In Loving Memory of Robert Kempen
September 17, 1946 – November 3, 2026

With heavy hearts, but with the comfort of knowing he is now resting in the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, we announce the passing of Robert Kempen, who went home to be with Jesus on November 3, 2026, at the age of 80.

Robert was born on September 17, 1946, to Gus and Bernice Kempen. He grew up in a family unlike most, as one of 18 brothers and sisters — yes, all 18 from the same mom and dad! Being part of such a large family meant there was never a shortage of laughter, excitement, friendly competition, or someone to share life’s adventures with. Family was at the very heart of who Robert was, and those bonds remained important to him throughout his life.

Robert proudly served his country in the United States Army. It was while stationed in Germany that he met the love of his life, Sandy (Strickland) Kempen. What began as a meeting thousands of miles from home blossomed into a beautiful love story that spanned 59 years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, memories, and a devotion to one another that stood the test of time.

Robert had a love for sports, fishing, and, most importantly, spending time with the people he loved. He was never one to let age keep him on the sidelines. In fact, he continued playing backyard football with the younger guys well into his 60s! That was Robert — full of life, always ready for a little friendly competition, and never willing to admit that getting older meant slowing down. His love for sports was matched only by his love for the people who shared those moments with him.

To know Robert was to know a man who treasured the simple things in life. Whether he was fishing, watching a game, enjoying a family gathering, or simply spending time with friends, it was the people around him who made those moments special. He understood that life’s greatest blessings weren’t found in possessions but in the memories made and the love shared along the way.

Robert leaves behind his beloved wife of 59 years, Sandy Kempen; his daughter, Tammy (Kempen) Lemley, and her husband, Donald, of Howard, Ohio; and his son, Mark Kempen, of Mount Vernon, Ohio.

He was a proud and loving grandfather to Brandon McLaughlin and his wife, Kayla, of Howard, Ohio; Kylie Lashley and her husband, Ian, of Danville, Ohio; Serenity Lemley of Howard, Ohio; Brayden Lemley of California; and Alex Kempen and Andrew Kempen, both of Columbus, Ohio

He was also blessed with four precious great-grandchildren, Eden Lashley and Ori Lashley of Danville, Ohio; and Luka McLaughlin and Wrenlee Lemley of Howard, Ohio. Each held a special place in his heart and brought tremendous joy to his life.
Robert was preceded in death by his loving parents, Gus and Bernice Kempen.

Although our hearts are broken by his passing, we find peace in knowing that his earthly struggles are over and that he is now whole, healed, and at peace in the presence of Jesus. His legacy will live on through the family he loved so dearly, the memories shared, the laughter that will never be forgotten, and the generations who will carry a part of him in their hearts.

A life well lived, a love that lasted, and a legacy that will never be forgotten.

Family and friends are invited to gather and celebrate Robert’s life on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. for calling hours, with a funeral service immediately following at 1:00 p.m. at the Snyder Funeral Home – Flowers Chapel; 619 E. High Street, Mount Vernon, Ohio, 43050.

A funeral dinner will follow the service, providing an opportunity for family and friends to come together, share memories, and celebrate the life of a man who meant so much to so many.

Until we meet again, Dad. We love you, and we know this is not goodbye forever, but simply goodbye for now.

The Snyder Funeral Homes are honored to serve the family of Robert Kempen.

Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Homes

Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com