Buying bread from a man in Brussels
He was six foot four and full of muscle
I said, "Do you speak-a my language?"
He just smiled and gave me a Vegemite sandwich
And he said:

"I come from a land down under
Where beer does flow and men chunder
Can't you hear, can't you hear the thunder
You better run, you better take cover." (yeah)

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Happy Birthday! Thanks for hiring me into FCPS to work at Spring Hill 18 years ago. I’ve helped many of my former Spring Hill coworkers talk about retirement at my job in the retirement office over the years. This week I turned in my notice to retire Sept 1. My son, now 30, said, “Roger would be proud of you!” Thanks to your giving me the opportunity, my life is great with a capital G! I have the same earrings I wore at my interview, they are my lucky ones. I’ll wear them on my last day at work! They are missing a stone but somehow that seems fitting . -Susan Chait Stager

Happy Birthday Big Man, we miss you!

3:20 pm in Stockholm now. Best summer day in all summer today! Thanks! No Down Under played and no nose hair pulled yet, but we will do soon and remember your super great personality, always with your positive mindset! Happy b-day Roger!! ❤️

3:20 pm in Stockholm now. Down under been played all day and I have hardly any nose hair left!!  Love ❤️ always

Although he passed way too soon, Roger packed more living in to 60 years than most do in 100!! And he affected and touched countless numbers of lives with his compassion, great sense of humor and wonderful friendship!!

Love always, Bonnie & Gene

We remember your warm, friendly smile and the professional manner which you treated us and our kids, Rafy Jr, Alexis and Byron at Spring Hill ES. Now, Rafy and Alexis are college graduates from Clemson and VCU, thanks to the strong foundation you, your staff and teachers built for our kids from kinder-to-6th grade. Gracias and thanks to your family that supported you always. May you rest in peace for eternity. God bless you and yours.

Best boss ever.

Roger! Today I am listening to Down Under and trying to pull as many nose hair in one try as possible and laughing, as we did together in the car 6 am going to school when living with you in AZ! Miss u heaps!!

We will never stop loving you, Roger, and know that you are up there having a great time while still protecting your family.. Love, Bonnie & Gene

Always thinking of you and missing you!

Love, Bonnie and Gene

Three years and it’s still hard to believe, but I know you’re making heaven a fun place for everyone around you. Miss you and the conversations we had when I’d visit. 

Miss you a lot Roger and thought of you throughout Nats season and post season. You would have loved it. The Lerners and Rizzo finally delivered for you.

Miss u a lot Roger, specially your positivity and your laughter. Around you, you would never get bored, that’s for sure!!

Dearest Roger: we miss you, but I feel that you are all around me, giving me advice on a regular basis. It is apparent that even though you are so happy in the afterlife, we know you are still here for us when we need you.

Your loving sister,
Bonnie

We miss you so much, Roger! I have a fairly new coworker whose birthday is the anniversary of your death. I took this as a positive sign , as he has your energy. I was mistaken! No one has your positivity, authenticity, & compassion to manage a team like you 
Susan

We will continue to miss you but the love we shared will live on forever .

Love
Bonnie & Gene

Your laughter and kindness will be forever remembered and we will share out what we learned from you!

I miss you so much Roger. You were my life coach, my mentor and like my second dad. You had such a positive mindset and were always happy something that I try to live after and wish I hade more of! Nevertheless, my thoughts today go to my sister❤️ and nephews❤️❤️. Love you!

To Roger's Family,
May the memories that you have of Roger continue to keep his love and laughter alive in your hearts. He will always be with you!

We miss you terribly Roger but we know your legacy will live on in your precious grandson Zachary Roger .
Love Bonnie & Gene

Mr.Vanderhye was a very nice man and influenced us all at walt whitman even though he did some things like the no phone policy that alot of us didnt like we know he did it just so we could be more social and focus and got our education and better out lives no matter what i say he was a man who earns respect and i should not have said what i said i only said that out of spite and frustration and as a joke i know that that was not funny to post that about a man who has passed on and i know that what i did affected his family a whole lot and i am sorry for what i have said i hope you all will find it in your hearts to forgive me and i hope even though he is no longer with ur in person but in or heats he will forgive me too.
:(

I was the Finance Secretary and Office Manager at SH.
The first thing you noticed when walking into Rogers office was all the pictures of his family. He never failed to tell stories about his wife and his two boys. He truly loved them. He kept us in the loop and allowed us to laugh with him and at him. He would show appreciation to the staff and always made you feel like you were important to the running of the school. Treated parents with respect and protected the children.
Halloween was a fun time at Spring Hill. Roger always participated in the activities, we might have looked funny but I always enjoyed seeing the office planning and leading the parade.
I knew Roger had health problem for many years but he would not let it stop him from playing basketball or baseball. I was shocked when I heard he was going to be operated on, and I called him to wish him well. He is missed and thought of frequently. He was more than my boss, he was a friend.

