Memories & Candles

“Betsy and family, I am sorry to hear of your dads passing. I have a lot of fond memories. We did share the same birthday that was neat. I will miss...Read More »
1 of 9 | Posted by: Sandy Langsford - Ishpeming, MI

“Emily, Betsy and family. I was sorry to hear about your dad. So wish I could have been there for the service. My thoughts and prayers are with you. ”
2 of 9 | Posted by: Debbie Gallion - Woodbury, MN

“Betsy, So sorry to hear about your dad, mom called to let me know. Your dad was a wonderful, caring man I always loved spending time with him at...Read More »
3 of 9 | Posted by: Penney Stack - CIRCLE PINES, MI

“I remember Bob from the American Legion back in 1973-74. He was a very special man who was always so nice to me. He always encouraged me through...Read More »
4 of 9 | Posted by: Mary Beth Polich Rhodes - MI

“Dear Betsy, We're so sadden to hear this news. Please know we're keeping you in our thoughts and hope you find peace in knowing others are caring...Read More »
5 of 9 | Posted by: Liz and George Ellis - AZ

“Emily, Betsy, Ben and family, I am very sorry to hear about the loss of your Dad. It's never an easy time, but even harder close to the Holidays. ...Read More »
6 of 9 | Posted by: Kay Glass - Appleton, WI

“Ben, Betsy and family, so sorry to hear of your dad's passing. I know he brought much joy to all of you. Hold tight to all of your memories. ”
7 of 9 | Posted by: Jamie Lancour - marquette, MI

“Betsy, Ben and families - Sorry to hear about your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Remember the happy moments...Read More »
8 of 9 | Posted by: Kathy (Cuff) Malay - Gwinn, MI

“Dear Ben, Emily and family- We are sorry to hear of your dad's passing. Our hearts and prayers are with you. -Steve & Gretchen Ikkala ”
9 of 9 | Posted by: Steve & Gretchen Ikkala - WI


H. Robert "Bob" Constance, 87, of Marquette, died peacefully Friday morning, December 2, 2011, at his home. Robert was born on November 9, 1924 to Harry and Dena (Dupras) Constance in Marquette. He graduated from Graveraet in 1943 and was a WWII Veteran. He married Dorothy Smith on June 26, 1948 and together they raised a family of five children in Marquette. He worked for the DSS&A Railroad as a store clerk for 18 years and at NMU for 23 years in the Facilities department retiring in 1986. Bob was a dedicated and life member of American Legion Post #44. He was active in the post serving as a Commander and devoting his heart and time to their special programs including the 4th of July Celebration, Tabs for Tots, and the Harlow Park Fountain Restoration and Upkeep. He ran Marquette's Memorial Day Services for over 50 years through the Veterans Council. In his retirement he was an avid vegetable gardener in the summer months and enjoyed getting out in the winter removing the snow in the neighborhood with his snowblower. Saturday coffee with his brothers and old friends was something he never missed. Old time westerns, country music, the Young and the Restless, and his pets were some of his favorite things. He was a good man, neighbor, friend, brother and father. He is survived by his children, Catherine Constance of Cincinnati OH, Paul Constance of Marquette, Benjamin (Tammy) Constance of Marquette, Emily (Tim) Keegan of Wayne NJ and Betsy (John) Jaakola of Marquette; grandchildren, Amber (Chris) Constance-Fladung, Alyshia, Shaylee and Devan Constance of Marquette, Kyle and Dana Keegan of Wayne, NJ and great granddaughter, Olivia Fladung. Brothers, Don Constance and Jim (Joyce) Constance as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy in 2003, brother, Fr. Jogues Constance and a sister- in- law, Rose Constance. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 7, 2011 from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Canale-Tonella Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 7 p.m. in the funeral home with the Rev. Msgr. Michael Steber officiating. Members of American Legion Post #44 of Marquette will provide military honors. Spring interment will be held in the Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers those wishing to make contribution may consider The Peter White Public Library at 217 N. Front Street, Marquette MI 49855 or UPAWS at PO Box 968, Marquette MI 49855. Memories may be shared at www.canalefuneral.com