Robert J. Sayfie, age 52, passed away on Sunday, August 13, 2017. He is preceded in death by his parents Frederick and Evelyn Sayfie. He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Narisa and their two sons Daniel and Michael. He is also survived by his five siblings, Marilyn (Gary) Burkhart, Fred Sayfie, Mike (Jackie) Sayfie, David (Linda) Sayfie, Annie (George) Riddering. Also surviving him are his father-in-law and mother-in-law Abbas Peykarian and Malektadj Khoshandy and two brothers-in-law Kushan (Chris Lynn) Peykarian and Kayvon (Gladys) Peykarian as well as 14 nieces and nephews: Joshua Burkhart, Camille Riddering, Jordan Sayfie, Rachel (Chris) Bergmans, Tom (fiance Katie) Riddering, Aaron (fiance Megan) Sayfie, Bennett (fiance Ali) Riddering, Michael (Megan) Burkhart, Claire Riddering, Mitchell Sayfie, Clayton Sayfie, Jenna Sayfie, Charlie Riddering, and David Sayfie. Robert was a wonderful man. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, and friend. He embodied the virtues of honesty, integrity, and selflessness. He was a follower of Jesus Christ. Robert loved football, playing & coaching, bicycling, and golfing. Before many heard of football coaches Jack Harbaugh and Greg Mattison, Robert was proud to have earned their praise as an unheralded walk-on running back and punt returner at Western Michigan University. Robert was an accomplished attorney specializing in Patent Law earning his J.D. at University of Detroit Mercy. Prior to obtaining his law degree, he graduated from Ottawa Hills High School and received his engineering degree from Western Michigan University. Robert was skilled and compassionate in his practice of law. He provided wise and generous counsel and mentored many law students. Robert adored his family. Narisa was the love of his life. His sons Daniel and Michael filled him with great pride and joy. Robert’s devotion, wisdom, humor, and strength will be greatly missed. Visitation will be Friday 2-4:00 p.m. and 6-8:00 p.m. with the Rosary recited at 7:30 p.m. at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. S.E., Grand Rapids. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul the Apostle Church, 2750 Burton St. S.E., Grand Rapids. Rev. Peter Damian presiding. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the family to assist with college expenses for Robert’s children.
