Obituary of Robert Kenneth VanBurger

Robert Kenneth VanBurger Age 84 of Horseheads, NY. Bob was born August 3rd 1938 in Johnson City, NY, son of the late Kenneth J. and Dorothy VanBurger; he passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning of November 30th 2022. In addition to his parents, Bob was predeceased by his uncle Frank VanBurger, who helped Bob build his house. He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Barbara; daughters Teresa Benjamin, and Cherilyn (Brian) Schmalz; four dear grandsons; two great-granddaughters; siblings Gary, Raymond, and Sandra; cousin Marianne VanBurger; along with extended family and friends from over the years. Bob grew up supporting his family as the oldest of the children. Support he continued to give to his parents even after he married Barbara, who joined in efforts to take care of his parents. He was a communicant of St. Mary Our Mother Catholic Church in Horseheads. He served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1956 to 1959, stationed in Virginia. That sparked a love of the ocean that Bob would carry through his life; returning to the sea so many times. Upon being honorably discharged from the service and starting his family, Bob first retired from managing Harris Supply Co. when the business closed in 1999. He helped to start the local Home Depot in 2002, working there for 15 years until he was 80. He was also passionate in his work, for many years, at the Campville Fire Dept. He was even named Man of Year for the Dept. Bob was an unassuming, caring man. Many wouldn't even know he had a race car, or get to experience his quick wit firsthand. He took pride and care in all he did. Barbara cared for Bob in his last years with the devotion and love from their six decades together. Family and friends are invited to visit the Barber Funeral Home, 413 S. Main St. in Horseheads, NY, on Thursday, December 8th 2022 from 5 pm to 7 pm. Bob's Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, December 9th 2022 at 10 am at St. Mary Our Mother Catholic Church, 816 W. Broad St., Horseheads, NY. Committal and interment prayers will follow, with military honors, in St. Mary Our Mother Cemetery. Those wishing may make donations in Bob's name to the St. Mary Our Mother School. Condolences and donation information at ww.barberfuneralhome.com