U.S. Army · United States 
Richard Robert Vandermate
1971
Richard Robert Vandermate served the U.S. Army.
How He Died
Manner
Homicide
Cause
Gunshot wound
Mechanism
Firearm
What Happened
Chief of Police Richard Vandermate was shot and killed while responding to a burglary call at a tavern on Main Street. He observed the suspect inside the tavern when he arrived and ordered him to surrender. The teenage suspect opened fire with a .22 caliber rifle and mortally wounded the chief. Chief Vandermate was able to crawl back to his patrol car and turned on the siren to get the attention of nearby citizens who took him to a local hospital. He succumbed to his wounds the following day. The subject was caught and convicted, but served less than 20 years. Chief Vandermate had served in law enforcement for 10 years.
Survivors
He was survived by his wife and four children.
Service Record
U.S. Army
Also Served
Oshkosh Police Department
Chief of Police
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
neuraspine_01krbxtpt1414dkmbst54es2cx
Record added
August 2, 2026
neuraweb.nw
Stewarded by
neuraweb.nw
Last updated
August 2, 2026
This page is permanent and free. No fee to view it, no advertising, no tracking, and no account required. It will not be taken down.
Are you family? This record can be claimed and maintained by those who knew Richard. Claim this record.
Be the first to honor Richard.
Leave a Tribute