Cecilia and family,

I am thinking of you today. I will never forget Roger. Last January, late in the month, I dreamed I met Roger and my dad, sitting on a fence somewhere out West , having a conversation. I don't know where this came from! 

Oddly enough, a coworker reminds me so much of Roger in energy and positive approach.

Peace be with you,
Susan
Spring Hill office alum

It seems like just yesterday that our families were celebrating some major Birthdays(Roger's 60th) at a reunion in Illinois. We had so much fun and on the anniversary of his birth, I miss his great smile and hearty laugh. He was a great Brother-in-law and the family can take comfort in knowing that we were all better off because he was and still is a part of our lives!!

It feels like just yesterday that Roger was born. I was almost nine years old and hoping for a little sister. I was disappointed to hear that it was a boy until I looked into Roger's big brown eyes. He looked so precious that I immediately fell in love with him. I thoroughly enjoyed being his big sister and babysitter. I miss him every day, but take comfort in the fact that he was so loved in this life.

Roger was truly a blessing to his family, his friends and anyone he came in contact with.  We have known Cecelia and Roger for many years and it was always clear how much love was shared between them and their entire family.  We last saw Roger at our annual bookclub holiday party and he was full of positive thoughts for his upcoming surgery.  He wanted very much to return to his regular, extremely vibrant self. I sat with him for a long time by the fire - catching up on things in both our lives.  As always, it was a pleasure talking with him.  My husband, who is not someone who loves parties, always looked forward to this annual event and specifically seeing Roger.  You could always hear Roger from even another room - telling a funny story, laughing and making others laugh.  We will miss spending time with Roger and we know that his family is missing him every minute of every day.  All of our love and prayers go to them at this time.  Everyone who knew him was positively touched by his presence here on earth.

I knew Roger before we met, at least I felt I did. Ron spoke of Roger so often that I highly anticipated meeting him. I thought, who is this little brother that I've heard numerous childhood stories of? What type of person is he? Roger instantly made me feel at ease. He made me laugh. What I didn't realize at that time, is that we would share memories over the next 40 years and, yes, how we would laugh!

Roger, you were the actor! I will always remember the Sean Connery impersonation you nailed and how you said he "chewed" on his words. And the General Patton speech that you gave, word for word. You became Patton!

When it came time for our move into our first home, you were there to help. I'll never forget the Volkswagen convertible, piled high to the sky with our belongings, pulling up and you and Ron jumping out, laughing, ready to move the stuff in.

After you married Cecelia, we couldn't wait for you to visit. You were so happy. And as our families grew over the years, we had so many good times. Arizona, La Jolla and how could you forget Europe?

Little did I know that the Marvansky reunion in June would be the last time I would see you. I think of all those memories. And the way you made me laugh.

Cecilia, I was so very sorry to hear of Roger's passing. Please know that thoughts and prayers continue to be sent for you and your family as you mend from this painful tear in the fabric of your family.

I only met Roger a handful of times, but you only needed to meet Roger once for him to make an impression! He was such a vibrant and gregarious person. Whenever I go into the courtyard at Belvedere, I think of Roger, Cecilia and Nick and that day we removed the turf to create a beautiful native plant garden and outdoor classroom. Beth and I barely managed to unload that massive turf remover from the back of my Pilot and we rolled it through the cafeteria, down the halls and into the courtyard where Cecilia was waiting. The machine was too much for us to handle, but Roger and Nick saved the day. They spent hours pushing that vibrating monster around the courtyard, not leaving until the job was done --- and they joked around with us and teased Cecilia the whole time. Belvedere staff and students have enjoyed learning, eating in, and finding peace in the courtyard for five years now. I'll always be grateful to Roger for giving up his precious Saturday time to do this.

