Bob Kruithof

Bob Kruithof was a good-natured, honest, and hardworking person to know and to love. Known for his genuine personality, he treated every person he met with kindness. Bob lived a simple life and held compassion for all people, especially his loving family. He will be dearly missed by his many special friends and loved ones.

His story began in 1945. WWII was nearing its final months, the UN was formed, and Harry S. Truman was appointed President. Robert Keith was welcomed home by George and Betty (Stratingh) Kruithof on December 22nd in Grand Rapids, Michigan. His birth was a sign of hope and promise to the Kruithof family.

Growing up on the west side of town, Bob lived a typical childhood of the time. His dad was a mechanic for the post office, and his mom was a waitress at the local Bylsma’s Restaurant. They raised their two boys with a strong faith and attended Immanuel Reformed Church. Bob was active throughout his life and spent many of his warm spring and summer months playing baseball on a Little League team. He attended Grand Rapids public schools and was a proud graduate of Union High School with the Class of 1964. During his teen years, he worked at Kewpee Restaurant before it became known as Mr. Fables. His first car was a blue Chevy convertible, which he kept in meticulous condition. After graduation, Bob enlisted in the United States Air Force. After completing basic training in Texas, he was stationed in Alaska for his four years of active service.

Once Bob was discharged from duty, he returned to Grand Rapids and worked for Keeler Brass while waiting to be accepted into the United States Post Office. Bob enjoyed a remarkable forty-two years as a letter carrier, where he worked out of the Lake Drive and Walker offices. During this time, his younger brother Ron and Ellen's younger brother, Doug set him up on a date with Doug’s sister, Ellen Riewald. Over an evening of playing pool and catching a local movie, the two of them hit it off. On the anniversary of their first date, they joined in marriage on September 3, 1970, at the 7th Reformed Church. The newlyweds borrowed a tent and camped at Niagara Falls, a popular destination at that time for young couples. Bob and Ellen settled into their first home on Jeanette NW. Together, they raised two wonderful daughters, Jenni and Molly.

As a father, Bob was always supportive. He loved to tease and play games with the girls. At times, it was necessary to get out of doing the dishes after dinner, but mostly because he enjoyed being a dad. Bob was always easy-going and taught them the many simple pleasures in life. As a family, they enjoyed camping for two weeks with extended family and friends at Wilderness State Park in their pop-up camper. They also ventured to the East Coast, visiting New York, Maine, Washington, D.C., and Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. They raised their children in faith at Richmond Reformed Church, where he served as an Elder, Deacon, Sunday School Superintendent, Choir Member, and Youth Group Sponsor. Later in life, Bob and Ellen attended Oakhill Evangelical Presbyterian Church, where he served as an Elder. He was also active in His Hands Ministries. He gifted his family with a steadfast example of living his life as a testimony of accepting all people and living a life of service to others.

In his retirement years, Bob enjoyed many hobbies. He enjoyed playing golf with his church league (he even made a hole in one), where he made many lasting friendships. He also kept himself busy with DIY (Do-It-Yourself) projects around the home, as well as on mission trips to Mexico, where he enjoyed helping with construction and building homes. A lover of animals, he was a puppy raiser for Paws With a Cause for 15 years. He spent countless hours training future service dogs in their early formative months. Bob felt it was hardest to say goodbye to the dogs once they were assigned to their new family, yet he also found it very rewarding. He and Ellen were thrilled to travel together to visit Molly in Korea when she taught there, and also to visit Jenni and Robert in Northern Ireland after their marriage. They purchased a travel trailer, which they took on many special camping trips, including an adventure out West. He and Ellen shared a beautiful life. They worked as a team to support one another in good times and bad. They were a true match for one another, leaving their children with many rich memories of unconditional love.

Described as faithful, honest, selfless, and encouraging, Bob was blessed with living a life of simple pleasures and spending time with his family. May his memories live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Robert Keith Kruithof, 80, entered his heavenly home with his loving family by his side on March 18, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Ronald Kruithof. His wife of 55 years survives, as do his daughters, Jenni (Robert) Smyth and Molly (Brad) Keen; grandsons, Jonathan, Benjamin, and Alex. He is also survived by his in-laws, Bonnie Kruithof, Beth & Bruce McGlincy, Doug & Diane Riewald, Jim & Jayne Grant, Dave & Jodi Riewald; and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 11 AM at Oakhill Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 1930 Leonard St NE. Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Oakhill Evangelical Presbyterian Church.