Robert Van Wyk

With heavy hearts, we share the news of the passing of Robert Van Wyk, affectionately known as “Bob” or "Pop." Bob, aged 79, peacefully departed from this world on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at his home in Carrollton, Texas. Despite his battle with heart problems, the past several months had shown signs of improvement, during which Bob's warm and humble nature shone brightly as he cherished moments spent with his beloved family.

Bob's journey began on February 9, 1944, at Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, as the cherished son of Arthur "Art" John Van Wyk and Betty Ellen Neel. In 1948, Bob's life gained even more warmth and love as his father married Romanita "Mona" Guerrero, a devoted wife to Art and a nurturing mother to Bob and his siblings: Sandy, David, and Steven. Their loving home was established in Waco, Texas, where lifelong memories were made.

Bob's thirst for knowledge led him to Baylor University and Texas A&M University, where he honed his intellectual prowess. At the young age of 22, driven by a strong sense of duty and patriotism, Bob joined the United States Army, embarking on a journey that defined his character. Serving as an Armor Intelligence Specialist and Petroleum Supply Specialist, he ascended to the rank of Captain and valiantly served his country in Vietnam. His dedication and valor were rewarded with several esteemed medals, including the Bronze Star, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. In 1970, Bob was honorably discharged, carrying his proud legacy as a Vietnam Veteran.

In the tapestry of life, love found Bob when he crossed paths with Sandra Carter. Their love story culminated in marriage on November 7, 1970, at the First United Methodist Church in Waco, Texas. For 52 years, their bond remained unbreakable, a testament to the enduring power of love.

Bob and Sandy nurtured a beautiful family, raising their three children, Mark, Mindy, and Greg, in Plano, Texas. Bob's unwavering work ethic and intellectual acumen led him to a successful career as a software engineer. His meticulous nature, organizational skills, and dedication were reflected in his work and inspired his children, who inherited his virtues.

Beyond his professional achievements, Bob was a man of diverse interests and passions. He delighted in gardening, tending to his vibrant flowers and sharing his space with creatures of the neighborhood. His connection with nature extended to his feline companion, "Max," as well as the bunnies, birds, and squirrels that frequented his backyard. The rhythm of his life was accompanied by the melodies of the 1970s and 1980s, with The Bee Gees and Michael Jackson holding special places in his heart. Bob's leisure time was enriched by his love for golf, football, baseball, and the excitement of the Tour de France.

Bob's journey was marked by loss, as he bid farewell to his parents, Arthur "Art" John Van Wyk and Romanita "Mona" (Guerrero) Van Wyk, his sister Sandy Elizabeth (Van Wyk) Evans, and his birth mother, Betty Ellen Neel. Yet, his legacy lives on through the cherished memories of those who remain.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Sandra (Carter) Van Wyk, and his adoring children: Mark Van Wyk of Frisco, TX, Mindy (Van Wyk) Christian and her husband Darren of Coppell, TX, and Greg Van Wyk and his wife Amy of Austin, TX. His brothers, David Van Wyk, Sr. and Steven Van Wyk, and their families stand as testaments to Bob's enduring familial bonds. The legacy continues through his eight cherished grandchildren: Kaitlyn, Jackson, Isabelle, Alexis, Evan, Nathan, Zoran, and Andrew, all of whom held special places in his heart and affectionately referred to him as “Pop.”

As a final tribute to his devoted service to his nation, Bob will be laid to rest with military honors at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery in Dallas, Texas. The legacy of Robert Allan Van Wyk will forever be etched in the hearts of those he touched, a beacon of love, integrity, and strength.