Robert Durian

Bob was called to his eternal home by his Lord and Savior on January 20, 2018. He was born January 4, 1926 in Kalamazoo, the son of Dirk and Tene (Tillema) Durian and was a lifelong Kalamazoo resident. Bob served in the U.S. Navy for 2 years. Prior to his retirement he was employed as an electrician with Engbers Electric. Bob was an active member of both Milwood and Grace Christian Reformed Churches, where he served in many capacities including several terms on the church council. He also served on the boards of the Kalamazoo Christian Schools and Park Village Pines. Bob had a great love of music. He used his voice to sing praises in many settings, including 63 years with the Singing Crusaders. He was a member of the first varsity basketball team of Kalamazoo Christian High School in 1941, and remained a loyal Comet booster for over 75 years. First and foremost was his life of service to his Lord. Bob loved his family and was a devoted Christian. On June 19, 1944, he was united in marriage to Jeanette DeVries, the love of his life for 73 years, who preceded him in death on September 26, 2017. He was also preceded in death by his parents, by his beloved son Ken Durian, and brothers Matt, Rich and Bill. Bob is survived by his children, David (Kathy) Durian and Barb (Marc) Russell; daughter-in-law Diane Durian; six grandchildren, Vicky (Al) Wirgau, Bob (Karla) Durian, Steve (Tammy) Durian, Kristy (Jeff) Muller and Susan (Kirk) Metzger, Chad (Sheri) Russell; 14 precious great grandchildren; in-laws Gerrie Durian-Napp, Carol Visser, Joyce (Harold) Alphenaar; several nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends on Monday, January 22nd from 5:00-8:00PM at Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 South 9th Street. Services will be held 11:00AM Tuesday, January 23rd at Grace Christian Reformed Church, 1724 Whites Road, with Pastor Greg Timmer officiating. Private burial services will be held in Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Kalamazoo Christian School Association, or Grace Christian Reformed Church. Please visit Bob's personalized guestbook at www.langelands.com