Robert William Van Handel

ROBERT WILLIAM VAN HANDEL, 76, of Little Falls died Saturday, January 10, 2026 at HUMC- Mountainside in Glen Ridge.

Robert William Van Handel, a man whose life was a canvas of creativity, innovation, and unwavering dedication, left this world on January 10, 2026, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire. Born on April 18, 1949, in Passaic, New Jersey, grew up in West Paterson and resided in Little Falls for 50 years, Robert's journey was one marked by a vibrant pursuit of artistic excellence and a deep-seated love for his family and community.

A proud 1967 graduate of Passaic Valley Regional High School in Little Falls, Robert's passion for the arts was evident early on. His dedication to honing his craft led him to the Newark School of Fine and Industrial Arts, where he graduated in 1970 with a degree in Advertising Arts and Commercial and Fine Arts. The skills and vision he cultivated there would become the cornerstone of his professional and personal life.

Robert's career was a testament to his creative spirit and entrepreneurial drive. As the retired Vice President of William C. Van Handel Lumber Co. of Clifton, he brought an artist's touch to the world of business, blending practicality with aesthetics in a way that only he could. His work was not just a job; it was an extension of his interesting and creative nature, and his hands-on approach left an indelible mark on the industry. He helped friends and family with all kinds of jobs. There was nothing that Bob could not fix or build. He recently had retired as a property manager for the Azarian Group.

Those who knew Robert understood that his true masterpiece was his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Ilene (nee Cavalieri) for 55 cherished years, and a loving father to his two daughters, Melanie K. Villari of Little Falls and Kristin R. Russo of Pines Lake, and her husband, Dennis A. Russo. His role as a grandfather to Elizabeth R. Russo and Jack D. Russo was one he cherished deeply, infusing their lives with the same creativity and joy that he brought to every endeavor.

Robert's legacy is also carried on by his sister-in-law, Deborah Van Handel, and his nephew, William C. Van Handel, IV. Though he was predeceased by his parents, William C. and Rosalie (nee Wyhnanez) Van Handel, Jr., and his brother, William C. Van Handel, III, the bond of family remained a guiding force throughout his life. An Eagle Scout and Assistant Scout Leader, he also led the ski club at Our Lady of the Holy Angels for ten years.

Robert's life was a beacon of inspiration, a reminder that with passion and perseverance, one can leave an indelible mark on the world. He was a true renaissance man who built bridges between imagination and reality, who understood the power of a well-told story, and who knew that the most beautiful art is found in the love we share with others. Skiing the Alps, painting a landscape, building a truck, riding a motorcycle, canoeing down the Delaware River, and taking family on endless adventures was his heaven.

As we celebrate the life of Robert William Van Handel, let us carry forward the light of his spirit. Let us embrace the interesting, the creative in our own lives, and let us honor his memory by living with the same boundless enthusiasm that he did. Robert's story does not end here; it lives on in the hearts of those he touched, in the beauty he created, and in the family he adored. His was a life well-lived, a symphony of color and joy, and for that, we are eternally grateful.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Those wishing to express their sympathies may consider a contribution to Blood Cancer United (formerly The Leukemia And Lymphoma Society), PO Box 22324, New York 10087.