Celebrating the life of
Rob Edward DePue
July 25, 1951 - August 12, 2007
Robert Edward DePue
Robert Edward DePue, 56, passed away Sunday, August 12, 2007 at Hospice Savannah surrounded by loving family and friends.
He was born in Savannah, GA at the old Telfair Hospital downtown on July 25, 1951. After graduating from Savannah Country Day School in 1969, Rob attended the University of Georgia, Georgia Southern College and Stetson University. Rob’s free spirit led him out to Idaho for three years, where he was a whitewater river raft guide on the Salmon River at Mackay Bar Ranch. Upon returning to Savannah, Rob started the Savannah Carriage Company, bringing the first horse drawn carriages to historic Savannah. He was later the owner of a foundry, making beautiful, ornate iron beds. Rob worked from 1987 – present with his family’s business, DePue Wilbert Vault Co. on Bonaventure Road where he served as Vice President. In 2003, he formed a new company, Deep River Associates, which specializes in environmentally safe wastewater treatment. His hard work and ability to look forward, always being positive, provided the company with a long term vision for growth and diversification. Rob had a passion for woodworking, having just completed beautiful cherry cabinets for a new kitchen in their home.
A devoted son, husband, and father, Rob was always attentive to “His girls” as he affectionately called all of them. His mother, his brother, his wife Debbie, and his daughters Lydia and Emily received a profound love from him. They will bear the mark of his love forever.
To his friends, he offered the most steadfast friendship, ever true and genuine. Like the bushels of his favorite oysters, his friends gathered time after time at his spot on the Vernon River Marsh. During his recent illness, he witnessed their dramatic love for him.
In Rob there was a deep love for God and his presence in his life. Just as a steady wind, Rob’s faith was a strong constant.
Rob’s passion for sailing his twenty-five foot Columbia was passed on to Debbie and his girls. They spent time at Sapelo Island every summer. He recently upgraded to a thirty six foot West Indies Morgan sailboat. Although Rob’s dream was to sail it with the girls all summer, his illness precluded that. We know that he indeed has sailed to a better place and the sailor has taken his final voyage home.
Rob and his family were previous members of White Bluff United Methodist Church, where he served on the Staff Parrish Committee. The family is presently members of Isle of Hope United Methodist Church, where he and Debbie were married in 1985.
Rob is survived by his wife, Deborah Guidry DePue originally of Lafayette, LA, his daughters, Lydia Claire 19 and Emily Katherine 15, his mother Edna King DePue, his brother, Charles Burson DePue and wife Linda, four nieces and nephews, Chad DePue, Lauren DePue, Dean DePue, Nicole Shields and six great nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 14, 2007 at Fox and Weeks Funeral Directors Hodgson Chapel.
Funeral Service will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 15, 2007 at Isle of Hope United Methodist Church.
Burial will follow in Bonaventure Cemetery.
Remembrances may be made to Hospice Savannah P.O. Box 13190 Savannah, GA 31416 or the Green House Youth Project at Isle of Hope United Methodist Church 412 Parkersburg Rd. Savannah, GA 31406.
Please express our condolences to Mrs. Edna DePue, Rob's family and Charles and his family from David and Janaee Brown and 'girls' in Zephyrhills Florida
- David Brown, Zephyrhills, FL
To the all the DePues and extended family, Although we shared no family blood, God could not have blessed me with a better brother. Words simply fail to convey the relationship and love we shared! From the time that we were young teens, roommates in college, traveling companions, and even until now, we knew no bounderies to our friendship. I say 'now' because I believe I will continue to feel his presence into eternity. I thank our Lord for that assurance. As so many others have said, I too know that my life would have been so much less with out him. I had more fine times with him and you his family, than should be allowed! Rob had such an amazing capacity for living and sharing his life to the fullest. He never knew the meaning of 'I can't'. He probably accomplished more, learned more, lived more, and loved more in his time with us than most people could hope for in two lifetimes. I know that he inspired me to try to be a better son, a better husband, a better citizen, a better friend, and a better Christian. I hope that in our mourning we will find some comfort in realizing how truely blessed we were to know and love him.
- John & Jane Mullino, Savannah Isle of Hope, GA
Debbie I am so sorry for your loss. Many prayers for you and your girls.
