Robert Faasse

Bob Faasse was a delight to know and love. Well liked, Bob never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. Those closest to Bob would agree he was a man of faith and loved his family. Marked by a time of prosperity in America, Bob’s story began just as the Roaring Twenties emerged as a decade of economic prosperity rich with optimism and innovation. Yet nestled along the Grand River in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Lewis and Nellie (Vanden Bout) Faasse had some exciting news of their own on August 18, 1927 when they welcomed the birth of their youngest son, Robert.

Bob’s father was a hard working tool and die maker while his mother remained home, raising Bob along with his sister, Frances and brother, Donald. Throughout their lives they continued to remain close. His family made their home at 1320 Union Street NE in Grand Rapids where Bob enjoyed the adventures of childhood swimming, ice skating, fishing, and hunting. During summer vacations, Bob’s family often rented cottages on several inland lakes across Michigan including Big Star Lake, Silver Lake and Long Lake. Precious family gatherings and dinners were spent during the holidays and other special occasions where numerous memories were made and enjoyed. Raised in a family of faith, Bob’s family were devoted members of the Netherlands Reformed Church.

Despite the onset of the Great Depression during Bob’s youth, he remained in school, having received his early education at Coit Elementary. He graduated from Creston High School with the Class of 1945 at the age of 17, and with World War II nearing a thankful end, Bob enlisted to serve in the U.S. Navy in July of 1945. Honorably discharged from the service, he went on to attend Grand Rapids Junior College and Michigan State University.

Bob met his future wife, Kay while ice skating on Soft Water Lake one winter. Bob had worked as a landscaper and also installed antennas for a living while Kay was employed by the City of Grand Rapids. The couple dated for two years and on December 31, 1949 they were married at Westminster Presbyterian Church in downtown Grand Rapids. The newlyweds honeymooned in Chicago, although returned early due to the bitter winter conditions. They made their first home on Pine Street NW where they were eventually blessed with three fine sons, Kurt, Brian and Eric. Although a firm parent, Bob was just as loving and enjoyed spending time with his family. He later worked as a wholesale salesman and provided a good home for his family.

For 67 years, Bob and his family enjoyed family trips to a cottage on Long Lake in Traverse City. Later he and Kay also traveled to Florida, the Carolina’s and trips in the Caribbean. Among his hobbies, fishing and hunting were his passions. He so enjoyed these times with his sons, grandchildren, and friends. He collected guns for hunting and enjoyed fishing the many lakes in Michigan. He went ice fishing most weekends in the winter when the ice was good until the age of 89! Bob especially loved fishing in Canada at Ten Mile Lake and hunting with the guys of Camp Buckeye for over 40 years. An avid reader, he read many books, magazines and articles related to the outdoors. He loved the sounds of the big bands and country music in his later years. He and Kay also shared their love for cooking. They were an fine team in the kitchen, making delicious Sunday meals. One of his favorite restaurants was the former Schnitzelbank.

As a member of 7th Reformed Church for nearly 70 years, Bob thoroughly enjoyed Christian fellowship with others. He enjoyed singing the hymns of faith and participating in the church choirs over the years. Quite involved in many activities at church, he taught Sunday school, served as a deacon and elder in addition to singing. Bob enjoyed reading the bible, particularly the Psalms. A true people person, at church he was always one of the first to welcome newcomers. He had the gift for gab and could talk to anyone, anywhere and at anytime. A proud American, Bob loved this country. Always patriotic, he was grateful and felt it an honor to have served during World War II, thoroughly enjoying his Talons Out Honor Flight in 2016 to Washington D.C. Bob will be fondly remembered for his love for his family and enjoying God's beautiful creation and the great outdoors.

Robert (Bob) Faasse, age 90, of Grand Rapids went to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, September 10, 2017. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Kay; children, Kurt (Dawn) Faasse, Brian (Marty) Faasse, Eric (Barb) Faasse; beloved grandchildren, Erin (Micah) Meendering, Katelyn (Matt) Eling, Ryan Faasse, Daniel Faasse, Sarah Faasse, David Faasse, Anne Faasse; great-grandchildren, Violet and Hazel; brother-in-law, Arthur Haadsma; many nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Bob’s family on Wednesday, September 13, 2017 at Heritage Life Story Funeral Homes - Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW from 6-8 PM and at church on Thursday from 12:00 PM until the time of service at 1:00 PM. Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, September 14, 2017, 1:00 PM at 7th Reformed Church, 951 Leonard Street NW, Grand Rapids, Mi. Contributions in memory of Bob can be made to the Christian Rest Home Foundation or Seventh Reformed Radio Broadcast Fund. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to leave a memory and to sign his online guest book.