Robert Vernon Talsma

Robert Talsma, age 93, of Grand Rapids went to be with his Lord and Savior in heaven on Friday, January 14, 2022. Robert was, as he described it, born ‘at an early age’ on January 25, 1928 in the Upper Peninsula. He was a Sunday school driver at 12 and a milk truck driver at 16. Robert proudly served his country in the Army at 18. He later went on to attend Calvin College where he sang in the choir and eventually went on to direct both the band and choir. Robert taught music at Kalamazoo Christian High School and East Christian, later becoming the principal of East Christian. He then went on to work 20 years at Taylor publishing, which he retired from at age 63. One of his proudest achievements was directing the King’s Choraliers. The family would like to extend their appreciation to Care Cardinal, especially Angie, for the tender care they provided. He was preceded in death by his wife of 37 years, Virginia; his wife of 27 years, Bobbie; brothers, Egbert, Raymond, and Jack; and brother-in-law, Donald Bolthouse. He will be lovingly remembered by his sons, Steven Talsma, Craig and his wife Cherry Talsma; and many nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. Memorial services will be held Friday, January 21, 1 pm at Calvin CRC, 700 Ethel Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. Burial at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Relatives and friends may meet the family 11am-1pm prior to the service at church. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to either Calvin CRC or the King’s Choraliers.