HIGH POINT, N.C.–Robert Lewis “Bob” Sligh, industry leader and president of Sligh Furniture Company from 1968 until 1990 passed away May 21 in Vero Beach, Fla. at the age of 84.
Born in Grand Rapids, Mich., Sligh grew up in the furniture business working at both Sligh and Baker Furniture plants as a teenager. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Michigan in 1950 with a major in wood technology, followed by a year of post-graduate work. Bob served as an intelligence officer in the U.S. Air Force before joining Sligh Furniture Company in 1954. By 1957, he assumed chief operating responsibility for Sligh, and led the company until his retirement in 1993.
Bob was chairman and board member of the Kendall School of Art and Design, president and board member of the National Association of Furniture Manufacturers, president and board member of the Grand Rapids Furniture Manufacturers Association, chairman and board member of the Greater Holland United Way, and board member for the Holland Chamber of Commerce.
In addition to his significant contributions to the furniture industry, Bob was the men’s U.S. National Water Ski Champion in 1947, and runner up the following year. He also won the prestigious Great Lakes Ensign Class sailing championship five times between 1974 and 1982.
Bob is survived by his wife, Lois Sligh, three children, nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Bob’s son, Rob Sligh, is the current president of Sligh Furniture Company, which is a division of Lexington Home Brands.
Those wishing to sign the Robert Sligh guest book may do so at www.coxgiffordseawinds.com [1].