Robert John Deboer

On Monday May 4th, Robert John DeBoer, age 97, left on his final biking adventure to parts unknown. With the help of Faith Hospice he died peacefully at home surrounded by Lois, his loving wife of 70 years and his four children, Mary Fuller (Tom), Dick DeBoer (Maggie), Anne Risch and Kathryn Graves (Tim).

Bob was born on January 28, 1929. He was a lifelong Grand Rapidian and attended Central High School where he was captain of the football team. He graduated from the University of Michigan Law School in 1957 and practiced law in Grand Rapids until retiring on his 63rd birthday.

Bob was a kind, gracious, joy filled man who had the patience of a saint and never lost his temper. He gave generously of his time, his money, and most importantly, his love to all who knew him. He was president of Our Hope, delivered Meals on Wheels and read poetry at a respite center to anyone who would listen. He sang off key songs often (while biking, skiing, driving or wandering around the house) and had an amazing repertoire of old songs – many of which had lyrics he made up. He was an accomplished artist (watercolors, charcoal, pencil, pen and ink), an avid gardener, and a good cook. He was also a natural athlete who enjoyed multiple sports – tennis, pickleball, road biking, windsurfing, water skiing, and tai chi, most of which he continued into his 80’s and 90’s. Post retirement he and Lois took more than 40 bicycle trips around the world with family and friends.

Bob was the best of the best as a husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He adored babies. He was devoted to his family first and foremost but also was an amazing friend and role model to anyone in his orbit. He built ice rinks in the front yard, carted kids and their friends north for day ski trips and spent countless hours in the water holding the tips of skis while kids learned to water ski. He crafted hundreds of sand race cars and castles on the beach and taught his kids how to fish from a canoe. He rarely said no to his kids (except when his daughters wanted horses and his son wanted a motorcycle), gave only sparse advice, let his kids make their own mistakes and was always there to pick them up afterwards.

Bob was cherished, admired and loved by all who knew him. He was a shining example of how to embrace life and live it to its fullest. He will be sorely missed. Donations can be made to Planned Parenthood of Michigan, Faith Hospice, or to a charity of one’s choice. An Open House to celebrate his unforgettable life will be held at his home at 1935 Wealthy St. SE. on Saturday, June 20th from 1 PM to 6 PM