Jeffrey VanderGoot

Jeffrey “Jeff" VanderGoot, 50, unexpectedly passed away on March 19, 2026 following a short period of hospitalization. A Detective Sergeant with the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office, Jeff was born in Somerville, New Jersey, on July 10, 1975, to Anne VanderGoot and the late Georg VanderGoot. He was a beloved father, son, brother, uncle, colleague and friend. Jeff leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, service and adventure.

Upon graduation from Bound Brook High School in 1993, Jeff served his country honorably with pride as a United States Marine, including duty as a Marine Security Guard for U.S. Embassies in Luxembourg and Honduras. Following his military service, Jeff began a distinguished 27 year law enforcement career as a Patrolman with the Peapack-Gladstone Police Department. He later served the Hillsborough Township Police Department as both a Patrolman and Detective before joining the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office. Throughout his tenure, he served with distinction in Major Crimes, Burglary Task Force, Northern Street Crimes, Internal Affairs, and Fugitives Task Force. Additionally, he contributed his expertise to the New Jersey State Police Auto Theft Task Force and served as a Crisis Negotiator with the Somerset County Emergency Response Team.

Jeff was, first and foremost, a devoted and proud father to his son Christian. He was always present and never missed an event, whether school or sporting. Family gatherings were brighter for his presence; so were the lives of his long-time friends from across decades and workplaces. A born storyteller with a sharp wit, Jeff could turn small moments into unforgettable anecdotes. Those close to him appreciated how he balanced his innate stubbornness with unwavering loyalty and support. Jeff enjoyed his time at home taking care of his pets and garden. He cherished vacations with his son, going fishing with his father and hunting trips with close friends.

He is survived by son Christian, mother Anne, brother Matt, sister Amy, a niece and nephew and many aunts, uncles, cousins and lifelong friends as well as Christian’s mother and former spouse Nancy. He was predeceased by his father Georg.

Gathering with family and friends will be 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, Saturday, March 28, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 111 East High Street, Bound Brook, N.J., with a prayer service beginning at 12:30 PM. Inurnment at Bound Brook Cemetery will follow.

Memorial donations in Jeff’s name may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation.