Robert J. DiVita

Robert “Bob” DiVita, a beloved professional artist, loving family man, and eternal optimist, passed away peacefully at the age of 81. He leaves behind a vibrant legacy of creativity, devotion to family, and unwavering positivity that touched the lives of everyone he encountered. Bob was called home to his Creator on October 28, 2024.

Bob was born on April 23, 1943, in Montgomery, West Virginia, to Liborio and Josephine DiVita, Italian immigrants from Sicily, Italy, and was one of nine siblings. Bob discovered his passion and gift for art at an early age. He went on to study art at West Virginia University. It was also here where he met the love of his life, Arlene Palmieri. Bob and Arlene were married on December 28, 1968, and celebrated 55 years of marriage. They grew their family by one with the birth of their son Brian and moved to the Northeast side of Grand Rapids, Michigan in January 1970 where they would build their lives together.

Bob became a professor at Kendall College of Art and Design where he taught for 24 years. His artwork, characterized by its vibrant colors and uplifting themes, was showcased in galleries and art exhibits across the country and earned him numerous accolades. He loved painting and sculpture and has exhibited his pieces nationally, including ArtPrize. He has a painting on permanent display at the grade school where his father attended in Valguarnera, Sicily.

Bob believed that art had the power to inspire and heal, and he dedicated his life to sharing that gift with others as a college professor. After retirement, Bob and Arlene moved to Ada, Michigan where he enjoyed family dinners, football Sundays with his son Brian, movies, and going out for Mexican food. He took immense pride in being a father and grandfather. His home was a sanctuary of love and laughter, and where his paintings adorned the walls of his home. 

Beyond his artistic pursuits, Bob was a devoted family man. He is survived by his loving wife, Arlene, and their son Brian DiVita (Jennifer), and grandchildren Nicole DiVita and Alex DiVita and brothers Edward (Pat), Philip (Mona), Richard (Nancy), sister Jane (Robert), and many nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his parents and four brothers.

Known for his eternal optimism, Bob approached every challenge with a smile and a belief that better days were always ahead, including the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis at the age of 38. He defied all medical odds by living with the disease for 43 years. Despite the decline of being able to walk, no matter how bad his disease got, if you asked him, “How ya’ doing, Bob?” his response would be an unwavering, “I’m feeling pretty good today, doing pretty good,” complete with a smile. 

Bob enjoyed a remarkably extended quality of life due largely to the unwavering care and support provided by his wife, Arlene. Her love, dedication, and attentiveness as his caregiver allowed him to foster a sense of independence despite the immense challenges posed by multiple sclerosis. Even as his disease progressed, due to Arlene’s continuous care, Bob remained living at home right to the end of his life – something for which he was extremely grateful.

His infectious spirit for life inspired those around him to see the beauty and positivity in everyday moments. Friends and family will remember him for his kindness, his gentle nature, his continuous smile, and his ability to find bright light even in the very darkest of times. He was affectionally called “The Don” by friends and “Pops” by his son and for those who knew Bob, they called him a warrior. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, November 4, at 11 am at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, 224 Carrier NE, Grand Rapids MI, 49505, with a luncheon immediately following where loved ones will gather to honor his memory and share stories of his remarkable journey. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society in his honor. 

Bob DiVita’s spirit will continue to live on through his art, his family, and the countless lives he touched with his boundless love and optimism. We rejoice, knowing that while he could not walk at the end of his earthly life, he is now dancing in Heaven in his eternal life.

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