Richard Edward Vanderwerken

Richard Edward Vanderwerken passed away on June 3, 2025, at the age of 58. He was born on August 1, 1966, in Ridgewood, New Jersey, the firstborn child of Robert and the late Joanne Vanderwerken. Rich was raised in Altamonte Springs, Florida, and graduated from Lyman High School in 1984. During his time at Lyman, he learned about air conditioning. He worked in the trade for many years before spending the last 25 years owning and operating his on AC company, Rich Vanderwerken A/C.

Throughout his life, Rich found joy in cars, motorcycles, and music. He often reminisced about driving his 1967 Cougar down Park Avenue Winter Park, racing motorcycles, and attending rock concerts—especially with his wife, Valerie, with whom he shared a deep love and decades of memories.

Rich and Valerie were married on October 15, 1994, in Winter Park, Florida. Their story began at Fern Park Station, a rock club in Fern Park, where they first met while playing pool. That night, Rich asked for her phone number, and from that moment on, they were inseparable. Together, they continued to celebrate their shared love of music through backstage KISS concerts and rock ’n’ roll cruises.

In August 2000, they welcomed their son, Ryan, whom Rich cherished deeply. He especially loved taking Ryan for rides in his Mustang through Old Town. His passion for cars and all things with wheels remained a constant throughout his life.

Rich was a beloved member of his community, known for his welcoming spirit and genuine kindness. He had an extraordinary ability to make others feel at home—whether they were lifelong friends or new acquaintances. He especially enjoyed hosting gatherings at the tiki bar he built with Valerie, where the doors were always open to friends and neighbors.

Family time was especially important to Rich. He treasured annual trips to Hilton Head with his loved ones and adored his dachshunds, Daisy and Lilly, who brought him great comfort and joy.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Valerie Vanderwerken; his father, Robert Vanderwerken; his brother, John Vanderwerken; his son, Ryan Vanderwerken; his daughter-in-law, Abagayle Vanderwerken; and his cherished granddaughter, Annabelle Vanderwerken.

A memorial service will be held on June 12, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home, 994 SR-436 E, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Friends and family are encouraged to honor Rich in their own way—whether by raising a Bud Light, listening to rock ’n’ roll, or taking a drive in his memory.