Robert (Bob) Vanderbeck, 91, passed away on Wednesday, July 31st at Westview Nursing Home in Center, MO. He left his earthly body to join his Lord and Savior, who he spoke of often. 

Bob was born October 24, 1932 in Randolph County to parents, Isador and Viola Vanderbeck. After graduating from Hunstville High School, he began his 40 year career in heavy equipment operation and contracting which included owning his own business and become a well-respected professional in his hometown. His next chapter in life involved pursing his lifelong dream of country and bluegrass music. He moved to the Mark Twain Lake area in the late 1980's where he built and founded the Salt River Opry, along with a motel, restaurant, convenient store and campground. 

On March 24, 1951 he married Betty Thomas in a general store in Arkansas. They would tell this story lovingly and joke about the strings they had to pull to make this wedding happen. What could be construed as a scandal turned into 73 years of marriage. They went on to have 3 children; Ronald "Doc",  Douglas "Doug", and Delores "Tweety."   

Anyone who knew him would agree that Bob was one-of-a-kind. He was known in every room he walked into, whether it be for telling a questionable joke, singing a tune or sharing a hug with those around him. He was lively, bold, and charismatic. In his later years he never failed to give all glory to God as he was always eager to give a gratitude-filled blessing before a family dinner. 

He impacted others in many ways, but his lasting legacy will always be the music he created and the memories that came with it. His love for music was second only to his love for family. The years of watching him perform on his opry stage will be forever cherished by those family members as a time when we witnessed him living out his dream and sharing his gift with the world.  He wrote, produced and performed his own gospel and country music but he also created a place for artists to pursue their passions and for others to come together to enjoy the bonding force of music and fellowship. 

Bob is survived by his wife, Betty; son, Douglas (Karen) Vanderbeck; daughter, Tweety Lay; brother, Billy Vanderbeck; 6 grandchildren, 16 great- grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren and many extended family members and friends who he loved very much. 

He was preceded in death by his son, Ronald (Rose) Vanderbeck; grandson, Trevis Vanderbeck; parents, Isador and Viola; brother, Laverne Vanderbeck; sister, Peggy (Frank) Wilson; and son-in-law, Walter Lay. 

There is no service planned at this time. Please share your fondest memories of Bob on this site. We look foward to reading your words and honoring the man who is sure to be the greatest entertainer we'll ever personally know. 

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