Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
John Van Vleet Obituary
Dr. John F. Van Vleet, 73, of West Lafayette, died at 11:19 a.m. Thursday, January 5, 2012 in the emergency room at St. Elizabeth Central Hospital. He was born March 23, 1938 in Lodi, New York, the son of the late Lawrence and Lovina Woodman Van Vleet. His marriage was on September 2, 1961 in Penn Yan, New York to Nancy Coon and she survives. John received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Cornell University in 1962, a MS in Veterinary Pathology from University of Illinois in 1965, and his PhD in Veterinary Pathology from the University of Illinois in 1967. He received his board certification in the American College of Veterinary Pathologists in 1967. That same year, Dr. Van Vleet came to Purdue University as a Professor of Veterinary Pathology and in 1988, he was appointed the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs in the School of Veterinary Medicine, retiring in 2010 and becoming a Professor Emeritus. During his entire tenure at Purdue, he was in the classroom, educating and mentoring students. Since 2001, he had served as a visiting professor at St. George's University in Grenada, West Indies. Dr. Van Vleet received numerous honors and awards including the Norden Award of Outstanding Instructor in the School of Veterinary Medicine and he was chosen to be included in the Book of Great Teachers at Purdue University for excellence in the classroom. He was a member of several professional societies including the International Academy of Pathology and the American College of Veterinary Pathologists. Dr. Van Vleet was published in various pathology journals and textbooks. He was a member of Covenant Church where he sang in the choir, had served on the board of the Bach Corale Singers, and was a member of the Kiwanis Club. His interests outside of the classroom include traveling, Purdue athletics, music, and spending time at his cottage on Lake Freeman with his friends and family, especially his four granddaughters.
Surviving with his wife, Nancy, are two daughters: Joanne L. Essick and her husband, Reid, of High Point, NC and Terry E. Newman and her husband, Robert, of Goshen, KY., and his four granddaughters: Kathleen, Natalie, Lilia, and Clara Newman. John is also survived by two sisters, Harriet Wagner and Ruth Wagner, both of Valois, NY, and two brothers, Stanley Van Vleet and his wife, Helene, of Lodi, NY and David Van Vleet and his wife, Joyce, of Phoenix, AZ.
Memorial services will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Covenant Church in West Lafayette with Pastor Rob Eyman officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Van Vleet Auction Scholarship c/o the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine. Hippensteel Funeral entrusted with care. Share memories and condolences online at www.hippensteelfuneralservice.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Van Vleet
Mindi Newman-Wilson
January 24, 2012
Sending my sympathies to the Van Vleet family. Dr. Van Vleet was a genuine and compassionate man. He touched many lives by being a wonderful role model in our profession.
Philip Kaiser
January 22, 2012
Dr. Van Vleet was a truly wonderful man. I had the honor and privilege of becoming acquainted with him as an undergraduate student at Purdue when I joined the Pre-Vet Club which he mentored. It was from that moment on that he encouraged and inspired me to pursue my dream of Veterinary Medicine. Our shared passion of music only strengthened the bond we shared as he happened to be a big fan of the Purdue Varsity Glee Club of which I had the honor of being a member. I truly feel that I am indebted to him still for ensuring that I not only accomplished my goals, but excelled along the way. Dr. Van Vleet not only provided unwavering mentorship, but literally was responsible for my admission into veterinary school by not only writing one of three letters of recommendation for me but actually being one of the two interviewers for my admissions interview. All through veterinary school at Purdue we stayed close and he was always the true consumate professional who always garnered nothing but respect from all who became acquainted with him and that had the privilege of working alongside him. I know he touched so many people in so many facets of life. I don't feel any words will likely adequately convey my deep admiration, respect, and gratitude for this remarkable man and all of his accomplishments.