Richard and I were very saddened to hear of our friend's passing. Roger's presence was larger than life and he and his wife helped welcome me and my children into Richard's life. We had some wonderful times together in Athens and it was clear to see what a loving husband and father he was. Sending much love to Cecilia and the boys...May Roger's memory be forever eternal.

From Lizzie:

WE LOVE YOU, ROGER!
Roger Vanderhye, born in August, 1956 was kind, trustworthy, caring, funny, and all the positive things you could imagine. He always made me feel happy. Unfortunately, he died, on January 12, 2017. He is one of the people my room is dedicated to. He was an excellent principal at Spring Hill Elementary school. He was also principal of Whitman school. One of the things that I remember is that he used to make a cricket noise, and I would think it was hilariously funny. Another thing I remember is that he gave me a baseball and I still have it. My 4 year old brother said, “We all love him and pray that he comes back to life”.

A few days before Roger went into the hospital we had a Christmas party at our house. Cecilia called an hour before it started to say that they were close by and to check what time they should arrive. Roger was on the phone too and their voices were full of laughter. They were not at all put off by driving around and waiting a bit before coming over. They were simply happy to be in each other’s company. I remember thinking that night it was like they had their own party every time they were together. Roger was the life of our Christmas party, this year and every year. His loud laugh and self-deprecating humor made everything more fun.  He put people who were nervous about the upcoming surgery at ease by joking about having a signup sheet for us to give him a sponge bath or change his bedpan as he recovered. 

Roger and Cecilia’s love shined through even the smallest gestures—Roger lighting a fire for Cecilia when she came home from school: Always snuggling up, or Cecilia resting her feet on Roger’s lap. The clear love and pride they shared for all of Nick and Alex’s adventures and accomplishments. Laughing that if their house caught on fire, Cecilia would save Summer first. I’ve always held them up in my mind as a shining example of true love and a happy marriage and will continue to do so.

Roger’s enthusiasm was contagious. He always bounded into the room, huge smile on his face, ready to talk about something interesting that had happened that day. He had so many great stories: Two of my favorites were of the time he went hunting wild boar with some of Cecilia’s relatives and the time he challenged some teenagers who thought he was too old to be wearing Under Armor. So much life and so much enthusiasm for life.

It’s almost impossible to believe that he is not here anymore. That we will never again hear that laugh, never listen as he gently pokes fun at the Patriots to my chagrin, never smile as he makes a cricket call to entertain the kids, never again show us through his example how to live the happiest of lives. But I’m a better person for knowing Roger and Cecilia and for witnessing, enjoying, and learning from their great love. You will be missed, Roger.

Uncle Roger was as much a brother as he was an Uncle. The excitement I'd feel when I heard Rog was coming to town was palpable. Every visit did not disappoint. To playing sports and board games when I was younger, to going to Lake Forest Beach to hit on girls (when we were both single and older), there were too many memories to count. I always saw him as someone who lived every day to the fullest. Once he started his family with Cecilia and produced two wonderful kids, he took it to another level. I never lived in the same town as him, so never got to witness him in action as an educator and administrator, but I know he was amazing at his craft. He put 100% effort into his family and his job. What more could you ask for? My love for him was great and he will be sorely missed.

Uncle Rog- It has taken me awhile to post because I still haven't come to the realization that you are gone. It just doesn't seem real. We just saw you in October in New York City and you were the same old Rog. Energy, love for life, zest for adventure and undying compassion for those in need were just a few of your amazing qualities. I thank God for all the times we had together. I still remember when you came to visit us before you were going to South America and we went to the 4th of July party and all my high school friends thought you were so cute! Little did you know that your life would be changed forever when you met the love of your life. The love you and Aunt Cecilia have was one that I always hoped I would find in my life and thankfully I did!

The trips we have taken over the years and the reunion last summer are ones that I will not soon forget and will cherish as long as I live. Your two amazing boys, Nick and Alex, are a testament to what an unbelievable father and mentor you were. You were their biggest fans and they are yours. Jim and the boys always loved being around you and hearing your amazing baseball stories and all your adventures traveling the world. The countless lives you touched could fill a baseball field to its maximum capacity. We will not soon forget the wonderful husband, father, brother, brother-in-law, uncle and friend that you were. The footprints you left on this earth will never fade away... your legacy will live on through all of us.

