Rev. Dr. Wesley E. Vanderhoof

Rev. Dr. Wesley E. Vanderhoof was born at home in Dover, New Jersey, on December 16, 1940, and was embraced peacefully into the arms of his Savior on February 23, 2025, at Strong Memorial Hospital. In his 84 years of life, he became known for showing both his serious exterior and his joyful soul. He met his future wife Nancy at Roberts Wesleyan College (now University) while pursuing a Bachelor’s in English. They married in August of 1962 after she graduated. Following his graduation in 1963, he earned a Master’s from the University of Iowa, a Master’s of Divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky, and a PhD from the University of Buffalo. Wes dedicated his life to the pursuit of knowledge, teaching others, and following the Lord. He pastored two congregations in the Catskills before returning to Roberts in 1968. During his 35-year tenure at his alma mater, he taught Old and New Testament Classes before becoming Registrar. After his retirement in 2003, he spent his days doing what he loved most: playing Solitaire, completing crossword puzzles in pen, eating ice cream, and spending time with family. He is predeceased by his parents Edward and Jeannette (Swingle) Vanderhoof. He is survived and deeply missed by his wife to whom he was faithfully devoted for 62 years, Nancy (Shaffer); his children Marna (Robert) Distaffen, and Kara (Richard) Burke; and his seven grandchildren: Kaleigh, Hannah, and Rebekah Distaffen, and Wesley, Emma, Cameron, and Andrew Burke. He is also survived by his brother, Donald (Roe) Vanderhoof, and sister, Madelyn (Robert) Andrews, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. Boppa, as he was known by his grandchildren, has left a lasting memory on everyone who knew and loved him. His legacy will live on through his children, grandchildren, students, and dear friends, and he will always be remembered for his quick wit and gentle nature. He was a great man–a mountain of a man in a tiny body–and he will be missed fiercely. Extended friends and family are invited to attend a celebration of life and time of remembrance on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Pearce Memorial Church. Visitation will be at 10am, followed by a service at 11am. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the Edward Vanderhoof Memorial Scholarship at Roberts Wesleyan University. Roberts Wesleyan University Office of Advancement 2301 Westside Dr Rochester, NY 14624