Robert Peter Vanderpoel 88, of Des Plaines. Beloved husband of the late Ellen nee (Dombrowski) Vanderpoel; loving father of Robert (Greta )Vanderpoel III, Michael (Janet) Vanderpoel and Steven (Diana) Vanderpoel; caring grandfather of Nicholas, Ina, Jessica, Michael, Vahan and Colette. Robert was a graduate of Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University. Robert also served as an Naval Officer in WWII. He also was a avid birder and world traveler. Visitation Saturday from 11:00-2:00 pm at Oehler Funeral Home 2099 Miner St. Des Plaines, IL. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Natural Resources Defense Council at www.nrdc.org.