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BORN
1939
DIED
2019
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John VanValkenburg Obituary
Somers - John Van Valkenburg, age 79, passed away on Saturday, June 15 in Somers, NY. John was a long time resident of South Salem, NY, and spent his entire life in Westchester County. He was born December 18, 1939, and was raised in Larchmont, NY.
John leaves behind many dear friends in Westchester County, and he cherished those friendships greatly. Also among his friendships were not just his dear friends, but also numerous animals over the years that he had either befriended, or taken in, which often included nursing them back to health. John was exceptional and special in his qualities as a friend to people and animals alike. John was also a professional photographer, selling many of his photographs to local merchants, collectors, or to publications such as the New York Times. He also did photographic work for the New York Rangers. John was also an accomplished musician, playing in several bands during his lifetime.
John is survived by his brother, George Van Valkenburg Jr. of Jacksonville, Fla, his sisters Joan of Charleston, WV and Ann of Bradenton, Fla., as well as 13 nieces and nephews.
He is pre-deceased by his parents, George Van Valkenburg and Catherine Ryan Van Valkenburg, of Larchmont, NY, and his sisters Mary and Arlene.
Clark Associates Funeral Home, of Katonah NY, has been entrusted with the arrangements. Visitations are scheduled for Tuesday evening, June 18, from 5PM to 8PM, and Wednesday morning, June 19, from 8.30AM to 10AM. Burial will take place on Wednesday morning at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Hawthorne, NY, following the visitation.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John VanValkenburg
Sponsored by Clark Associates Funeral Home.
Daniel J Weinstein
March 30, 2025
The minstrel of the dawn is gone. Thank you, Johnny Van. I´ll not forget you.
Dan
June 23, 2019
To the family, you have my sincere condolences. When someone falls asleep in death (Ecclesiastes 9: 5,10) the memories we have of them become our most precious treasure. May those memories comfort you as well as Gods promise at John 6:40.
My deepest sympathy
Evelina Z
June 18, 2019
Hope you are enjoying Liverwurst and ritz crackers. We had so many big laughs and good dinners. Those were the days.
Love you,
Theresa
Karen McCormick-Devnew
June 18, 2019
Goodbye my friend from long ago, may you Rest In Peace forever more.....
Thad Henry
June 18, 2019
John taught me the love of chocolate donuts and iced cold milk! He forged in me an indelible memory of finger licks on the guitar. He taught me how to squeeze 50 musicians in a 20X20 living room after a folk concert to jam in his home. He taught me the meaning of the word gusto. He cast an impression of how to laugh. He fixed my dislocated finger with a hardy yank. He created a brand of a lover of live driving a VW. John was one of those people in life who infuses your soul and lives on through you. Heaven's creatures are singing a round of Keep On the Sunny Side this week. Thank you John, for you gift of love and life. I hope our spirits meet in the crosswinds of Heaven.
Tina Mck
June 17, 2019
Such a mentor, photography and wildlife.I am so greatfull to have met you, sharing laughter and saving wild life! My dear friend,open your wings like the great bald eagle, you are finally free❣
Guy
June 17, 2019
Thank you, old friend, for every bird sighting, every joke, every song, every bit of simple wisdom.
You'll be missed.
Ellie Prezzano
June 17, 2019
In memory of our beloved dogs: Binky, Doobie, Shady Grove, Sunny Flower, Sandy Belle, Roscoe, Buddy.
Ellie Prezzano
June 17, 2019
Now you are running free with our beloved dogs. Your spirit soars!
Love,
Ellie
The Staff of Clark Associates Funeral Home
June 17, 2019
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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