January 20, 2012
I am shocked and saddened by the death of Dr. Van Vleet. I am honoured to have had the opportunity to tap into his wealth of knowledge when he came and taught a portion of the pathology course at Saint Georges University. Best wishes to his family. - Dr. Glyne K. Greenidge
January 19, 2012
Dr. John Van Vleet will surely be missed by all. From our perspective, he made a significant contribution to St. George's University (SGU). He was involved with teaching cardiovascular pathology to our students ever since the inception of the SVM here at SGU in 1999. Thus, every student that has graduated from SGUSVM thus far, including those students till Fall 2011, have been taught by him. And what more of all the students that have graduated out of Purdue University. Our students have always gave him the utmost respect and were privileged to be taught by an outstanding and excellent teacher.
Indeed, Dr. Van Vleet was instrumental in the translocation of our students and faculty post-Ivan; one phone call to him and all the appropriate arrangements were made by him for the smooth translocation of us all for the successful completion of the "post-Ivan semester" at Purdue University.
SGU is truly indebted to his contributions over the years. Dr. John Van Vleet has really touched the hearts of many and will surely be remembered by all for time immemorial.
Personally, John was very much a part of my family and we remember all the times that we had together during his numerous visits to Grenada. Working with him was an honor. I admired his punctuality, clarity, and highest level of professionalism. I have learnt a lot from him. The Veterinary Fraternity has surely lost a remarkable personality.
Nancy, you have our heart-felt sympathy for the loss of your wonderful husband. Words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel in your bereavement.
I know it is a difficult time you're going through but don't lose courage because life moves on and time heals all wounds.
Those who bloom in the hearts of others never fade away. May you find comfort and strength in your memories. May you find peace with time. May his soul rest in peace and just remember that the Lord will take care of him.
Dr. Muhammad Iqbal Bhaiyat and Family, St. George's, Grenada
Buffie Vaught
January 19, 2012
I am very saddened to hear of hear of the passing of Dr. Van Vleet. He was always very kind to me when I was a student at PUSVM. Dr. Van Vleet took the time to get to know students and our names and always had time to say hello. My condolences to his family. He was a good man and will be genuinely missed by many.
Jim Hollis DVM PUSVM 1989
January 11, 2012
A fine instructor and a good man. Always willing to take the time to help or just to visit. He will be missed.
Bill Somerville
January 10, 2012
I am fortunate to have had Dr. Van Vleet as an instructor. He was an excellent teacher. With all my visits back to Purdue he always seemed to go out of his way to make me feel welcome. He will be missed as a teacher, colleague and friend.
Dr. Maxine (Ray) Stovall
January 10, 2012
I am truly saddened to hear of the passing of this fine man. He was a wonderful professor and I am very happy that I had the honor to have known him. Thank you Dr. Van Vleet for sharing your knowledge with me.
Thomas Conner D.V.M.
January 10, 2012
I always enjoyed visiting with him at the various places we would meet. The conversation was always enjoyable, enlightening and informative. We will all miss him greatly.
January 10, 2012
I felt privileged to have known John and am saddened by his sudden passing. John was a tough but fair teacher when I was in school and helped mold me into the veterinarian I am today. My association with him after school is where he really made an impression with me. He always was interested in people and treated them with respect and consideration. I always enjoyed talking with him at alumni and other meetings. He will be missed!
Scott Thompson,DVM, Newburgh, Indiana
Bret Wittmer
January 10, 2012
He was a great teacher and true friend of mine through school I always looked him up when I returned to Purdue my prayers are with u all
Trudi Horner
January 10, 2012
Words may not seem like enough but I can offer prayers of strength at this time of loss. John offered strength and courage to so many others.
January 9, 2012
Dr Van Vleet was one of my favorite intructors at Purdue and I treasured his friendship as a colleague.
The Purdue Veterinary Community will miss him dearly, my sincere condolences to the Van Vleet family.
