Edward J. Roberts

Edward John Roberts, 98, of Holland Michigan, passed away on March 31st, at Holland Hospital of cardiac arrest.

Edward was born in Grand Haven, Michigan, to Edward Charles and Dorothy Marie Roberts, on September 25, 1925.

After graduating from Grand Haven High School, he went on to serve as an Officer in the U.S. Navy, serving in the South Pacific, on the USS Miami during World War II. He attended Central Michigan University, Oberlin College, Columbia University, Hope College, and received his master’s degree at the University of Michigan.

On March 27, 1948, Ed and his beloved wife, Patricia Ann Haskin, were married at Hope Church, in Holland, Michigan.

He then began teaching at Central High School in Grand Rapids, also overseeing the athletic program at Houseman Field . He went on to become the principal of Waukazoo Elementary School in Holland, and later the West Ottawa Middle School. His many years of hard work and dedication at West Ottawa touched the lives of many in the community, where he was well respected and well loved by both students and teachers.

After his retirement, he enjoyed traveling in his RV, visiting many of the beautiful coastal towns in Michigan during the summer. He also enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.

He was a man of strong faith, who was well loved by everyone he met. Aways with a warm smile, a quick wit, and a kind word. Always with a helping hand, and a calm, kind demeanor. Never an unkind word. A role model for so many. He left the world a better place for having been in it, and will be greatly missed.

Ed will be dearly missed by his daughters, Nancy (Dan) Bauer and Laura Roberts, his brother Ken (Ruth) Roberts, sister Jane Roberts Shine Summers, grandchildren Barbara (Steve) Grilley, Danae (Chad) Vesey, Lee (Sara) Bauer, Richard (Melissa) Moralez, Heather Horsting (Chase Vos), his great grandchildren, Ashlee and Allison Grilley, Jakob, Violet, Emma, and Luke Vesey, Eli, Emily, and Adam Bauer, Mallory Vos, and special friend Vivian Van Liere.

He was preceded in death by his wife Patricia Ann Roberts, his daughter Barbara Jean Roberts, his son David Edward Roberts, parents Edward Charles and Dorothy Marie Roberts, sister Doris Roberts, and brother James Roberts.

The Celebration of Life will be held at Beechwood Church on Wednesday, April 10, at 11 a.m., with a one hour visitation prior to the service at 10:00 a.m., followed by a light lunch for fellowship with family and friends. Burial will follow at 1:15 p.m. at Pilgrim Cemetery on E. 16th St.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to West Ottawa Public Schools.