Robert W. Derby's Obituary
Robert W. Derby, age 90, passed away Tuesday, February 27, 2018. He was born October 26, 1927 in Muskegon to William and Frances (Lods) Derby. Bob was in the Army National Guard, Merchant Marines, and U.S. Coast Guard. He was a member of the VFW and Holton American Legion. On July 30, 1951 he married the former Wava A. Rinehart in LaGrange County, IN and she preceded him in death on October 9, 1972. Bob had worked for Browne-Morse for 35 years prior to his employment with National Products. He retired in 1992. He was a member of the Moose, Lithuanian Club, and the Ravenna Conservation Club. He was also a member of the Muskegon Heights Eagles and their bowling league. Bob bowled for Team Edmar and was known as “Lefty” by his team mates. He also enjoyed woodworking, hunting and fishing, traveling, camping, riding motorcycles with his friends, and going to his cottage on Clear Lake with his family. SURVIVORS include 3 children: William Robert (Brenda) Derby of Muskegon, Debra (Charles) Malenfant, Steve (Josie) Derby both of Twin Lake; 4 grandchildren: Wava and Chuck Malenfant, Jennifer Derby, Jason (Amy) Derby; 3 great-grandchildren: Justin and Brennen Derby, Conner Malenfant; 2 brothers: Charles (Donna) Derby of Twin Lake, Kenneth (Karen) Derby of Walkerville; sister-in-law, Shirley Derby of Fruitport; and many nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by brothers, Donald and Marion Derby, and sister-in-law, Mary “Snookie” Derby. A Celebration of Bob’s life will be held 1:00 PM Sunday, March 18, 2018 at the Rusty Spoke (2411 Hall Rd., Muskegon). Burial will take place in Sunrise Memorial Gardens. Share memories with the family at their On-line Guest Book at www.sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Sytsema Chapel, 737 Apple Ave., (231) 726-5210
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