Robert "Bob" Deyoung

Robert "Bob" DeYoung was welcomed into Heaven by his wife, Kathryn, on March 11, 2025, along with other members of his family.

Bob was born in June 1949 to Charles and Helen DeYoung. Bob was the younger brother to Don and older brother to his sister, Jan. He graduated from Kalamazoo Christian in 1967. Shortly after graduation, Bob served his country during the Vietnam War in the Marines.

Bob met Kathy while attending Western Michigan University, and they were married on August 31, 1974. They moved to Florida for a few years after attending WMU but came back to Martin, Michigan, to raise their family. Bob and Kathy were blessed with 3 children, Ryan and Emily within a few years of each other and later blessed with Kathy.

The year his wife passed, Bob and his partners started R&B Electric. This business was successful and allowed him the time he needed with his children, all while making lasting friendships along the way. He retired from R&B in 2019.

Bob loved playing and watching sports. His love for the game lived on in to his adult years. He finished his sports career by playing fastpitch softball around the United States until the age of 40. He continued his passion for sports by coaching his kids when they were young.

Bob's devotion to his kids and family was like no other. He was there for all their school events and was a great support for them. As his children grew, his love and support focused on his grandchildren.

Bob was a grandfather to 6 grandchildren who all called him Papa. He adored all of them, and they adored him as well. He attended games and birthdays and loved his time with them at his house on the lake.

Bob leaves behind his three children, Ryan (Karla) DeYoung, Emily Laughlin, and Kathy (Zach) Talcott; his grandchildren, Aiden, Mikayla, Ashton, Greyson, Madison, and Layna; step grandchildren and great grandchildren; his sister, Jan (Ul) Classen; many nieces and nephews; extended family members; and friends.

Bob is preceded in death by his wife, Kathryn; his parents; his brother, Don; and his nephew, Chance.

Bob will be remembered for his hard work, love of sports, horses, and dogs, and the support of his friends, but most of all, his unwavering love and support for his family.

In honor of Bob's wishes, a cremation has taken place. A private burial and celebration of life will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice. If you would like to leave the family condolences or a story about Bob, please visit Grand Rapids Cremation.