Richard (Rick) Joseph Vandenberg

Sadly we announce the passing of Richard (Rick) Joseph Vandenberg on October 13, 2024 at the Queensway Carleton Hospital, with family by his side.
Just 68 years old, he was a big brother to Joanne (Suzanne), Dan (Chris), Thea (Rob) and Sandra (Dave). Uncle to Leah, Devin, Kayla, and Dylan. First nephew to Gloria. Dear cousin to Debbie and 80 more. He was predeceased by his father Joseph Vandenberg and his mother Marlene MacDonald. 
Rick grew up across the river in Aylmer, Quebec. He loved drawing cartoons, martial arts, shooting pool, playing darts, reading, and hanging out with friends and his favourite uncles Mike and Dale. Being a lefty, he even learned to play guitar upside down.
Rick started working at the Skyline Hotel as a teenager washing dishes. He moved up to busboy and then waiter serving Ottawa’s elite and celebrity guests at the “Top of the Hill” restaurant. He made so many table-side Caesar salads that he couldn’t stand to eat them himself. He was proud to say he served at two State Dinners for Queen Elizabeth II. He loved his cars, Mach II mustangs, corvettes, and Paul McCartney & Wings eight-track tapes.
He managed the “Rough Riders Tavern” on Lyon Street where CFL players would frequent. Because of his size he was often mistaken for an RCMP officer, trading his manager role for bouncer.
Rick tried his hand at roofing for several years, then went on to building trusses for Kott Lumber and finally retired from Grandor Lumber.
Rick was generous, kind and an all-around gentleman. He always made sure his siblings had presents under the tree at Christmas. One year he brought home our very first puppy, Chico the poodle. He loved his dogs and treated them like kings.
He will be greatly missed by his faithful dog Jake, longtime neighbours and his good friend Jeff.
Following cremation, a private graveside service will be held at Saint-Paul Cemetery in Aylmer.
Donations in Rick’s name can be made to the Ottawa Heart Institute.