We love you so much and miss you.
Your loving niece, Carolyn
(and Jim, Jimmy, Dominic, and Nicholas too)

Roger Vanderhye - a friend, boss, team mate, principal, brother, dad and husband - some of the many hats he wore.

I have years of memories that involve Roger. As the weeks pass, I am reminded more and more about the humorous and memorable times we spent together.

Roger’s glass was neither half full nor half empty. It was always full. (Mostly with good Chilean red wine.)

His trademark signature always ended with a happy face :)

Roger always showed us how to be happy and reminded us to enjoy life and our surroundings.

He always greeted people with his bright eyes, a big :) and a hello. He made you feel at home.

Roger was a great story teller and he usually would embellish his tales. They typically included baseball, baseball, baseball, family trips, more baseball stories, this time having to do with Nick, Alex or Roger’s father. His latest story included the boar hunting trip while he was in Sweden. I will miss hearing Roger’s stories. 

While living in Greece, the staff would have weekly boys’ nights out. On Tuesday it was volleyball and on Thursdays it was basketball. Afterwards, we all would go out and enjoy the local Greek taverns. Roger loved playing sports. That he was competitive was a huge understatement. Roger loved to win, but he would always pass the ball to the weakest player on his side and allow them to take a shot. Thanks Roger. I am sorry I did not make more baskets.

In ACS Athens, Roger always loved to show off his vocabulary to his younger staff. We would call this his SAT word of the day.

For decades, Roger would share his famous turkey call on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving with the entire school. Gobble, gobble, and gobble. It wasn’t Thanksgiving without it.

Other famous sayings he would repeat throughout the years paraphrased some of his favorite comedians – How big a ’boy are yea? and, I got Hershey kisses! (You had to be there.)

While I was teaching in Saudi Arabia, Roger flew in to interview for the principal’s job. Prior to getting hired, he came out to the field while I was teaching softball and hit some dingers over the fence, all while wearing his cowboy boots. He made a great impression the 9th graders that day. He made a great impression everywhere he went.

For a weekend getaway in the Kingdom, we often went over to Bahrain and stayed at this grand hotel. One night after dinner, a group of us wanted walk out to the beach and enjoy a beer. The hotel had a security guard at the doorway who did not allow us to go outside. He tried to explain to us that for tonight, only VIP’s were allowed outside. Without missing a beat, Roger asked him, “Do you know who I am? I am Roger Vanderhye and I am a VIP”. Roger opened the door for us and we all walked out to the beach while the security guard looked stunned. That was how Roger was. Everyone was a Very Important Person. (We found out later that a very wealthy royal sheik was having a wedding outside.)

When I read all the tributes people have been sharing, it shows how Roger made a great and positive impact on so many lives. His greatest influence has been on Nick and Alex. I have had the privilege to watch Roger and Cecilia raise their boys into great men, just like Roger.

The last text I received from Roger was the night before his operation. It included a selfie with his usual trademark, a huge, warm smile. He wrote, “Living the dream Mickster!” Roger, you did live the dream. May we all live the dream with as much gusto and enthusiasm as you did.

Roger, it is never good bye; you will be always with me. Thank you for being my friend. Love you Roger.

Micky :)

I am so sorry to hear about this, such a tragedy.  I played on many regular season, all star, and travel baseball teams with Roger, Flossmoor League, Babe Ruth, American Legion.

Oh we had so much fun.
 
Roger was the steadiest 2nd basemen that ever played the game. We lost contact after high school but I see from the comments and from his future endeavors that trait seems to be a constant, you could alway depend on Roger! Roger was fearless at the plate while batting, no pitcher ever intimidated him, rather it always worked the other way, he could not be rattled.

We were always coached by his father, the legendary, Coach Art Vander hye and Coach Roseberry.
 
Mr. Vanderhye taught us so much more than baseball: show up on time ready to play, always give your best, yes sir, no sir, respect the umpires, hit the cut off man, tuck your uniform in, back each other up, and he never showed favoritism to Roger, rather he may have been harder, but it was truly out of love for his son that he did this and the rest of us benefitted immensely because of it!

To his wife and sons I can only mention what a treasure he was from a young age, but you already knew this. All my prayers are with you.

