Robert Wierenga

Robert James Wierenga of Grand Rapids, passed away peacefully at home on July 9, 2021 at the age of 74, after a long battle with illness. Bob was born on March 14, 1947 to Kenneth and Edith (Van Bennekom) Wierenga. Bob graduated from Creston High School in 1965 and went on to proudly serve his country during the Vietnam War as a heavy vehicle driver between 1966 and 1968. He was honorably discharged on May 10, 1968 with the rank of Sergeant.

Soon after returning to Grand Rapids, Bob met and fell in love with Karen Patricia Judd of Cleveland, Ohio who shares his same March 14 birthdate. On September 6, 1969, Bob and Karen were united in marriage.

Bob spent his career working for Steelcase, Inc. It was his career journey that led him to several life-long friends who he enjoyed hunting, fishing and the outdoors in Irons, MI during his retirement.

Bob also enjoyed competitive bowling, avidly participating in various tournaments over the past 50 years. Bob only recently hung up his bowling shirt after bowling four strikes in a row, leaving the lanes at the top of his game. An avid sports fan, Bob loved Tigers baseball and Michigan State Basketball; but was at his happiest watching his children and grandchildren compete in high school and college athletics.

All of these accomplishments and hobbies aside, Bob was most loved by his family for being a dedicated husband, loving father and grandfather, and loyal friend.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, and is survived by his wife of 52 years, Karen (Judd) Wierenga and his four children: Jeffrey (Robin) Wierenga, Sarah (Jeffrey) Smoger, Matthew (Katelyn) Wierenga and Patrick (Breanne) Wierenga; his grandchildren: Joshua, Alyssa, Karianna, Luke, Benjamin, Ava, Myles, Nicholas, William, Owen, Nora, Zoe, Sawyer and Poppy; his sisters, Peg (Larry) Dells and Marti (Wayne) Fish, as well as several other relatives and his beloved four-legged friend, Oreo.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 14, 2021 at 12:00pm at Reyers North Valley Chapel. The family will receive visitors one hour prior (11am - 12pm).