Date of Death: February 6, 2025
Service Details
Interment will be held at Ft. Custer on a later date.
Obituary Notice
Robert Theodore VanDeraa, 82, of Three Rivers, passed away Thursday, February 6, 2025 at Ascension Borgess Hospital.
He was born November 1, 1942, in Harvey, Illinois, the son of Bernard and Helen (Le Munyon) VanDeraa, and graduated from Three Rivers High School with the Class of 1963.
Bob served his country honorably in the U.S. Army in Korea, then in the National Guard until his retirement in 1997.
He worked as a certified machinist for several large companies in West Michigan and was a member of the Three Rivers Planning Commission.
On June 26, 1971, he married Barbara Calloway; they shared 47 years together before her passing in 2018. They enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and traveling together.
Bob was a force to be reckoned with and made his presence known among his many friends and acquaintances. He was an active member of First United Methodist Church; he would help anybody in need. He loved to fish, collect guns, and go for drives out in the country.
Remaining to cherish his memory are his brother, Gene (Mary) VanDeraa, sister-in-law, Lois Griffith; special niece, Kim (Ted) Talbot and their children, Bridget, Helen, and Leo; nephew, Scott (Mia) VanDeraa and their children, Lily and Benjamin; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces great-nephews, and many cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and brother, Ron.
Additional Information
Donations in Bob’s memory may be directed to Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Envelopes are available at Hohner Funeral Home.
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So sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. Knew him from TRHS – he was a few years behind and we lived in TR forever, but everyone knew and loved him. Condolences to the family.
Many Many great conversations with Bob and Barbara; would occasionally “ bump into “ Bob and always enjoyed his gruff conversational style and good humor….
Thoughts and Prayers extended to you Gene and Mary…. Remembering good times with your folks and family!!.
Rest easy Froggy.
Was hoping to see you again uncle Bob. You definitely were a memorable person. Gruff and full of heart. I will always remember you and aunt Barbara in my childhood.
RIP Bob we’ve got your watch, now you got all kinds of time to catch all those fish that you use to throw back that were to small, they should be of good size by now. We had slot fun chasing gills and bass over the years,again you’ll be missed ol buddy.
I attended school with Bob and Gene from Lake Section through High School. Class of ’63. Yes, he will be missed. Prayers and hugs for Gene and the family.
Rest in peace Froggy.
You will be missed.
He will truly be missed. A great soldier and a great friend. Rest Easy