Robert R. Elwell

ELWELL, ROBERT R.
Richland, MI Robert Reyer Elwell, age 71, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday morning, October 28, 2014. He was born on December 8, 1942 in Kalamazoo to Homer and Naomi Reyer Elwell, and had been a lifelong area resident. As a young boy, he learned to water ski and sail, two of the things he continued to enjoy throughout his adult life. Bob was a graduate of Western Michigan University. He started his career in banking with American National Bank and continued with the company through its transitions to Old Kent Bank and Fifth Third, retiring in April of 2003, as an Assistant Vice President. Bob was an active member of the Gull Lake United Methodist Church. He was a former member of the Jaycees of Kalamazoo and the Richland Lions Club. After retiring, Bob found great joy being a reading buddy at Richland Elementary School and serving as a volunteer at the West Michigan Cancer Center. Bob was also an avid reader and enjoyed the study of war history. On August 22, 1964 Bob married the love of his life, Janice M. VanDyke. He and Jan celebrated their 30th anniversary by renewing their vows on April 22, 1994 in Hawaii, and more recently celebrated their 50th this past August with family and friends. Bob was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Jan, three daughters and their spouses Lisa & Jim Sumner of Portage, Christine & Paul Eddy of Plainwell and Karen & Randy Russon of Scotts, six beautiful grandchildren Brad & Sarah Eddy, Elizabeth & Laura Sumner and Rachel & Patrick Russon, a brother, Richard Lynn Elwell of Ann Arbor, a sister-in-law, Linda Dave Holt of Stevensville, and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 8th at 11:00 am at the Gull Lake United Methodist Church, 8640 Gull Road, with Rev. Dr. Mona Joslyn, officiating. The family will receive guests one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the West Michigan Cancer Center or the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission.