Roger Lee Van

VAN, Roger Lee Of Schoolcraft Passed away Tuesday January 2, 2007, from complications sustained from accidental automobile injuries. Roger was born November 16, 1931 in Kalamazoo, the son of Clarence and Bethanna Brazee Van and has been a lifelong resident. During the Korean Conflict he served in the U.S. Navy from 1951-54. For 38 years he was employed as a chemical engineer lab tech with The Upjohn Company. He was a former member of the Zion Lutheran Church and was currently a member of St. Peter?s Lutheran Church. Roger served on the Mattawan School Board for 8 years; was past president of the Kalamazoo Kennel Club and member of the American Kennel Club. Through the years he was active in coaching his children and grandchildren in all their sporting activities. He was also active in Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and enjoyed woodworking but the most important part of his life was his family, especially his grandchildren. On March 12, 1955, he was united in marriage to the former Louise Cotton who preceded him in death on April 25, 2005, shortly after celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary in Hawaii. He was also preceded in death by his parents and 2 brothers, Stuart and Clarence ?Harold? Van. Surviving are a daughter, Nancy Louise John Cakmakci of Schoolcraft; a son, Roger Alan Julie Van of Vicksburg; five grandchildren, Jonathan Cakmakci, Nicholas Cakmakci, Travis Van, Jessica Van and Hunter Van; nieces and nephews. Funeral Services will be held 1:00 pm Friday January 5 at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 South 9th Street with Pastor Alan R. Stadelman officiating. Interment with full military honors will follow in Hope Cemetery with Pastor Louis Grother officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service on Friday from 12-1 pm at the Westside Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Roger?s memory may be directed to the SW Michigan Boy Scout Council Rota-Kiwan, 1035 W. Maple St., Kalamazoo, MI 49008.