Robert Taylor Bendle, born May 24, 1920, died February 24, 2023, and has at last joined his beloved wife, Beverly.  Bob served in WWII from 1941-1945, specifically in the Northern African Invasion, where he earned the Purple Heart.  He later served in the 21st General Hospital as a Surgeon's Tech in both North Africa and Naples, Italy.  At the war's end, he attended Ferris Institute of Technology and became a pharmacist. In 1954, he and his wife Beverly opened Towne & Country Pharmacy in what was later to be known as the City of Kentwood.  Bob served with the local Civil Defense during the 50s, spent 19 years as a volunteer firefighter with Paris Twp, and later as chief of Kentwood District 3 Firehouse.   Bob was a founding and charter member of John Knox Presbyterian Church. During his many years at John Knox, he served as Deacon and Elder.  He is preceded in death by wife, Beverly; and granddaughter, Jil Christine Sheldon.  Bob is survived by son, R. James Bendle (Elaine), Laurie (Charles) Rivard; grandchildren, Amy (Bendle) Hendrickson, Matthew (Dannielle) Bendle, Mark R. Sheldon, Kerry (Sheldon) Kilander (Seth); and eight great-grandchildren.  The visitation and funeral service will be held on Tuesday, February 28, at Stroo Funeral Home, 1095 68^th St. SE, Grand Rapids, 49508.  The family will greet visitors from 10 AM – 11 AM.  The funeral service will begin at 11 AM, with Nancy Clodfelder officiating.  Interment will be in Rosedale Memorial Park.  A very special thank you to his hospice team, Jennifer, Alex, and Melinda, and deep appreciation to the staff of Trillium Woods. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Bob’s name to Faith Hospice at Trillium Woods.