Gary W. Robinett

Gary Wayne Robinett, 75, of Grandville, Mich., formerly of St. Louis, Mo., passed away on Thursday, August 1, 2024. 

Gary was born in Kansas City, Mo. on January 20, 1949, to Owen (Paul) and Clara (nee Hager) Robinett. Two years later, the family welcomed Ron, who quickly became Gary’s best friend. Paul and Clara moved the family to the Raytown, Mo. area, where Gary lived until he left to attend the University of Missouri in Columbia. He earned a Bachelor of Journalism degree, and soon after graduating, began working in advertising and marketing for several agencies in Kansas City, before starting his own. He later took the opportunity to use his gifts to serve at Lutheran Hour Ministries in St. Louis, where he met his wife, Sarah (Talsma). They were married for 22 years and lived in Missouri, Maryland and Michigan. Despite relocating, Gary remained a steadfast St. Louis Cardinal and University of Missouri Tiger fan; this included traveling the country to cheer on his favorite teams. Anyone who met Gary, never had to guess where his allegiances were. 

Gary’s love of sports is greatly attributed to his Dad, who served as his childhood baseball coach. Both Gary and Ron played in the 3&2 travel league in Kansas City, winning several championships. Gary briefly played at the University of Missouri and enjoyed many years of competitive softball with Ron and dear friend Steve. After playing ball for decades, Gary remained on the field as an Amateur Softball Association (ASA) umpire, earning a place in the National Indicator Fraternity in the ASA Hall of Fame. 

He volunteered as a church elder and youth group leader, a literacy tutor and a city councilman. 

Gary and Sarah enjoyed traveling together, capturing countless photos of their adventures and the beauty of God’s creation. 

Known for his sense of humor and zest for life, Gary’s kindness and thoughtfulness touched many lives and will leave a lasting impact on those who knew him. 

Gary is survived by his wife Sarah; brother Ron and sister-in-law, Vickie, of Oak Grove, Mo.; sisters- and brothers-in-law, Laurie and Mike Genzink, and Jane and Dave Mulder; nieces and nephews Carrie and Joe Steuber (Madi and Maci); Garon and Anita Robinett (Hudson and Patton); Brandon and Annie Robinett (Luke); Kathy and David Scrace (Walter); Jon Mulder; Andy and Anna Mulder (Teddy); Lisa Genzink; and Scott Genzink and Kate Brandus. 

Visitation will be Monday, August 5, at MKD Funeral Home in Grandville, from 2-4 p.m. Burial will be in Honey Creek, MO. with a private graveside service.