Bob VanderLeest's Obituary
Bob VanderLeest, age 89, was called home to be with his Lord and Saviour early Tuesday morning, June 12, 2012. He was born May 21, 1923 to Henry and Johanna (VanderMolen) VanderLeest in Muskegon, and was a life resident. Bob worked at Shaw Walker for 35 years, retiring in 1983, and was a member, and former Deacon of Calvin Christian Reformed Church. Bob had many interests in life, but his favorites were fishing, hunting, and golfing. He recently enjoyed celebrating his 89th birthday with his family. He was preceded in death by his first wife, the former Alice L. Piper, on October 14, 1985. Bob married Barbara E. (Postma) Kroeze on June 15, 1986, and she survives him along with three daughters, Jean (Joe) Fodrocy of Muskegon, Barbara (Larry) Huber of Twin Lake, Joan (Mark) Faino of Muskegon; stepchildren, Cheryl (Jack) VandenEnde of NC, Dale Kroeze of NC, Glenn (Chris) Kroeze of Wayland; thirteen grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren; two sisters, Maxine (Ronald) Singleton, JoAnn Sterenberg. He was also preceded in death by a great grandson, Caleb Genson; a great granddaughter, Rebekah VandenEnde; and a sister, Berdina VanDyke. THE FUNERAL SERVICE for Bob will be held at 11:00 AM Friday, June 15, at Calvin Christian Reformed Church, with Rev. John Rop officiating. Burial will take place at Sunrise Memorial Cemetery. VISITATION at Sytsema Funeral Homes, Inc., The Walburn Chapel, 1547 W. Sherman Blvd., Muskegon, MI 49441, (231) 759-8565, will be from 2-4 & 6-8 PM Thursday. You may sign the family’s online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com. Contributions in memory of Mr. VanderLeest may be made to Hearts and Hands at Calvin Church, or Love INC.
What’s your fondest memory of Bob?
What’s a lesson you learned from Bob?
Share a story where Bob's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Bob you’ll never forget.
How did Bob make you smile?