William "Bob" Wolniakowski's Obituary
William “Bob” Wolniakowski lived a life shaped by faith, service, hard work, and deep devotion to the people he loved. Born in Grand Haven in 1930 to Stephen and Antoinette Wolniakowski, he grew up in a close‑knit community that nurtured the values he carried throughout his life. After graduating from Grand Haven High School, he attended Muskegon Community College until he was called to serve his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. His bravery and dedication were recognized with the awarding of the Bronze Star, an honor he accepted with characteristic humility. In April of 2018 Bob was the recipient of the Honor Flight and was flown to Washington, D.C. where he was escorted on a visit to national memorials and honored for his service and sacrifices.
In 1954, he married the love of his life, Wilma Vermeer, beginning a 70‑year partnership filled with devotion, laughter, and unwavering support. Together they raised three children—Robert (Jean), Steven (Sandy) and Patricia (Kevin) Frantz—and their family grew to include eleven grandchildren and twelve great‑grandchildren, each one a treasured source of pride and joy.
Bob’s career path was long and varied, reflecting his strong work ethic and commitment to community. He worked with Hostetters and Construction Aggregate before he and Wilma became the proud owners and operators of the Seaway Party Store in Grand Haven. For more than thirty years, Bob welcomed customers with warmth, humor, and genuine care, creating a place where people felt known and valued. He retired at age 70, grateful for the friendships and memories built over decades. In 2022, former employees organized a celebration to honor his mentorship and impact. The many heartfelt tributes shared that day were received by Bob with gratitude and humility.
Faith was a guiding force throughout his life. As a young boy, he served as an altar server at St. Patrick’s/St. Anthony Church—the same church where he and Wilma later married. He later became a devoted member of St. Mary’s in Spring Lake, where he continued to live out his beliefs through service and community involvement.
Above all, Bob found joy in celebrating life with his loving wife and family. He cherished gatherings, milestones, and the everyday moments that filled their home with love and laughter.
He was proud to be a lifetime member of the American Legion, Eagles, VFW, and Knights of Columbus, organizations that reflected his lifelong commitment to service, camaraderie, and community. Bob and Wilma also enjoyed their time as members of the Riviera Yacht Club, where he served a term as Commodore.
Bob was preceded in death by his siblings, Roman and Helen, and is now reunited with them in peace.
The family would like to thank and acknowledge American House Assisted Living and Emmanuel Hospice for their dedicated and loving care.
A Memorial Mass will be held 11:00 AM Monday, April 20, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the service at church. Interment and military honors will take place in Fort Custer National Cemetery. Memorial contributions in memory of Bob may be given to Emmanuel Hospice. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services.
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