Dr. Robert E. Bakeman

Dr. Robert E. Bakeman, age 91, of Grand Rapids, passed away Thursday, May 5, 2022. He was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Shirley Bakeman. Bob is survived by his children, Gregory (Dr. Anne Freund) Bakeman, Dr. James (Dr. Betsy) Bakeman, Karen (Bakeman) Prelewitz; grandchildren, Emily (Dr. Jordan) Cantor, Kyle Prelewitz, Dr. Anna (Dr. Neal Godse) Bakeman, Glen Bakeman, Kit Prelewitz, Erika Bakeman, Amy (Sal Bartoloma) Rubin; and great-grandson, Logan Robert Cantor. Bob graduated from Benton Harbor High School, played basketball for four years at Western Michigan University, and completed his studies at Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine. Bob and Shirley originally met in Benton Harbor and were married during their time in Chicago.  They subsequently moved to Grand Rapids, MI where they raised their family.  Dr. Bob practiced family medicine, performed surgeries, and delivered over 1,400 babies during his 41 years of practice in Cascade, MI.  He found great joy spending time with his family and especially loved playing golf and cards with his buddies at his beloved Cascade Hills Country Club. Bob and Shirley enjoyed 10 years in Bonita Springs, FL relaxing and playing golf at Shadow Wood Country Club.  His storytelling and quick wit were dearly loved and will be sorely missed. Those who wish may make a memorial contribution to the John Celestino Scholarship Endowment, Development Office, 420 Oak St., Prakken 101, Big Rapids, MI 49307. Visitation will be held Friday, May 13, 2022, from 2-4pm and 6-8pm at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546.