Robert L. Vandehey

Robert L. Vandehey

“The Mayor of the West End”

Robert L. Vandehey passed away on Sunday, October 13, 2002, following a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s Disease. His daughter, Patty, who helped care for him during his illness, was at his side.

Bob was born December 18, 1918, in Marshfield and resided most of his life in the Fox Valley. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, a sister and three grandchildren. He is survived by his daughter, son-in-law, two grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Bob was a real “self-made man”. He prided himself in the fact that he started his career as a clerk at Walgreens in Milwaukee. From there, he felt that he could do just about anything. He started many businesses but took special satisfaction in helping to develop the West End of College Avenue. In 1999, he was recognized for his accomplishments by Appleton Downtown Incorporated when he received the Bernie Pearlman Award as “Businessman of the Year”. One of the last things that Bob was able to do was take a ride down the new College Avenue. His comment was: “This is good. The Avenue will always be a great place to do business!”

There are many people who cared for Bob during his illness. The family would like to extend sincere appreciation to Arlie, Dr. Steve, Sarah, the Valley VNA and the staff at Vallhaven.

In his later years, Bob wanted to share his success with the community that helped him be successful. He also expressed the desire that special recognition be given to his wife of 55 years, Myra, who, through the years, worked hand-in-hand with him on so many projects. To accomplish this, he created the Robert L. and Myra M. Vandehey Foundation which will carry on their memory by financially serving charitable needs in the Fox Valley

There will be no visitation, and a memorial is being planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, gifts of recognition should be made to the Robert L. and Myra M. Vandehey Charitable Foundation and sent in care of the Wichmann Funeral Home.

WICHMANN FUNERAL HOME
537 North Superior Street
Appleton 920-739-1231