Rev. E. Robert Tigchelaar, of Grand Rapids, a faithful servant of God, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, June 25, 2023. He was 81.

He was preceded in death by his sister Denise; brothers John and Maynard; his brother Paul's infant twin; and by his parents, Martha and Robert Tigchelaar.

He is survived by his dear wife of 57 years, Deanne; children Alisa Tigchelaar, Ian and Brooke Tigchelaar, Andrea and Matt Welton, Sarah Tigchelaar; grandchildren Alice Wren Welton, Eli Robert Tigchelaar; brothers and sisters Stuart, Saundra, Richard, Marcia, Paul, Peter, James, and their families; and scads of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Bob graduated with a Master of Divinity from Calvin Seminary and served many churches in the Grand Rapids area and throughout the US. A faithful minister of the gospel, he held a deep love for each congregation and community to which he was called. Pastor Bob had a heart for the underserved wherever God sent him. He was an avid athlete who took up triathlons at 58 years of age and completed 48 races, four of which were full Ironman length. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a doting Opa. Lovingly curious and attentive to others, he never met a person who didn't quickly become a friend.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, July 1, at Grace Christian Reformed Church, 100 Buckley St. SE. The family will greet friends and relatives at the Zaagman Memorial Chapel, 2800 Burton St. SE, on Friday, 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. Interment Woodlawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Bob's memory may be made to Reach the Forgotten Jail Ministry or Doctors Without Borders.