Robert Winters

SPARTA, MI – Robert “Bob” Winters, 89, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, where he was joyfully reunited with the love of his life, Mary Ellen, his wife of nearly 50 years. 

Bob lived a full and faithful life. He proudly served in the United States Army and later spent time living in Australia while working for Amway. He was a devoted father to his two sons and found great joy in watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow. Bob loved talking about God, his deep faith, and the tremendous pride he had in his family—never missing an opportunity to share how amazing each of them was. 

Many will remember Bob sitting in his chair in the driveway, faithfully waving to everyone who passed by. If he wasn’t there, he could likely be found in his woodshop, working skillfully with his hands. Over the years, he lovingly repaired and restored furniture for friends and family. Bob was also musically gifted and once won an audition to sing the National Anthem at a Whitecaps baseball game.

Bob is survived by his youngest son, Troy (Michelle); his former daughter-in-law, Robin; his stepchildren, JoLynne, Monica, and Carla; his grandchildren, Calieen (Craig), Brinan (Brenda), Andre (Erin), Derek (Sophie), Eleia, and Naomi; and his great-grandchildren, Kendall (Matthew), Kaitlin, Cayden, Cydnee, Isabella, Connor, Chloe, Mason, Anderson, Nora, and Ellie Sue.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Josephine; all thirteen of his siblings; his beloved wife, Mary Ellen Oosterhouse; their oldest son, Tony; and his second wife, Mary Stratton.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 3:00 p.m., with a dinner reception to follow at Berkeley Hills Church, 1670 Ball Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505.