Robert Glenn VanGorder

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert Glenn VanGorder, who left this world on June 13, 2026, at the age of 63. Born on April 11, 1963, in Atlanta, Georgia to parents Allene and Richard VanGorder, Robert lived a life filled with love, laughter, and dedication to his family and career.
Growing up in the Atlanta area with his two older brothers, Randy and Rick, he graduated from US Grant High School in Oklahoma City when his family moved during his senior year in 1981. Immediately following graduation, Robert began his career in the food industry, where he matched his exceptional work ethic with a natural talent for management. Starting with his brother Randy, he worked his way up through various roles in the grocery business, ultimately flourishing as a Produce Manager at Sprouts and later at Crest. His dedication to his craft earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, as well as countless customers who were touched by his warm spirit.Much of Robert's life was spent in the beauty of Tennessee, where he lived with the love of his wife of 16 years, Donna, until her passing in 2014. Her young daughter Brianna quickly became the child he always wanted, and they bonded through home and outdoor projects, learning life lessons, and teaching her what he learned from his mother: you can do anything you set your mind to!
Robert lived a vibrant life filled with adventures and passion. He shared many joyful moments with his brothers, bonding over their competitive nature through frisbee golf and bowling. Robert's passion for the outdoors and home renovation shone brightly as he transformed spaces with hard work and creativity. Whether adding rooms to his home or teaching Brianna the joy of building, he found endless ways to express his love through acts of service. He also loved music deeply, traveling across the country to see favorite bands like Journey and AC/DC, and preserving each ticket stub as a keepsake from those treasured experiences.Friendly and easy-going, Robert had a gift for making people feel welcome. He enjoyed building connections with others and brought steady determination to everything he pursued. His big heart, unwavering dedication to his family, and refusal to ever put anyone down made him a true friend to all.Robert is preceded in death by his loving wife Donna Phy-VanGorder, loving mother, Frances "Allene" Snider, father, Richard VanGorder Sr, step-father Jack Snider, and brother, Jim Snider. He will be missed by his daughter Brianna and her husband Luke; grandchildren Oliver and Liliana; brothers Randy and wife Rebecca, and Rick; nieces and nephews Randy Jr and wife Christina (and their children Randy III and Anna), Shane, Alisha, Amber, Justin, Dillion, and Steven; and many other extended family and friends like family. Robert's family and friends will forever remember him as a devoted husband, brother, friend, and co-worker who always put others before himself.In celebration of Robert's life, a memorial service and time of visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 from 6-8 PM at Ingram, Smith & Turner Mortuary in Yukon, OK allowing family and friends to gather, share stories, and honor the wonderful man he was. As we remember the life of Robert Glenn VanGorder, we celebrate the legacy he leaves behind-one of love, laughter, and a reminder to always put family and kindness first. He will be profoundly missed, but never forgotten.

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