Martin Robert Hughes, affectionately known as Bob, age 95, went to be with his Lord and Savior on October 3, 2026.
Bob and his wife, Eleanor, lived in Grand Rapids until he became the Executive Director of Camp Geneva in 1974, at which time they moved to Holland. Earlier in his career, Bob worked in design and engineering at Bissell, where he earned a patent for a disposable dust mop. His work at Camp Geneva became a deeply meaningful part of his life, bringing together his faith, leadership, and dedication to others. During his tenure, he helped strengthen the camp’s financial foundation, expanded opportunities for year-round retreats, introduced Camp Sunshine for children and young adults with special needs, and supported Athletes’ Week and camping programs for those with muscular dystrophy.
Bob dedicated much of his life to serving his church and community. He served as President of the Kenowa Hills School Board, a West Michigan YMCA Board Member, President of the West Michigan Arabian Horse Association, and Director of MidWest Rocket Football. He was a member of the board of directors of Maranatha Conference Center and Camp Geneva, served on the Remembrance Reformed and Christ Memorial consistories, and contributed his leadership as a Tulip Time Board Director and a board member of the Royal Coast Condo Association in Pompano Beach, Florida.
Sports were a lifelong source of enjoyment for Bob. At Union High School, he was a member of the 1948 state championship football team and the 1949 state championship baseball team, earning recognition as an All-City First Baseman in 1949. He went on to play baseball with the Grand Rapids Red Sox and basketball with the Class A Lear Inc. team. In later years, he continued to enjoy watching games and following his great-grandchildren’s activities.
Above all, Bob treasured his family and his faith. He began each morning with devotions and prayer and shared that steady faith with those around him. Known as “Bobby” to his great-grandchildren, he brought laughter, encouragement, and a sense of belonging to family gatherings. He loved time spent together in Florida and around the Thanksgiving table, and considered his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren his greatest accomplishment.
Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Eleanor, in 2019. He is survived by his daughter, Luann (Ronald) DeVries; son, Paul (Lynn Marks) Hughes; grandchildren, Amy (Jordan) Kramer and Jill (Justin) Johnson; and great-grandchildren, Emerson, Hadley, Claire, and William.
A memorial service is scheduled for Noon, Friday, October 9, 2026, at Christ Memorial Church (chapel), 595 Graafschap Rd. Holland, MI 49423 officiated by Darryl Bartlett.
A time of visitation with the family will precede the service and start at 11:00 am also at Christ Memorial Church.
Memorial contributions may be given in Bob’s honor to Gateway Mission at www.hopefoundhere.org or by mail to 680 E. 24th St. Holland, MI 49423 or Camp Geneva at www.campgeneva.org or by mail to 3779 Lakeshore Dr. Holland, MI 49424.
Burial to take place in Forest Grove Cemetery.
Luann and family, So sorry to hear about the passing of Dad. He lived a long and productive life. We are thankful to have known and enjoyed Mom and Dad and are thankful for that opportunity. We can imagine the happy greetings Mom and Dad shared when he reached Heaven. May you be comforted as you remember their love for you and your family.
Chuck and Jean VandenBerg