Robert J. “Bob” Vandermeulen, Jr., age 81, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey suddenly on November 26, 2025, at home.  To honor Bob’s life, a memorial mass will be held at a later date.  Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Bob’s family.

Bob was born on January 6, 1944, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Robert J. and Mary (Albert) Vandermeulen, Sr.  He lived a good life while being able to work and play hard all while being surrounded by family and friends the entire time.  Bob invested his working years with John Deere Dubuque Works, spending 30 years there while still being able to retire at the age of 50 in 1994.  He was united in marriage to Ellen (Finn) Cheever in 1976 and the couple was blessed with almost 50 years together.  Bob took great pride in his accomplishments in life and enjoyed each day to the fullest whenever possible.

In his free-time, Bob found many ways to turn his interests and talents into hobbies and activities.  He was truly a gifted mechanic and whether he was working on his drag car, his latest demo derby entry, or perfecting his tug-of-war skills with the St. Donatus Team, Bob always enjoyed the experiences and comradery that came along with them.  He was also an avid hunter and fisherman and never spent a day in the woods, or on the water that wasn’t considered to be time well spent.  Bob was a great bowler in his younger years as well and spent countless hours working on a perfect game.

Our hearts break with the sudden passing of Bob and we can now only seek peace in time while we lean into the legacy and memories he leaves behind for us.  Thank you, Bob, for simply being you, always leaving your determination and loyalty on the table for all to see, and never leaving any doubt in anyone’s mind where you stood.  May the Lord bless and keep you safe in His grace-filled arms until we meet again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Bob include,

his loving wife of 49 years,
Ellen Vandermeulen, Dubuque, IA;

his eight children,
Bill (Donna) Cheever, Big Lake, MN,
Robin (Al) Kennicker, Sherrill, IA,
Brent Cheever, Dubuque, IA,
Renee (Dan) Galle, Dubuque, IA,
Robert “Bob” (Laura) Vandermeulen, Palm Beach, FL,
Brian Cheever, South Boston, VA,
Rhonda (Kelly) Ellison, Calera, AL,
and Bobbie Jo (Mike) Zeller, Des Moines, IA;

his 25 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren;

his two brothers,
Bill (Elaine) Vandermeulen, Dubuque, IA,
and Rich Vandermeulen, Dubuque, IA;

his best friend and hunting partner,
Danny Nicks, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents.

Online condolences may be shared with Bob’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com