Robert V. "Bob" Bilek Jr.

Robert V. "Bob" Bilek Jr., age 77, passed away Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on August 16, 1947, to Robert and Mary (Contini) Bilek Sr. in Chicago, IL. He graduated from Morton East High School class of 1968 then enlisted into the United States Marine Corps. He was a proud veteran serving his country for four years during the Vietnam War. On October 4, 1969, he married the love of his life, the former Gloria Avena at St. Hugh's Catholic Church in Cicero, IL. Together they cherished 55 years full of love and endless laughter. Bob was a dedicated employee of MacNeal Hospital in Berwyn, IL where he worked as a facility director before being transferred to Michigan, which the family called home for the next 40 years. He was a well-versed man who enjoyed various hobbies and talents throughout the years. Bob was an avid quilter, golfer, foodie, loved the cooking channel, Legos, Chicago Bears, and NASCAR. He was known for his love of holidays, you could usually find him coloring eggs, at the pumpkin patch, or enjoying his grandkids decorating the Christmas tree! What he will be remembered most for is his unconditional love and generosity for anything and anyone. He was by nature a giver who was always willing and able to help those in need. Bob had a heart of gold not only for his family but also for his friends and community who came to know and love him as "Popso". He was a skilled sarcastic who could easily bring a smile to your face. His sense of humor was radiating and could fill a room with laughter. He had the ability to make the most of any situation he was dealt with and always remained optimistic when life got tough. Above all, he cherished the moments spent with his family. He never faltered when it came to showing up for the ones he loved. He was a loving husband, amazing dad, wonderful grandpa, great-grandpa, and one of a kind friend to many. He will sorely be missed, but forever loved and cherished by his family even until the end. He is survived by his loving wife, Gloria "GG" Bilek; children, Robert Bilek III aka GG's Uber, Tim "Timmy" (Michelle his daughter gifted to him) Bilek aka mom's favorite and Jenny Cross aka daddy's girl; he was blessed with 11 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two super amazing caregivers and movie partners, Kamden and Gavin; his forever little girl, Mercedes; his reliable and dependable grandson, Kyle; his superstar, Jayden; brother, Steven (Val) Bilek; and many dear friends who were counted as family. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Pamela (Dan) Jahoda; and son-in-law, Andy Cross. A Celebration of Bob's Life will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at Lake Harbor United Methodist Church, 4861 Henry St., Norton Shores, MI 49441 with visitation following directly after the service. In honoring Robert, the family asks that your attire be enriched with yellow hues to keep his celebration simple, bright, and happy, just the way he would like it. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be directed to the family to continue Robert's generosity, which he has demonstrated throughout his lifetime by always paying it forward. Arrangements entrusted to the Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.