Richard Lee VanderMolen

Richard Lee VanderMolen, born on Feb. 29, 1940 passed away on the morning of August 4, 2019. Richard (a.k.a. Dick) was the youngest of six children born to Adolph and Caroline VanderMolen in Oaklawn Illinois.

After growing up in the suburbs of Chicago, Dick relocated his family to Arizona and called it home for over 40 years. He was an experienced driver in the trucking industry for the majority of his career as well as a successful owner-operator. He knew every street, corner, nook and cranny of the "Valley of the Sun". Dick helped the city to become the sprawling metropolis that is now "Greater Phoenix".

Dick was a unique and fun loving man who appreciated conversation, music, good food, movies and comedy. He will be most remembered for his witty sense of humor, his love of people, kindness, generosity and devotion to his family and friends.

Dick will be long remembered by his partner Cheri Bertagne, his children Steven VanderMolen, Cheryl Gilbert, Robert VanderMolen and his beloved daughter-in-law Krista. Dick has three loving granddaughters Amanda VanderMolen, Alyssa Birmingham and Aubrea VanderMolen as well one energetic great-grandson Barrett Birmingham. Dick will also be remembered by his many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends everywhere.

Interested parties are asked to make donations to the Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) Coalition with details located in the charity section. The MSA Coalition is a dedicated resource to give families hope when dealing with the effects of this degenerative disease.

A private celebration of life (Dick's After Party) will be held on August 31 in Phoenix to celebrate Dick's amazing presence on earth and his influence on all that knew him. Please contact an immediate family member for details.