Robert James Bos, known affectionately as Bob, was born on February 12, 1941, and passed away unexpectedly in Holland, Michigan on May 19, 2026. He lived a life marked by faith, service, and devotion. He was a Christian man whose steady spirit, loving heart, and handy nature touched many lives over the years. Those who knew him will remember his warm presence, his willingness to help, and the quiet strength with which he carried himself through life.
Bob attended Holland Christian Schools and began building the foundation for a life of hard work and faithful commitment early on. He went on to spend 42 years at Holland Hitch Company, where he served in various roles and became known for his reliability, skill, and strong work ethic. His long career reflected the same qualities that defined his personal life, including dependability, humility, and a genuine desire to do things well.
He was a life-long member of Hope Church in Holland, Michigan, and his faith remained an important part of who he was throughout his life. Bob found joy in worship, fellowship, and the Christian values that guided his actions each day. He lived with a spirit that was both loving and spirited, and he carried his faith into the way he treated others, always ready with a helping hand or a kind word.
Bob enjoyed traveling in his motorhome and spending the winters with family and friends at Gulf Waters Resort in Fort Myers Beach. When he was not there, he appreciated the comfort of his home in Holland, Michigan, where he found peace and familiarity. He also treasured his time on the golf course and was a member of the FOP golf league for more than 35 years. These years of fellowship and friendly competition brought him many good memories and lasting friendships.
Music was another meaningful part of Bob’s life. He was a life-long member of the Holland Windmill Chorus and participated in various Barbershop Quartets. Through these musical connections, he shared his voice and his love of harmony with others, adding joy wherever he went. His participation reflected his appreciation for community and the simple pleasures of making music with others.
Bob was truly a jack of many trades, and there was nothing he could not fix. He was always ready and willing to help others with mechanical or electrical projects, and many relied on his knowledge and skill. His family and friends knew they could count on him, and his generous spirit made him a blessing to those around him. He was handy in the truest sense of the word, but even more importantly, he was loving and spirited in all he did.
He was preceded in death by his wives, Joan Bos and Margaret Bos, by his son, Jeffrey Bos, and his four sisters and two brothers. He is survived by his son, Michael Bos; his daughter-in-law, Kimberly Bos; his grandson, Alexander Bos; his very special friend, Margo Donahue; and his sister, Gretchen Wiegerink and her husband, Paul. He will be remembered with love by all who were privileged to know him and by those whose lives were made better through his presence.
Bob’s life was a faithful testimony to the values of hard work, family, friendship, and Christian devotion. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him. May he rest in the peace of the Lord, surrounded by the eternal love and mercy of God.
A visitation will take place on Tuesday, May 26 from 6-8pm at Dykstra Funeral Home – Northwood Chapel, 295 Douglas Ave. Holland. A memorial service will take place on Wednesday, May 27 at 11:00am at Hope Church, 77 W 11th Street, Holland, with Rev. Gordon Wiersma officiating. Burial will take place at Lakewood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Hope Church.
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