Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1966
DIED
2021
Robert VanDyke Obituary
Robert "Bob" Wade Van Dyke, age 54, formerly of Ottawa Hills, Ohio, died of an accidental drug overdose on June 17, 2021 at his home in Vero Beach, Florida. He was born in Indianapolis, Indiana on August 29, 1966 to parents Susan (Tomlinson) and Donald Van Dyke who loved and adored him. He was educated in Lambertville, Michigan and Ottawa Hills, Ohio. Throughout his career as a house painter, he became known for his strong work ethic and attention to detail. His clients welcomed him into their homes knowing he would deliver a job well done. Bob was preceded in death by his father and paternal and maternal grandparents.
He is survived by his devoted mother and his younger brother, Mark Van Dyke.
A vivacious child, Bob was bright-eyed, handsome, fascinated by how the world worked and eager to find his place in it. During his life he exemplified charm, intelligence, humor, resilience and courage despite the challenges of bipolar disorder and addictions. At times his life force was so great it gradually became more than he could cope with, but he never gave up. Bob lived by the mantra: "Pick yourself up, dust yourself off and start all over again." He was a kind and caring man who during his remissions tried to help others who fought the same demons. As Bob's life became more shadowed than bright, his family and many friends did everything they could to love him back to health. He was always grateful for that love, help and support from his family and others. In a recent letter to his parents, Bob confided: "I'm a bit overwhelmed with everything. There is so much to be thankful for, yet most everything feels threatening or more than I can handle." He was struggling with the recent loss of his father, Don, and now they are reunited. Heaven provides solace for them both. Precious relief comes when God embraces the suffering and hands them Love's most sacred gift: Peace.
Memorial contributions may be made to Sunset House Sober Living for Men in Palm Beach Gardens, 8800 Sunset Drive, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert VanDyke
1 Entry
JOHN C MCCREERY
September 20, 2021
I only knew Bob for 20 days (August 9, 1982 - August 29, 1982). We were on an Outward Bound Course in Ely, Minnesota. I feel very sad that his life ended so soon. May Bob Van Dyke RIP!
Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results
Make a Donation
in Robert VanDyke's name
Memorial Events
for Robert VanDyke
How to support Robert's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Robert VanDyke's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
