Vicki Van Meter

Vicki Van Meter

Vicki Van Meter Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Mar. 18, 2008.
PITTSBURGH (AP) - Vicki Van Meter, celebrated for piloting a plane across the country at age 11 and from the U.S. to Europe at age 12, has died of an apparently self-inflicted gunshot wound, the Crawford County coroner said. She was 26.

Van Meter died Saturday and her body was found in her Meadville home on Sunday.

Her brother said she battled depression and opposed medication, but her family thought she had been dealing with her problems.

"She was unhappy, but it was hard for her to open up about that and we all thought that she was coping," Daniel Van Meter said. "This really is a shock, because we didn't see the signs."

Van Meter made national headlines in 1993 and 1994 when she made her cross-country and trans-Atlantic flights accompanied only by a flight instructor. Her instructors said she was at the controls during the entirety of both flights.

As a sixth-grader in September 1993, Van Meter flew from Augusta, Maine, to San Diego over five days. She had to fight strong headwinds and turbulence that bounced her single-engine Cessna 172 and made her sick.

At the time, she was believed to be the youngest girl to fly across the United States; the record was later broken.

Nine months later, Van Meter flew from Augusta to Glasgow, Scotland, and was credited with being the youngest girl to make a trans-Atlantic flight. She battled dizziness brought on by high altitude and declared upon landing: "I always thought it would be real hard and it was."

Later she earned a degree in criminal justice from Edinboro University in Pennsylvania and spent two years with the Peace Corps in Cahul, Moldova. She recently worked as an investigative agent for an insurance company.

"She led a full and interesting life. ... She had more guts than any of us could ever imagine," said her mother, Corinne Van Meter, 57.

Corinne Van Meter said her daughter had recently begun applying to graduate schools and wanted to study psychology.

"We will miss her dearly, but we are very, very aware that she is doing important work somewhere else right now," she said.

Van Meter's funeral will be held in Meadville, but arrangements have not been finalized.

Copyright © 2008 The Associated Press

Sign Vicki Van Meter's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

June 28, 2013

a sister traveler posted to the memorial.

November 29, 2012

mayleth lozano posted to the memorial.

September 3, 2011

Loretta Benge posted to the memorial.

140 Entries

a sister traveler

June 28, 2013

I just discovered this site that celebrates women of courage. I am so sorry you lost your beloved daughter to depression and all of its challenges. It has plagued me all my life, so I understand how much pain she was in. I wish I could have sat with her and just shared our challenges. I am 74 and yes have learned more, but still coping. She is and always will be missed and you revealing her story helps the rest of us remember how much heartache gets left behind. I am sorry for yours.

mayleth lozano

November 29, 2012

rip

Cougar Rock - 100 mile Tevis Race

Loretta Benge

September 3, 2011

To Corinne my heart aches for you. I am a teacher in CA and I have been reading Vickie's book to 6th graders every year as a motivational tool. I also teach parents of loved ones with mental illness and depression is a mental illness. What a shame to lose this dear and wonderful young lady. I have been wondering what happened to her and our class would always try to find out what she is doing now. She had so much to offer. I hope loved ones out there who hear this story, see how we have to take on the job of advocacy for our afflicted ones. We have to act and campaign for those suffering. We don't need to lose any more precious kiddos to this illness. I wish she were still here continuing to motivate people to reach for the stars but now perhaps a new motivation in reaching out to people and making them get help so they can continue their lives. Loretta Benge (NAMI member) [email protected]

i will always miss her but you all do noit know me i am sorry for your lose she will be deeply missed

harrsion fiore

February 26, 2011

harrison fiore

February 26, 2011

she was a good person . i was doing a book report on her for her records .she was a great person

Sue Burns

July 16, 2010

Even though we knew her briefly, we will always remember your beautiful Vicki. We think of her and you so often and pray for peace for all of you. We pray that time is easing your pain.

