Robert Dale Vander Wagen, Sr., age 88, was married to the love of his life, for 66 years, to the late Jacqueline Vander Wagen (nee Wiegman), cherished son of the late Siebern and the late Rena Vander Wagen, devoted father of Bob Jr. (Barb), Laura (Eddie) Pettit, Thom (Jennifer), and Jeff, proud grandfather of Crystal (David) Klausmeier, Renee, Bill, Joshua, and the late Derek, loving great-grandfather to Laith, Heidi, Maime, and Mia, dear brother of Martha (late Richard) Wassenaar and the late Thomas, fond uncle of many nieces and nephews, friend and cousin of many, and missed by all.

Bob is a proud veteran of the United States Army. He is and will forever be a firm believer in Jesus. In his retirement, he became an avid woodworker and used his gifts to share the love of Jesus. He was always willing to help his kids, grandkids, and to serve others in a myriad of ways. Challenges were opportunites to overcome, leaning into the strength of the Lord.

Interment and Military Honors will take place on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 12:30 p.m., located at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 West Hoff Road, Elwood, Illinois 60421.

In lieu of flowers, the family is kindly requesting a donation to be made in Bob's memory to the Alzheimer's Association. Please use the following link if interested in donating:

https://www.alz.org/get-involved-now/donate

Funeral arrangements entrusted to McCauley-Sullivan Funeral Home and Crematorium.