Robert Rinner

Robert Rinner lived in Muskegon, Michigan all his life. It is the place he called home, and the place where he created a lifetime full of memories with his family.

1916 was a year full of excitement on all fronts in the United States. In science, Albert Einstein had just completed his theory of relativity, while in entertainment, Charlie Chaplin signed a contract for an unprecedented $10,000 a week. The political scene, too, was dynamic, as World War I raged through the cities of Europe. Amidst all of these events that came to define the year, Walter and Bernice (Kraatz) Rinner of Muskegon, Michigan, welcomed the birth of their son, Robert, on March 22, 1916.

Robert was born, raised and lived in Muskegon his entire life. He received his education in the Muskegon Public Schools and graduated from Muskegon High School. At the time of Robert's graduation, the nation was in the depths of the Great Depression and jobs were extremely scarce. Robert was lucky enough to get a job in a local factory as an External Grinder Operator. Then, when war broke out overseas, he followed the same patriotic calling as many young men of the time, and enlisted in the U.S. Army. His first commission, however, was in the Army OCS (Officer Candidate School), which provided Infantry officers for World War II. Thereafter, Robert courageously served as a combat infantryman in the Southern Philippines. Throughout his life, he was always proud of his military service and enjoyed sharing his experiences with others.

After settling back into civilian life, Robert went to work as a Clerk for the U.S. Postal Service in Muskegon. He was a dedicated and hardworking employee at the post office for 35 years before retiring. Robert was a very private man, and pretty much kept to himself. He lived with his parents and after they passed away, he continued to stay in their family home. Although Robert preferred solidarity, he was known to be a very intelligent man, who liked to have fun. All who knew Robert Rinner will treasure his memory.

Robert C. Rinner, age 90, formerly of Muskegon, MI, passed away on Monday, January 1, 2007, at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. Surviving are his cousins: Ruth Oliver, Arlene Hausman, Marguerite Dingman, Richard Mead, Rosemary Lang, Nancy Poggi and James Rinner. Funeral and committal services will be held on Wednesday, January 3, at 11 a.m. at the Heritage Life Story Funeral Home, Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. N.W. in Grand Rapids, with interment to follow in Rosedale Memorial Park. Relatives and friends may meet with his family on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral service. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you may share a memory of Robert or sign the online registry.