Robert (Bob) Darling, age 62, of Grand Rapids, was a humorous friend to all, full of shenanigans who departed this World on Thursday, April 2, 2026. Bob filled his time with family and all the friends he made throughout his life. He was a stable force for family and friends and provided a safe space for anyone who met him. He enjoyed fishing, spending time in the woods at his cabin Up North, tinkering with motorcycles, and making those around him laugh.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Mary Ellen and Ray; sister, Sandy; brother, Jimmy; sister, Cathy; nieces, Sarah and Jamie; nephew, Mike and great-nephew, Nick.
He will be lovingly remembered by the love of his life, Jennifer; sister, Rose (Mike); son, Stephen (Kally); grandsons, Max and Henry, many nieces and nephews, Tim and Bev and his Discount Home Improvement family, and countless friends.
“Today I am happy and I am dancing. Probably naked. Love you all forever.”
A celebration of life will be announced shortly.
Bob, what a pleasure it was working with you for 20 plus years at DHI. You always made me laugh. You are greatly missed. RIP
- Wendy Carlson
Such a nice guy! I knew him from workout at Meijer. Why are the good ones taken so soon? RIP dear one.
- Dorothy Hendricks
I worked with Bob in the mailroom at Meijer early in my career. He was always a good person to be around. My condolences to those who knew and loved him. He will be greatly missed.
- Kevin Schalkofski
Such an empty space Bob leaves us with. He had a heart of gold, was compassionate, funny and a great smile. Bob was such a bright spot for so many of us! Rest in peace Bob, you did good and will be missed by so many of us.
- Ruth Bergsma
My Deep Condolences To Steve and His Boys. I am so sorry, I can’t begin to imagine your pain. I didn’t see Bob much over these last years but when I did He was so full of pride and love for You three. My condolences to the rest of Bob’s loved ones as well, I know He will be greatly missed. He certainly was The King of Practical Jokes! I think I will always remember Him laughing.. Rest Easy Bob!
- Lisa Mund
I will forever remember how funny and a all around great person. He will be missed. Take comfort in knowing that one day we will all be together ❤️
- Josie Redding
Ive known Bob since elementary school. We became great friends though the years. Lots of laughs and alot of mischief. In the 70s he gave me the nickname Tater.We would go to dear camp for years together. I was lucky to have someone like him in my life. I will miss you my brother. RIP. Love Willy
- Bill Jasinski
Uncle Cool, man am I going to miss your sense of humor. You were one of the most kind hearted, silly people I’ll ever have the pleasure of knowing! I now have nobody to call me a different cousins name every time they see me. You were truly 1 in a million and so loved. I’ll miss you forever uncle Bob.
- Haley Goldsmith
Alot of good memories you will never be forgottin love ya brother
- Brian Vangorp
Sweet Bob (aka Mike Nesmith), you will be sadly missed. I always loved your great (yet sometime inappropriate) sense of humor. I hope you and Al are sharing smiles and jokes. RIP my friend.
- Martha Wiltse
We will truly miss your laugh.. your posts… loggers landing family will surely miss you and your giggles … rest in peace ….❤️
- Kristina Dexterhouse and todd
Bob, we will always remember you. You were so nice to me and Tony. You always had us laughing. You will be missed my friend. . .
- Desire Roman
Oh Bob ..I will miss your laughter and seeing you around Grand rapids. I knew you for many years as we were growing up. You will be sorely missed. Me and William will keep you in our hearts. Prayers for the Darling family. Our condolences are with you all.
- Lori Russell
Bob was such a GREAT guy, always happy and I remember him always being goofy. You will be missed by so many.
- Cheri Runyan Fletcher
