Robert Joseph Rottier, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at the age of 72, surrounded by family, on January 31, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Wilma Rottier; his in-laws, Emerson and Elizabeth Smith; his cherished daughter, Maria Rottier; and brother in-law, Donald Smith.
A devoted husband for 51 years, Bob leaves behind his loving wife, Mary; along with their sons, Dave (Heidi), Mike (Holly), Steve (Elizabeth), Dan (Noelle); and daughter, Katie (James) VanOpstall. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to 17 grandchildren, AnnaJoy, Jake, Lucas, Elin, Calli, Andilynn, Rae-Lynn, Ben, Jalynn, Kemani, Gideon, Abigail, Adalyn, Caleb, Lauren, Hailey, and Corinne. Bob is also survived by his siblings, Terry (Linda), Ron (Lily) and Nancy (Tim) Pierce; and his sisters-in-law, Jackie Smith, Sara Steenwyk.
Throughout his life, Bob was an active and dedicated member of Alto Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon, AWANA leader, and Sunday School teacher. His faith, love for his family, and commitment to his church and community were central to who he was.
Bob will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, his sense of humor, and his selflessness. He leaves a legacy of love that will continue to inspire all who knew him. Bob will be deeply missed but will forever remain in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Visitation will be held from 5-8pm on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at Roth-Gerst Funeral Home, 305 N. Hudson Lowell, Michigan 49331. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11am on Friday February 7, 2025, at Alto Baptist Church, 6015 Bancroft Ave. SE, Alto, Michigan 49302, with a visitation one hour prior. Pastor Timothy Teall officiating. Interment Bowne Center Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Lincoln Lake Baptist Youth Camp, 15113 Lincoln Lake Ave NE, Gowen, MI 49326, to honor Bob’s desire for reaching youth with the message of Christ.
Favorite Verse: John 10:27-29 “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.”