Bob Squires

As family and friends will surely attest, Robert Squires truly unlocked the secret to a life well lived. He was a constant source of strength, even in the most difficult of times, and he was never afraid to speak his mind, always ready with a piece of wise advice. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Bob took every chance to hold his loved ones close. No one was a stranger to him for long, and the wonderful stories he was famous for will not soon be forgotten. Dearly missed, Bob will be forever loved and cherished by those who knew him best.

The early 1940s were tumultuous years, both here in the United States and all around the globe as WWII raged on. Following the catastrophic attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in early December of 1941, many brave servicemen were being called to serve away from home. Those who remained stateside carried burdens of their own, facing strict rations and waiting breathlessly for news of the war. During such a tense time, however, there was joy and celebration to be found in the household of Lawrence and Audrey (Schroeder) Squires of Grand Rapids, Michigan, as they announced the arrival of their firstborn child. They welcomed their son, Robert Louis, into their arms on December 20, 1941.

Growing up, Bob was a typical boy of his generation in many ways. His father, Lawrence, worked in foundry for Michigan Wheel while his mother, Audrey, found employment at Rose Patch Label and later a local laundry mat. Bob was the oldest child in the Squires family and was the leader of his three brothers. He also had two siblings who had passed away in infancy. Bob was raised in the family home in the country, enjoying all parts of “farm life” including shooting, hunting, and fishing. He attended local schools and ran track in high school. Following his graduation, Bob continued his education for a time at Grand Rapids Junior College, eager to see what the future held in store.

It wasn’t long before Bob met the young woman who would forever hold the key to his heart. Her name was Shelly Shively, and the two first met while Bob was working at Village Inn Pizza Parlor, a local hangout for teens. Bob and Shelly dated for the next year and a half, quickly falling deeper and deeper in love. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, they were married at Wallin Congregational Church on August 19, 1972. The newlyweds hosted a reception and an after-party at the Georgetown Apartments community room, then enjoyed a honeymoon to the Wisconsin Dells. Bob and Shelly settled down in their first apartment together on East Fulton in Grand Rapids.

Bob’s family soon began to grow. He and Shelly were overjoyed to welcome their two beloved children, Timothy and Rebecca. Bob thrived in his role as a father, and he was endlessly supportive and encouraging of his kids. He was Tim’s biggest fan in baseball and Becky's in softball, and he loved being a “dance dad” to Becky. The Squires family enjoyed many camping trips up North. Holidays were always spent with extended family. Later in life, Bob was thrilled to become a grandfather to TyLee, McKaylyn, Jordon, Braydon, and Connor. He attended every activity he could, and his grandkids were his pride and joy. Bob would tell everyone he met that his grandson, Jordon, played for a pro academy soccer team, the Columbus Crew. He liked attending church with TyLee in his later years.

In order to provide for himself and those who depended on him, Bob built a successful career for himself as a lineman. He poured over 30 years of hard work and dedication into the city of Grand Rapids Public Works. Bob’s responsibilities included installing and repairing street lights and traffic lights, and he also took his turn plowing snow around the city in the winter. In his retirement years, Bob was happy to have the chance to spend more time with his family.

Never one to sit still for long, Bob enjoyed staying active in his free time. He loved hunting deer and fishing in all the local rivers and lakes, and in his younger years, he was a member of the West Walker Sportsman’s Club. Bob’s tractor was his most prized possession. He loved mowing and riding around on it. Bob always had a project to keep him busy, and he doted on his pets. Thanks to his talkative and outgoing personality, he made friends easily, even in lines at the grocery store.

When reflecting on the life of Robert Squires, it is easy to see both his unwavering strength and his unconditional love for his family. He was always willing to go above and beyond to care for others, and he was strongwilled and fiercely determined, facing every challenge that came his way head-on. Nothing brought Bob greater joy than surrounding himself with his loved ones. His zest for life was insatiable, and his compassion for those around him was limitless. Although he is already so greatly missed, Bob leaves behind a priceless legacy that his friends and family will be proud to carry on in his footsteps.

Robert “Bob” Louis Squires, age 84, passed away at home to be with his Lord, February 7, 2026. Bob was born December 20, 1941 in Grand Rapids to the late Lawrence and Audrey (Schroeder) Squires. He was also preceded in death by his brothers. Bob worked for the City of Grand Rapids for over 30 years. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, but most of all he cherished family and especially being a grandpa. On August 19, 1972 Robert married Shelly Shively. Bob is survived by his wife of 53 years; his children, Timothy Squires and Rebecca (David) Rokos; grandchildren, TyLee Squires, McKaylyn Kamstra, Jordon Rokos, Braydon Rokos, and Connor Rokos; several nieces, nephews and friends. According to his wishes cremation has taken place. To further honor his wishes, no service will take place. To read more of Bob’s Life Story, leave a memory or sign the guestbook, please visit www.heritagelifestory.com.