Robert A. Green

Robert A. Green, age 82, of Byron Center, Michigan, died and went to be with his Lord on Sunday, July 2, 2023, with his sister, Lucy Ann, at his side. He was preceded in death by his brother, Daniel Green and his parents, Dr. Arthur and Sue Green. He will be lovingly remembered by his siblings, Donna (and Dennis) Kaleugher, William (and Cheryl) Green, and Lucy Ann (and Mick) McGraw; many nieces and nephews and their families.

Born December 16, 1940 in Johnson City, Tennessee, Robert grew up in Belding, Michigan, where he attended a one-room school house through 8th grade and graduated from Belding High School in 1958. After earning his high school diploma, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, proudly serving his country for three years, including a one-year deployment to Germany. Robert was honorably discharged from the Army in March 1962. Following military service, he earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial design from Michigan State University, an institution that remained special to him throughout his life.

For nearly 15 years, Robert worked for Motorola in the Chicago area, residing in the northwest suburbs during that time. In this season, he also served as a key member of the lighting crew at Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, Illinois. Robert, who was afraid of heights, stood more than 30 feet above the sanctuary each week designing and implementing the stage lighting for worship services — it was one of the great joys of his life. He then relocated to Grand Rapids, Michigan to help care for his ailing mother until she passed away in 2007. Robert worked as a security officer for Gerald R. Ford Airport, Meijer Gardens, and Steelcase for nearly 10 years while living in the Grand Rapids area.

Robert had a gentle countenance, was a good listener, delighted in children (especially grand nieces and nephews), and had a wonderful sense of humor.

A funeral service will be held at 11am Monday, July 10, 2023, at Grand Rapids International Fellowship Church located at 3765 Kalamazoo Avenue, SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan, with Pastor Craig Dillman officiating. Burial will be held at Ashley Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet Robert’s family prior to the funeral at 10am at Grand Rapids International Fellowship Church. Those who wish to do so may make a memorial contribution to Grand Rapids Right to Life and/or Emmanuel Hospice in lieu of floral arrangements.