Madison Heights Mourns Loss of Mayor Pro Tem Bob Corbett
(Crystal A. Proxmire, March 27, 2022)
Madison Heights, MI – Madison Heights Mayor Pro Tem Robert (Bob) Corbett has passed away.
Mayor Roslyn Grafstein released a statement Saturday saying “On behalf of myself and the City Council, we are sad to learn of the passing of our friend and colleague, Mayor Pro Tem Bob Corbett. He was a lifelong resident of Madison Heights and served on Council since 1999 although his civic involvement started long before his Council days. For over 50 years, Bob admirably served the community of Madison Heights. City Council, staff, and I extend our deepest condolences to his family during this difficult time.”
According to his biography, Corbett has lived in Madison Heights since 1955, a few months before the vote was taken to incorporate Madison Heights as a city. He graduated from Bishop Foley High School in 1972 and studied Honors Economics at the University of Detroit. He was an Associate Broker with Century 21 Campbell Realty and is the former President of the South Oakland County Board of Realtors.
Among his many community activities he was a member of the Madison Heights Library Advisory Board, a member of the Charter and Ordinance Review Committee, and a member of the Board of Zoning Appeals, including time as Chairperson. He was also a member of the St. Louise Catholic Community. He and wife Linda had five children.
Residents and friends are sharing their sentiments on social media. “Bob couldn’t have been a nicer man if he tried. So sorry to all who knew him,” said Peggy Rybicki.
City Manager Melissa Marsh said “Madison heights has lost an amazing public servant. I learned something from Bob everything I spoke to him he was always so nice to me! I will miss him so very much.”
Vita Palazzolo posted “Madison Heights has lost another great man who dedicated his whole heart to our community. Such a genuine kind and passionate man. My heart is a little heavy tonight. I’ll miss you my friend.”
Merri Bush said Corbett was “A well educated and thoughtful man of deep compassion. I’m going to miss him.”
Councilperson Mark Bliss also shared his sentiments. “I knew Bob for pretty much my entire life. He was a true pillar of the community. A kind man, who was full of compassion and a never-ending desire to make a difference in the world. He was a colleague, a mentor, and most of all he was a friend.”
According to the Madison Heights City Charter, the next highest vote-getter in the last municipal election will be appointed to fill the City Council Vacancy. In this case it is Toya Aaron.
Details of Corbett’s memorial service will be shared when available. Please check back for updates, or watch the City of Madison Height’s Facebook Page for the latest information.