I have had the privilege of working with some amazing people in FCPS, and Cecilia happens to be one of them. That's how I met Roger. I remember days at Camelot when Roger just happened to be close by and would stop in to say hi. He would come bounding in, filled with magnetic energy, a big broad smile, joking and teasing with the office staff. Taking the time to greet everyone as if he was their best friend. That's just a little of what made Roger such a special person, a great principal and leader to those lives he touched with a lasting impression. I feel blessed for those times and the memories made. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, may God bring you peace and memories of joy.

I always admired Roger. He had a great love for his family and wife. He had a very warm personality and was always quick to say a kind word. Roger's legacy is one of passion, zeal for life, positive thinking and love for students. We miss you!

Just last night I was flipping through old certificates and notes, reflecting on previous years and events, and I came across my sixth-grade graduation certificate, and I saw Mr. Vanderhye's signature. That stopped me in my tracks. It was, and still is hard to comprehend that the man who signed it just three years ago no longer walks this Earth. It's hard to believe that the man who shaped seven fantastic years won't be able to do that for another student. As an elementary schooler its difficult to know just what a principal does, and it's even harder to know if they're good. But now, at age 14, I've had three principals, and I can say with certainty that Mr. Vanderhye was special. It's not just that he attracted wonderful teachers and made them want to stay, or that the school ran like a well-oiled machine under his guidance. No, what made Mr. Vanderhye more than just good or even great, was the costumes at Halloween and the turkey call every Thanksgiving. It was the big waves in the morning and the "hi" as he popped his head into a classroom on his way down the hall. Mr. Vanderhye had a special presence. He made Spring Hill a community and a family. He brought together talented teachers and knit them together in a way that made me excited to go to school every day for seven years. I go to Marshall High School now, and there almost no one has heard of Spring Hill. But I mention it sometimes, and every once and a while I'll find another Spring Hill graduate and we can talk for hours about everything that we loved and all that we miss. Becuase there was something special about Mr. Vanderhye, and because of that, there was something special about Spring Hill.

What made Roger the Mount Vernon Pyramid Principals’ MVP?


★When Roger joined our MVP Family we were made stronger and our work more fun. His larger than life spirit and sheer charm made our time together as a group of leaders so special and his charismatic way of being, made our Principal CT Meetings as well as Chat and Chug sessions much more lively! He was committed to making a difference in our pyramid and making Whitman Middle School a great place to work and learn. He modeled for us how to be a dynamo at your job, but not to the sacrifice of those that mattered most...family! It was clear how much Roger was devoted to the love of his life, Cecilia, and how proud he was of his sons! 

While every member of our pyramid is mourning the loss of an amazing colleague and friend, I believe we collectively feel blessed to have been gifted the opportunity to have Roger in our lives and appreciate his family sharing him with us! ♥ Theresa

★Roger was a huge presence, lived out the creed of unconditional love, forever hope-filled and a champion of individuals who needed it most. He was never afraid to see the beauty in others and in himself.  He laughed through the tough times in life and took our hands so that we could laugh with him. While he was too great to be contained in organized religion, he was one of the most spiritual humans I have ever known. He equally felt at home in the presence of royalty and in the presence of everyday people!

What did he teach us with his life? To know that this is the only moment we have, this moment, and that we must pack in to this moment all the hope, love, support, and wisdom we have! ♥ Kathy

★Mt. Vernon Pyramid (MVP) truly had a real MVP the day we gained Mr. Vanderhye. He brought hope, laughter, found the good in every situation and not only believed in the children but the entire community. We were so blessed to have had Roger for the time we did, although a short time, his impression will last with us for many years to come. Roger was a colleague and friend who will always have a part in my heart. ♥ Dawn

★As a new principal, it was extremely important for me to rely on my team for ideas and inspiration for this incredible work that we have in front of us. Roger represented everything good we have been working so hard to accomplish in the Mount Vernon Pyramid. His positivity, optimism, and energy allowed him to be the tremendous leader that he was for so many staff members and students, and for his MVP teammates as well. We have loved getting to work and to learn with him, but we are especially thankful and extremely lucky just to have gotten to know him. The true measure of leadership lies in the impact you have when you are gone, and it is quite obvious that Roger’s impact on each school and community he supported is powerful and long lasting. He was always very proud of his work and there are thousands of people that will continue to grow up and live a better life because of his work. Thank you Roger for the impact you have had on my life and for all you have done for our children. ♥ Paul

