VANVLEET, Ronald R. (1934-2017)

VANVLEET

Posted By: Karon Velau (email)
Date: 1/29/2019 at 18:07:40

Ronald Roy VanVleet
(November 2, 1934 - November 25, 2017)

Ronald Roy Van Vleet was born November 12, 1934 in Southern Minnesota and died at his home, surrounded by love and prayers, on November 25, 2017.
Ron’s childhood was spent developing his enormous work ethic. From farming with horses to operating heavy equipment, he worked long and hard, always with his goal set before him. Ron was a man of integrity and expected that integrity in his family, employees and friends. His proudest accomplishments were his faith in God, his family, and Sandstone Management.
Ron was fortunate to be called a “snowbird”. He lived part time in Cathedral City, California where he leaves many friends and memories. Ron loved to travel and meet people. He never met a stranger. They were just people he hadn’t talked to yet.
Ron enjoyed life. It didn’t matter if he was flying a hot air balloon, an airplane, digging a sewer ditch, or drawing plans for a new building. He loved his time with his family and could talk for hours about them to anyone who would listen.
Ron cherished his fishing trips to Canada that he shared with his son, grandson, and others over the years. Cooking over a roaring fire and telling stories was another treasured favorite from his many camping trips.
His bucket list was almost complete. Ron witnessed his oldest granddaughter’s wedding in October. He then celebrated his 83rd birthday just 13 days before his death. Getting his pontoon boat ready to travel the Mississippi River is still a work in progress lying on his desk.
Ron leaves behind his wife, Sue; daughters, Noelle(Don)Hofer of Centennial, Colorado and Christine(Rob)Steil of Indianapolis, Indiana; grandson, Brandon(Stephanie)Van Vleet and great grandchildren Mason and Presley; grandchildren, Bella, Trey, Madison, Emma, Kelli and Jack in Colorado, Natalie(Joseph)Zuker, Meredith Morlan of Kansas City, and Audrey Morlan of Indiana University; sister, June(Darwin)Brugger of Phoenix; sister in law, Shirley of Florida; along with nieces, nephews, cousins and too many friends to count. Ron is also survived by his great friend, caregiver, buddy and nephew, Don Parks. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, brother, son Ronnie, daughter Lynette and grandson Nathan.
A Celebration of Life is planned for January 5, 2018 at the Middle River Friends Church near Carlisle. Visitation with the family will begin at 10:00 am with services to follow at 11:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established for the “Van Vleet Family Orchard” to be planted on family land in Warren County. The fruit trees will grow and produce as the branches reach out and up, spreading comfort to his loved ones.
The family wishes to acknowledge the nurses and staff from Kindred Hospice. Their compassion, kindness and concern made the last pages of Ron’s life story a love story that has no ending. This memorial is provided by Peterson Funeral Home, 415 School Street, Carlisle, Iowa,
http://www.petersonfuneralservice.com