- Neel Stringer Anthis, San Antonio, TX
Knowing Rob was a rare gift, for which, I will be forever thankful. He showed us how to be a visionary, a gentle man and a true Christian. He made his mark through trusted relationships. His capacity to give was limitless. May his dear family find solace in having shared their life with such a super human who could touch so many hearts with pure love and kindness. Sail on my friend with the wings of an angel. I will forget thee not.
- John Carbonell, St Simons Island, GA
Mrs. DePue and family, Charley and Linda, Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. May God grant you the peace that passes all understanding. With much love, Mr. & Mrs. Vernon Buchman
- Vernon Buchman, Savannah, GA
Debbie, Your friends back home send you and the girls a comforting hug as we extend our deepest sympathy for your great loss. May you feel God's loving arms around you as he comforts you and know that he will allow Ron to continue to assist you and the girls from above. My prayers are with you
- Laura LeBlanc, Lafayette, LA
Terry & I would like to send our condolences to Charles and the rest of the Depue family. We enjoyed working with Rob over the years and we know he will be a huge loss to the family and the business. He will be sorely missed. God bless you all.
- Terry & Mary Messex, Ellabell, GA
Our deepest sympathies to the DePue family, and fond memories of our short time together. Philip & Katie Strong
- Philip & Katie Strong, East Lansing, MI
Dennis and I were so deeply sorry to hear of Rob's passing. He was a wonderful person and a true gentleman. We will miss him greatly. We love you all, Lynda & Dennis
- DENNIS & LYNDA COOPER, Savannah, GA
My thoughts and prays are with you and your family through this difficult time. Take care and please know that I am here for you.
- ANITA CLIFTON, GUYTON, GA
WE ARE SORRY OF YOUR LOSS AND PRAY THAT GOD WILL GIVE YOU STRENGTH AND COMFORT YOU IN THE DAYS AHEAD. CENTRAL GRANITE COMPANY & STAFF
- M/M RANDY K. SMITH & M/M D.JAKE SMITH, ELBERTON, GA
Debbie, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Through the years, I enjoyed speaking with Rob on the phone. He was a very kind and thoughtful individual and I know you will miss him greatly.
- Maria Ray, Rincon, GA
I only had the pleasure to meet Rob a few times during the last 10 months but he made such a good impression every time that you understood what a great family and business person he was. My deepest condolences to Debbie and the family.
- Orjan Isacson, Savannah, GA
To the DePue Wilbert Vault Company: Rob will be extremely missed! His kindness, friendliness, and professionalism will never be forgotten. And to the beloved Family: may God always bless and protect you! Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to all of you. Sincerely, the Reita's Vault Company and Family
- Harry and Celest Reita, Savannah, GA
Your words about Rob were so touching and real. I hope that his love sustains you during this time. Anne Hanne
- Anne Hanne, savannah, GA
I am so deeply sorry to learn of your family's loss. May God's peace comfort you during the days ahead.
- Megan S. Hulitt, Savannah, GA
Dear Charles and Linda, Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time. I know how it is to lose a brother, expecially at such a young age. Please accept my deepest sympathy. Love, Jan
- Jan D. Crawford, Savannah, GA
Debbie, you have been in my prayers. I pray that God will lift you up and carry you and your girls through this difficult time and give you peace. I hope that you find comfort in knowing that your husband has been healed. He is free!!!! I am also reminded that where there is death there is also life. Would you believe that I now have a 13 month old son!! His name is Carter and he is the love of my life as I know your girls are as well. Please know that you are thought of and that many people are lifting your family up in prayer. With love, Caroline Bowman Previous Candler Outpatient Dept SLP
- Caroline Bowman, Brooklet, GA
Emily, Mrs. DePue, and Lydia, I would like to express my deepest heartfelt sympathy to you and your family at this time. I too know the sorrow of losing someone you dearly love and are so close to and understand all that you are going through. Please know that you and your family will be in my heart, thoughts, and prayers in the days and weeks to come. God has given you so many wonderful memories to cherish and sustain you in this time and He will continue to give you the strength to endure. Sincerly in Christ, Jan S. Kelly, SCPS
- Jan S. Kelly, Savannah, GA
Beloved friend and family member. He will be sadly missed.
