Wolf Vedder

Born February 21, 1951, in the small German village of Ründeroth, Wolf immigrated to the United States with his family in 1958, settling in Rockford, Illinois outside of Chicago. Wolf’s story was one of vision, determination, and quiet confidence. He dreamt big even as a young man, motivated not by recognition, but by the challenge of building something lasting and meaningful. He graduated from the University of Illinois and then earned his Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School in 1977.

In 1978, Wolf joined the Trammell Crow Company in Houston, Texas and found his life’s work in real estate development and investment. As he rose through the organizational ranks over the next thirteen years, his leadership combined creativity with discipline, earning him the respect of peers and colleagues for his steady judgment and commitment to excellence.

In 1992, Wolf co-founded Simmons Vedder Partners, a firm that became known for its thoughtful and entrepreneurial approach to real estate. Later, as the firm’s Austin-based operations evolved into W2 Real Estate Partners, Wolf continued to lead and mentor the next generation. His insight, clarity, and high standards shaped both the success of his companies and the professional growth of those around him. Simmons Vedder Partners alumni now dot the senior ranks of several leading Texas-based real estate companies.

More than a gifted businessman, Wolf was a mentor, a leader, and a builder of people. He had a rare ability to recognize potential and took great pride in helping others launch successful careers and companies of their own. His door was always open for a thoughtful conversation, an analytical challenge, or a moment of genuine perspective.

Outside of real estate, Wolf embraced life to its fullest. He was passionate about golf, music, travel, design and architecture, and he cherished time with his family and his enormous network of friends—many of whom he considered family that he would do anything for. He took great pride in his three sons, each with their own distinct personalities and paths, and delighted in watching them grow into the men they are today. Wolf shared his life with his beloved wife, who often said she married him because he was the only man smarter than she was—a testament to the wit, intellect, and mutual admiration that defined their partnership. He loved to entertain in his music library in Austin and in his boathouse in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts. Those who knew him will remember his intelligence, wit, and drive as well as the way he inspired ambition in everyone around him. His influence endures in the skylines he helped shape across the country, the people he inspired, and the family and friends who loved him deeply.

He is survived by his wife, Deidre; sons Travis, Austin, and Ross; Austin’s wife Jessica; Ross’s wife Sara; brothers Eckhard, Hellmuth, and Dietrich; and granddaughters Reese and Charlie.

In lieu of flowers the Vedders ask that you please consider a donation to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research: http://www.michaeljfox.org