Robert Suci
April 7, 1939 - December 21, 2015
Bob Suci was a standout American football player from Grand Blanc, Michigan. Born in Flint, Suci became a multi-sport legend at Grand Blanc High School, earning 15 letters in football, baseball, basketball, and track. He set the Genesee County rushing record as a high school running back under coach Frank Thomas. Suci attended Michigan State University on a football scholarship (1959–1961/62), playing as a two-way offensive and defensive halfback. His speed and versatility earned him recognition as a key Spartan contributor.
He turned professional in the American Football League, playing defensive back for the Houston Oilers in 1962 and the Boston Patriots in 1963. In 1963, Suci led the AFL with 272 interception return yards (ninth-best single-season total in NFL history) and returned two interceptions for touchdowns, including a 98-yard pick-six. He also excelled as a punt and kickoff returner across 20 games. A knee injury before the 1964 season ended his professional career.
After his playing career, Suci lived in Grand Blanc with his wife Merita. They raised three children. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was inducted into the Greater Flint Area Sports Hall of Fame. Suci passed away at age 76, remembered as one of Michigan’s elite local multi-sport athletes.
