Dean Gerard Van Velsen

We are so sorry to have lost Dean. What wonderful recollections we have of him from those past years directing and singing in the Ada Congregational choir! We also remember the fun we had together cheering on the kids in high school sports.
We wish you lots of wonderful memories, Vera and Janice.

Tim and Betsy Robinson
Brevard, NC

We are so saddened by this loss. It takes a special person to fit into the Sturgeon family and Dean did--so well. Verie, Ray, Russ, and Janice, our hearts go out to you at this time. To the family who surround us now, may peace comfort us and the memories (so many great memories) sustain us. Our love and condolences, Ryan, Renee, Sawyer, and Bella

I was blessed to be raised around Dean ( brothers Don and Dave and Mom Florence) most of my life. Very loving and caring family. As I grew,,I could always see a living example of how to treat people and how to live life by watching cousin Dean.
Rest In Peace good man. And thank You for being there.
Prayers for Vera and family.
Keith and Linda Brew
Vancouver WA.

My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr.VanVelsen. He was my choir director at South from'65-'67. I remember that he was always so kind. It was my favorite class.

To my Aunt Vera and the family, praise the Lord he is in heaven and no more struggle with his human body. He is free indeed singing with the Angels to the Lord. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Sending hugs and love your way ❤
Donna & Doug Griffin

There is nothing but fond memories for me as a former choir student of Mr. Van Velsen. His positivity, patience, sense of humor and expertise was a supreme example of how to make learning and musical performance fun. He instilled a sense of achievement and confidence. His hard work lead to a joy of music that lasted for a lifetime. Thank you Mr. Van Velsen and may you rest in peace.

Ron Risser
Class of 1966
Santa Barbara

Mr. Van Velsen was my choir teacher at South High School. He was one of the people in my life who taught me the joy of music. He had a gentle approach to teaching and always had this great sense of humor. I still have some of the songs in my head that I sang in the coir and little choir at SHS and I graduated in 1962. I give thanks to God for his talents, his kindness and that I was lucky to have his influence in my life.
May God grant his loved ones much peace as they mourn this...

My deepest sympathy to all the family. Dean was a great husband, father, grandfather, and music teacher. He was my teacher at South High School and later Janice and my daughter Bonnie became good friends through gymnastics. So many good memories.