Robert "Bob" Skislak

Robert “Bob” Skislak, age 86, of Grand Rapids, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, July 27th 2023. A heartfelt thank you is extended to the entire staff at St. Ann’s Home and Emmanuel Hospice for caring so deeply for Bob over the past 15 months. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Pauline Skislak, along with his brother Andy Skislak. Surviving are his beloved wife of 58 years, Roberta Skislak; children William (Dee) Skislak, Wayne (Jody) Skislak, and Renee Sikkema; grandchildren Nick (Amy) Skislak, Anne Skislak, Ashley Sikkema, Ryan Skislak, and Jenna Skislak; brother-in-law Robert (Dee) Hoffman; sister-in-law Aldonna Skislak; three great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews, and an abundance of dear friends. Bob was born March 14, 1937 in the seaside town of Keyport, New Jersey. From an early age, his mother instilled a love of baseball in him, the Brooklyn Dodgers being his original team of choice. He was a gifted player himself, showcasing his pitching talents on the Army baseball team during his enlistment as a medic from 1956-58. Upon returning home, he met his wife Roberta while working at Vulcan Detinning in Woodbridge, New Jersey. The two were wed in August of 1964, and made the move to Michigan in 1967. Soon after arriving, Bob became employed at Rapistan, where he was a valued employee for over 30 years. Affectionately known as “The Bobber”, he was a local legend throughout West Michigan. Never has anyone made friends with such ease or in such multitude. He was an especially exceptional husband, father, and grandfather, continuously demonstrating unwavering devotion and unconditional support. Always active, he was an avid golfer and bowler, spending many an afternoon on the links or at the alley. A Jersey boy through and through, Bob brought his passion for the Mets, Jets, and Giants with him to Michigan, inspiring future generations to root for the teams he loved right alongside of him. Nothing made him happier than spending time with family and friends, watching New York sports with dessert and a cold beer in hand. Bob’s infectious laugh will be permanently ingrained in the memories of his loved ones, and his legacy will endure in innumerable ways. The family will receive visitors from 4:00-7:00 P.M. on Wednesday, August 2nd at the Arsulowicz Brothers Remembrance Mortuary, 3525 Remembrance Rd NW. Eulogies will be presented at 6:30 P.M. Per Bob’s wishes, cremation has taken place. He will be interred at Holy Trinity Catholic Church Cemetery . In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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Robert "Bob" Skislak

March 14, 1937 - July 27, 2023