STANTON TWP., Mich. - Robert Eric Karinen, 79, of Stanton Township and Stuart, Fla., passed away in Stuart, Fla. on Sunday, November 1, 2009.

Robert was born on July 20, 1930, in Oskar, the son of Peter and Ethel (Lantto) Karinen.

He was united in marriage to the former Joyce June Kauppila on June 8, 1951.

He attended the Redridge Schools until the 10th grade when he left school to help out on the family farm.

He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy on February 27, 1952 after serving in the Korean War on the submarine, USS Requin.

Robert spent many years employed as an electrician and tool and die maker in the Detroit area. In 1973, the family moved to South Lyon where they lived for over 20 years.

He enjoyed traveling around the world with his wife and they visited many countries and states through the years. He also enjoyed puttering around the house and garage. He was known for his abilities to fix just about anything. During his later years, he became fascinated with computers and the internet and let his two-finger typing connect him to the world.

Robert is survived by his loving wife of 58 years; children, Michael of Oskar, Colleen of Hancock, Audrey (Michael) Hamlin of Westland, Mark (Holly) of Novi, Robert (Amy) of Commerce Township, Ethel (Patrick) Kluesner of Howell, and Jason (fiancee, Jeani Perala) of Davisburg; grandchildren, Christy (John) Rhanor, Cory and Kyle Hamlin, Eric Karinen, Robert and Kayleigh Karinen, Andrew and Kelly Kluesner; two great-grandchildren, Brandon and Erica Rhanor; brother, Gary; and sister, Susan (Dave) Ditner; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Janice Hawkins.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.