Robert Allen "Bob" Harberts

Robert Allen Harberts passed away unexpectedly on March 16, 2026. His wife Patricia (Patti) was able to hold his hand and comfort him during his final moments. He knew he was with the person he loved most dearly and that he was not alone. Bob’s family and friends will miss him greatly. He was such a kind, loving man and had a wonderful sense of humor. He could find humor and relieve the tension in just about any situation. People usually left with a smile on their face after even a few moments with Bob.

Bob was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on July 20, 1943. He graduated from Union High School in Grand Rapids in 1961. He attended Western Michigan University and graduated with a teaching degree in Industrial Arts in 1965. Eventually Bob earned two Master’s Degrees – one in Industrial Arts and another in Education Administration. Bob taught Graphic Arts at Battle Creek Central High School. Later, he became the Director of the Calhoun County Vocational Center. After serving at the center for many years he returned to the Battle Creek Public Schools and served as the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and then the Superintendent of Schools. Bob dedicated 38 years in the field of education.

Bob married Patricia Frances Ann Fox on July 11, 1963, at Fairview Reformed Church in Grand Rapids. They spent their life together in Battle Creek. They have had a happy and active life together. They enjoyed traveling, taking cruises and loved caring for their home. Bob was a dedicated endurance athlete. He enjoyed sailing, long-distance bicycling and running. He also enjoyed hobbies of woodworking, gardening and set a small amount of money aside for day trading on his computer.

Bob was very organized and paid close attention to detail. When it came to planning or solving a problem, Bob would carefully analyze all the facts and variables of an issue. His analytical ability along with his gentle nature, humor and respect for others, are the qualities that made Bob a natural leader in his career and volunteer work. Bob never sought recognition for his work. His satisfaction came in a job well done and the knowledge that he was able to help others.

In addition to his wife Patti, Bob is survived by his brothers William (Jan) Harberts, John (Mary) Harberts and his nephews William Bond Harberts and John Henry Harberts and his sisters-in-law Dorothy Anible and Barbara Minier. In addition, he has many nieces and nephews as well as grandnieces and grandnephews. He loved keeping track of them all as they grew. Bob was preceded in death by his parents Henry Jr. and Martha (Douma) Harberts.

Bob and Patti have been faithful members of St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Battle Creek. Bob served many roles in the church – finance ministry, acolyte, altar guild, organizer for the holiday food bank drives and a vestry member. St. Thomas Church and a strong belief in God gave Bob a fulfilling and enriched life. He dedicated himself to serving others and in doing so, found joy, comfort and peace. Bob was always so thankful for the many friends he and Patti had at St. Thomas. He spoke of them often and they have been a wonderful support to Patti during this loss. The family wishes to thank them all.

On the path we all walk, Bob has gone on ahead. Perhaps to help prepare things for those who knew him. Goodbye for now, Bob. We love you.

Funeral services will be held at St. Thomas Episcopal Church at 16 Van Buren St. S.E. in Battle Creek, Michigan 49017. There will be a viewing and visitation with family from 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM. The service will begin at 1:00 PM and will be conducted by Father Michael Spencer. Family and those who wish to accompany will meet at Memorial Park Cemetery at approximately 2:30 PM for the interment. Afterwards at approximately 3:00 PM, the family invites everyone to return to the church for a luncheon.

Those who wish to make memorial contributions may do so to St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Battle Creek.