Robert N. Hooyer, age 89, resident of Wheaton, IL, passed away peacefully while surrounded by family on Saturday, January 13, 2024. Robert was born on June 13,1934 in Cutlerville, MI, where he grew up alongside his four siblings.

After graduating from Grand Rapids Christian High School, he attended Calvin College for two years before serving in the US Army. Robert finished his education at Davenport Business School following his service overseas. While finishing his education, Robert met the love of his life, Mary Berghorst. After marrying in 1958, Robert and Mary started their family in Cutlerville before settling in Wheaton, IL where they raised their four children.

Robert enjoyed a successful 33-year career with Keebler in both Grand Rapids, MI and Elmhurst, IL. An early retirement from the Keebler Tree allowed Robert and Mary to explore the world; traveling to all seven continents and immersing themselves in the cultures, natural wonders, and perspectives of everywhere they went. Back at home, Robert was an active member of the Wheaton Christian Reformed Church, where he served on the church council and was a dedicated participant in his Early Risers breakfast Bible study. He also served on the Board of STRAT Ministries, an organization he was proud to be a part of.

Besides his love for the Church and nurturing his community, he had a green thumb and enjoyed days working in his garden and sharing his famous tomatoes and flowers with friends, family, and neighbors. Robert also enjoyed days on the golf course where he shot his age and relished in taking a few dollars from his sons-in-law. His competitive nature was also brought to the card table in beloved family games of 'Seven Up, Seven Down.' Family was always at the center of Robert's life. He was actively involved with each one of his grandkids' lives and hobbies by eagerly attending sporting events and performances. He led his family in faith through prayer, devotions, and acts of service, inspiring a love for Christ and for serving His Kingdom.

Robert is deeply loved and will be missed by Mary, his wife of 65 years; his four children, Dawn (Bruce) Reinhart, Lori (Mark) Solberg, David (Stacie) Hooyer, and Susan (Clayton) Nelson; his five grandchildren, Nicholas Reinhart, David (Joshua) Solberg, Renee (Ryan) LaFleur, Caleb Nelson, and Liam Nelson; siblings, Charlene Hooyer and Paul (Connie) Hooyer; and sisters in-law, Ihla Hooyer and Muriel Hooyer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Frances Hooyer; and his brothers, John Hooyer and Howard Hooyer.

A memorial service and time for visitation will be held at the Wheaton Christian Reformed Church on Saturday, January 27th. The family will greet friends and family beginning at 12pm, followed by a memorial service at 1pm, and continued time for visitation and refreshments following the service.

A live-stream & recording of the service is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bi82mliNY8E .

Memorial gifts in honor of Robert may be made to STRAT Ministries and Outreach Community Ministries .