Robert H. Darling

Robert H. Darling, September 5, 2024, aged 76, of Plymouth. A much-loved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Bob passed away on September 5, 2024, after a long illness, at the age of 76. He is survived by his wife, Cathy; sons, Brad (Julie), Brian (Sarah Primeau), Blake (Paula); and daughter, Kara (Dr. Adil Ali). He has four grandchildren: Willa, Bree, Violet, and Rowan. Bob was born in Detroit and grew up in Lincoln Park. He was proud to attend the University of Michigan, earning a Bachelor’s with honors and Master’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering by 1971. He attended Wayne State Law School until 1975 and entered the practice of Philo, Atkinson, and Darling until 1981, specializing in personal injury and product liability. He practiced with Sommers, Schwartz, Silver, and Schwartz until 2012, then opened his own firm, Robert H. Darling PLLC, in Plymouth. He was very active in the American Board of Trial Advocates, whose primary goal is to educate the American public about the history, value, and right to trial by jury, and is dedicated to elevating the standards of skill, integrity, honor, and courtesy in the legal profession. He earned the title of Advocate in 2011 and became the Michigan chapter president in 2017. He was very involved in implementing Constitution Day in schools, educating students about the Constitution and civility in the law. Bob loved being with his family, the practice of law, and golf. He retained close friendships with his Michigan fraternity brothers from Delta Sigma Phi. He was up for any new adventure, food, art, and loved to travel. Always very positive and friendly, he was a real extrovert and never turned down an invitation from anyone. He leaves us with countless memories of fun at Rondeau Park and family vacations. He will be profoundly missed. There will be a time of gathering on Sunday, October 13th from 3 PM until the 5 PM Celebration of Life service to be held at St. John’s Resort – Mosaic Ballroom, 44045 Five Mile Road, Plymouth. There will also be a dinner to follow. Memorial contributions in Mr. Darling’s memory may be made to ABOTA – the American Board of Trial Advocates – Michigan Chapter, PO Box 66, Grand Ledge, MI 48837. Arrangements entrusted to Vermeulen-Sajewski Funeral Home – Plymouth. To share a memory, please use the Share a Memory tab on this webpage.

Robert H. Darling

October 29, 1947 - September 5, 2024