Robert Lee Vande Zande age 81 of Fort Wayne, IN died Saturday, October 28, 2017 at Parkview Hospital – Randallia Drive, Ft. Wayne, IN.

Robert was born May 12, 1936 in Niles, MI to Felix A. and Martha (Scherperl) Vande Zande. He married Billie Joanne Carlson on October 25, 1952 in South Bend, IN. Robert owned a trucking company until 2015.

Robert was a member of St. Jude Catholic Church – Fort Wayne, IN and the American Historical Truck Society.

Robert is survived by his wife: Billie Joanne Vande Zande, Ft. Wayne, IN; son: Barry (Patricia) Vande Zande, Dillon, CO; son; Bruce (Lucinda) Vande Zande, Columbia City, IN; daughter: Barbara (Gary) David, Waterloo, IN; daughter: Bonnie (Randy) Whitacre, Leo, IN; son: Brook (Sue) Vande Zande, Garrett, IN; 15 grandchildren; and 16 great grandchildren.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents: Felix A. and Martha Vande Zande; and 5 brothers

Visitation will take place from 5-8 p.m. Friday, November 3, 2017 at Thomas Funeral Home, 1277 C.R. 56, Garrett, IN and also from 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the church.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, November 4, 2017 at St. Jude Catholic Church, 2215 Randallia Dr., Ft. Wayne, IN 46805 with Fr. Bob D'Souza officiating.

Burial will take place at 3 p.m. Saturday, November 4, 2017 in Calvary Cemetery – Garrett, IN.

Memorials are to St. Jude Catholic School or St. Jude Catholic Church.

You may view a video tribute of Robert's life, send an e-mail condolence or sign the on-line register book by visiting:

The family has entrusted Thomas Funeral Home with the arrangements.