Robert Mcleod

We are both saddened and filled with joy to celebrate the adventurous and creative life of Robert "Bear" McLeod, who left us on February 17, 2024. Born in Lansing, MI, on July 12, 1956, Bear was a man larger than life, endowed with a talent for leather tooling and a passion for the great outdoors that led him to a fulfilling career as a lumberjack. After 15 years of making the woods of Idlewild, Michigan his home and playground, Bear retired in 2024 from his business, BearMesha Leather and Wood. Over the years, Bear became a beloved figure in the community, known for his courage and the joy he found in living life to its fullest. Bear was a man of many passions. He loved to cut and split wood, work on leather, and ride his Harley, taking to the open road with a zest for life that few could match. His commitment to his hobbies was only matched by his dedication to his community. Bear served as a sound technician and parade chauffeur for MESHA Ministries, a Vice-President for the Christian Motorcycle Association Chapter 1129, and a board member for the North West Emmaus Community. He was also an active member of the Covenant Community United Methodist Church of Baldwin. Bear's love for being involved was evident in every aspect of his life. In the words of his favorite scripture, Jeremiah 31:33, "I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people." Bear embodied this scripture, living out his faith and values in everything he did. He was a talented and creative individual who brought joy and inspiration to all who knew him. His love for pansies, which he humorously referred to as a "man's flower", showed his lighthearted approach to life. Bear is survived by his wife, "Mesha" Melissa; his son, Wyatt Lee; grandchildren, Brian Michael Lee Jackson & Anna Maria Jackson; and his brothers, Richard and David, and their children & grandchildren. He is also remembered by Peanut Butter, their beloved dog, and 19 rescued cats. Bear was preceded in death by his father, Donald McLeod; mother, Dorothy Bank; and brother, Duane McLeod. Bear's life was a testament to his adventurous spirit, creativity, talent, and courage. His presence and laughter will be greatly missed but his spirit will continue to inspire us all. A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 9, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at Covenant Community United Methodist Church, 5330 South M-37 Baldwin, MI, 49304, with a luncheon to follow. Cards may be sent to 14 East Bates, Idlewild, MI 49642. We invite you to share your favorite memories and photographs of Bear on his memorial page. Your stories and pictures will help keep his adventurous spirit alive in all of us. To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Bear’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory or photo, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Robert Mcleod, please visit our flower store.