John W. Van Dusen

AUBURN | John W. Van Dusen, 76, of Franklin Street Road, Auburn, died unexpectedly Thursday, March 21, 2013. Surrounded by his loving family, John passed away while vacationing in Zephyrhills, Fla.

Born April 17, 1937 in Farmington, Pa., he was the son of the late Wallace and Willimina Wanken Van Dusen. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, proudly serving his country from 1955 to 1959. John was a member of the New York State Troopers for 32 years, retiring in 1993. He was a member of the Redeemer Lutheran Church, where he was very active for many years. He served with the Sennett Fire Department as the Fire Commissioner, and also served on the Sennett Planning Board. John enjoyed bluegrass music, woodworking, quilting and making homemade wine and sauerkraut.

John had a great love for his family, one of his most caring services for 43 years, was helping his wife, Maryan, with caring for foster babies.

In addition to his beloved wife of 56 years, Maryan, he is survived by his two daughters, Lori (William) Halcomb, of Auburn, and Holly Sherman, of Liverpool; a son, Wally (Judy) Van Dusen; three sisters, Sandy (Charles) Johnson, Ola (Michael) Whitehill, and Evelyn (Andy) Lychalk, all of Pennsylvania; a brother, George (Evelyn) Van Dusen; several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends; grandchildren, John Edward (Meghen Burk) Van Dusen, of Auburn, Jeffery Van Dusen, Jessica Hearl, of Liverpool, and Eugene Hearl, of Syracuse; three great-grandchildren, Aiden, Justin, and Joshua; four very special children, Keena, Shoney, Cassandra, and Tyler, and their parents.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Van Dusen was predeceased by his daughter, Nada L.Van Dusen Sliss, and a brother, William Van Dusen.

Friends are invited to call on the family from 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday, at White Chapel Funeral Home, 197 South St., Auburn. Funeral services will be held following calling hours at White Chapel Funeral Home.

Contributions may be made to the Sennett Fire Department or the charity of one's choice.