- James V. Janes, III, Opelousas, LA
Debbie, Lydia, Emily, Charlie, and Ms. Edna: It was only 2 years ago that I met Rob but it seems like he was a lifelong friend. How could you not like Rob Depue! I'll miss our occasional meetings at Johnny Harris's for coffee and coconut pie to discuss his vision for Deep River. But more important to him was family. It was easy for Rob to get off the business subject and talk about family. About trips to Sapelo with Deb and the girls, how proud he was of the 'girls', and what Charlie and Mrs. Edna were up to. But also he was always interested in how my family was as well. Rob made a positive impact on all of us as a friend as well as an environmental steward through his innovative efforts to improve wastewater treatment in Georgia. I'll miss a great friend. Love to all of you, Patrick & Natalie Wilbanks
- Patrick Wilbanks, Statesboro, GA
My deepest condolences to the family.
- Bernice, Opelousas, LA
My deepest condolences to Debbie, Lydia and Emily and all the family.
- Barbara H. McCoy, Savannah, GA
Debbie & Family, You are in my thoughts & prayers. Rob was a truly wonderful, genuine person, and I am blessed to have known him for a short time. I will always remember him as my 'jury duty buddy.' We were called into the jury selection process for a trial & I was very nervous. Rob made plenty of jokes to make me laugh - I was so thankful for his presence! I will continue to pray for you & for God's peace in this time. Know that you are loved by many. -Amy VanderMay
- Amy VanderMay, Savannah, GA
Please express our condolences to Mrs. Edna DePue, Rob's family and Charles and his family from David and Janaee Brown and 'girls' in Zephyrhills Florida
- David Brown, Zephyrhills, FL
To the all the DePues and extended family, Although we shared no family blood, God could not have blessed me with a better brother. Words simply fail to convey the relationship and love we shared! From the time that we were young teens, roommates in college, traveling companions, and even until now, we knew no bounderies to our friendship. I say 'now' because I believe I will continue to feel his presence into eternity. I thank our Lord for that assurance. As so many others have said, I too know that my life would have been so much less with out him. I had more fine times with him and you his family, than should be allowed! Rob had such an amazing capacity for living and sharing his life to the fullest. He never knew the meaning of 'I can't'. He probably accomplished more, learned more, lived more, and loved more in his time with us than most people could hope for in two lifetimes. I know that he inspired me to try to be a better son, a better husband, a better citizen, a better friend, and a better Christian. I hope that in our mourning we will find some comfort in realizing how truely blessed we were to know and love him.
- John & Jane Mullino, Savannah Isle of Hope, GA
Debbie I am so sorry for your loss. Many prayers for you and your girls.
- Neel Stringer Anthis, San Antonio, TX
Knowing Rob was a rare gift, for which, I will be forever thankful. He showed us how to be a visionary, a gentle man and a true Christian. He made his mark through trusted relationships. His capacity to give was limitless. May his dear family find solace in having shared their life with such a super human who could touch so many hearts with pure love and kindness. Sail on my friend with the wings of an angel. I will forget thee not.
- John Carbonell, St Simons Island, GA
Mrs. DePue and family, Charley and Linda, Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. May God grant you the peace that passes all understanding. With much love, Mr. & Mrs. Vernon Buchman
- Vernon Buchman, Savannah, GA
Debbie, Your friends back home send you and the girls a comforting hug as we extend our deepest sympathy for your great loss. May you feel God's loving arms around you as he comforts you and know that he will allow Ron to continue to assist you and the girls from above. My prayers are with you
- Laura LeBlanc, Lafayette, LA
Terry & I would like to send our condolences to Charles and the rest of the Depue family. We enjoyed working with Rob over the years and we know he will be a huge loss to the family and the business. He will be sorely missed. God bless you all.
- Terry & Mary Messex, Ellabell, GA
Our deepest sympathies to the DePue family, and fond memories of our short time together. Philip & Katie Strong
- Philip & Katie Strong, East Lansing, MI
Dennis and I were so deeply sorry to hear of Rob's passing. He was a wonderful person and a true gentleman. We will miss him greatly. We love you all, Lynda & Dennis
- DENNIS & LYNDA COOPER, Savannah, GA
My thoughts and prays are with you and your family through this difficult time. Take care and please know that I am here for you.
