Robert J. VanDerVeer, 78, of Jenera died 9 p.m., May 8, 2011 at Bluffton Hospital. He was born April 26, 1933 in Paynesville to Jay and Lydia VanDerVeer. On April 18, 1948 he married Dorothy Grismore and she preceded him in death on Dec. 10, 2001.

Mr. VanDerVeer was a farmer and had worked at GW Sugar Company, Findlay. He was a member of Riley Creek Baptist Church and a WWII Army veteran. He loved dogs.

He is survived by three sons, David VanDerVeer of Findlay, Michael (Rose) VanDerVeer of Sebring, Fla., James (Michelle) VanDerVeer of Jenera, a daughter, Donna Jean Girdler of Forest, seven grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, Steven VanDerVeer, a great grand son, Aiden Caskie, a brother, Don Vanderveer and a sister, Marion Vanderveer.

Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Thursday at Chiles-Laman Funeral Home, Bluffton.

Rev. H.M. Gus Guthrie will officiate. Burial will be in Hasson Cemetery, Van Buren Township with military rites.

Visitation will be from 2-4 and 6-8 pm Wednesday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Online condolences may be made at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.