Robert Peyton VanHook

Robert, born on October 9, 1925, to James Cowan and Sarah Bell (Williams) VanHook, lived a life steeped in service, dedication, and love. Raised in rural Tennessee in the community of Norene, his childhood was filled with cherished memories of family and surroundings. One such memory was his father's playful tossing him into Barton Creek, symbolizing the spirit of adventure that would define Robert's life.

After graduating from Lebanon High School in 1943, Robert embarked on a courageous journey by answering the call of duty during World War II. Volunteering for the Army Air Corps, he underwent training as a combat flight crew member and radio operator on B-17 and B-29 bombers. Following his military service (1944 to 1946), he married his high school sweetheart, Mary Rutledge, and pursued higher education at Vanderbilt University, earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering. With Mary by his side, he navigated the challenges of education while joyously welcoming two children, Vicki and Robert, Jr.

In 1952, Robert settled his family in Manchester and began a career at Arnold Engineering Development Center (AEDC). Over time, their family expanded, bringing forth another daughter, Debra, along with eight grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Robert cherished his family deeply, always supporting them in their endeavors with love and enthusiasm.

Throughout his professional life, Robert excelled as a manager of Mechanical Design at the Von Karman Facility (VKF) at AEDC for 28 years. He transitioned to the Sverdrup Technology Group in Tullahoma in 1980, where he continued to provide invaluable design and build services for wind tunnels and various testing projects nationwide and globally. Even after retiring in 1987, Robert remained active in engineering consultancy, journeying the world with his beloved wife by his side, offering engineering expertise and promoting excellence.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bob was deeply committed to his community and faith. His involvement in civic organizations, educational institutions, and church activities reflected his dedication to service and making a positive impact.

Bob and Mary joined the First Baptist Church in downtown Manchester, upon arrival to the community in 1952. He played a pivotal role in First Baptist’s building program when the church relocated to Hillsboro Blvd. Over the years, he continued serving the church in youth and other programs.

Bob served his community well, some of which included Jaycees in the1950s; PTA and Band Boosters groups; manager of A.J. Tanner Little League Team for many years (1954 – 1959), which was one of the original four Little League teams in Manchester; member of the Manchester City School Board when the property for Westwood School was purchased and constructed in the late 50s-early 60s; chairman of the Water and Sewer Commission for six years in the 1980s when major improvements were made in the Waste Water Treatment Plant; life member of the Tennessee National Society of Professional Engineers, serving as president of the local chapter (1970-1972); member of the Lions Club and active supporter of the sight preservation work.

As a devoted family member and friend, Robert Peyton VanHook, Sr. embodied qualities of compassion, integrity, and unwavering support. His legacy of love, dedication, and selflessness serves as an enduring inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Robert's life was a life well-lived, leaving behind a profound impact on his family, community, and beyond.

He is survived by daughters Vicki Gentry (Phil) and Debra Grizzard (Ronnie) [Nashville, TN]; son Robert VanHook, Jr. (Carol) [Manchester, TN]; eight grandchildren Rob VanHook (Eva), Jayson VanHook (Sherra), Danielle Rothman (Josh), Courtney Rommel (Kollin), Amanda Frykberg (Brett), Sarah Nemitz (Jordon), Kendall Marlow (Brian), and Michael VanHook (Rebecca); and nineteen great-grandchildren: Kayla, Cole, Sam, Bennett, Ellis, Knox, Skylar, Cohen, Grant, Cade, Peyton, Riley, Logan (Madeline), Madison, Fletcher, Finley, Emma, and Bailey.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to The First Baptist Church 1006 Hillsboro Blvd (931-728-2138) or Good Samaritan 115 Park Place (931-728-5122) both of Manchester, where Bob and Mary volunteered until age 90. Robert Peyton Sr. and Mary VanHook will be interred together in the Williams Family Cemetery in Noreen, Tennessee.