“Work with your back or work with your head”

“Work with your back or work with your head” was a motto Robert Klose’s family used a lot as he was growing up. But Robert believes in doing both – he values education and putting education into practice.

Robert holds multiple degrees from prestigious universities, including the University of Michigan, the University of Cambridge, and Harvard University. Not only did he focus on his studies, but Robert has also spent most of his life caring for others.

“I was good at taking care of people, and it was satisfying and fulfilling,” Robert said.

Early in life, Robert obtained his pilot’s license. In 1973, he enlisted in the Air Force and served in the Vietnam War. He then went on to obtain multiple degrees in nursing and health care. Robert spent the majority of his career caring for quadriplegics, people with spinal cord issues, and people with Alzheimer’s Disease.

“By caring for people, I felt like I was preventing suffering and prolonging people’s lives,” Robert said.

Though education and hard work are important to Robert, faith stands above all else. He has faithfully been part of the First Presbyterian Church in Ann Arbor, Mich. for 20 years.

“I discovered the God I didn’t know, and I now feel like I belong,” Robert said. “Everyone genuinely cares and will do anything to help me.”