Robert Edward Giles

On April 28, Bob Giles, 88, died. Bob was a real Renaissance Man. He was exceptionally good at many things. Among them, an excellent musician, a Golden Gloves Champion, and a 7th degree black belt in Shorinryu Renbukan karate.

He was a proud graduate of Union High School and Western Michigan University, where he earned a BA in music. He taught and performed in many different settings, including as a member of the Michigan National Guard 126th Army Band. As a part of this renowned group he traveled the world performing in Italy, England, Trinidad, Tobago, Latvia and Australia. Only slightly less renowned was his group of buddies at Sandy's Donuts who joined him most mornings to solve the world's problems.

He was always physically fit and active. As a young man he excelled as a boxer. Later in life, martial arts became his passion. He established the Shorinryu Karate School where he instructed until 2018.

Sensei Giles changed lives during those years, teaching his students to believe in themselves and to be caring and respectful. These might seem odd concepts for a martial artist but Bob's approach was not to be aggressive or performative. Karate was the foundation for a way of life.

As a person, he was honest, moral and exceptionally self motivated. He accepted people as they were, no matter their color, culture, age, gender, sexual orientation or socioeconomic class.

He leaves behind his wife of almost 60 years, Cherie, his niece Sharon Stoddard (Dan), a very special friend, Bill Hay and so many others who patiently and lovingly accompanied him through his journey with Alzheimers. Special thanks to the Sligh Crew who helped watch over him in his last years at home and the wonderful staff of 4th Floor Nursing at Raybrook Manor. As Bob would say, “They were a great bunch of knuckleheads”.

There are many worthy causes that Bob believed in but what enabled him to achieve so much was the Grand Rapids Public Schools music program at Union High School. There his innate musical abilities were recognized, valued and nurtured. Should you wish to make a donation, checks should be made out to Union Band, and mailed to Union Band, c/o Union High School, 1800 Tremont Blvd NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504.

A little celebration will take place in Bob's man cave on July 26 from 2-6. 213 Sligh, NE 49505

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