Robert Frank "Bob" Rimkus

Robert Frank, “Bob” Rimkus, 81, of Battle Creek, Michigan died at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Friday, October 25, 2024.

Bob was born January 28, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Stacey G. and Helen L. (Pappa) Rimkus. He was a 1961 graduate of Mendel Catholic High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Business and master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from Northern Illinois University. Mary Kay Baker swept a young man, Robert Frank Rimkus, attending Northern Illinois University off his feet. Mary and Bob were married on June 17, 1967, in DeKalb, Illinois. While living in Antioch, Illinois, Bob was employed at the College of Lake County as the Director of Finance. Bob applied for a job at Kellogg Community College in 1977 and has made Battle Creek home since. Bob was the former comptroller and retired as vice president of Finance and Administration from Kellogg Community College in 2005. After retiring, Bob was the Director of Finance at the former Miller College.

Sadly, Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Mary, of 49+ years on October 27, 2016. Surviving Bob are their two sons, Daniel R. Rimkus of Portage, MI, David A. (Jordan) Rimkus of Franklin, TN; two granddaughters, Emerson and Blair Rimkus; two sisters, Rosemary (Frank) Craven of Overland Park, KS, Rhonda (Jim) Lesniak of Mountain Home, AR; brother, Richard (Linda) Rimkus of Belvidere, IL; and several in-laws; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and their families. In addition to his wife, Mary, Bob was also preceded in death by his parents. 

“Papa Bob” was a dedicated grandfather and loved following his granddaughters’ activities and sporting events. Bob enjoyed golfing with his golf “crew” for many years. He was an avid fan of the Chicago Bears and enjoyed watching sports on TV. His favorite pastimes were reading, working in his yard and spending time with his sons Dan and Dave. In constant support of his family, Bob and Mary were involved in many school activities supporting their children, and advocates for countless millages to support Lakeview School District. Bob will be remembered for his sense of humor, his friendly, outgoing manner, his vast knowledge, his compassion and especially for his love of and dedication to his family.

Friends will be received 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Saturday, November 2, 2024, at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, where a funeral service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held 3:00 p.m. Saturday, November 2, 2024. Bob will be laid to rest next to Mary at Memorial Park Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Bob may be made to KCC Foundation General Scholarship Fund, 450 North Avenue, Battle Creek, MI 49017. Personal messages for the family may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.