Robert "Bob" Andrus

A great friend to many and a loving, supportive dad, Robert "Bob" Andrus was a genuinely good human. Bob led with his heart and was a kind, generous man. He enjoyed sharing time with those he loved and had a natural way of putting folks at ease. With a great smile and a wicked sense of humor, he inspired connection, laughter, and fun at work and at play. Bob enjoyed the simple pleasures of sharing a good meal, stories, and time outdoors and never hesitated to lend a hand in times of need. A devote father and steadfast friend, every memory made with Bob proved a treasure for all who were lucky to have known him.

1968 proved a year of high emotion. While the peace movement continued to gain momentum in the wake of the war in Vietnam, the Beatles rocked the radios with their hits "Revolution" and “Lady Madonna.” People around the nation sunk their teeth into the first Big Macs from McDonald’s, and the Boeing 747 made its maiden flight. Nowhere was there more excitement than in Lafayette, Indiana, as William “Gus” Jr. and Paula (Tuennermann) Andrus welcomed their son Bob into their hearts and home on July 9.

As a kid, Bob attended St. Monica Elementary school. He played Little League, participated in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, and was always up for an outdoor adventure. As a teen, he played basketball at Hackett High School and loved golf. A spirited kid, Bob was well known for always being up for a good time. From a very early age, Bob enjoyed spending time up north in Hershey Township. It was one of his favorite places and a true sanctuary over his lifetime.

After graduating from high school, Bob furthered his education at Western Michigan University, earning a Bachelor's degree in biological sciences. In time, Bob settled into working in Information Technologies for several companies around town.

Bob's love for outdoor adventure never waned. He enjoyed a day on the golf course with friends, canoeing and kayaking down the Pine and Muskegon rivers, and inspiring laughter at every turn. Escaping to the family cabin, and getting dirty on Jeep trail rides, were some of his best times. During the winter, he took to the slopes. An avid skier, he shared his passion for the sport by working as an instructor at Timber Ridge. He also went skiing in Utah with buddies several times. Bob enjoyed the gift of canine companionship and had several beloved huskies over the years. They spent countless hours together taking Jeep rides and curling up by the fire.

A fan of Detroit sports teams, the Tigers and Red Wings, as well as the Denver Broncos, Bob never passed up a chance to attend a game during the seasons with friends and family. Bob also attended many WMU Bronco’s games when his friends played on the team. His enthusiasm for sports went beyond just cheering for his favorite teams. For many years, he played in an adult recreation softball league in Portage with friends. The players' moms sponsored the team shirts and proudly dubbed the team the "Mama's Boys." Bob loved good music and especially enjoyed live performances. A huge Beatles and Jimmy Buffett fan, he was known to frequently wear Jimmy Buffett shirts and even had a Buffett-inspired license plate. Inspired by his favorite musician, he learned to play the guitar and enjoyed striking up a quick tune for anyone nearby to listen. A treasured memory was taking his mom to a concert at Pine Knob; though she thought the tailgate parties were most interesting.

Though his marriage ended in divorce, it also gave him his greatest joy, his daughter Allyson. Without a doubt, Allyson was Bob's world. He was immensely proud of her and relished every moment shared with her. He never missed a special event, proudly cheering her on and volunteering to help with school musicals and plays. They enjoyed going to concerts and special trips spent up north, as well as taking whole family cruises in the Bahamas.

Bob was happiest when using his gifts and talents to make life a bit easier for others. Whether hosting a gathering or chatting on the phone, he always created the space for people to simply be. He listened with his heart and found a way to see the humor in just about everything. A lifelong foodie, he loved to create awesome meals with his grill and smoker. He watched the Food Network, always interested in trying something new and making more than just burgers. He enjoyed hosting friends and family at his home and serving them delicious food. He was also a thoughtful neighbor who went out of his way to help with chores, including snow plowing and often cooked for them in their moments of need.

While our days with Bob were far too few, every moment was filled with priceless memories that are sure to soften the pain of our loss. May we also find comfort in carrying his legacy forward. Whenever we listen with our hearts, share our abundance, cheer on our loved ones' endeavors, laugh at life's absurdities, explore Michigan's rivers and trails, and curl up with our canine companions, we celebrate the many ways Bob gifted our lives. In this way, we keep his spirit alive and inspiring others as he so inspired each of us.

Robert Andrus, of Kalamazoo, age 54, died on August 5, 2022. Bob was preceded in death by his sister, Elizabeth. Surviving are his parents; daughter, Allyson; sister, Jennifer (Dave) Lane; and niece and nephew: Elizabeth and Eric Hamilton.

Cremation has taken place. Please join us at a Life Story Visitation ­­­Tuesday (AUG 16) from 5-7 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo 269-375-2900. A prayer service will be held at 7 PM. Casual attire such as Jimmy Buffett or Bob's favorite sports teams is welcomed as Bob was a tremendous fan.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday (AUG 17) at 11 AM at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 1150 W. Centre, Ave., Portage, with a luncheon in the church hall. Burial to follow. Visit Bob's webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com to archive favorite memories and photos and sign his guestbook. Memorial contributions may be made to Rose Arbor Hospice or Catholic Schools of Greater Kalamazoo.