Robert Van Houdt died in Gloucester, Va., June 6, 2012.

Robert was born on August 13, 1935 in Cedar Falls, Iowa to Ted and Christine Van Houdt. He attended St. Patrick’s Catholic grade school and Iowa State Teachers College High School. He entered the Air Force in 1954 and was a gifted jet engine mechanic. After training he was sent to Earnest Harmon AF Base in Stephenville, Newfoundland where he met his wife, Johanna.

They had five children, Wayne, David, LaVonne, Curtis, and Dreana. Johanna died in 1978. He retired after 20 years of AF service. After his AF career and the death of Johanna, he married Joyce. Robert continued working until his illness would no longer allow it.

Other than his wife and five children, Robert is survived by a brother; five grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by three grandchildren.

A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, June 15, 2012 at 11 o’clock at the Church of St. Therese, 6262 Main St., Gloucester. A reception will follow after the service.

Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to Riverside Walter Reed Hospice, P.O. Box 1130, Gloucester, Va. 23061.

The family would like to thank the Home Depot employees and Riverside Walter Reed Hospice for their love, kindness, and dedication shown during his illness.

Arrangements were made by Andrews Funeral Home, Inc., Gloucester.