Dr Paul Clemente, Fort Wayne
January 9, 2012
I had the honor of having Dr. Van Vleet for an instructor and a colleague, most recently as part of the Admissions Committee at the Veterinary School. He was the consummate professional, serving as a role model and mentor for so very many of us. The lessons learned from him have carried me far beyond academic and professional settings. The veterinary community far beyond the borders of Purdue will feel this loss. Robin Marks, Indianapolis
Dr. Debbie Martin
January 9, 2012
I had the honor of knowing Dr. Van Vleet during vet school. He was dedicated to his profession, and he was a kind, genuine man. My condolences to his family.
Jeannie Poulson
January 9, 2012
Dr. Van Vleet will be very dearly missed. He was a wonderful teacher and mentor, not only for the students but for the faculty as well. I learned a lot from him when I volunteered to help interview veterinary school applicants, and I am so glad that I had that opportunity to work with him. John was also a smiling, cheerful fixture at the annual Kiwanis pancake breakfast. He set a wonderful example for us all, in everything he did. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this sad time.
January 9, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Dr VanVleet was one of our very first customers when we purchased the marina and we have valued his patronage the last 12 years. He will be missed both by myself and my staff.
Katrina Coghill&
Employees of Pearson's Marina
Peter Veling
January 9, 2012
I had the pleasure of working with John on the Veterinary Selection Committee in 2009. He had the process down to a science. In doing so, he made the selection process easier for all of us. His service in Pathology and as Associate Dean allowed John to positively impact the lives of all of us, his students, as well as thousands of people in the state of Indiana. He is already missed and will never be forgotten. I am saddened to hear of his passing and will pray for him
January 9, 2012
My brother in law - John was a wonderful husband and father, and a great professor and counselor. I'm honored to have known him.Go in peace, John- we loved you. ( Sally Ostyn - Stroudsburg, PA)
Dr Sandi and Fred Norman
January 9, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with Nancy and the family at this time of John's passing. He was one of the finest instructors at the school and surely made an indelible mark on all the students he touched in his long tenure of teaching pathology. I was fortunate in later years to work with him on several committees and share banquet tables with him. We will miss his presence but we celebrate his life of educating and mentoring future veterinarians.
Jama Souder
January 9, 2012
I will forever be indebted to Dr. Van Vleet for helping me obtain my veterinary degree. He has left many lasting impressions on many people and we were lucky to have such a compassionate dean.
Janet Cozad Sizelove
January 9, 2012
Dr. Van Vleet was a kind, helpful, and generous individual. I enjoyed working with him on committees after veterinary school but as a student his care, concern, and help are what got me through the program. I am so sorry for your loss. He will be missed.
Mary Lou Weliever
January 9, 2012
My deepest sympathy to the family of Dr. Van Vleet. He was not only an excellent instructor but also a kind gentleman.
Alice Johns
January 9, 2012
Everyone who knew Dr. Van Vleet will be saddened to hear of our loss.
Laura Howard Strong
January 9, 2012
Dr. Van Vleet was an outstanding instructor and mentor. He was a true asset to students and the profession. I was honored to know him.
Rob Banes
January 9, 2012
Mrs. VanVleet, Joanne, Terri, and the rest of your families,
I am saddened to hear of Mr. VanVleet's passing. My mom told me today. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Tina Swanson, DVM
January 8, 2012
A great instructor. Dr Van Vleet inspired us with his knowledge and teaching. His pathology class was no "easy A", but was one that I enjoyed the most. My condolences to his wife and family. He will be missed but his legacy of excellence will continue in our profession.
John Baker
January 8, 2012
"It is with great shock and sadness that my family learned of the loss of Dr. Van Fleet. My son and I both had Dr. Van Fleet as an instructor and my daughter is a sophomore at the Vet school. Purdue Veterinary School has been blessed with an excellent instructor and unequaled student advocate and his loss will be sorely missed. We extend our sincere sympathy for your loss"
John Eden
January 8, 2012
One of the most admirable men I have ever met. A true gentleman.
