Robert Julius Vandehy

Robert (Bob) Julius Vandehy, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, passed away at the age of 89 on November 21, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer. Bob was born on June 11, 1934, in Kimberly, Wisconsin, to his parents Julius and Ester Vandehy. Bob was drafted into the Navy in 1957 and served his country with honor until 1960. He dedicated his career of 42 years to being a Journeyman Machinist and eventually retired from Thermo Electron in Kaukauna in 1996. Bob was deeply devoted to his family. He met his loving wife of 54 years, Joan Rost, when they both played in the high school band. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love and raised three children, Kelly, Tammy and Jill. Family was everything to him, and he found no greater joy than spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Bob’s positive spirit and sense of humor touched the lives of everyone around him, despite facing numerous challenges during his battle with cancer. He was a true outdoorsman. He enjoyed hunting deer, turkey, and bear and spending time on his land in the Town of How which produced many wildlife photos taken on his trail cameras. He was always willing to share these with anyone who was interested. The family also enjoyed fishing and time spent together at their cottage on Lake Winnebago. Along with his wife, Bob cherished time with friends traveling and bowling. He leaves behind a legacy of love in his children: Kelly (Kim) Vandehy, Tammy (Michael) Gritton, and Jill (Tom) Derr. His grandchildren Jeremy (Meredith) Gritton, Amanda (Jon) Phillips, Jessica (Eric) Schumacher, Ashley (Sam) Pickett, Melissa Derr, and John Derr. Bob was also a proud great grandfather to Jeffery, Adrianne, Landon, Adalyn, Sophia, Elijah, and Jonah.

Beyond his immediate family, Robert is survived by his nephews Perry Weber and Gene (Kathy) Weber and close friend, Joan Hammen.

The funeral service for Bob will take place at 11:00 AM on Monday, November 27, 2023, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church located at 2220 E College Ave in Appleton with military honors to follow. Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until the time of service. There will be a luncheon served following the service at the church.