Born on February 18, 1960, Bob was blessed to have many roles as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, mentor and friend. He was raised in Saline, Michigan and moved to West Michigan to attend Ferris State University where he graduated with a degree in Tool and Die Making. After graduating, he started working at Prince Corporation (presently Yanfeng) where he eventually retired after working there for 38 years. Bob met his wife Michelle while working at Prince as well as many lifelong friends. In 1995, Bob began volunteering as a robotics mentor, a role that he continued at Holland Christian until his death, and a role in which he received national recognition for his dedication and impact on the lives of many people.
Bob was a man of many talents and hobbies. All of which expanded his impact on the lives of others. A “short” list of his hobbies include: hunting, tractor restoration, fishing, biking, camping, hiking, motorcycling, machining, and completing Michelle’s “honey-do” list. After retirement, Bob and Michelle traveled the country camping in their RV. Bob shined a light that few people could match.
Bob is preceded in death by his Mother, Jane (Ellen) Bonczyk. He is survived by his wife, Michelle (De Haan) of 38 years; his daughters Nicki Bonczyk and Jessi Strikwerda (John); his grandson Willem Strikwerda; his father Robert C. Bonczyk; his siblings John (Cindy), Ellen (Raymond) and Bill (Lorrie).
A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St. Holland. Burial will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Friday, March 1, also at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Bob’s GoFundMe Page. Funds raised will be used for an annual FIRST Robotics Scholarship to continue Bob’s positive impact on students: https://gofund.me/061ce4e7
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