Robert Francis "Bob" Lidestri

Marne - Robert F. "Bob" Lidestri, 70, of Marne, Michigan, passed away on February 26, 2026, at Trinity Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Born on April 9, 1955, in Westerly, Rhode Island, Bob was the son of Andrew J. and Drusiana J. (Franco) Lidestri, both of whom predeceased him. He was also predeceased in death by his beloved husband, William G. "Bill" Dowd, with whom he shared a devoted and joyful life.

Bob graduated from Saint Bernard High School in Uncasville, Connecticut, before earning both his B.S. in Nursing and M.S. in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Connecticut. His education and compassion guided him through a long and meaningful career with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, where he served at VA hospitals in Miami, Florida; Newington, Connecticut; and Grand Rapids, Michigan. He retired with the respect of his colleagues and the gratitude of the many veterans whose lives he touched.

Bob's life was rich with creativity, generosity, and simple joys. He loved cooking and baking, especially preparing cherished family-recipe Italian Christmas cookies that became a tradition among loved ones. He enjoyed entertaining, playing cards, and attending performances at DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids, where he found great joy in the arts. Bob and Bill treasured their annual time in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, and the road trips that allowed them to visit friends along the way. Bob gave back to his community through volunteer work with Community Rebuilders and the Marne American Legion Post 376, and also supported local fundraisers and families in need.

Bob is survived by his brothers Bernard (Kathleen) Lidestri and John (Linda) Lidestri; sisters-in-law Kathy Dowd and Lesley Dowd; nephews Andrew Lidestri, Daniel (Lisa) Lidestri, Jonathan (Selina) Lidestri, and Stephen (Gina) Dowd; nieces Amanda Lusignan, Tamara Lusignan, Jennifer (Jeremy) Schmader, and Neile Goszkowicz; as well as many great-nephews, great-nieces, cousins, and cherished friends.

Bob will be especially missed by his dear friend Barb Taggart, who was like a sister to him and provided steadfast support, love, and friendship – especially over the past three years.

Services for Bob will be held at a later date, to be determined by the family.

Donations in Bob's memory can be made to the American Cancer Society, American Legion Post 376 in Marne, Michigan, the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center in Pawcatuck, Connecticut, or a charity of your choice.

Robert Francis Lidestri