Robert G. Vanier

Robert “Bob” G. Vanier formerly of Nashotah, WI passed away on November 2, 2026, at the View at Pine Ridge, Oconomowoc. Bob was an April Fools' Day baby, born on April 1, 1940, to the late Arthur and Bertha Vanier. He graduated from North Division High School. On April 28, 1962, Bob married the love of his life, Marilyn. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary together before Marilyn passed away on May 30, 2022.

Bob worked in the auto industry. He started at Quality Plymouth, then worked for Kennedy Chrysler Plymouth, which was bought out by Hub Chrysler Plymouth. Bob retired from his successful career as Parts Manager for Hub. (Is there a Hub tag on your car?)

Bob was a United States Army Veteran. He proudly served in the Army Reserves. His funeral service will include military honors.

In his retirement, Bob enjoyed going to flea markets and antique stores. He eventually started Bob's Kookie Jar company. He bought and sold thousands of cookie jars in his business. Bob was a vendor in two antique stores, Fox Lake Antiques in Oconomowoc and Antiques and Uniques on Main in Waukesha. Bob was known by the nickname “Cookie Jar Bob” or “Cookie” for short among the vendors.

Bob is survived by his loving children, Sandy (Jeff) Ebert and Rob Vanier. Bob was the proud Papa to Trisha (Mason Adams) Blake and Renee (Joshua) Miller. He is further survived by his sister, Vanessa Steen, and his sisters-in-law, Carol (Hank) Bertram, Diane (Rick) Maniaci, and Suzie (Mike) Mireau. Bob is also survived by his loving nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

In addition to his loving wife, Bob was preceded in death by his daughter, Jodine Marie, his parents, his brother and sister-in-law, Dick and Rita Vanier, his brother-in-law Curt Steen, and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Bill and Erna Piechura.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 20, 2026, starting at 2:00 p.m. at the Evert-Luko Funeral Home, 170 Warren Avenue, Hartland, WI 53029, with a memorial service to follow at 3:00 p.m. After the service, there will be a reception at the Flanagan Dorn American Legion Post, 231 Goodwin Avenue, Hartland, WI 53029.

Many thanks to all the staff and residents at the View at Pine Ridge who became Bob's family and friends over the past four years; we appreciate your care and compassion. Thank you also to the wonderful nurses and staff at Pro-Health Hospice.