My condolences to the family.
January 8, 2012
Dear Nancy and family,
I was very saddened to hear of John's death. He was a man of integrity and character but with a kindness and gentleness that made him an inspiration for those of us that he taught. He allowed me to work for him (blood testing pigs)at a time when I really needed the job but did it in such a tactful way that it was not until years later that I realized his motive was to help me. He was a man with a powerful intellect and enormous talent, but possessed the humbleness of a true Christian. It was always clear that family and relationships were more important to him than the accolades which he deserved and achieved. The veterinary community has lost an outstanding leader and role model. I will keep you in my prayers,
Kathleen Neuhoff, DVM
Rose Raskin
January 8, 2012
Ride the waves in heaven, John!
Rose Raskin
January 8, 2012
My sincerest condolences go to you Nancy, your children and grandchildren, and to John's siblings. I keep wishing that the events of the day could have taken a different turn but it was not to be despite all attempts. It was always clear that his family was #1 to him. John's life was rich and satisfying which he owed in great measure to his family, close friends, colleagues and students, all who he touched with love, compassion, and a listening ear. His professional career was stellar, the perfect example of a teacher, mentor, and leader by example. The extent of his professional influence is evident in the number of pathology careers he encouraged over his 43 years at Purdue. John will be sorely missed by many, including myself and Hannah. Please allow your joyful personal memories of him to sustain you as he would have wanted it that way. Perhaps he can continue to enjoy riding the waves in heaven.
Andrea Zacek Carlson DVM
January 8, 2012
With deepest sympathy to your family. Dr. Van Vleet was a great teacher that inspired me to be the best I could be. He was so good about interacting with us students.
John Burkhardt
January 8, 2012
My condolences to you and the family. Dr. Van Vleet tought me pathology and inspired me to pursue a career in that field. He was a great man and a pilllar of the profession - he will be missed dearly. My prayers are with you. Regards. John Burkhardt
Janet Houghton
January 8, 2012
I am very sorry to learn of the too soon passing of this great man. He was the best possible kind of teacher. Both respected and admired ... he will be missed by all who knew him. My deepest sympathy to his family.
Dan & Pat Harrington
January 8, 2012
Nancy – Pat and I were saddened to hear of John's sudden and unexpected passing. I considered him a friend and colleague. He will be greatly missed at the School of Veterinary Medicine by his many associates on the staff and faculty. Please accept our sincere condolences.
Brian Sheahan
January 8, 2012
A lovely man and a great loss. Deepest sympathy.
Steve & Deb Stombaugh
January 8, 2012
Nancy, please accept our condolences in your loss. We have fond memories of John and you welcoming us as a young couple when we joined the choir at Covenant. May God comfort you in your time of loss.
Dick & Michele Goebel
January 8, 2012
We are sending our love and sympathies to you, Nancy and your entire family. We cherish the wonderful memories we have of John. The wonderful times we shared at the lake, his great boat rides, his kindness and professionalism, his sence of humor, and so much more! What a blessing it was to share in your 50th wedding anniversary party. I loved the stories John told about how you met and adventures in your early years. May your memories be a source of comfort.
We are so saddened that we cannot make it to the service, but know we will be with you spirit. With love, Dick and Michele
January 8, 2012
Nancy, May you experience God's presence and His comfort today and in the coming days. Love, Anella McFee
Seamus Kennedy
January 8, 2012
We are saddened to learn of the death of John and offer our condolences to Nancy, Joanne, Terry, Reid, Rob, Kathleen, Natalie, Lilia and Clara. John was the ultimate gentleman and true professional who inspired many. We are remembering you all in our thoughts and prayers. Seamus and Kathleen Kennedy (Northern Ireland).
Showing 1 - 41 of 41 results
Make a Donation
in John Van Vleet's name
Memorial Events
for John Van Vleet
How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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 moreResources to help you cope with loss
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
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
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor John Van Vleet's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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
