Part 2

Once Robert and Val and my wife and I had lunch in Santa Fe, and another time I met Robert at a San Antonio café. Precious times, both. To talk about important matters of life with Robert was most rewarding.

Others have left memories on Robert’s obituary webpage, documenting his compassion and excellence as a nurse. I can fully imagine he was exceptional.

Robert contacted me online when he received the cancer diagnosis. From his description and what I learned online, it was clear that his disease was dreadfully serious. Throughout the almost two years Robert battled the disease, he remained hopeful through countless treatments and procedures. We corresponded often in those months, especially the later ones, and we had a final phone call last November. He notified me when he entered palliative care, and at the end of his message he wrote “See you on the other side.”

I have lost a treasured friend, whom I knew once, and lost over too many decades, and then had the privilege and joy of knowing again. The world has lost a uniquely generous, wise, and compassionate man. God’s peace to all of you, Val and all of Robert’s family. May you know the presence, compassion, and embrace of God as you grieve.

Goodbye for now, my friend. See you on the other side.

Part 1 
(I couldn't fit this into 2,000 characters.)

Facebook is not good for much, but now and then it has some value. Sometime over the last 15 years or so Robert and I reconnected after 35 years of no contact whatsoever. The reconnected time has been precious. Robert and I found that we shared common values, common perspectives on life, and a non-anxious response to whatever life might throw at us. Robert was a Christian, and we discussed matters of faith online regularly, and in person a couple of times. Age had made Robert very wise, very perceptive, very astute.

I think I had an inkling of these things when Robert and I were classmates at San Antonio Jefferson High School (Class of 1975), but it has been only through this new retrospective contact (and the benefit that age offers) that I have come to recognize and treasure the person Robert was. We were on the Jefferson football team together. Robert played ball. I warmed the bench. We were members of the Latin Club. Imagine, if you will, Robert in a bed sheet toga. What I remember of Robert in those years was that he always, always had a smile on his face. He had a playful and shrewd sense of humor. He deeply enjoyed life, and he enjoyed life at Jefferson High School.

After we reconnected, I learned that Robert did not collect a great many friends, but the ones he had, he treasured. He deeply loved his family: Val and their sons and daughters and spouses, grandsons and granddaughters and their spouses, siblings and their spouses. I see from his obituary that he had lost his parents, a sister, and two brothers. I can imagine that Robert’s grief over these whom he loved was profound and deep, because that’s the way he was.

Val and to your family my deepest condolences. I work with Robert at Metro. He was a great and caring nurse. He also was a great preceptor to all new nurse. He showed them to be compassionate and always caring for their patients. Val, you have always been a great friend, a great  night nursing supervisor. Alway visit me when my family were patient. I ask Our Heavenly Father to give you comfort and peace with your grief   Love you Val.
   Queta

My deepest sympathy for your loss.  Robert was an amazing nurse to work alongside of.  He embodied compassion and empathy.  He will be truly missed by many who had the privilege to know him.  My heart goes out to his family, especially his wife Val who is a wonderful nursing leader and friend.
Rhonda Evanchak

I’m very sorry for your loss.. Robert was a very special person to work with… God Bless your family .

Robert may you rest with God in the heaven
Above, my condolences to your loved ones
Sure will miss your delicious choclate cake

Sorry for your loss.Ivwork at Metro Hospital in lab where he worked Condolences to his entire family for their loss

It has been a privilege and an honor having your trust in me, in us, to care for you. You will forever hold a special place in my heart. You made such a unique impact on my life, along with many others who were blessed to know you. Miss you so much already but I am so grateful your suffering is finally over. Rest in Love, Bestie.

I am forever grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Robert. He took me in as a young nurse and led me in the right direction. No matter how chaotic the night was going in the ER, Robert always maintained the calmest demeanor. Val, you have a lot of love and support within a short arms reach. We will all miss Robert very much.

We grew up in a time where things were much simpler.  You were my big brother and I never told you; you were my hero also.  Always there to give me a helping hand or a word of advice.  I will miss you; until we meet again.  Love you, Albert

We are so saddened to hear about the passing of Robert. He was an amazing nurse to work alongside with and he will be truly missed by many. We pray for the healing and comfort for his family. His wife is an amazing leader in the nursing profession and our hearts are with her.

Our sincere condolences to the family of Mr.Robert  Vandervort ,may his soul be blessed and in the presence of our Lord, sincerely;Lupita Santos and Jesus Santos.

A very quiet man, very helpful to me during my floats to the Emergency room. Always kind and respectful.  God need the best and chose Robert.Best Emergency Room nurse I've ever worked with. You will be missed!

My deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. Robert will be greatly missed, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His kindness and spirit touched so many lives. Wishing you strength and comfort during this incredibly difficult time.

"Father God, we come before You with broken hearts. In this darkest valley, we seek Your peace and comfort. Surround this grieving family with Your loving arms and grant them the strength to face the coming days. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen".

My dearest Robert, My mind still talks to you. My heart still looks for you , but my soul knows you”re at peace. I miss you every single day. 

 “ Fall in love with someone who is both your safe place and your biggest adventure” - B.Sparacino

                                                                       Val

OBITUARY

Robert Alan Vandervort

June 9, 1957 – January 19, 2025

Porter Loring Mortuary - West

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