Rocquin Lee VanGuilder

A beloved husband, dad and papa, he passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family at the age of 81.

Roc was the son of Ray and Clara VanGuilder. He was born in Glens Falls, NY and graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute with a degree in Civil Engineering. He served as a Captain in the United States Air Force and served in Vietnam. Throughout his career, he designed many airports and roadways in the US and around the world. He also served as the owner of Seedlings Learning Center in Dyer, IN, alongside his family for ten years. His greatest of accomplishments was his family - his wife, Maxine of 54 years. Together, they raised two children, Lee VanGuilder and Anna Peifer.

He is survived by his wife, Maxine; his son, Lee and daughter-in-law, Kristie; daughter, Anna (Peifer) and son-in-law, Eric; grandchildren, Madelyn, Abagael, Will and Allie; his siblings, Gilbert and Clifton VanGuilder and sister, Mary McClellan; and countless extended family and friends.

Roc was known for his quiet demeanor and the kindest spirit. He loved to laugh and was a man who was always generous to others. He hated to talk on the phone, but to talk with him in person, he would talk for hours. He was known to love a good brisket, and known to make one of the best. He loved to travel with family, even taking his wife to Thailand to ride elephants on their 25th Anniversary. Roc loved road trips, hunting, fishing, gardening, and cheering his grandkids on in sports, performances and all of their endeavors. He loved his family, he loved life, and he was a man of great faith. We will cherish too many beautiful memories to share, and will carry his memory and the legacy he leaves behind with us every day. He truly lived a beautiful life - a great success story.

In lieu of flowers, the family will be accepting donations in Roc’s honor for Special Olympics - Lake County, which benefits athletes in his local area with special needs.

His family will host a Celebration of Life for those who wish to stop in to pay their respects or share some memories of Roc with his family on Saturday, January 10th from 1:00 - 5:00 PM at the Triangle Hills and Retreat Center, 3838 West 141st Avenue, Crown Point, IN.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.KuiperFH.com for the VanGuilder family.