July 15, 2010

Gone but not forgotten. Those we loved and loss has left us with special gifts in the form of memories that no one can take from us. There is no right length of time to grieve. But sharing memories with other will help you to cope.

He is healing the broken hearted ones, and is binding up their painful spots.

Corinne Van Meter

March 15, 2010

My beautiful daughter, you are with me every moment . . . thank you . . . I love you for all time . . .

Sharon Martin

October 27, 2009

I never met Vicki and just read about her . What a sad sad ending to what could of been a wonderful life. Someone as young as her to be able to do what she did at 11 and 12 had a very good future ahead of her . It's to bad she suffered from that great desease of depression .

Sam & Imajean Grantt

August 19, 2009

Death is an enemy of us all.
Tragically we also lost our sister to this enemy.
She no longer suffers with this illness.
Now she sleeps peacefully.

Thanks to our loving Creator Jehovah, we Hope to see our sister Resurrected to life here on a cleansed Earth. Where all diseases & illnesses will also be removed.
‘There is going to be a resurrection of the righteous’ - Acts 24:15

I do hope that these words of Comfort assist you in coping with the passing of Miss Vicki Van Meter.
She is also at peace, waiting for that earthly resurrection.

Our Condolence to the Family

bridget cominsky

April 15, 2009

I had the pleasure of attending Salem Academy with Vicki. She was such a ray of light. I miss her everyday. I wish I could have reached out to her. I hope she and her family have found peace.

Aunt Paula

March 15, 2009

I miss Vicki. I know that although I do not see her, she lives on.

Courtney Shemelya

January 22, 2009

Vicki and I became good friends during high school. I have many many wonderful memories of my time with her. She was a bright outgoing girl that I will certainly miss greatly! My thoughts will remain with the family.

Tom

January 17, 2009

Vicki and I became friends in NC. She was such a positive and uplifting presence in my life at that time, for which I am forever grateful. I am extremely saddened to hear of her passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

JJ Garcia

December 18, 2008

Vicki was alot of fun to be around, i was fortunate enough to know her and call her a friend. I remember going to the airport for her first x-country flight and then she went on to do the overseas flight. Then we were invited to D.C. and had a V.I.P. tour of the White House and did other cool things. Best trip ever, going to miss you Vicki. Hope you're still flying wherever you are.

Kay Vargo

December 17, 2008

What a bar she set in the world of female pilots.
I hope that young women will look to her for her positive role in such a male oriented profession.
Depression is a tough disease to fight. I pray for the family to find peace, and hope this will open eyes to others for warning signs and seeking help.

Michele Tennie

October 16, 2008

i'll keep you in my prayers!

October 8, 2008

My 11-year old daughter chose Vicki's book to do a school project on, and she is enjoying reading about all her wonderful accomplishments. What an inspirational legend for young and old! I extend to you my deepest sympathy.

Kay Sha

September 20, 2008

As the tide recedes,
it leaves behind bright seashells in the sand.
The sun goes down,
yet gentle warmth still lingers on the land.
The music stops,
yet echoes on in sweet refrains.
For every joy that passes,
something beautiful remains.

Thoughts and prayers for those who have loved and lost.

Teresa S.

September 20, 2008

I am so sorry, I will keep your family in prayer.

Carol

September 20, 2008

With Deepest Condolences During this Most Difficult Time. Always Remember that your loving Daughter and Sister, Vicki, is now at Peace. God Forgives those that end life this way, because of all the great works they did during their walk on this earth. And one of Vicki's GREAT works was that of Encouraging young Girls (and Boys) to shoot for their dreams! God WILL honor that. Have Peace of Heart that your darling Vicki is resting in God's Arms now. Time heals all wounds, even this type that cuts so deep in your heart. May God Bless and Keep you in His Loving and Holy Embrace. Rest assured that God Loves ALL of His Children and Vicki was one special young girl turned woman.

