while they were both in high school, and the couple married in 1958. They built a life together in Birmingham, Michigan, where they raised four children: Judy, Annie DeVries (married to Mike), David (married to Robin), and Scott (married to Alison). Bob and Molly shared 67 years of marriage, with their favorite retreat being their home in the woods on Lake Michigan in Frankfort. They also welcomed numerous grandchildren, to whom Bob was deeply devoted: Maggie, Ben, Charlie, William, Luke, Caroline, and Lily.
Bob was an avid sports enthusiast, passionately supporting the Detroit Tigers and the University of Michigan Wolverines throughout his life. His love for sports extended beyond mere fandom; it was a fundamental part of his identity and a testament to his competitive spirit.
Appleford is survived by his beloved wife, Molly, their four children, and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, John W. Appleford.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Bob’s memory be made to the following organizations: the Crystal Lake Watershed Association, the Benzie Conservation District, and the Benzie Wellness & Aquatic Center, all contributing to the wellbeing of the local community and environment that Bob cherished.
Appleford’s obituary was published online on October 09, 2025, a fitting tribute to a life well-lived and a legacy that will endure in the hearts of those who knew him. His contributions to both law and sports will be remembered fondly by family, friends, and the community he served.
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Additional Resources
- Detroit News Obituary
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Legacy Obituary
- Google Search: Robert Appleford
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
