Robert Hirt

Robert Francis "Bob" Hirt, 92, went to be with the Lord, November 21, 2021; passing away peacefully in his sleep while surrounded by his family. Bob was preceded in death by his loving wife June, and daughter Cyndie Chertos.  He is survived by his sons Daniel Hirt and Loren Hirt; sister Midge Leale; grandsons James (Tina) Chertos, Chad (Missy) Chertos, Dan (Lacy) Hirt, Lucas (Kendal) Hirt, Zach (Yvette) Hirt, and Austin (Allie) Hirt; and two great-grandsons and two great-granddaughters. Bob worked as a welder at Rowe-AMI, where he served as a union president for Local 981, and sidelined as a roofing contractor for many years. At the urging of close friend and longtime Kent County Commissioner Jerry Ary, Bob twice ran for county commissioner as a Democrat in a Republican-controlled district. Also an accomplished artist, Bob was commissioned to draw portraits for the Greater Grand Rapids Bowling Hall of Fame plaques, as well as weekly Amateur Bowlers Tour (ABT) champions. An avid bowler and golfer into his 80’s, Bob won two ABT championships and was secretary of Sunday Night Orphans and DJ Independents bowling leagues for 20+ years. As a youth, under the tutelage of the famed Wes Ramey, Bob was a Golden Gloves state champion and fought several professional bouts. Prior to her death in 2008, June and Bob were married for 56 years and were virtually inseparable. The burial will take place on Thursday, December 2, 2021 at Blythefield Memory Gardens in Rockford at 1 p.m. A memorial is scheduled directly afterward at St. Adalberts Aid Society (Fifth Street Hall), 701 Fifth St. NW, in Grand Rapids until 5 p.m. Those wishing to show their respect are welcome to attend both. Food and drinks will be provided.

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