Robert L. Nagelkirk

NAGELKIRK, Robert L.
of Kalamazoo A trumpet player, Robert Luke Nagelkirk, put his love for instrumental music to good use throughout his life. Born in 1941, he was an educator, musician, Christian and a man who experienced joy. Bob and his wife, Bernice Schipper celebrated 48 years of marriage. They have three children: Susan Bill Roth; Patricia Paul Waldsmith; Paul Stephanie Nagelkirk; and six grandchildren: Christopher deceased, Calyn, Selena and Dustin Roth, and Jack and Ella Nagelkirk. On December 27, 2011, Bob was welcomed home by his Lord and Savior. Bob was a school band director for 38 years. He served West Michigan Christian in Muskegon from 1963 - 1979 and Kalamazoo Christian Schools from 1979 - 2002. In 1988, he was elected to membership in the American School Band Directors Association, an elite group limited at that time to 1000 band directors from 49 states who demonstrated excellence. His bands were known for their quality. Bob frequently stated, "Band kids are the best in the entire school." His students appreciated his humor, high standards and genuine care for their well-being. His love of music started in childhood. Professional degrees include a Bachelor of Music Education from Calvin College and a Master of Music degree from Vandercook College of Music. He played trumpet for 50 years performing with the West Shore Symphony, the Grand Rapids Symphony, Miss Michigan Pageant, Ein Prosit German Band, and the Kalamazoo Concert Band. Friends may meet the family at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 South 9th Street, Kalamazoo, on Friday, December 30, 2011 from 2-4 pm and 5-8 pm. A memorial celebration will be held at Westwood Christian Reformed Church, 620 Northhampton Rd, Kalamazoo, on Saturday, December 31, 2011 at 3 pm. Memorials may be directed to the Kalamazoo Christian School Association.