★As the “newbie” to the pyramid, one of the lasting words that I remembered Roger sharing with me was: “Don’t worry man, you are the one to change Mount Vernon Woods. Welcome to the team MAN! You have tipped the balance; we outnumber the ladies now.” On a serious note, I know we met four months ago, but I feel like we have been brothers in arms for ages. Your kindred spirit, bravado, charm, and most importantly, your love for your colleagues in the Mount Vernon Pyramid and Global Education is what I will forever remember. May the spirits of the ancestors bless you and your family always. HOTEP AND SANKOFA! ♥ Clint

★Roger Vanderhye was a colleague and friend that made an immediate and deep impact on his kids at Whitman and the entire Mount Vernon community. All it took was one interaction with Roger to see his glow and feel his dynamic presence. Upon my very first meeting with him I quickly discovered that he filled the room with the loudest voice and more laughter than just about anyone I’d ever encountered. Roger was a passionate man that stated his feelings and never hid from others what he believed. However, one of the things I admired about him was that he was also open to changing his mind when new experiences and evidence were presented to him. Another word that comes to mind when I reflect about Roger is daring. Roger loved life and new experiences and my observation was that he lived every day to its fullest. When you entered his office or his home you were struck immediately by the pictures of his travel. You were also blown back by his smile and I could also see how deeply he loved his wife, as he clung to her and pulled her close is nearly every photograph I ever saw of him. These are the traits of an honorable man. These are traits that we should all hope for and aspire to. These are traits that Roger passed along to all those he encountered in some way whenever he was in their presence. He positively influenced the kids and adults all around him every day, and Roger’s life was one that continues to live on today in all those that he impacted. I know I speak for many people when I say that Roger is missed and will continue to be missed, but he is never forgotten. His gifts influenced us in his life and continue to influence us in his passing. ♥ Brad

★Roger was a giant. I first knew him in the old Cluster 1, when he was principal of Spring Hill. He stood out there as a visionary, not waiting for the school division to solve his problems, but crafting his own solutions and then willingly sharing them with his colleagues. Every action was driven by a genuine desire to do what was in the best interest of kids. Kids were at the heart of it. He loved kids and didn’t care who knew it. That’s what I giant would do.

I must admit I was a bit skeptical when I heard Roger had been appointed to Whitman. But then I saw him in action there and realized how wrong I had been. The challenge of moving the school energized him. He brought every resource to bear, from writing grants for afterschool and summer programs to instituting Saturday school, to make Whitman second to none. Not for himself, but because he truly believed the kids of Whitman deserved it.

It was one of the highlights of my professional life to serve alongside him in the Mount Vernon Pyramid. We became fast friends while crafting our response to the challenges we faced. He was serious about the work, but never took himself too seriously. In fact, he was a great kidder, a welcome trait in our pyramid. He reminded us to laugh and enjoy the journey. He encouraged us to keep a sense of the possible in the face of tremendous obstacles. In an odd way, we looked forward to going to meetings when we knew Roger would be there. We lingered a little longer after meetings to get a last dose of energy and optimism for the work ahead.

I was immobilized by the news of his passing. It caught me so unprepared because even when the reports that his recovery was not going well, I had a profound belief that he would pull through, and that we would laugh together again. To have that vanish in an instant is almost indescribable. The memory of that day is still difficult, but the thought of his vibrant spirit makes it all a bit more bearable. Knowing Roger, it had to be this way. He would want us to remember him just the he was. He was here and then he wasn’t. I miss him. ♥ A. Terrell

★I remember thinking that things were going to change and we were going to have a lot more fun after our first pyramid meeting with Roger. I heard his name before but didn’t really know him but he made an impression on me immediately. Roger’s personality filled the room when he chose to but at times he sat back and was quite reflective. He shared his experiences as a way to entertain but those stories could also add some insight to solve the problem being discussed. So many people talk about Roger’s larger than life personality and I too will miss his energy, laughter and jokes. I will equally miss the quiet conversations I had with him. I will not forget the lesson Roger was attempting to teach me about balance. I listened to him talk about having dates with his wife, spending time with his family and leaving work at a descent time. He encouraged me and I am going to take his words of wisdom to heart. Roger, thank you for having an impact on me and I’m planning for three weeks next year!  ♥ Sharon

Our prayers continue to be with Roger's family!

