Robert Gentenaar
Dr. Robert Gentenaar, who retired as an associate professor of economics emeritus in 2000 after 23 years at the college, died on Tuesday, June 22, 2021. He was 82.
He joined the Hope faculty in 1977, and taught courses in macroeconomics, international economics, money and banking, principles of economics, corporate finance and econometrics. In 1984, the graduating senior class presented him with the Hope Outstanding Professor Educator (H.O.P.E.) Award.
He also taught at Grand Valley State University for more than 20 years, and presented a number of papers and invited addresses.
His scholarly expertise was complemented by his prior experiences as an hourly employment manager with Bendix Corporation in St. Joseph, Michigan, and as owner of a drive-in restaurant and gas station from 1961 to 1971. He also served as a consultant for local businesses and organizations.
He graduated from Western Michigan University in 1961. He held an M.B.A., M.A. and Ph.D. from Michigan State University, completed in 1970, 1974 and 1977, respectively.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Gentenaar, of Green Valley, Arizona.