Robert H. Palen

Robert H. Palen, age 72, of Spring Lake, passed away on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at home. He was born on January 17, 1953, in Grand Haven, MI, to the late Egbert and Lillian (Deal) Palen.

Robert graduated from Fruitport High School and then went on to proudly serve his country in the US Army from 1981 to 1984, during which he spent six years in Germany. He married Mary Lou Kane on November 23, 1988, in Holland, MI.

Robert began his working career as a long-haul semi driver, which he did for many years. He later worked for ZFS (Zeeland Farm Services), and most recently worked as a cameraman recording the horse races at Great Lakes Downs.

Robert was disabled for 25 plus years but never let that stop him from enjoying his life. He was a faithful member of Ferrysburg Community Church and had an eye for photography and enjoyed taking pictures. Robert was also a Harley rider and collector of Harley Davidson memorabilia and was a fan of Bigfoot and liked watching old Western's, especially those starring John Wayne, and The Lone Ranger.

Robert will be forever remembered and missed by his loving wife of 36 years, Mary Lou; his daughter, Ann Parsons; son, Chris Arnold; his five grandchildren: Skylar (Zachary) Harris, Noah Parsons, Coty (Rachel) Arnold, Ciara (Taylor) Swartz, and Breanna (Larry) Kinsey; many great-grandchildren; his two sisters, Edna Hurtubise and Mary Garrow; two brothers, Joe Palen and Egbert "Butch" Palen; and several nieces and nephews.

The Memorial Service for Robert will be held at a later date to be announced.

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