Robert James Elzinga, age 73, of Lowell, passed away Friday, December 4, 2020. The son of Herbert & Virginia (Hosley) Elzinga, he was born July 19, 1947 in Grand Rapids. Bob graduated from Lowell High School in 1965. He was Lowell’s all-time top point scorer in basketball and is currently third place overall in Lowell history. Bob was awarded a full-ride scholarship for basketball to Central Michigan University but after his freshman year, he transferred to Michigan State University where he completed his BA in business in 1970. After college, Bob worked for the state of Michigan as a bank examiner. He joined his father at the Lowell State Savings Bank where everyone knew and loved him as their banker! Bob still enjoyed working and was the CFO of Heidi Christine’s Salon and Spas. He was very active in his community, serving on the Lowell Planning Commission and Lowell Rotary Club, serving as President of the club. Bob was recognized as Rotary Man of the Year and received the Paul Harris Fellow. In retirement, Bob and Patty spent their winters in Venice, Florida. He enjoyed golf at least 3 days a week with his friends, children and grandchildren when they would visit. He golfed in Michigan during the summer with his lifelong golf buddies! Bob was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 48 years. Patricia “Patty” Elzinga; children, Heidi (Craig) VanderKolk, Betsy McConnell & fiancé, Brian VanderKooy, Eric Elzinga, and Cris (Michelle) Elzinga; grandchildren, Maryanna O’Connor, Patrick VanderKolk, Andy VanderKolk, Keegan McConnell, Jonah McConnell, Brody McConnell, Lily Elzinga, Brayden Elzinga, and Macie Elzinga; brother, John Elzinga; niece, Becky Elzinga; and many other family and friends. He was deeply loved by his family and everyone who met him. Bob was a mentor to many and a brilliant businessman who will be sorely missed! Due to the current situation with Covid-19, we will be doing a Celebration of Life in June. In leu of flowers, please send contributions in Bob’s honor to Spectrum Health Hospice, 750 Fuller Avenue N.E. Grand Rapids, MI 49503.
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I am so sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. I have been friends with Patty a very long time. My love goes to her and her children. Bob’s live speaks of his good works and many accomplishment’s.
As a young girl I remember Watching Bob play basketball. As a young couple Ron and I would talk to Bob regarding banking. We were lucky to enjoy Bob and Patty socially. Bob always had a smile for everyone he met. Now all those that Bob shared that smile with are holding Patty and all of the family in our hearts and prayers.