Robert Tolsma

In a world often consumed by materialism, Robert “Bob” Tolsma stood out as a man who loved his family more than his belongings. His faith in God guided his decisions and gave him an appreciation for people and nature. He understood commitment and demonstrated that understanding in many ways throughout his life.

Bob Tolsma entered the world in the middle of the Roaring ‘20s, a time of excitement and energy in the United States. He was born on March 9, 1926, on the west side of Grand Rapids. Except for seven years in Bradenton, Florida, he was to spend the rest of his years there. As a young person, he enjoyed time out-of-doors, working as a caddy at a local golf course and fishing whenever he got a chance. This love of the outdoors would stay with him throughout his life, influencing his career choices and providing him with some of his favorite pursuits.

Bob entered the work force the way many young men did at the time; as a soda jerk at Heyboer’s Drug Store on Leonard Street. The neighborhood soda fountain was representative of the sense of community the United States valued. He and his fellow Americans had just endured the Great Depression and were watching as clouds of war gathered over Europe. Soon Bob joined many other proud young American men by leaving school early to enlist in the Army, answering the call to protect his nation during World War II.

In October of 1949, Bob’s cousin got married. Bob didn’t know it at the time, but this event would lead to significant and wonderful changes for him. It was there that he met the woman who would share his life for fifty-two years. Bob and Gladys dated for one year and were wed on October 6, 1950, in Immanuel Reformed Church in Grand Rapids. It was also during this phase that his perspective on life itself took a momentous turn. Bob had always attended church, but he came to recognize his need for a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. This understanding changed his life. He became passionate about God and strove to exemplify the truth he grew to love.

Bob’s fondness for recreation and nature filtered into his career. He owned Standale Sports Center from 1958 to 1962 and Buikema’s Sport and Marine from 1962 until 1980. He enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing, and working in stained glass. To Bob there was nothing more relaxing than soaking up God’s creation while hunting, the crisp autumn air nipping at his face, the browns and reds and yellows coloring the landscape. He also enjoyed returning home for a delicious roast with potatoes and gravy.

Bob was a charter member of Remembrance Reformed Church and served as deacon, elder, Sunday School teacher and volunteer. He and Gladys attended Richmond Reformed the last two years. . He loved the reverence and spirit of older hymns. He found great comfort in God’s sovereignty and purpose, looking forward to the day of his redemption. He lived out his faith by being willing to help anyone in need without seeking recognition or repayment. His calm manner and gentle demeanor made him a welcome friend and he could always be counted on for an honest answer.

Bob passed away Saturday, September 13, 2003, at the age of seventy-seven. He is survived by his wife Gladys; his children, Robert S. (Marie) Tolsma, Jr., of Golden, Colorado, Betsy (Douglas) Sytsma of Kalamazoo, and Tricia Tolsma of Grand Rapids; his six grandchildren, John, Tom, and Aaron Tolsma, and Caylee, Kristi, and Douglas Sytsma II. Also surviving are his brother and sisters, James Tolsma of Lauderdale Lakes, Florida, Dorothy Meyers of Grand Rapids, and Joan (Don) Walstrom of Grand Rapids; his brother-in-law Roger (Marian) Helder of Holland; and several nieces and nephews.

Friends will be received on Tuesday from 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM at the Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW. Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 11 AM at the Richmond Reformed Church, on the corner of Walker and Richmond, with interment in Washington Park Memorial Gardens. To read Bob’s complete life story, share a memory, send flowers, or make a memorial contribution to Mission India, West Side Christian School, the Christian Rest Home or the charity of one’s choice, please visit his personal web page at www.lifestorynet.com.

Bob leaves a legacy of faith and commitment for his children and grandchildren, and his example is precious to all who knew him.

“Having believed, you were marked in Christ with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, Who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession-to the praise of His glory.” - Eph 1:13-14