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Richard Lawrence Vanderhoof passed away on April 28, 2026, with his family by his side at 79 years old. He was born in Brooklyn, NY, in 1946, and was later raised on Long Island.
Richard joined the US Air Force in 1965, where he served for 20 years. He married his first love, Beverly, in 1968. Together, they traveled to many wonderful places that most people never experience, including around the United States, Europe, and Asia. His favorite places were Disney, Paris, and Austria, but most importantly, he enjoyed spending time with his family. After years of work, he eventually retired at 68. He spent the majority of his time raising a multi-generational family, collecting Disney memorabilia, watching movies, and tinkering around the house. He greatly valued the connection with family and joy in laughter.
Richard is preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Beverly Vanderhoof, son Michael Jon Vanderhoof, his parents Sheldon and Marion, brothers Wayne, Gene, and Thomas. He is survived by his daughter Jennifer Bolte, granddaughters Alexis Vanderhoof Paterick (Robert), Heidi Bolte, grandsons Richie Vanderhoof and Michael Jr., great grandson Jackson Paterick. Also, his sisters Kathleen Schaefer, Cheryl Milano, Maureen Schollmeyer, and brother Robert Vanderhoof.
Services will be held at a later date.
- Second star to the right and straight on ’til morning
- Never say goodbye because goodbye means going away, and away means forgetting.
- Just always be waiting for me. – Peter Pan
Shela Nguyen says
I only met Mr. Richard once, but I felt like I knew who he was from the stories Heidi told me. He was caring, loyal, protective, and, surprise surprise, stubborn! Mr. Richard was such an important and influential person in Heidi and their mom’s life. Heidi, I know you and your mom may be existing in a liminal space right now, but your grandpa’s love and warmth will continue on, and it’ll forever be part of you and your life.
Dawn Bartoszewicz says
We are sorry to hear the loss of Uncle Richie. We have all of you in our prayers for we know this a tough time.
Sarah Coffield says
I had the privilege of interviewing Mr. Richard last year for Heidi, and you could feel the love in his voice when he spoke about his family. Behind every joke and stubborn grumble was a man who deeply cared for his loved ones. He spoke of how proud he was of Heidi and Alexis and how he loved spending time with Jackson. He will be incredibly missed! ❤️
Lauren Benet says
Our sincerest condolences to the Vanderhoof family.
Our fondest memory of our nextdoor neighbor will always be the holiday decorations that he put up. Also, how meticulously he cared for his home and property.
I never knew he was from New York originally. I grew up in neighboring New Jersey.
I will have a Mass said for him in my church. He is in a better place, and with Beverly and their son.
Mitzi Denny says
It was an honor to know him. I got to know the depth of him when his son passed. The love and commitment he shared of his family was immeasurable.
Lorraine says
Sorry to hear about cousin Richie’s passing. Family was inportant to them all. ❤️