Zane Shonforest

September 15, 2008

I'm so sorry for your loss. She had the guts to live a full and adventurous life while she was here and that is a blessing.

Marcella Bone

September 14, 2008

I am so sorry for the loss of your child, and sister. Her legacy will live on as long as you remember her.
May God Bless and give you Peace.

Joe Kelly

July 25, 2008

I want to give my condolences to the family during such a hard time. I lost my brother on March 21,2008, he had just turned 24 on the 10th. They say time heals all wounds, this one could take awhile. Again, so sorry for your loss

THERESA JONES

June 1, 2008

SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS DEPRESSION IS SUCH A WICKED PROBLEM MAY GOD HELP YOU THROUGH YOU LOSS

Kent Naka

May 24, 2008

I, too, a former denizen of Meadville, was proud of her when Vicki flew solo across our great nation. I did not learn of her tragic end until today and may she rest in peace. Meadville is a fine community and know that she is emblamatic for all of us who share this sadness with her family and friends.

Melody & Tony Van Meter

April 15, 2008

We were so excited when this courageous “Little Lady” first made the news. Our family will always remember her fearless character.
God Bless...

Ding & Gene Kirk

April 8, 2008

God's love will carry you through your grief. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Donovan Griggs

April 8, 2008

A daughter, a sister, a pilot a friend. This ain’t the way its supposta end, go into my apartment and not reawake, wait a minute god there’s been a mistake. I’m 26 and in the prime of my life, a wonderful job and an alright life. This kind of pain will cut like a knife. Keep on with your life, that’s all you can do, I will always be with you. I’m up here in heaven, on the runway of gold; the nice thing here is it never gets cold. I got my wings and my they look bold. We have to play with what we are dealt, please believe me this is heartfelt. . I didn’t die, I just flew away, and I’ll see all of you on the runway someday. When I got here I had to grin and laugh, then god took me to his secret stash. He has a plane, just like mine, all I could say was it looks fine. I’m up here with god now, things are great, it’s nice here knowing that there’s no hate. So get your speed up, take off from the ground, the peace I have searched for I have finally found. I know it’s sad, but its all true so please quit feeling so down and blue. So hammer down and let her roll, losing Vicki has taken its toll. Please God, bless her soul



Donovan K Griggs

4-06-2008

This picture was taken a few years ago, shortly after I moved into my first house

Donovan Griggs

April 5, 2008

Vicki, its hard to believe that this has happened. You were such a strong willed person. I too have flown, but not across the country on my own. I flew a stunt plane 11 years ago, with an excellent pilot as my co pilot. I only did 4 or 5 barrel rolls, and several loops. I had a blast flying, but never acheived a cross country, or trans antlantic flight such as yourself. You will always be remembered and in my heart.

April 3, 2008

My heart goes out to you.
When people say "I know how you feel", not many of them actually do.
I do, however. We lost our son, our only child, a bright 21 yrs college student to suicide last June. Our grief and sorrow are beyond words. Our life is forever shadowed.
Take Care.

Maureen Quill

April 2, 2008

As a teacher I have been using the article "The Young Pilot" in my reading comprehension groups for several years now. Vicki's story is always interesting and inspirational to my students, and I will continue to use it. As a parent I grieve for you. I have a child who is mentally ill - it's difficult. You seem to be a close family and I'm sure Vicki benefitted from your love and support. Best regards and sincere sympathy - Maureen Quill - seven hills charter school - worcester, ma.

janice rosen

March 31, 2008

my heart aches for your loss..i did not know vicki personally but her accomplishments in her short life is amazing and heroic

Monica

March 30, 2008

I cannot imagine the pain of losing one's child, whether that child is young or older. Please accept my sincere condolences. Your daughter's accomplishments are an encouragement to many. May you all lean on the "everlasting Arms" of God at this very difficult time.

Karin S.

March 30, 2008

I am sorry for your loss. Your family will be in my prayers.

