Vanwie Iii, Robert W.

LATHAM- Robert W. VanWie, III, 37, of Latham passed away suddenly after recent illnesses on July 29, 2021. Born in Albany, he graduated from Shaker High School, attended Hudson Valley Community College and most recently worked at Advanced Auto Parts in Latham. He was also a proud Life Member of the Bethlehem Memorial VFW Post 3185 Auxiliary.

From the time Rob was little, it was clear he was someone who could be counted on to help out in a pinch, would give the shirt off his back to a stranger and enjoyed all that life had to offer. He was an avid fisherman and one of his favorite fishing spots was Woodstock Lake in East Berne at his grandparent’s camp. Rob also enjoyed football (diehard Giants fan) and baseball (NY Yankees). He was Uncle Rob to many of his friends’ children, whom he loved so dearly and had no problem helping with feeding or diaper duty. He was always smiling and laughing. Most importantly, he was a loving son, grandson, brother, uncle and a fierce friend to countless people. “You could live 1,000 years and never meet a man as selfless and generous” and “The world just lost the most loyal man with the biggest heart” said two of his close friends.

Rob was predeceased by his grandfathers Samuel Lombardo and Robert VanWie, Sr., and grandmother Betty Niedzweicki. He is survived by his parents Linda VanWie (Tom Harder) and Robert W. VanWie Jr.; his sister Darcy VanDenburg, step-father Skip VanDenburg; “bonus sisters” Taylor and Madison VanDenburg; his grandmothers Viola Lombardo; and Deborah VanWie. He is also survived by several aunts, uncles, cousins and “bonus nieces and nephews”.

Rob’s family wishes to thank Newton Medical of Latham, NYOH of Clifton Park, and the Albany Medical Center for their care especially over the last 6 years.

The family requests out of an abundance of caution due to COVID -19 that services be held privately with masks required.In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, 3 Oakland Ave. Menands, NY 12204 or to the Bethlehem Memorial VFW Post 3185 Auxiliary, 404 Delaware Ave., Delmar, NY 12054.