Robert E. Kroon
Robert “Bob” Edward Kroon, 84, beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 9th, 2024, leaving a legacy of kindness, devotion, and joyful memories. Born on November 28, 1939, in Austin, Minnesota, to Henry and Grace (Kosters) Kroon, Bob’s family soon settled in Sioux Falls, where he would grow up and shape the beginning of a lifetime filled with service and love for family and community.
Bob graduated from Washington High School in 1958, embarking shortly thereafter on a new chapter by enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1959. His service took him abroad to France and later to Fort Carson in Colorado. In 1963, he transferred from the Army to the South Dakota Air National Guard, where he proudly served as a budget analyst, working directly with the Pentagon. Bob rose to the rank of Senior Master Sergeant, serving faithfully until his retirement in 1993.
On August 31, 1963, Bob married the love of his life, Sharon (Beek) Kroon. Together, they built a life filled with love and shared adventures. After Bob’s retirement, they spent 27 wonderful winters together in Texas, creating cherished memories with friends and family.
Bob was a lifelong member of First Reformed Church where he held roles as Elder, treasurer and youth group leader, generously dedicating his time and care to his church community. His love for guiding and supporting youth extended to coaching his girls sports teams, chaperoning choir trips and hosting many pool parties. Bob was always ready to be involved, cheering from the sidelines and in the audience at countless events for his children and grandchildren.
Bob’s love of adventure and joy for life shone through in all he did, from fishing trips with his father-in-law Lorn, brother-in-law Sherwood, and grandchildren to his passion for cars, especially his bright cherry red ‘41 Ford truck with a Corvette engine. He enjoyed family trips to Disneyland and Disney World, creating magic for his grandchildren on each visit.
He is deeply missed and remembered by his children, Jody (Mark) Nieuwendorp and their sons Gerrit and Grant, Lisa (Shane) Holtman and their daughters LaRen and Lily; his brother Jerry (Peggy) Kroon, brother-in-law Sherwood (Kristi) Beek, as well as his nieces and nephews; Kristie (Terry) Kurtenbach, Julianna Bjorklund, Kara (Tom) Manuel, Dean (Dani) Kroon, Jen (Paul) Pesavento, Geoffrey (Pharon) Beek, Jamison (Lauren) Beek, and Sanna (Jon) Gaynor along with many great-nieces and nephews.
Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 53 years, Sharon (Beek) Kroon; his parents, Henry and Grace Kroon; his in-laws Lorn and Mable Beek; and his brother and sister-in-law, Del and Marlys Kroon.
Bob’s warmth, humor, and devotion to family will forever be cherished by all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty, with memories that will be treasured for generations.
A Celebration of Life will take place 10:30 AM, Wednesday, November 13, 2024 at First Reformed Church with a Visitation starting at 9:30 AM.