Charles R. Cushman

Charles R. Cushman, lovingly known as Bob, passed away in Kalamazoo on July 23, 2026, at the age of 86. Born in Plainwell on May 7, 1940, he was the son of Charles “Bill” and Wilma (Reed) Cushman. 

Bob lived a life defined by dedication, craftsmanship and steadfast commitment to his family and community. Bob formed a deep and lasting bond with his high school sweetheart, Janet Smith. Janet and Bob were married on September 19, 1959, marking the beginning of a partnership that flourished for 66 years and stood as a testament to their enduring love. 

Bob began his career at Kal-Equip and Titus Construction in 1958. In 1972 Bob went on to own and operate Cushman Construction until his well-deserved retirement 32 years later. Bob pursued his interests with equal enthusiasm, never shying away from new experiences or challenges. He enjoyed taking flying lessons, water skiing and boating. He demonstrated remarkable craftsmanship by building a boat while still in high school. Bob also enjoyed being part of the community. Bob was a member of the Otsego Elks and volunteered with the Boy Scouts (he was an Eagle Scout!). Bob was also a member of the Otsego Board of Education, the Otsego Township Planning Commission and the Otsego Township Board. Bob was named an Outstanding Alumnus by Otsego High School and was enshrined as such in 2006. 

Family was the centerpiece of Bob’s life, and he was happiest when surrounded by them. Surviving are his wife, Janet Cushman and his children Pam (Douglas) Boor of Petoskey, Yvonne (Darryl) Belton of Otsego, Sherry (John) Mannikko of Kalamazoo and Chuck (Kristi) Cushman of Plainwell. Also surviving are his 12 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews and his siblings William “Bill” Cushman, Sally Cook and Walter “Butch” Cushman. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters Shirley Godfrey and Sharon Schrotenboer. 

A private burial of ashes will take place at Mountain Home Cemetery in Otsego.

The passing of Bob leaves a legacy of devotion to those that he loved and to the communities that he served. While he will be deeply missed, he will forever be remembered for his integrity, generosity and the many lives he touched. 

A memorial contribution may be made to the Cushman Scholarship via Otsego Public Schools Foundation, PO Box 251, Otsego, MI 49078. Bob’s family encourages anyone wanting to visit with the family to plan an arranged time to visit individually and those wishing to send messages of condolence may do so to Janet Cushman, 1700 Bronson Way Rm 367, Kalamazoo, MI 49009. 

Messages of condolence may also be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.