Obituary of Robert J. VanDeventer

Robert J. VanDeventer January 10, 1931 - March 10, 2012 Beloved husband of Suzanne Nye for 34 years, dear father of Michelle VanDeventer (Kevin Jefferson), grandfather of Olivia Jefferson. Survived by his sister, Susan Warner (Norm Thompson), many loving nieces and nephews, devoted friends and neighbors. Predeceased by parents, Lyle and Clara VanDeventer, brother, Ellis C. (Marie) VanDeventer, and sister, Marilyn (J. Robert) Newlon. Bob had a lifelong love of all sports. He played them all but excelled in baseball. He played for Detroit Cooley High School, Connie Mack League, and Central Michigan University. During the Korean War, Bob was in Special Services and played for the US Army in Fort Meade, Maryland (Generals), and Saumur and Chinon, France (Red Devils). He played semi-pro ball in International Falls, Minnesota. Later he played slow pitch softball for Dee's in the Industrial League where he went to the World Series twice. He had a long career with the Detroit Parks and Recreation Department, beginning as a baseball instructor and working his way up to district supervisor. Bob was also the National Co-ordinator of the United States Youth Games in 1978 and sat on the Board of Directors of the Michigan Amateur Sports Hall of Fame. He was an active member of the Detroit Boat Club. Bob was proud of Detroit, where he lived and worked his entire life. He was known as the "Mayor of Historic Indian Village". Per his wishes, there will be no funeral service. His ashes will be spread in his favorite Detroit places and there will be a celebration of his life at a later date. To be notified of his celebration, please email celebratebobvan@yahoo.com.