~The MVP Principals

We first met Roger when our oldest child went to Kindergarten in 2007. It was immediately apparent to us that we had a wonderful principal. From the way he would stand at the front door greeting each child in the morning to the yearly invitation to parents to give him input about their child for the next year's class placement to the revealing of the next year's class on the last day of school, he took the time and care to do what would make the kids comfortable, often at the expense of what would be easy or expedient. We won't forget the sense of fun and exuberance he brought to the Halloween celebrations, Colonial Day dancing, or Fun Fair karaoke. He touched so many lives and it is hard to believe he is gone. His passing is a great loss to FCPS and its families but of course it is a far greater loss for his family. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.

Mr Vanderhye was principal at SHES for my three kids from kindergarten to graduation. Then they went on to Longfellow MS and Langley HS. We moved two years ago but we stayed abreast of events in McLean and SHES. Mr. Vanderhye was the most positive, energetic and thoughtful principal I have met. He was instrumental in ensuring that my kids, all kids, got the best education possible. He was key in establishing the GT (now AAP) program and my kids loved going to school there. I trully enjoyed talking to Mr. Vanderhye about a myriad different topics. Vaya con Dios mi buen amigo.

Roger was the life of the party. From our Cluster 1 meetings to our Principal meetings, Roger’s energy was contagious. Roger was an inspirational leader and his charismatic personality was infections. A good, joyful soul is now at peace in eternity with the Father. We remember not only the man who died, but also, he who led an honorable life. We may never fathom how difficult the loss is for you, please be assured that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Dear Cecelia and Sons,

Joe and I want to extend to you our deepest sympathies to you and the family for the loss of Roger. I taught at the Dhahran Academy when he was principal there. I even taught Nicholas even though he may not remember me. 

We were so shocked by the news of Roger's passing. He was the light in the room and will be missed by all who knew him. 

Our prayers are with you now.

Ruth and Joe Roos

I will miss Roger's presence in this world. His positivity, visionary thinking, inclusivity and humor left a tremendous impact. I have never attended a meeting with him in which I did not laugh and learn. His joy and love of our work as educators was always positive and contagious.

I will always remember Roger for his wonderful smile and his great love for Cecilia, his boys and his entire family. He was always about giving to others. Upon occasion, for example, when several of the principals went to conferences in other states, Roger insisted that I join him and Cecilia for dinner each evening so that I would not be by myself. I learned so much about their lives in those special moments. It was a kindness I will always keep with me. I am certain Roger is surrounded by angels on high who are caring for him in the same way that he cared for us all here on earth. Peace to all in the Vanderhye family.

Roger's siblings, Bonnie &Bob, must have somehow known that it was of the utmost importance to have a Family Reunion this past July to celebrate four significant Birthdays (Roger was 60) As usual, Rog was the life of the party,always engaging, ever energetic and making sure a good time was had by all! As his Brother-in-Law, we shared many special moments together but now it seems none more special than those four days over Fourth of July weekend. I'm so grateful that Rog and I were able to share some quality time together and talk about what was real and important- Family!!

Oh how he loved his Family and how they loved him! And while I knew of many of his accomplishments in education,I couldn't have ever imagined how many lives he touched. His was truly a life well-lived.

Like everyone who had the privilege of knowing him,he will be missed more than words can say .But the Family should take comfort in knowing that he left a legacy of Love, Devotion and Friendship that will stand the test of time.

I feel very fortunate to have had the pleasure of working with Roger Vanderhye for the past year and a half and am sorry it could not have been longer. When I think of him, I remember him with smile on his face and am inspired to stay positive each day.

I had the honor of having Roger as my principal mentor while I was in the Leadership Development Cohort. I enjoyed many school activities at Spring Hill during that time including dressing up as a candy bar for the costume parade and participating in CLT meetings but I will never forget the day I came into school and a second grade classroom was in need of a substitute while the assigned sub was running late and guess who filled in…yep, sure enough Roger asked me to attend to the class until the sub arrived…that was the most scary and exciting 10 minutes in my school career and I am forever grateful to Roger for giving me the impromptu opportunity!

Truly a presence that will never be forgotten, I will always remember your charismatic personality, your laughter, your encouragement and your pride which could be seen from miles away whenever you spoke of your family and your students. Thank you and rest in peaceful slumber Roger.

To Cecilia, Nick and Alex, I offer my deepest condolences and may his memory keep your hearts warm and forever full.