Robert LeRoy Hoek

Robert Leroy Vanden Hoek

April 30, 1934 – November 11, 2025

Robert Leroy VandenHoek passed away on Veteran's Day in his home in Bakersfield CA at the age of 91.

Bob VandenHoek was born in Clearwater CA, the first child to Albertus Cornelius and Margret Louise VandenHoek followed by four sisters and a brother.

He grew up a farm hand milking cows before and after school every day. He graduated from Bakersfield High School then from Bakersfield College in 1955. In 1956 he married Mildred C. Lackey and was enjoying married life when draft board invited him to serve his country. Bob answered the call to duty not knowing Millie was expecting their first son.

On return to Bakersfield, Bob took up working on the family farm again where two more boys were added to the family. Farm life was better, the cows were gone, but a bull was being kept for reasons unknown. One day the bull decided to use Bob for a play-toy which would have been the end of him but a sister tossed him a pitchfork; the bull didn't want to play any longer.

Bob left the farm to work for Southern California Edison employed there for 27 years. Starting at the bottom, he worked his way up to a com-tech position. Before retirement, Bob and Millie started a business of selling tole painted wood crafts calling the business Millie's Dillies.

Adventure called many times including, seeing all fifty states, hiking over Mt Whitney with his boys - because it was there, a cruise, mission trips to Alaska, fishing trips on the East side of the Sierras. Vacationing with his family was always important.

With the help of family and friends, Bob has built his own garage at two different locations, first at one residence then after moving to another. Over the years, he had overhauled several vehicles in these buildings.

Being involved at church was always important to him. He was ordained as a deacon in 1984 and was involved in Awanas at Valley Baptist Church.

Bob is survived by his sister Corinne, his sons and their spouses, Bob Jr. and Stacy, Dennis and Pam, and Randy. Two grandchildren: Cory and Cari, two great children: Cylie and Ben.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, three sisters and his brother. The family wish to thank Hoffman Hospice for their wonderful care.

Service will be held November 24, 2025 at 10:00am at Greenlawn SW memorial Park 2739 Panama Lane Bakersfield, CA. Doors open at 9:00.