TAMPA, Fla. – Ralph Anthony VanDenBossche, known to his loved ones as Tony, peacefully passed away on Nov. 4, 2023, in Tampa, Fla., at the age of 77. He was born on Oct. 21, 1946, in Augusta, and leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and a life well-lived.
Tony could build and fix anything with a twinkle in his eye and a toolbox in his hand. His calm and supportive nature made him the go-to guy for all things repair-related. From leaky faucets to broken hearts, Tony had a solution for it all.
In his youth, Tony answered the call of duty and served his country with honor and distinction in the Air Force. After his military service Tony embarked on a successful career in public service and dedicated more than 30 years to the State of Maine, most of those years spent at the State Planning Office.
In his retirement Tony could be found on a tractor in a hayfield or on Horseshoe Pond fishing and enjoying the water. After he and Jean moved to Florida, they spent the winters enjoying the Florida sun and traveled the country in their motorhome, hoping to see every state.
Family was Tony’s greatest joy and source of pride. He is survived by his devoted wife, Jean VanDenBossche; his son Robert John VanDenBossche and his wife Cindy, his daughters Caroline Anne VanDenBossche and her husband Bradley Mattes, Brianne-Lee Dill VanDenBossche, Renee “Mrin” Floyd and her husband Jace and Cara Quyen Tyler and her partner Daniel Wright. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren Casey Edward VanDenBossche, Caitlin Rose Mattes, Abrahm Pierce Hasty, and Erika Renee Floyd. He is also survived by his siblings, Ernest VanDenBossche, Rayleen Lima, Karl VanDenBossche, and Thomas VanDenBossche. Tony’s love and support knew no bounds.
He was preceded in death by his first wife Bonnie Lee Dill VanDenBossche, whose memory he held close to his heart, as well as his brother Steven VanDenBossche.
Tony has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. But his memory will forever be cherished, and his legacy of love, laughter, and fixing things will live on. Tony’s spirit will continue to guide and inspire us all to see what a wonderful world it is.
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