Robert Collins Van Vorst

Wynantskill- Robert Collins "Hooper", "Poppy" Van Vorst, 78, passed away peacefully after a long battle with heart disease on Tuesday, June 5, 2018 surrounded by his family. Born on September 12, 1939 he was the son of the late Collins G. and Helen (Powell) Van Vorst. Robert is survived by his loving, caring wife of 55 years, Gail (Pillsworth) Van Vorst.

Robert was a veteran of the United States Army. After being honorably discharged he went on to work as a machine operator at Behr-Manning in Watervliet. He then went on to work in sales for Sherwin Williams before retiring from New York State Department of Labor. Robert enjoyed hunting, camping, visiting his second home in Florida but above all spending time with his family especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

In addition to his wife Gail, Robert is survived by his two daugthers, Judy A. Simkins (Jeffrey) & Dawn M. Van Vorst- Roberts (Brian). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Justin C. Ryan (Jill), Jennifer C. Logan (Josh), Ashley D. Champitto, Lindsey M. Champitto and Stefanie N. Simkins and his great grandchildren, Cody J. Ryan, Connor A. Ryan, and James R. Logan and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Robert also leaves behind his siblings, Thomas Van Vorst (Carolyn) and Carol Bennett ( the late Ronald).

Robert is predeceased by his brother John Van Vorst (the late Sandra).

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the American Heart Association online at donatenow.heart.org or the American Diabetes Association online at, donations.diabetes.org.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, June 8, 2018 from 4:00pm-7:00pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 181 Troy Schenectady Road, Watervliet, NY 12189. A funeral service will begin at 7:00pm.

Burial with full military honors will be held on Tuesday, June 12, 2018 at 10:30am at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery.