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Vernon Speese Obituary
Funeral services will be held 12 noon Friday, September 12, 2008 at Northminster Presbyterian Church, with the Rev. Danny Wright officiating. The interment will follow in Sherwood Memorial Park. The family will be receiving friends 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday and 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday at Oakey's North Chapel, 540-362-1237.
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Memories and Condolences
for Vernon Speese
October 1, 2008
thanks for the sign Van S.....I got it
Liz Moore
October 1, 2008
I miss Van S so much, especially when I walk into his office on a daily basis. He was so easy to work with and I am happy for the opportunity to get to know him. He had a great sense of humor and also a real spriritual side that helped me alot over the last few years. He was liked and respected by his co-workers and he will always have a special place in the hearts of us all. I feel certain that Nancy, Judith, Sarah & Nathan (along w/ the rest of his family) will help each other through this time. I have seen the strong love that they have for each other, they are blessed. I pray that the bond your family has will remain and grow. Take care of each other and keep the memory of Van S in your hearts.
Ann Vaught
September 29, 2008
When I think of Van I also think of his grin and his laugh. And in my mind I can see those "intellectual" conversations taking place after 5:00 in the parking lot between Chico, Charlie, and Van. I miss that, it was a blessing to see such a friendship. I pray that your tears be replaced with smiles as memories of Van settle into their own special place in each of your hearts. Godspeed in your healing.
Chico Cole
September 18, 2008
As I sat here and read each of the entries into the guestbook, my eyes again filled with tears as I think of the loss of one of my brothers. Van and Charlie are my brothers and nothing or no one can take that away. I am left with the memories of all the "road trips" and hours upon hours of "intellectual" discussions had after 5pm between the three of us. My heart hurts everyday because one of my brothers has passed. Words can't begin to decribe what I feel each day. The blessing that I take away from this is that I have had the chance to become closer to Nancy, Judith, Sarah, and Nathan, and I look forward to getting to know Harry better so that he knows just how special Van is to me. You all are always in my heart, prayers, and thoughts.
Randall Michael
September 17, 2008
The world will not be the same without Van in it. Ive known Van since I have had a memory. We grew up together and I consider he and his brother to be my brother. I talked to Van several weeks ago and as always when we talked we giggled like teenagers about things in our past and plans for the future, Van always had a way to bring laughter to anyone he was in contact with. We didnt talk as frequently as we use too but every several months either I would call him or he me. I knew I could tell him anything and and if it was something said in confidence it would be kept that way. I miss him dearly, Just knowing that he is no longer there to take my call. No: the world is not the same without Van in it, but is he really gone? I believe that he influenced everyone who knew him. He helps us all see humor in situations that before him were not humorous. He lets us all know not to take life too seriously, because life here on earth is not perminent. Even though he now looks at us from his seat with Jesus, he still influences us. In the way we see life and the ways we all go through life. I know I wouldnt have been the same person if I hadnt known him. In that way, he will always be with us. I will see you again someday Brother. Until then, Thank you for all you still mean to me.
Darrell McDonough
September 16, 2008
Our condolences for your loss of your loved one. We enjoyed working with Van and had a great respect for his professional approach to his job. He leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. The Va. Dept. of Forensic Science western lab evidence section.
Charlie Eades
September 16, 2008
Nancy, Judith,Sarah and Nathan
There are no words I can say that express how sorry I am for your loss. I have so many great memories to take with me from the days in the Marine Corps. to the last time I spoke to him. All the road trips to the games and our daily rides back and forth to work. God knows he was like a brother to me and his friendship and support never faultered during my darkest of times.
Van was there for both myself and Laura making us laugh, giving us words of encouragement just hearing us out and a good swift kick when we needed it. We will always be there for you because we love you as much as we love Van.
Charlie and Laura Eades
Simper Fi
Mike Mickey
September 12, 2008
Nancy and kids,
You are in my family's thoughts and prayers. I worked with Van for 18 years at Blacksburg P.D. and will remember him fondly for many reasons.
God bless you!
Joan Jones
September 12, 2008
To the Family of Vernon Speese:
I am a member of the Virginia Forensic Science Academy Alumni Assoc. and wanted to give you my condolences on the death of your loved one. Please know that God is always there and that JOY does come in the morning. My prayers are with you and if there is anything that the alumni can do, please do not hesitate to call on us.
Joan R. Jones
Forensic Unit Supervisor
Suffolk Police Department
Andrea Morris
September 12, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. From his brothers and sisters at the Roanoke County Police Department.
