Robert Allen Sheldon

Robert Allen Sheldon, age 74 of Grandville, MI, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his wife and children, Friday August 21, 2026, after courageously living with stage 4 kidney cancer for the last three years.

Bob, as he was known by most (a few special people still called him Robert), had many loves in his life: his family, his church, food, and sports. These loves often intertwined leading to the most enjoyable moments of his life.

Bob’s greatest love was his beautiful wife, Sherry. They met when they were 18 years old thanks to an introduction by his sister, Gerrie. They were married at 19, and began their life together. They would eventually move to Grandville where they would raise their family. He worked at the Grand Rapids Keebler/Kellogg’s factory for over 30 years. Throughout their marriage, they enjoyed supporting community and school events. On August 14, 2026, they celebrated their 55th anniversary with their children and grandchildren. Their love for each other has been a great inspiration and example for their children, grandchildren, family, and friends.

Dad loved sports. He grew up playing baseball, football, basketball and if you heard his stories he was really fast! As an adult, he joined the church softball team and started golfing and bowling. He was a lifelong Detroit Tigers fan and enjoyed attending West Michigan Whitecaps games, especially on bobblehead nights. Often dressed in green and white, he loved cheering for Michigan State. He passed on his love of sports, serving as little league coach for Todd and Amy’s teams. When he wasn’t playing his own sports or coaching, he was always there to support his children, whether it was baseball, tennis, dance, or band. He continued that dedication and support for his grandchildren. Golfing and bowling were among his favorite ways to spend time with friends and family. He pushed through the pain to continue bowling throughout his journey with cancer. His golf partners and bowling friends will all miss him greatly.

Bob enjoyed cooking for his family, friends, and church. Whether it was the Fourth of July, at church for Easter breakfast, or just a regular Thursday night before bowling you could find him in front of the grill or the stove preparing something delicious. He was a notoriously picky eater which led to constant nagging from his family, but his stubbornness was always stronger. Those of us who knew him well know that Bob’s version of Heaven will have “no pickles."

Robert was a member of Bethel Lutheran Church, where he served his Lord dutifully. For over more than 50 years in the church, he held many leadership roles and built lifelong relationships. He was a true servant and helped create strong fellowship in the church. His presence will be missed by the congregation.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Sherry (Perrin) Sheldon; his beloved children Todd Sheldon and Amy Duggan; daughter-in-law, Melinda Sheldon and son-in-law, Josh Duggan, with whom he shared special relationships; and his grandchildren Kylie and Drew Sheldon, whom he cherished; and by his devoted dog, Rosie, and grand-dogs Sparkles and Luna.

He is also survived by his siblings Gerrie (Ken) Vennesland, Gayle (Ernie) Chernoby; brother-in-law, Jeff (Mary Frey) Perrin; as well as many nieces, nephews, and their families.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents Richard and Gloria Sheldon and his mother- and father-in-law, Gilbert and Alice Perrin.

The family will hold a visitation from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, August 27, 2026 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, August 28 at Bethel Lutheran Church, 3655 Wilson Ave. SW, Grandville, MI 49418, with visitation from 10-10:45 a.m. prior. Burial service will follow at Grandville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to the Humane Society of West Michigan. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in Bob's online guestbook.