Jose Robert Cervantes

Jose Robert Cervantes age 77 went to be with his Lord and Savior on March 3, 2011 after a 4 ½ year battle with Multiple Myeloma. He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Elizabeth Cervantes who died in September 2006. Robert was born in Saginaw Michigan. Once graduating from High School he went into the United States Air Force and served for four years. After serving his country he attended Ferris State University to become an Automotive Technician. Following 11 years of working as a mechanic he decided to go back to school to get his Master of Science in Vocational Education and Master of Education Bilingual degrees. Robert taught Automotive Technology for 26 years in various schools within the Grand Rapids area and a Community College in Dowagiac Michigan, retiring in1997. He is survived by his children: Robert Lee (Andrea) Cervantes, Martha Ann (David) Carpenter, and Samuel Eli Cervantes and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Also surviving are his brothers: Angel Cervantes, Ralph Cervantes, Asa Cervantes and sisters: Gloria Gonzales, Deborah Cavazos and their spouses. Robert’s home church was Wealthy Park Baptist in Grand Rapids, MI where he was active in serving the Lord in the church orchestra playing his saxophone for many years. One of his greatest joys was when he would play in a saxophone quintet, with his two sons, Robert Jr., Samuel and two grandson’s Nick and Troy for special music in the church services. Robert and Elizabeth were very active for many years serving the Lord among the Spanish speaking churches in Michigan, Indiana, Florida and Texas. Elizabeth sang Spanish Hymns while Robert would accompany her on his saxophone. They were active, as well, in passing out Bible tracts at various migrant camps and having Vacation Bible School in their home during the summer months with the children in their neighborhood. Only one life will soon be past, only what’s done for Christ will last. Funeral Service will be held Friday March 11 at 1:00 pm at Wealthy Park Baptist Church 2233 Michigan St NE with Pastor Ken Young officiating. Relatives and friends may meet the family Thursday 4 to 8 p.m. at Reyers North Chapel 2815 Fuller Ave NE as well as one hour before the funeral service at church. Burial will be at Kent Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to Wealthy Park Baptist Church 2233 Michigan St NE Grand Rapids, MI 49503.