Carl Yates
September 12, 2008
We will pray for the family , and for God to help them during this time.
leigh faulconer
September 11, 2008
Judy,
I am so sorry about your brother's death. I was your mom's social worker at RMH and I have always remembered your family and how close you all were during that time. I hope you all will provide comfort for each other during this difficult time as well.
Det. Sgt. Steve Dillon
September 11, 2008
I just spoke to Van a couple weeks ago at forensic recert and was shocked to hear of his passing. I trust the Lord will comfort his family and the officers of the Blacksburg Police Department during their time of grief.
Vickie Spradlin
September 11, 2008
To the Speese Famlily,
I was so sorry to hear of Vans passing. I went to Jr. High and High School with Van, and would see him around town when he was a Roanoke City policeman. Van always had a kind and gentle spirit and I know he will be greatly missed.
May the good Lord comfort you all during this heart breaking time.
Stacy Martin-Dunford
September 11, 2008
To the Speese Family,
I am truly sorry for your loss as well as a huge loss for the law enforecement community. Van was a great man and a wonderful officer and know that you have an angel looking down over you now. My greatest sympathy and many blessings to you and your family.
Jerry Bowyer
September 11, 2008
Dear Nancy,
Kim and I share in your loss and are so very saddened to know that Van had to go Home so early. We worked together for such a long time, and no-one knew how to laugh - or make you laugh - more than he did. We'll always cherish each moment we spent with him. Van was a great friend and father and we will miss him. God is taking care of him, and we know He'll care for you and your family. You're in our thoughts and prayers.
Valerie Jones Crabtree
September 11, 2008
Nancy and Family- I want to extent my deepest sympathy to you. I knew Van way back in the day when I worked at Wades Supermarket and he worked nightshift. I felt honored that he was out there protecting the town of Blacksburg and making us all feel safe. I will never forget his kind smile, laughter and sense of humor. All will truly miss him.
Peter Rutzinski
September 11, 2008
May God Bless you and your family. I had the pleasure of learning and teaching accident investigation with Van. Van truly touched many lives in the years that I knew him. It was a honor to know him.
Gary Thomas
September 11, 2008
Nancy,
"Vern" has been a friend of mine for nearly 20 years as we served together at Blacksburg PD. I have so many memories of him and stories I could tell.
Vern was an extraordinary man, husband, father, friend and officer.
God bless you and your family.
"We are confident, I say, and well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord"
II Corinthians 5:8
Bill Pensy
September 10, 2008
Harry, to you and your family we offer our condolences. You are all in both my family's prayers and everyone's at First Team. If you need anything please don't hesitate to ask. Sincerely, Bill
Tina Viar (Hawkins)
September 10, 2008
So sorry to hear of Vans passing. Lots of memories of him growing up in the neighborhood and with me spending so much time with Maggie at their house. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
becki poff
September 10, 2008
Momma 2 , Judith, Sarah, Nathan
I'm so sorry to hear about Van, I will always remember him you guys are like my second family. Your in my thoughts.
Sandra Ewers
September 10, 2008
Nancy,
I am so sorry to hear about Van. We all go back so far, But I just want'ed to let you know if there is anything I can do let me know. My prayers or with you and your kids. I know how this feels and I am so sorry. God bless you and your family.
Lisa Kara (VFSA classmate)
September 10, 2008
Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Keith Spence
September 10, 2008
For Van's family I am very saddened by your loss. I considered Van to be a positive influence in my career, and a trustworthy man. I will always remember the ability he had to put a smile on my face or take the edge off a situation simply with his laugh. I never questioned my surroundings when I knew Van had my back. Van will always be missed. If you can, find solace in the fact that he touched many lives in a positive manner. He will forever remain in our hearts. I'm honored I could call you friend.
Kevin Windle
September 10, 2008
Nancy,
It was a shock to get the news about Vernon.We got along well from the time we met at the VFSA, mainly because we were the oldest there, plus our sense of humors matched up pretty well. I am just happy he was able to attend the Va. Beach classes this year and we all had a chance to see each other.
Vernon will be greatly missed by me, and I am sure all the other members of the 64th academy class.
Take Care and I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Kevin
Gene Robinson
September 10, 2008
We are so sorry for your loss and may God be with all of you. We are a cousin on the Anderson side Maxine e-mailed us to let us know amout you. Sincerly Gene and Lois Robinson.