- ANITA CLIFTON, GUYTON, GA
WE ARE SORRY OF YOUR LOSS AND PRAY THAT GOD WILL GIVE YOU STRENGTH AND COMFORT YOU IN THE DAYS AHEAD. CENTRAL GRANITE COMPANY & STAFF
- M/M RANDY K. SMITH & M/M D.JAKE SMITH, ELBERTON, GA
Debbie, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Through the years, I enjoyed speaking with Rob on the phone. He was a very kind and thoughtful individual and I know you will miss him greatly.
- Maria Ray, Rincon, GA
I only had the pleasure to meet Rob a few times during the last 10 months but he made such a good impression every time that you understood what a great family and business person he was. My deepest condolences to Debbie and the family.
- Orjan Isacson, Savannah, GA
To the DePue Wilbert Vault Company: Rob will be extremely missed! His kindness, friendliness, and professionalism will never be forgotten. And to the beloved Family: may God always bless and protect you! Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to all of you. Sincerely, the Reita's Vault Company and Family
- Harry and Celest Reita, Savannah, GA
Your words about Rob were so touching and real. I hope that his love sustains you during this time. Anne Hanne
- Anne Hanne, savannah, GA
I am so deeply sorry to learn of your family's loss. May God's peace comfort you during the days ahead.
- Megan S. Hulitt, Savannah, GA
Dear Charles and Linda, Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time. I know how it is to lose a brother, expecially at such a young age. Please accept my deepest sympathy. Love, Jan
- Jan D. Crawford, Savannah, GA
Debbie, you have been in my prayers. I pray that God will lift you up and carry you and your girls through this difficult time and give you peace. I hope that you find comfort in knowing that your husband has been healed. He is free!!!! I am also reminded that where there is death there is also life. Would you believe that I now have a 13 month old son!! His name is Carter and he is the love of my life as I know your girls are as well. Please know that you are thought of and that many people are lifting your family up in prayer. With love, Caroline Bowman Previous Candler Outpatient Dept SLP
- Caroline Bowman, Brooklet, GA
Emily, Mrs. DePue, and Lydia, I would like to express my deepest heartfelt sympathy to you and your family at this time. I too know the sorrow of losing someone you dearly love and are so close to and understand all that you are going through. Please know that you and your family will be in my heart, thoughts, and prayers in the days and weeks to come. God has given you so many wonderful memories to cherish and sustain you in this time and He will continue to give you the strength to endure. Sincerly in Christ, Jan S. Kelly, SCPS
- Jan S. Kelly, Savannah, GA
Beloved friend and family member. He will be sadly missed.
- James V. Janes, III, Opelousas, LA
Debbie, Lydia, Emily, Charlie, and Ms. Edna: It was only 2 years ago that I met Rob but it seems like he was a lifelong friend. How could you not like Rob Depue! I'll miss our occasional meetings at Johnny Harris's for coffee and coconut pie to discuss his vision for Deep River. But more important to him was family. It was easy for Rob to get off the business subject and talk about family. About trips to Sapelo with Deb and the girls, how proud he was of the 'girls', and what Charlie and Mrs. Edna were up to. But also he was always interested in how my family was as well. Rob made a positive impact on all of us as a friend as well as an environmental steward through his innovative efforts to improve wastewater treatment in Georgia. I'll miss a great friend. Love to all of you, Patrick & Natalie Wilbanks
- Patrick Wilbanks, Statesboro, GA
My deepest condolences to the family.
- Bernice, Opelousas, LA
My deepest condolences to Debbie, Lydia and Emily and all the family.
- Barbara H. McCoy, Savannah, GA
Debbie & Family, You are in my thoughts & prayers. Rob was a truly wonderful, genuine person, and I am blessed to have known him for a short time. I will always remember him as my 'jury duty buddy.' We were called into the jury selection process for a trial & I was very nervous. Rob made plenty of jokes to make me laugh - I was so thankful for his presence! I will continue to pray for you & for God's peace in this time. Know that you are loved by many. -Amy VanderMay
- Amy VanderMay, Savannah, GA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
