Roger (Rog) Vanderlaan

Rog Vanderlaan passed away peacefully at 93 years old, surrounded by his family at his Santa Barbara home on March 29. He was a Chicago man and a Cubs fan, but he loved Santa Barbara. At age 19, he enlisted in the Marine Corp. and served in the Korean war from 1950–1953. He was known and loved by neighbors and businesses alike. He was a remarkable man and a true gentleman who could fix anything and had a quick wit and plenty of jokes. Rog was always passionate about life, and all kinds of music—anything to dance to, as he was a professional dancer. He graduated from Midwestern Broadcasting School and worked in both radio and TV for over 10 years. He made insurance his lifetime job as a broker for 35 years. He founded El Camino Distributors where he was known by his clients as “the Toy Man.” He wrote and published three books: Attitude; Persuasion; and Star Boat.

He met his lovely bride, Jackie, in 1963 in Decatur, Illinois. Together, they raised seven rambunctious children. Once retired, Rog and Jackie traveled in their Dodge caravan around the US, singing and laughing, and exploring most states. They also enjoyed seeing the world—they went on many cruises and ventured to Costa Rica. Their favorite trip was to South Korea, where Roger received several medals from the Republic of Korea for his service during the Korean War.

Rog is survived by his bride, Jackie Vanderlaan, of 62 years and their seven children, whom he loved very much and was so proud of: Debra Schultz, Crystal Schell, Lisa Burke, Jeff and Randy Vanderlaan, Alan Harris and Randy Harris (deceased). He was adored by his 10 grandchildren, four great grandchildren And first soon-to-be great great grandchild. He is also survived by his brother Fred (wife Kathie) and sister-in-law Mary, many nieces and nephews, friends and neighbors. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

“Gone from our sight, but never our memories. Gone from our touch, but never our hearts.”