Robert Jerome Van Lanen, of Westchester, age 79, died on April 8, 2023 after a long battle with prostate cancer. Affectionately known as Bob, he was born July 30, 1943 in De Pere, WI, son of Jerome A. and Virginia M. (Schippers) Van Lanen. He graduated from St. Norbert College and received his PhD in Chemistry at University of Colorado Boulder. He taught at Saint Xavier University for more than 40 years and loved sharing his passion for science. He married Jane Ulsafer in 1978 and they had one daughter, Kathleen (Joe Lyon). Sadly, Jane died before him; however, he found solace in the love of his daughter and his cats who were always by his side. He was a model train enthusiast spending hours building layouts. Robert was also preceded in death by his parents and sister Jane. He is survived by his daughter as well as many beloved friends and family. Family and friends will be received at the Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home, 10501 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester on Thursday, April 13, 2023 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Funeral Friday at 9:30 a.m. from the funeral home to Divine Infant Church for 10:00 a.m. Mass. Entombment Queen of Heaven Cemetery. Donations can be made in his honor to ASPCA or the Prostate Cancer Foundation. For funeral info 708-F-U-N-E-R-A-L.