1941 - 2026
Born on December 13, 1941, in Worcester, Bob was a lifelong resident of Whitinsville and the son of the late Herman and Tillie (Frieswyk) Vander Baan.
He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Kathryn (Vander Brug) Vander Baan; his sons, Jeffrey Vander Baan and his wife Laurie of Whitinsville, and Jay Vander Baan and his wife Sherry of Barre; and his four beloved grandchildren, Joshua Vander Baan and his wife Katelyn, Justin Vander Baan, Emma Vander Baan, and Kyle Vander Baan.
He also leaves behind his brothers, Lee Vander Baan and his wife Monica of Thompson, Connecticut, and Russell Vander Baan and his wife Geraldine of Northbridge, along with several nieces and nephews.
Bob was predeceased by his brother, Donald Vander Baan, with whom he shared a special bond and for whom he provided loving care for many years.
A graduate of Whitinsville Christian School and Northbridge High School’s Class of 1959, Bob spent more than 35 years working as a local sales representative for Nabisco before retiring in 1997. Even in retirement, he remained active, working part-time at the former Eaton Farms Confectioners in Sutton, where he assisted with production, sales, and tours. He also enjoyed helping his friend Bob Koopman care for his prized carriage horses.
Bob and Kathy shared a love of travel and adventure, often taking day trips throughout New England and spending time in two of their favorite destinations—North Conway, New Hampshire, and Florida.
Family was the center of Bob’s life. He took immense pride in his children and grandchildren and especially loved supporting his grandchildren in their athletic pursuits. Whether attending games or offering encouragement and advice, he was always their biggest fan.
A man of deep faith and humility, Bob was a devoted member of Fairlawn Christian Reformed Church for 67 years. Throughout those decades, he faithfully served as an Elder, Deacon, Choir member, Church School teacher, and Superintendent. He was also a passionate supporter of Whitinsville Christian School and helped build the original school building on Linwood Avenue as part of a volunteer team.
Bob will be remembered for his steadfast faith, devotion to family, servant’s heart, and the kindness and encouragement he shared with everyone around him.
Calling hours will be held Friday, June 5th from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Buma Funeral Home, located at 480 Church Street in Whitinsville.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 6th at 11:00 AM at the Fairlawn Christian Reformed Church, located at 305 Goldthwaite Road in Whitinsville.
Interment will follow at Pine Grove Cemetery on Linwood Avenue.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Endowment Fund of Whitinsville Christian School located at 279 Linwood Avenue in Whitinsville.