Roger Majkowski

March 28, 2008

Dear Jim, Corinne, Dan & Elizabeth,
I am so extremely sorry for your loss. My heart is absolutely broken to pieces. Vicki, was my little sister, my pal, and one of the few human beings on this planet I truly connected with. I cannot imagine one day in the remainder of my life here on earth that I will not miss her. My heart goes out to you. I love you.

Kathy Ryczaj

March 26, 2008

We were to meet,
We did not meet,
Only He knows the reason why...

You felt alone,
Alone at home,
But, oh you were so wrong.

All of us here,
We wanted you near,
But is was not meant to be...

Please touch us now...
We so need you now...
As we did in the time that has passed.

Our wish for you
Is peace, only peace,
We Love You So,
Dear Vicki,
We need you to know.

Joseph Hengle

March 24, 2008

My heart goes out to the family. Vicki and I were close friends for a brief time between 2002-2004 and since then we lost contact. I will always cherish the times we spent together and will forever regret losing touch.

Brian

March 24, 2008

So very sad...and we continue to understand so little about depression.

Shelly Tidball (formerly Goss)

March 24, 2008

Dear Jim, Corrine, and Family,
I was very saddened to hear of your loss of Vicki. When I was in junior high and high school I was good friends with Elizabeth (Vicki's older sister). I used to spend the night at your house and "Hammy" (as Vicki was often called) was a part of those get togethers as well. She will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.

Lauren Pace

March 23, 2008

Hi,
Sorry to hear about your loss. I know Doc. Irene she's my aunt. She got me a signed copy of Vicki's book. From what I know of Vicki she was a amazing young lady. I'm 13 and living life to the fullest. Sorry again,
Lauren

Chris and Dale Fairchild

March 23, 2008

Dear sorrowing family, we wanted you to know how much Vicki meant to our granddaugter Beckie. Years ago, when Beckie was 7, you brought Vickie to Erie from Meadville to make a dream come true for Beckie, a little home-schooler from Kansas who was visiting Erie relatives. She was making a report on Vickie for an assignment she had in first grade. You were all so wonderful about taking the time for the interview and travel to make a dream come true. How much she enjoyed Vicki's book and made sure that she could read it herself! Now, living in Missouri, near our children and Beckie and other grandchildren, we are saddened to hear this latest chapter of her life.
We sorrow with you on the loss of such a brave and unassuming little girl. We will never forget! May God be with all of you and give you comfort as only He can.

Tres & Lily Manko

March 23, 2008

We will miss playing with you and Maya.

Anthony Marshall

March 23, 2008

Vicki's flight inspired my daughter, who now serves as a pilot in the USAF, the third generation of our family to do so.

May she find the peace now that she was seeking.

U Mcghee

March 23, 2008

I had met Vicki a couple years ago when she was good friends with a girlfriend of mine.It always struck me how amazing and intelligent she was.The last time I had seen her was at her parent's house in Meadville in 2002.Ever since then ,I had lost contact with her.If you knew her for the last years of her life,i would love to know what she had been up to.You can contact me at [email protected] would help with closure and knowing that she was ok for the past couple of years.It was sad seeing the news and my thoughts go out to Victoria's family.

Andy Williams

March 22, 2008

Jim and Corrine,
I'm so sorry for the loss of your daughter Victoria. I'm sure she's flying in Heaven.
Andy your mailman

A "fire rainbow" is one of the rarest of all natural phenomenon. Vicki, you are just as rare and beautiful. Fly high and fly strong. Love Always, Irene

March 22, 2008

Leon & Dorothy Kennedy

March 21, 2008

Jim and Corrine,
Our hearts go out to you both at this sad time. Your family will be in our prayers.

