Robert “Bob” DeBoer

Robert (Bob) DeBoer was born on August 26, 1943, to Ben and Anna DeBoer in Rehoboth, New Mexico. He graduated from Holland Christian High School in 1961 and went on to graduate from Calvin College in 1965.

Following graduation, Bob served in the U.S. Army military intelligence, was stationed in Vietnam, and awarded a bronze star for his service. Returning home, he received his teaching certificate from Hope College.

He met the love of his life, Judy De Kam, at Eberhard’s grocery store in Holland, Michigan, where they both worked part time. They were married on August 22, 1969, and recently celebrated 54 years of marriage.

Bob was a faithful follower of Jesus, who led by words and example. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Bob and Judy were blessed with three children, 11 grandchildren and one great-grandson. Aside from the joy of his family, Bob enjoyed reading and listening to historical lectures; and was a faithful member of Rush Creek Bible Church.

He lived with multiple myeloma for the past 10 years and left this earth on Monday, October 2, and by God’s grace is in heaven.

Bob is survived by his wife, Judy; his children: Rob (Julie) DeBoer, Sarah (Jon) VanderHill, and Ryan (Brooke) DeBoer; grandchildren: Brevin (Katie), Corbin, Janelle, and Lindsey DeBoer; Ben (fiancée, Lauren), Grace, Anna, and Kate VanderHill; Owen, Luke, and Izzy DeBoer; great-grandson, Hayes DeBoer; sisters, Jenny Vander Woude, Betty Diepenhorst; and brother, John DeBoer. He was preceded in death by his brother, George.

A celebration of life service will be held on Sunday, October 15, 2023, at 2 p.m. at Rush Creek Bible Church, 2334 - 76th St. SW, Byron Center, with Pastor Cameron Townley officiating. The burial will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family on Saturday, October 14, from 4-7 p.m. at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Unity Christian High School or Rush Creek Bible Church.