Tuscola remembers Robert

TUSCOLA -- The town took time to remember one of its own and honor a person he loved most. Robert Reese lived in Tuscola with his wife and three children. He didn't know a stranger there and Sunday night they paid tribute to a hometown favorite.

Rich Taylor met Robert when he moved to Tuscola 13 years ago. Taylor was immediately drawn to Robert's big personality and even bigger smile. But he quickly learned he wasn't the only one.

"Everybody loved him. There's not another person that I can even think of that can say a bad word about him ever," Taylor said.

Robert was a big fan of the Tuscola Warriors and so was his biggest fan, his son Matthew.

"I think it's important that we give him all the support he needs. This young man lost his dad. That pretty much says everything right there."

Matthew led the Warriors out onto the field tonight. He stood on the sideline with he and his dad's favorite players who wore pink in honor of him. But Robert wasn't just close with people on the field, he made a difference in countless lives young and old.

"Robert Reese was one of our best news persons. He was like really good," family friend Bradly Mast said.

"I liked when he did the restaurant. Traveled around, gave you some ideas of where to go to eat. He was just a very nice man and he will be missed," said Judy Dixson.

"Robert was kindest, gentlest man and he was just so sweet to all our kids. He really loved our football team," said Becky Crist.

Everyone in his town is proud. Whether they knew him personally, or never met him once he was a close friend and an inspiration.

"Good job Robert Reese."

Robert's family has set up a fund to help with the costs of his children's education. If you'd like to donate, you can contact the First State Bank in Tuscola at (217) 253-2265.