Michael Thiess

March 21, 2008

Vick,
We still have that raincheck dinner date and I'm holding you to it. Save me a place at the table, I'll get there eventually.
Your friend.
Michael

Jess & Joe 1996

Lisa Blair Hathaway

March 20, 2008

Corinne & Jim... I am Jessica's Mother, the 7 Year Old Pilot who was inspired by your daughter's flight & book. Vickie called me after Jess died in 1996, I still remember Vicki's voice; I still remember her sharing with me what brought her joy; I still remember her consoling me. Through the years I have often thought of how wonderful it would be to reconnect with her, I truly wish I had made that happen. I tried calling you in the last few days to send you my love. Vicki lives on for me, very, very bright and very, very strong. I get chills whenever my thoughts turn to her. God Bless all of you. Much Love, Lisa (Jessica's Mother) Call me anytime. 508-455-4487

Cena Kneubehl

March 20, 2008

Vicki

I remember her kindness, so rare at an age when young people can be cruel. She hosted a party at her house and invited everyone. One of her friends made a nasy comment about the fact that she had invited me as well. She stood up for me, in front of the whole class even though it wasn't a popular thing to do. I have never forgotten that. My heart goes out to her and her family. She was a brave young women, I will never forget her.

Alease Cary

March 20, 2008

Corrine
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.

i love Vicki Van Meter my hero

Student of a charlotte middle school

March 20, 2008

Vicki Van Meter was a real hero to girls. we read your story at my middle school and it must have been reall fun to experience flight like that. i so sorry about your death on Saturday

Marcia Morrell

March 20, 2008

Corrine and family,
We are so sad to learn of your loss. You will be in our thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.

Ruth Roberts

March 20, 2008

Corrine:

We miss you here at Hill Middle School very much, and are so sorry to hear about Vicki. Thank you for sharing her story with my sixth grade students. Please contact me.
Love You Much!

Ruth Roberts

Michele Manko

March 20, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss....A candle has been lit.

Meghan Stone

March 20, 2008

She lived just down the street. We grew up together. Vicki was my best friend in junior high. I loved that girl. Too many great things to say...I'm so happy I knew her.

Rachael Booker

March 20, 2008

I was incredibly saddened to hear about your loss. It is a loss to all of us. Vicki was a very special person and continues to be an inspiration to all. I knew her through Dan, who was a great friend to me in high school. I will remember Vicki as a child prodigy, a hero pilot, a beautiful girl on the outside & in, and my friend's spunky little sister. I feel that Vicki will forever be an icon. Her spirit will live on as people remember her and the amazing contributions she made to the world.

March 20, 2008

My heart goes out Vicki's immediate family. A family loss like this is so tragic...may she fly with Angel's wings now...

Sincerely,

Benjamin J. Van Meter
Captain, US Army
Korea

Eric

March 20, 2008

I've only known Vicki since September of '07 but talked to her almost daily as a co-worker. I genuinely liked her since the first day I talked to her. I will think about her often and my sympathy goes out to the family.

Ester Vargas Pipersky

March 20, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

K. Horton

March 19, 2008

I didn't know Ms. Van Meter but the accomplishment that she made at such an early age tells me what a phenomenal person she was. It is most unfortunate that she was unable to overcome the challenge of depression. Maybe in death she will be able to again accomplish something phenomenal by bringing much needed attention to the challenge of depression and hopefully be a catalyst for improvement in care and services. May God welcome her into his kingdom and may her family be comforted at this time of lost.

Maria

March 19, 2008

Rest in Peace, sweet lady.

Sylvia L. McIntosh

March 19, 2008

Sincere Sympathy to the family of Vicki Van Meter.

Many, myself included, never had the pleasure of meeting Vicki but do remember her from those news photos published during her historical childhood flights.

Rebecca McGinnis

March 19, 2008

With thoughts and prayers to Dan and his family

Norma Maldonado

March 19, 2008

MAY GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND YOU REST IN PEACE..

Heather Stump

March 19, 2008

When I heard that Vicki had passed away, I felt like a part of me went with her. I was her classmate in East End Elementary and Meadville High School and was also part of the Washington D.C. trip during our 6th grade year. She made a mark for our little town of Meadville and with that accomplished something that many only dream about. My deepest sympathy goes out to your family and though she not be here in person, her spirit will soar forever.

