ROBERT EDKINS, age 72 of Grand Rapids, was called home unexpectedly by God his father and now rests eternally with Jesus the Christ and his Savior on March 12, 2017. He is preceded in death by his parents Robert Richard and Mary Rose (Woodhouse) Edkins. He is survived by his sister Mary Elizabeth Edkins; aunts Margaret Brown, Patricia Edkins; cousins James Zaremba, Christopher Zaremba, Roberta Polzen, Richard Olewinski, Frank Olewinski, Jim (Patti) Olewinski, Paul Olewinski, Mary Lou Meyer, Sue Culligan, Johnny Nelson; friend and fellow service member Art Johnson. Robert was known for his kindness yet direct approach in all matters in his life. He possessed a keen yet dry sense of humor (from his father Robert Sr.) that lit up faces of all he touched. Robert served our country bravely and honorably in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was honored with the Distinguished Medal of Merit for his service there. Bob’s most prized possessions were his faith and relationship with his sister Betsy. He loved her very much. She was a loving sister that also was his primary caregiver for the past 10 years plus. Together they lived, loved, laughed and sometimes cried. Yet their love for each other propelled Bob thru the many struggles pertaining to his health. To this writer Robert (and Betsy) were the epitome of the true love of brother and sister. Robert (and Betsy) will always be remembered as the true champions they are. Robert you will always be loved and remembered. We will miss you. God bless you and comfort you. Visitation will be Wednesday 6-8:00 p.m. at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. S.E., Grand Rapids. Funeral service will be Thursday 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home chapel. Rev. Troy Nevins officiating. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 1951 Plymouth Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506.
