Robert (Bob) Morris Ligon age 91, of Phoenix, AZ, passed away surrounded by family May 8, 2023, at HonorHealth Scottsdale Osborn Hospital, in Scottsdale, AZ.
He was born August 23, 1931, in Highland Park, MI, the son of James Dimmitt Ligon and Mary Whitlock (Morris) Ligon. He is survived by brother, James; sisters Patricia and Jean; and brother Richard.
Bob was a man of few words, but deep of thought. Throughout his life he enjoyed traveling, boating, and was an accomplished pilot. Bob was a veteran of the Korean war. After his discharge in June 1953, he returned home to Michigan. Bob attended Michigan State and Lawrence Technological Universities studying engineering and worked at his father and uncle’s business, Hamill Manufacturing Co. of Washington, MI. He worked in various automotive manufacturing businesses, including as President of Firestone seatbelt division, after the Ligon Family sold Hamill Manufacturing to Firestone in 1966. He also owned Avion Coach Company with several family members through the early 1970’s. Bob and partner, Wilbur (Gene) Lane founded L&L Products, Inc. in Almont, MI in 1958.
Bob married Margaret (Peggy) Darling December 16, 1954 after meeting at Orchard Molding, which he co-owned and operated as a young man. They welcomed their first child, a son, John in 1955, followed by daughters Kyle, Lisa, Lesle, and Katy. One of Bob’s favorite memories was traveling with Peggy and their children in their motorhome when the children were young.
Bob was a very generous, sharing, and caring individual, personally and in business with his employees. Bob and Gene’s vision of L&L was that it “Should be a good place for all who touch it”. One of his beliefs was reflected in the famous quote, “Better to light a candle than curse the darkness”.
Bob & Gene started the L&L Products Educational Foundation over thirty years ago to support the families of employees in gaining post-secondary education and degrees. His belief in philanthropy led to his support of Wayne State University and Kresge Eye Institute with the Ligon Research Center of Vision. Bob supported many charitable efforts, including Habitat for Humanity and helped build 14 houses.
Bob was married to Peggy until her passing in 1985. In 1987 Bob married Gerry (Johnson) Heidebreicht until her passing in 2012. He married Leslie (Heathcote) Lamborn in 2013 until his passing.
Bob is survived by his wife, Leslie Lamborn, his son John (Julie), and daughters Lesle Cole (David Brennan) and Katy Galloway (Justin Phillips). Bob has 11 grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his daughters, Lisa Knowles and Kyle Ligon.
Visitation from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Muir Brothers Funeral Home in Almont on Thursday, June 8.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the L&L Educational Foundation, 160 McLean Dr., Romeo, MI 48065.
