Robert Rufus Vanderschaaf's Obituary
Robert Rufus Vanderschaaf, known to many as Bob or Bobby, passed away on December 28, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on October 14, 1943, he grew up in Southeast Washington, D.C., the son of parents born in Washington, D.C., to Dutch immigrant families. Bobby was deeply proud of his strong Dutch heritage and the roots that shaped him.
Bobby spent his childhood alongside his younger brother, David Leroy Vanderschaaf. Together, they were inseparable—true urban adventurers whose stories around bonfires became family legend. Bobby held a lifelong admiration for David’s military service as a radio man during the Tet Offensive in Vietnam. The loss of his brother remained one of the deepest sorrows of his life.
Bobby married his beloved wife, Betty Vanderschaaf, with whom he shared over 30 years of marriage. He is also survived by two daughters from his first marriage, whom he loved dearly.
A man of many talents, Bobby worked for the Railway before entering the trades, where he became a Master Electrician and Carpenter. He later joined the Montgomery County Public School in the Maintenance Department, where he dedicated many years of service before retiring.
Bobby was the kind of friend everyone hopes to have—outgoing, loyal, and steadfast. To him, “friend” was a verb, something you did through action, loyalty, and presence. He cherished the monthly lunches with the “ol’ fellas” and felt deeply the passing of many close friends over the years.
He was a motorcycle enthusiast, an admirer of the open road, and the proud owner of a tricked‑out orange Mustang that brought him endless joy. Bobby loved dogs and shared his life with many loyal companions. He found peace outdoors, loved reading, and embraced travel and new experiences with enthusiasm.
Bobby lived fully, loved deeply, and left an imprint on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He will be profoundly missed by family, friends, and all who shared in his journey.
May his memory be a blessing.
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