Larry Hipes
September 10, 2008
I was deeply saddened over the news of Van's passing. Van and I shared a lot back in the day working midnights in Blacksburg. He was an original member of " Lt. Gay's 3rd Platoon: The Beasts of the Night". There will always be a special place for the memory of Van in my heart and the hearts he touched. May you find comfort in knowing his wit and wisdom will continue to flourish all who know him.
Leane Charett
September 10, 2008
To The Family of Van Speese:
Our community mourns the loss of a well respected law enforcement officer, friend and veteran. My family and I wish to express our deepest sympathies for your great loss. I met Van years ago in my capacity as a firearms instructor. Van had a profound passion for shooting and was a superior shot as well as possessing a sincere and warm sense of humor.
Leane Charett
Legal Assistant
Stone & Kellerman, P.C.
Arleen Ollie
September 10, 2008
Nancy, you have my deepest sympathy. I pray that God will surround you and the children with the power of his love and understanding.
Steve Goldizen
September 10, 2008
To Nancy Speese and family:
I'm sorry to have heard that Vernon had pass away, especially since we just attended the Virginia Forensic in service together. I will never forget Vernon as a great person. My throught and prayer are with you and your children.
Sincerely, Inv. Steve Goldizen WCSO
Steve Goldlizen
September 10, 2008
To Nancy Speese and family,
I'm sorry to have heard that Vernon had pass away, especially since we had just attended the Forensic in service together. I'll never forget Vernon as great person. My throught and prayer are with you and your children. Sincerely, Inv. Steve Goldizen, WCSO.
lolisa young
September 10, 2008
Hey JUJU, Ny'asia said to tell you that she is so sorry "to" you. She loves and is praying for you. We love you to call if you need any thing. Love and prayers. Lisa, Ny'asia, and Keko
Bobby & Connie Lytton
September 10, 2008
We were saddened to hear of the passing of Van. He was so outgoing and a friend to all, whether in uniform or not. Blacksburg PD has lost one of their very best. Take comfort in knowing he's in a better place and you now have your very own Guardian Angel watching over you. ~~Pro Sport Cycles, Radford
Gerald Maxey
September 10, 2008
To the Speese Family,
I am so sorry to read about Van.I grew up knowing him from the day's of Elem. to High School,Boy Scouts,working at J.C.Penney and playing sports in the park with all the other guy's growing up.He was a good person and good friend I have good memories and will miss him.
Bruce Bradbery
September 10, 2008
The law enforcement community shares in your grief over such an unexpected and undeserved tragedy. Van was a tremendous asset to the Blacksburg Police and a trusted, respected and much liked friend. He will be missed. Your family should proud of Van's personal and professional accomplishments. Rest assured that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sam Bishop
September 10, 2008
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you. My prayers are with you.
Lisa Sedlak
September 10, 2008
To the Speese family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Van was a good man and had a great sense of humor. He will be missed.
- Lisa Sedlak
Becky Connolly
September 10, 2008
I am so sorry for your families loss. I grew up in Roanoke across the street from the Speese family and have many memories of those years. My deepest sympathies to all, especially to Kathy and David
American Red Cross Platelet Dept.
September 10, 2008
Judy Marr & The Speese Family:
Please accept our deepest sympathy.
You are in all of our thoughts and prayers. May God be with you now and during the days ahead.
Casey and Rose Jones
September 10, 2008
Van will truly be missed, he is great person and friend.
Carolyn Allen
September 10, 2008
Nancy, Judith, Sarah, & Nathan,
I am very sorry to hear about Van. I will always remember his laugh and joy of living. You all are in my thoughts and prayers during this time.
Love,
Carolyn Janney Allen
CHARLES NELMS
September 10, 2008
I am sorry for your loss. I knew Van years ago; we served in the same Marine Reserve Unit in Roanoke during the early eighties. Although I didn’t know him personally, I remember his friendly personality, and was always good for a laugh. I remember the first time that I was introduced to him by one of the guys in the unit, Corporal Speese, at that time, gave me a hug, and one of the guys in the unit said “ Speese gives all the new guys a hug” I don’t know what made me remember that, but just wanted to share that with you. Losing a loved one is never easy, but I remember something that someone told me when my father past almost 7 years ago, “Hold on to their memories, and they will never die”
Sgt. Charles L. Nelms
Bedford City Police
Gordon Cole
September 10, 2008
To a good friend and fellow MARINE your loss is the worlds loss. You always gave and never asked for anything in return.You will be deeply missed and thought of often. Greatness is a tough thing to replace.
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