Robert Don Jewell's Obituary
Robert (Bob) D. Jewell, age 93, passed away on January 5, 2024. He was born in Muskegon, MI, on August 1, 1930, to Gaylord and Wilma (Barger) Jewell. Bob graduated from Fremont High School in 1948, and went on to graduate from Alma College. He married Marianne Geerlings in Fremont in 1953. Marianne passed away in 1983. On December 23, 1988, he married Louise (Achterhoff) Forner and they spent 35 wonderful years together. He was known for his success in growing Muskegon Business College into a statewide career college known as Baker College. During his professional career of 63 years, he served as President and Chairman of the Board for the Baker College System and on many community and private boards and service clubs. He was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. He loved hunting, fishing, and boating and enjoyed being with family, friends, and colleagues. Robert is survived by his loving wife, Louise Jewell; three children: Susan Jewell Bergmans of North Muskegon, Thomas (Carri) Jewell of Gulf Breeze, Florida, and Keri (Dr. Chris Petras) Forner of Spring Lake; three grandchildren: Trevor (Kelley) Jewell, Ross Jewell, and Jordan Fairbanks; one great-grandchild: Eleanor Fairbanks; sister-in-law Jane (Jim) Boyle, brother-in-law Tom (Linda) Achterhoff; many special nieces and nephews and his little dog, Maddie. Robert is preceded in death by his parents: Gaylord and Wilma Jewell; first wife: Marianne Jewell; sister: Ilene Jones; and son-in-law: Alan Bergmans. Wednesday, January 10, 2024, there will be a private family funeral followed by a visitation from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm at the Lee Chapel. In lieu of flowers please consider making a memorial contribution to Laketon Bethel Reformed Church or Trinity Health at Home - Grand Haven. Arrangements by the Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI, 49444. Please sign the family’s online guestbook and share memories with the family at sytsemafh.com
What’s your fondest memory of Robert?
What’s a lesson you learned from Robert?
Share a story where Robert's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Robert you’ll never forget.
How did Robert make you smile?