Robert (Bob) Vanderheiden

          Robert (Bob) J Vanderheiden, of Appleton died Jan 2.  He was born in Lena, Wisconsin, April 16, 1951, to the late Roland and Marion (Cordier) Vanderheiden.  He graduated from Green Bay West in 1969.  He married Diane M. Bushman in Cleveland Wisconsin on September 6, 1974. 

          The two of them spent most of their married life in De Pere, relocating to Appleton nearly six years ago. Following a long career as an insurance claims adjuster, Bob retired in March 2014.  He spent his retirement enjoying his family, traveling, family vacations, photography, woodworking, and being a ticket taker for the Timber Rattlers.  He also truly enjoyed his most recent ministry as “Mr. Bob” at McKinley Elementary School in Appleton. 

          He is survived by his wife Diane (Appleton), one daughter Katie (Appleton), two sons Dan (Christa) of Neenah, and David (Kristin) of Mishicot.  He also loved and enjoyed his grandchildren Kaylee, Skyler, Dirk, Claire, Rayna, and Rhett, as well as his canine grandchildren Cleo, Cooper and Nova.  He is also survived by his brother John (Georgeann) of Green Bay, and their family. 

          He was proceeded in death by his parents and one sister Mary Lee. 

          The Funeral Liturgy for Bob will take place at 11:00 am on January 20, 2024, at St. Mary Parish, 312 S State St, Appleton. Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until the time of service. 

          In lieu of flowers, donations are being accepted for Heckrodt Wetland Reserve and Old Glory Honor Flight. 

          Bob’s family wishes to thank the workers of The Heritage and Theda Care Home Care for their kind and compassionate care of Bob, and for all of us. We also thank the many friends and extended family for helping us all through this difficult journey.