With Deepest Sympathy,

Heather DeMaison-Stump

Joe Gilbert

March 19, 2008

I was saddened to hear of Vicki's passing. She was an inspiration to all. I had the honor of meeting her after her flights.
To the family, my heartfelt prayers go out to you.
FLY HIGH and FLY LONG VICKI!!!!

Col. Joe E. Gilbert, JR US ARMY (ret.)

Anne Wallace

March 19, 2008

My family sends heartfelt prayers.

Kirtan Mausert, my son, is studying in Thailand. Late last night I received an email from him. It was Vicki's obituary notice. He has asked me to send these words of condolence.

Kirtan was Vicki's classmate at East End. He admired her pluck and courage, he loved her inquistive mind and quick wit, he enjoyed kidding and challenging her.

Vicki was and will remain an inspiration to him and many, many others who pursued dreams to fly in the skies and travel the world. I know she has influenced my own son to travel the world and seek new horizons. He is a better person, open to new perspectives, thanks to her.


In closing, I would like to share a few words written by May Sarton:

"I would like to believe when I die that I have given myself away like a tree that sows seeds every spring and never counts the loss, because it is not loss, it is adding to future life. It is the tree's way of being. Strongly rooted perhaps, but spilling out its treasure on the wind."

To my family, Vicki will remain rooted in our hearts, a giving tree that will always sow seeds for a better future.

Kirtan Mausert & his mother Anne Wallace

Sue Burns

March 19, 2008

Corrine, you may not remember me, but my son Andrew and Vicki were on the Vicki Lawrence show together many years ago. I have remembered both of you fondly over the years, and was deeply saddened to hear of your loss. Vicki was an inspiration to all who met her. May it give your family peace and comfort to know that others care.

Brigot Woodrow

March 19, 2008

My fondest memories of Vicki took place in our Science class in junior high. She was hularious! We also sat together in a college course together at Edinboro and it took us right back to acting like we were in junior high again!!
My condolences to all of the friends and family.

Steve Micke

March 19, 2008

I am honored to have been able to follow Vicki's public adventures. My prayers go out to her family, friends, and community. Whenever I see a shooting star I will wonder if it is Vicki setting off on yet another adventure or on her way to do more great works.

Susan H

March 19, 2008

While you are mourning the loss of a loved one, others are rejoicing to meet them behind the veil.

Amy

March 19, 2008

I am so saddened to hear about Victoria's death. We knew each other from back in Moldova and she as well as her family are in my prayers. God bless her.

Hector Castillo

March 19, 2008

It is with great sadness I write this note of sympathy. My prayers are with the family.
Hector

Mark Wolfe

March 19, 2008

I'm very sorry to hear about your terrible loss, she will be missed by the world.

Tim Davis

March 19, 2008

To Vicki's parents, I am so sorry for your loss. I remember reading about Vicki and her flights. I am both a pilot, and someone who knows what you are feeling, having lost my daughter also. Maybe in heaven, Vicki and Jina will meet and talk of fun times hanging around the airport.

You guys will make it, you will survive, just trust in the one who loves you the most.

s wang

March 19, 2008

Bless her for all those who
never dared to even try.

Renee Bustos

March 19, 2008

My condolences to the family of this truly inspiring individual. I pray that the family is able to rise above her passing and be able to allow her legacy to bloom. Not only did she accomplish a goal, but she did it sucessfully. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.

Sharon Zornes

March 19, 2008

Dear family and friends
We don't know her but for the news. She was so courageous in all her endeavors and experiences. We are saddened for all who are left behind and our prayers go out to all. I remember showing my son who was into planes at the time when he was five and his father worked on aircraft in the military, Vicki's story that proved that girls and young children can have achievements and goals and she will have that as a legacy...

