Robert Vanderhoek
1931 - 2022
Obituary
Robert Alan Vanderhoek, 91, of Dewitt passed away peacefully Monday, December 5 , 2022 following an extended illness. Born in Niagara Falls the son of Daniel G and Ethel Vanderhoek. He was a graduate with honors of Cornell University’s School of Mechanical Engineering. During his time at Cornell he was active in the ARMY ROTC, following graduation he served in the US Army in the Korean Conflict.
After his time in service he began his carrier in Mechanical Engineering at Carrier Corp. where he became the manager of TR2. His management philosophy was to hire good people, train them well and allow them to do the work. A lifelong lover of music, he rebuilt and restored player pianos. He was involved in the moving the organ from the Landmark Theatre to The New York State fairgrounds. His joy in life was found in quiet service and being a good neighbor. In retirement he took on and excelled at the roll of Grandfather. He served as a tutor, care giver, cheer leader driving instructor and most importantly roll model. He was a regular attender of the 4pm Mass at Holy Cross church and could be found after Mass at the Scotch N Sirloin for a Saturday evening Martini.
Robert is survived by his faithful wife of 63 years, Pat Vanderhoek, his daughter Lynn Vanderhoek and her husband Michael VanVranken; sons Robert M Vanderhoek and his wife Ingrid Kaatz of Stamford, Connecticut, Mark C. Vanderhoek of New York City; three beloved grandchildren Garrett, Janna Lynn and Gavin.
A funeral Mass will be held at 10 am on Friday, December 9, 2022 at Holy Cross Church, 4112 East Genesee St. Syracuse. Entombment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery Dewitt. Calling hours will be on Thursday, December 8, 2022 from 4-7 pm at Burns-Garfield Funeral Home, 3175 East Genesee St, Syracuse. Donations in his memory may be made to the SPCA or to Prostate Cancer Research funds.