Robert Dwight "Bob" Woodruff

Robert Dwight Woodruff, 69, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on July 10, 2025. Funeral services will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery on July 18, 2025, at 10am.

Bob was born on February 28, 1956, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the youngest of three siblings (James and Lynn), to Beth (Martine) and Edmond Woodruff. He spent his youth in Kalamazoo and later attended Dawntreader High School and Grand Valley State University, graduating with a dual major in Psychology and Philosophy.

At the age of 24, Bob traveled extensively throughout Europe and the Middle East, spending time in Germany, Amsterdam, France, and Jerusalem. These experiences deeply shaped his worldview, and he often reflected on them throughout his life.

In 1981, Bob enlisted in the United States Army, serving as a 91C Medical Specialist, with training in nuclear, biological, and chemical warfare. He received the Army Commendation Medal and, after four years of service, was honorably discharged at the rank of Specialist 4. During his time in the Army, he met his wife, Christine (Summers), and they married in 1982. Together they had one son, David. Although they later divorced, they remained connected through family.

After his military service, Bob took on many roles and wore many hats. A true jack-of-all-trades, he could repair computers and cars alike. He devoted part of his career to helping others overcome addiction, working as a counselor with the Salvation Army and later in private practice. He was a passionate student of history and participated in historical reenactments for many years. Bob also loved theater and film, and pursued acting both on stage and in film. He was a lifelong learner who cherished books, movies, deep conversations, and spontaneous adventures.

Bob was preceded in death by his father Edmond, mother Beth, sister-in-law Maggie, and nephews Andrew and Mark. He is survived by his son David (Megumi); his grandchildren Luna, Meadow, and Rhea; his brother James; sister Lynn; and many other beloved family members and friends.

He will be remembered for his kindness, quick wit, deep empathy, and unwavering loyalty.

Military Honors will be provided by the U.S. Army Honor Guard and the Fort Custer National Cemetery Honor Guard at Fort Custer National Cemetery, 10:00 a.m. Friday, July 18, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to the American Heart Association, an organization whose mission reflects Bob’s spirit of care and service: https://www.heart.org/en/get-involved/ways-to-give

Arrangements are by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.