Robin R. Vandenberge

Robin Rue Vandenberge, age 69 of Baldwin, passed away at home, with his family under hospice care on Sunday evening, July 19, 2026, following a long illness. He was born on March 8, 1957, in Reed City, Michigan, son of Ivan Herbert and Nancy Jane (Bramer) Vandenberge, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Christina Vandenberge. He owned and operated Vandenberge Excavating for much of his life. As his work pace slowed, he worked for both D. Teunesson Excavating in Grand Rapids and D & M. Trucking in Big Rapids prior to fully retiring. He married Robin Ranaee Manion on June 21, 1975, at Evergreen Church near Baldwin and shared just over 51 years of marriage with her. Robin enjoyed several pastimes including watching classic television movies and programs and would often be found tinkering and wrenching on his equipment to keep it in good working order, but what he enjoyed most of all was being a father and grandfather. He made it to as many of the kid’s activities as he could and found a special joy and pride in following Kevin’s progress in his travel hockey team pursuits, which took them all over the state.

In addition to his dear wife, Robin, Robin leaves to cherish his memory, a daughter, Jessica Vandenberge of Baldwin and a son Kevin Vandenberge of Baldwin; grandchildren Cameron Jennings, Olivia Vandenberge, Owen Vandenberge, and Kaviian Vandenberge; and great grandchildren, siblings, Katie Vandenberge, Wynand Vandenberge, and Sherrie Wells; his mother-in-law, Jackie Piper; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Pam McCullough, Penny Abrahm, Dan Manion, and Vern Piper; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A Graveside Service is being planned at Pleasant Plains Township Cemetery on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., with Randy Rice officiating. A luncheon will follow at the Baldwin Housing Commission office. The family was assisted by Verdun Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, who may be reached by calling (616) 794-1300.