Robert "Bob" Cole

Robert "Bob" Cole obituary, Grand Rapids, MI

Robert "Bob" Cole

Robert Cole Obituary

Visit the Grand Rapids Cremation Services - Grand Rapids website to view the full obituary.
**Robert "Bob" Cole, 86, Known by Many Names and Loved by All**
Robert Cole, affectionately known as Bob, BC, Papa, Unc, Bobby Cole or Luke, passed away at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, devotion, and warmth. A true sports fan, Bob was passionate about the Detroit Tigers and Red Wings. His love for baseball spanned decades, both as a player and a fan, and in a poignant twist, Bob passed shortly after his beloved Tigers fell short of the playoffs.
The majority of Bob's career was spent behind the wheel of a semi-truck for Amway, where he worked with dedication before enjoying his retirement. However, it was in his roles as a husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend where his true nature shone through. Bob was known for his kind spirit, but also for his playful sense of humor-often pulling pranks on friends and family. His grandchildren, for example, would frequently find potatoes or other strange objects tucked under their pillows. Above all, he had a special way of making everyone around him feel cared for and appreciated.
His greatest devotion was to his wife, Merrydale, whom he lovingly cared for throughout her struggles with rheumatoid arthritis. His sel essness and gentle nature were a testament to his unwavering love and commitment to her over many years. Bob's kindness touched not only his family but also the countless friends and acquaintances whose lives were better because of his presence. Decades of pheasant hunting in Iowa and South Dakota, with family and friends will long be remembered with humor and anecdotal stories that will live on for many years.
He is survived by his loving wife, Merrydale, and her children: David (Mary) and their children Mason (Abigail), Owen, and Ellie; Amy (Bob) and their daughters Kayleigh and Claire. Bob also cherished the memory of his stepdaughter Julie, who passed away 20 years ago. He is also survived by several cousins, nieces and nephews and their children.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the caregivers at Corewell Health, Covenant Living for his therapy, and nally Faith Hospice and The Oaks at Belmont and for the loving care they gave to Bob and his family. He was heard saying that he was "surrounded by angels" while in their care.
In keeping with Bob's wishes, there will be no formal service. In lieu of donations, the family encourages everyone to spend a Sunday afternoon with their loved ones, just as Bob did every summer-gathering with family, enjoying each other's company, and creating cherished memories. Perhaps enjoy a dinner of pot roast or smoked brisket, and listen to a little Merle Haggard or David Allan Coe, as Bob loved old-time country music (and a bit of Elvis gospel, too).
To those who knew him as Papa, Unc, or simply Bob, his kind heart and gentle humor will be sorely missed, but never forgotten. His legacy of love and generosity will live on in the countless lives he touched, through the warmth of his spirit and the stories shared by his family and friends. He was a good man.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Grand Rapids Cremation Services - Grand Rapids

3305 Three Mile Rd. NE Suite B, Grand Rapids, MI 49525

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November 22, 2024

David M. Ross posted to the memorial.

November 16, 2024

Shannon Hilla posted to the memorial.

November 15, 2024

Cheryl & Barney Koster posted to the memorial.

5 Entries

David M. Ross

November 22, 2024

Merrydale, My condolences to you and your family on the passing of BC. It was my pleasure to have worked at Amway and Spectrum with him and also coaching girls' softball. He brought a positive attitude with him and that made everyone at ease and comfortable. Continued prayers also to you in healing. Take care. Dave Ross

Shannon Hilla

November 16, 2024

Bob was a great guy. I really enjoyed working with him.
Shannon Hilla

Cheryl & Barney Koster

November 15, 2024

Loved seeing Merrydale and Bob enter the company store. Both were feisty and fun, always a big smile on Bobs face, he was always up to something. Hugs Merrydale

Lynda & Marty Reynolds

October 31, 2024

Worked with BC for many years. He was a wonderful person who always had a smile on his face. He and Merrydale together were a treat with their sense of humor, they were so sweet together. Bob will forever be missed. Hugs to Merrydale.

George Heath

October 24, 2024

My "SINCERE CONDOLENCES" to Merrydale and Family. I met (BC) at Amway and he bowled with us at the old "COMET LANES" on Friday Evenings. (BC) was "THE BEST". He was a "GREAT FRIENDLY MAN" who always had a "SMILE and KIND WORD". I will Remember (BC) FONDLY. He was just a "GOOD GUY"! George Heath

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Sign Robert Cole's Guest Book

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November 22, 2024

David M. Ross posted to the memorial.

November 16, 2024

Shannon Hilla posted to the memorial.

November 15, 2024

Cheryl & Barney Koster posted to the memorial.