Robert James Jackson Sr.'s Obituary
Robert James Jackson Sr. of Norton Shores, Michigan, passed away on Friday November 8, 2024, at the age of 88. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Bertha Jackson, his half-brothers Walter Jr. and Steve, half-sister Rose, his brother, Harold Jackson, sister Jeanette and her husband James (Jim) Meier, son-in-law Martin Orban, and his granddaughter Ellen Jackson.
Robert was born December 27, 1935, in Grand Rapids, Michigan to Walter and Bertha Jackson. After graduating Ravenna High School, he proudly served four years in the United States Air Force Military Intelligence. Following his honorable discharge and the dissolution of his first marriage, Robert met the love of his life, Carol Kleyn, whom he married November 5, 1976. In 1989 he retired from IBM and worked various jobs afterward.
Robert enjoyed many hobbies including painting, photography, classical music, astronomy, medieval and ancient history, art, reading, and writing. He was an accomplished painter and published author. He and his wife were active volunteers in their church involving ministering, writing, and directing Christian Christmas & Easter programs. He had a great sense of humor. His "Bob jokes" were enjoyed by friends, family and strangers alike, and will forever be remembered.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Carol (Kleyn) Jackson, sister Barb (Marvin) Kantola, children Leona Marie (Jeff) Carper, Robert (Sherrie) Jackson, Jr, Carol Jean (CJ) Orban, Jeanette (Adam) Jacobs, and Kevin Jackson. As well as grandchildren Cheryl Carper, Amy Fedora, Chad Antonides, Tyler (Melissa) Antonides, Scott Jacobs, Andrew Jacobs, 10 great-grandchildren and beloved cat Taz Churchill.
Services will be held in the spring of 2025. The family would like to express gratitude to Trinity Health Muskegon Hospital, Heartwood Lodge Care Center in Spring Lake and Hospice for all the wonderful care that was provided to our father Robert and his entire family.
Arrangements by Shoreline Memorial Services -- Muskegon Chapel -- (231)-722-5050
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