Robert Vanderhoof

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Robert "Bob" Vanderhoof on January 30, 2025, at the age of 77. Bobs legacy is one of hard work and intense loyalty and he had a tremendously witty sense of humor. He was a true gentleman and he passed his ideals to his children and grandchildren. Bob was always generous with his friends and family. He left an indelible mark on his community and his family.
Bob showed endless love for his mother, Barbara (Hazel) Vanderhoof, who grew up in the Newport area. He was deeply protective of his mother and her comfort until the moment of her passing. He was loved by her extended family and he spent a lot of time through his younger life with his Uncle Eddy, Aunt Norma and his cousins in Rhode Island. He passed this family connection to his children.
After graduating from St. Peters High School in Worcester, Bob earned a license as a Dispensing Optician from the Worcester Institute of Technology. He later moved to Western Massachusetts with the goal of starting his own optical business. Bob began his life with Barbara (Lamothe) Vanderhoof in November 1969 in Agawam, MA and together they built a beautiful life and family. In 1972, Bob opened Agawam Opticians, a family business that is proudly operated by his son, Aaron. Bob was incredibly proud that his son recognized the businesss value and purchased ownership of Agawam Opticians in 2001, ensuring its continued success. He also took a lot of pride in working closely with his brother Mike to ensure the growth and success of Southwick Opticians.
Bob spent over 25 years enjoying the Rhode Island coast and building strong bonds in both Newport and Bristol. Bob embraced his interest in the restaurant business and partnered with Bobby Meyers to open Robertos in 2001. The restaurant quickly became a beloved local spot with a staff that became family to Bob. He was immensely proud of his team who helped make Robertos a success. He will be sorely missed by all that were a part of the Robertos journey. When Bob decided to step away from the business he felt comfort in the restaurants future success after selling to a close friend in 2021.
Throughout his life, Bob lead by example, demonstrating hard work, perseverance, and leadership. He was sworn in by Governor Michael Dukakis to serve as the President of the Opticians Association of Massachusetts, where he was an influential leader from 1979 to 1981. He later served as Chair of the Board of Registration for Opticians. His dedication to his community also led him to serve on the Agawam Liquor Commission while living in the community. During the COVID pandemic, Robertos restaurant donated food to hospital workers in the area. Bob was also a supporter of the 100 Club of Rhode Island and donated time and money to Mount Hope Farm.
Bob had a healthy and almost comical competitiveness, in business and sports and was equally as passionate about politics. He was an excellent billiards player and rarely lost a game as partners with his son Aaron. He played golf religiously as long as his arthritic hands would let him and was an original member of the Oak Ridge Country Club in Agawam. He was also a longtime member of Wanumetonomy Golf and Country Club in Middletown, Rhode Island.
Bob loved to watch Boston teams and praised NESN for adding Sox in 2 to their broadcast so he could catch the game after a night at the restaurant. Bob spent endless hours analyzing the NFL, which was a constant source of entertainment (and possibly more frustration). Most importantly, he enjoyed camaraderie and laughs during football season and he will be remembered fondly by everyone who was lucky enough to sit with him on Sunday afternoons.
He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. The outpouring of messages from Bobs family and friends to his children is a demonstration of the impact he had on so many and serves as a true comfort.
Bob is survived by his children, Aaron Vanderhoof (and his wife Alissa), and Erica Vanderhoof Palm (and her husband Randall). His children were a true source of pride and he was tirelessly proud of his grandchildren ranging in age from 19 to 12 years old. Aarons children Cameron Vanderhoof, Kate Vanderhoof, and Reese Vanderhoof as well as Ericas children Aaron Palm, Jake Robert Palm, and Teddy Palm always knew that Poppy loved them. He is also survived by his sister Jane Hanlon (and her husband Paul), his brother Mike Vanderhoof (and his wife Mary). His nieces and nephews will remember Uncle Bobby fondly.
A celebration of Bobs life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, his friends and family request that donations be made in his memory to Mount Hope Farm, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving open spaces and historic architecture. Donations can be made online at Mount Hope Farm's donation page or by mail to Mount Hope Farm, PO Box 66, Bristol, RI 02809. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Robert, please visit our Tree Store.