Karen White

March 19, 2008

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.

Jameelee Shively

March 19, 2008

I was 13 when Vicki made headlines
She was so much a part of my childhood. How brave and strong she was. My thoughts and prayers are with The Van Meter Family-and for all of us she inspired.

Terry W

March 19, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss. God Bless You...

Gennairey Covington

March 19, 2008

Music, when soft voices die

Music, when soft voices die,
Vibrates in the memory—
Odours, when sweet violets sicken,
Live within the sense they quicken.

Rose leaves, when the rose is dead,
Are heaped for the belovèd's bed;
And so thy thoughts, when thou art gone,
Love itself shall slumber on.

By Percy Bysshe Shelley
The Poetry Foundation

Lance B. Redman

March 19, 2008

Deep are the waters that we sometimes must tread. Long and times lonely is the road we're down led. But Hope comes a calling when all seems but lost. When on troubled waters we're tumbled & tossed. Though broken are hearts and in grief we do mourn. Far greater the gain when again we are born. To emrbace life eternal and raise voices to sing, Great Is Our Savior Christ Jesus Our King.....Lbr.... May God Bless her precious little heart and may God's Holy Spirit embrace you this day with His Comforting presence and His Blessed Assurance.

Jon Douglas

March 19, 2008

Vicki's not far away. She's flown just over the horizon.

The Kulwicki Family

March 19, 2008

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

federico felds

March 19, 2008

My condolences to your family. your daughter was an inspiration for many of us.
federico
argentina

Linda Washburn Hedden

March 19, 2008

I am from the Meadville, PA area - Vicki's hometown. My mother followed Vicki's story all those years ago and saved every one of the articles from the Meadville Tribune. Mom died last summer and when I cleaned out her house, I found all of those news clippings. So when I read of Vicki's passing, I thought not just of her but of my own dear mother. Mom would have been broken hearted to hear the news. But instead, I'm sure they are having a good chat on the other side. My best to her family.

Suzanne McCarty

March 19, 2008

Dear Van Meter Family - Your daughter was a true gift to the world and such an inspiration (with an incredible smile) ! Bless you & know she's in a place where she's needed now. Love, The McCarty Family

Chrissy Carnesi

March 19, 2008

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

Robyn Custer

March 19, 2008

I was saddened to hear of your loss but your comment in a news story that you would miss her but know that she is somewhere doing important work brought a smile to my face. I am sure she is standing out just as extraordiary there as she was here.

March 19, 2008

sorry to hear about your lost you all are in our prayers and thoughts
just know that your vicki is in heaven watching over you
looks like she did what she loved
flying! I know it is hard lossing the lost of a child i lost my five year old daughter at the age of 5 in 2005 it has been hard to deal with but i look at it as she is not gone but she away she is waiting for me to come home. I welcome you to vist her guest book @ www.legacy.com enter in kayla bollinger your welcome to read it and sign in too.

Your family are in our hearts and prayers!

so sorry about the lost

March 19, 2008

How sad! I am sorry for your loss!

I remember watching her story on tv.

God Bless.

Jamie

Bill C

March 19, 2008

God speed Vicki
Your life was an inspiration to young people everywhere.

Hartford, Connecticut

March 19, 2008

God Bless.

Lisa and William McQueen Jr.

March 19, 2008

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008

Corwin Sharp

March 19, 2008

She was an inspiration to all of us who fly...young and old alike. To paraphrase John Gillespie Magee, Jr.'s "High Flight," she truly put out her hand and touched the face of God.

Showing 1 - 100 of 140 results

Make a Donation
in Vicki Van Meter's name

How to support Vicki's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Vicki Van Meter's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sponsored

Sign Vicki Van Meter's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

June 28, 2013

a sister traveler posted to the memorial.

November 29, 2012

mayleth lozano posted to the memorial.

September 3, 2011

Loretta Benge posted to the memorial.