Robert David Rillema

Robert Rillema, age 84, of Lexington passed away peacefully on August 18, 2023. Robert David Rillema was born on August 7, 1939 in Jenison, Michigan, the 2nd of 4 children born to Benjamin Rillema and Glenna (Reister) Rillema. He was primarily raised in Michigan, where he graduated from Saranac Community School with the Red Hawk Class of 1957. Shortly after graduating high school, he moved to Tennessee for bible college. Within two years, he had obtained his associate degree from Bryan College, all while studying and pursing his passion of music. It was during this time that he met a young lady named, Linda Owens. The two quickly fell in love and were married on July 20, 1960. Together they raised four children- Rhonda, Mark, Theresa, and Tina. A little while later, the Rillema family settled in Woodstock, Georgia. At this time, he worked for Lockheed Air Craft for nearly 15 years before eventually retiring. Robert was driven, dedicated, and self-motivated in his work. He was also extremely creative. Robert was always happy and had such a light-hearted spirit. He faced many challenges in life, and with the help of his family and friends, he was content. He was forever grateful to his daughter Rhonda, for the care that she gave him when he needed it most. More than anything, Robert was a family man. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He truly cherished every moment with them. He was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother. He will be dearly missed! He was preceded in death by: his parents, Benjamin and Glenna Rillema and sister, Dawn Gerard. Robert is survived by: his daughters, Rhonda McPherson (Mike) of Lexington, Theresa Baker (David) of Purcell, Tina Smith (Jason) of Purcell; son, Mark Rillema of Purcell; sisters, Ruth Warner of Grandville, Michigan and Melanie Grooters (Doug) of Grand Rapids, Michigan; 11 grandchildren, Dustin, Michael, Candace, Autumn, Torri, Rebecca, Kairlene, Aleiha, Elizabeth, Christopher, and Conner; 11 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and a host of other family and friends. The family would like to extend their thanks and gratitude to Valir Hospice- the chaplain, social worker, and many nurses- for their outstanding care and kindness. www.wilsonlittle.com

Robert David Rillema

August 7, 1939 - August 18, 2023