Robert Finnie

Robert Leroy Finnie, of Ada, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 23, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was 95 years old. Bob was diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease one year ago and faced his illness with grace and strength. 

Bob was a graduate of Kelloggsville High School and proudly served in the Army Reserves. A dedicated and hardworking businessman, he owned and operated Grand Rapids Welding Supply Company and later Northern Industrial Gases in Traverse City, where he built a reputation for integrity and commitment.

Family was the greatest joy of Bob’s life, especially his grandchildren. He also instilled a deep love of travel in his family, taking them on countless adventures and vacations that together spanned nearly all 50 states-creating memories that will be treasured for generations. After retirement, Bob and his beloved wife, Delores, spent many cherished summers on Torch Lake-boating, gathering around bonfires, and watching sunsets with their children and grandchildren. In later years, Bob enjoyed watching University of Michigan football and Detroit Red Wings games with family, particularly his “best friend,” his grandson, Marc.

Bob will be remembered for his great sense of humor, his love of storytelling, and his infectious laugh. Above all, he was known for his kindness, generosity, and unwaveringly positive outlook on life.

Bob is survived by the love of his life and wife of 74 years, Delores; his children, Jill (Tom) Anderson, Jane VanderSloot (Glen Dillon), and Robert (Cheryl) Finnie II; grandchildren, Rebecca (Tom) Stewart, Ross Finnie (Chris Waters), Kaylee (Collin) Wolff, Marc Anderson, and Laura VanderSloot; his niece, Sue (Dick) Richards; and cousins, Kristie Richards and Alyssa Richards. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ann McVoy and “Bud” Finnie.

A memorial service will be held at 2 pm on Friday, January 30, 2026, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW with Pastor Brady Nemmers officiating. Relatives and friends may visit with the family Friday from 1-2 pm at the funeral home prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Maȟpíya Lúta (formerly Red Cloud Indian School) or Faith Hospice.