In 1989, Vandenberghe became chairman of the Yser Pilgrimage Committee, which organizes the Yser Pilgrimage every year in commemoration of fallen Flemish soldiers and manages the Yser Tower. He remained chairman until 2002.
From 2003 to 2007 he was Senator for the left-liberal Spirit.
Vandenberghe was born in Houtem, near Veurne, and died in Antwerp. He was married and is survived by three children and ten grandchildren.