Van Pilsum, John Franklin – 1922-2014

VAN PILSUM

Posted By: Diana Wagner
Date: 9/7/2015 at 13:11:09

John Franklin Van Pilsum, 92, of Columbia Heights, Minn., died Nov. 21, 2014, surrounded by his family. John was born in Prairie City in 1922. A farmer's son with a scientist's mind, he received his B.S. in chemistry and Ph.D. in biochemistry from the University of Iowa. He served in the Navy and was stationed in the South Pacific during WWII. John taught biochemistry to medical and dental students at the University of Minnesota for more than 30 years, where he also conducted research on kidney and pancreas enzymes. In the past seven years he painted prolifically, hosting a one-man art show at the University Campus Club. He loved his family, hard work, and good food.
John is preceded in death by his parents, John and Vera; and his wife, Shirley. He is survived by sister, Joyce; children, John, Trish (Paul), Barbara (Tom), Mary (Mike), Elizabeth, and William (Theresa); grandchildren, Linnea, Sarah, David, Sam, Miranda, Annie, Elizabeth, Cate, Maria, Jane, and Ben.
A memorial service was Nov. 28 at First Lutheran Church in Columbia Heights, followed by a burial with military honors.
Memorials may be directed to N.C. Little Memorial Hospice, Edina, or to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. www.Washburn-McReavy.com Northeast Chapel.
Source: Prairie City News; Thursday, December 18, 2014