Robert James Stritzinger, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2025, at the age of 94. A man of deep faith, humor, kindness, and generosity, he was loved by all who knew him.
Born on June 11, 1930, Robert earned his undergraduate degree from Michigan State University before obtaining his Master’s degree in Business at the University of Pennsylvania. A proud and courageous Marine, he served his country in the Korean War, embodying the values of honor, discipline, integrity, and service throughout his life.
On May 17, 1958, he married the love of his life, Olga Ann Stritzinger (VanLoon), and together they built a life rooted in love, faith, and family. They remained devoted to each other for 67 years, raising seven children: Robert, Philip (Erin), Nicholas (Tamie), Kathleen Kransberger, Suzanne Remelts (Jerry), Thomas, and Matthew (Jenny). He was the proud grandfather of 24 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense joy. He is also survived by sister, Sherry (John) Caldwell. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Loretta Stritzinger; his sister, Marlene (Bill) Johnson and his son-in-law, David Kransberger.
Professionally, Robert spent many years with Standard Oil before following his passion for helping others as a personal financial planner. He continued guiding individuals and families toward financial security until his well-earned retirement at the age of 90 in 2020.
A devout Roman Catholic, Robert practiced his faith daily and lived out its teachings through acts of service. He dedicated years to serving those in need through 20+ years of delivering Meals on Wheels, mentoring young people through Junior Achievement, lecturing and teaching lectors at his church, contributing to the blood bank for many years and selflessly giving back to his church and community.
Athletics and card games with family and friends were a lifelong passion of his. He played tennis for Michigan State and continued his love for sports by playing softball and golf leagues for his church, and competing in the Senior Olympics well into his 80’s. His quick wit, warm heart, and selfless nature made him a source of laughter, wisdom, and comfort to all who knew him.
Robert’s legacy is one of faith, love, and service. He will be deeply missed by his wife, Olga, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all whose lives he touched.
Family will greet friends and relatives from 5-7pm on Friday, February 14, 2025, at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11am on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at St. Robert of Newminster Parish, 6477 Ada Drive SE, Ada, MI 49301, with visitation one hour prior. Fr. Tony Russo presiding. Entombment Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers and to continue his legacy of helping others, donations may be made in his memory to Help Pregnancy Aid https://helppregnancy.org.