Robert Middleton Jr.

Robert James Middleton Jr., age 91, of Byron Center, left his earthly body and joined his wife worshiping Jesus in Heaven on Monday, November 4, 2024. He was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Robert and Ethel Middleton.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Judith Middleton; and his sister, Dorothy VandeBunte. He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Jan (Rick) Switzer, Deb (Eric) McGill, Steve (Cindelee) Middleton; grandchildren, Matthew (Alma) Switzer, Nathan (Tasha) Switzer, Simeon (Lindsay) Switzer, Anna Switzer, Carissa (Gregg Henry) O’Neill, Casey (Anna) O’Neill, Shana (Nathan) Lewis, Blake (Stephanie) Middleton, Brady Middleton, Bryten Middleton; bonus grandchildren, Aaron (Macy) McGill, Kinzie (Jake) Moffitt, Atalie (Dustin) Schwartz, Quinn McGill, Ben (Sarah) McGill; 34 beloved great-grandchildren; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Merlin Dieterman, Almer (Roberta) Dieterman, Doris Hall, Dianne Wenn, Darla (Rolland) Smith, Irene Dieterman; and many nieces and nephews. 

Bob was an overcomer, starting with his challenging and humble beginnings. He was blessed to marry Judy and join her family, whom he held in very high esteem! He loved the Dieterman clan very much and mentioned it often. He went on to build a successful business, life and left a legacy to all who loved him. 

A few pieces of information about Bob: He was a faithful husband who said many times it was because he was quick to say, “yes dear!” He was a believer of Jesus Christ and what He did on the cross for him. Bob was a godly man who was very generous, always sharing what he had! He was a man of prayer, a very hard worker, could fix just about anything and an American patriot! He had a great sense of humor and spending time with him often meant times of laughter.

Bob loved sharing wisdom and advice and even had a list of Bobisms: “expect the unexpected,” “don’t assume anything,” “don’t judge others by the way you think,” “positivity beats negativity every time,” “think outside the box,” just to name a few! He published and gifted his Ponderings booklets that many have enjoyed. Bob was truly an uncommon man who had uncommon sense!

Bob is now enjoying our Heavenly Father. He is healthy and whole, probably holding his precious wife, Judy’s hand, and together worshiping their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Friday, November 29, from 10-11 a.m. prior to the Celebration of Life service at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW. The service will be held after the visitation at 11 a.m. followed by a luncheon. The burial will take place at Kent Memorial Gardens. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Samaritan's Purse.