John B. Van Pelt

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University of Tennessee

John Van Pelt Obituary

Johnny was born to John Simpson Van Pelt and Vivian Bishop Van Pelt in Augusta, GA on January 28, 1929 and died at Blue Ridge Healthcare Center in Raleigh NC, January 14, 2007.
After moving to Knoxville, TN in 1945, he graduated from Knoxville HS and attended the University of Tennessee there. He served in the Navy during the Korean War, then studied Textile Design at NC State and worked as a designer at Cherokee Textile Mills in Sevierville TN.
Johnny was a lifelong lover of fishing and nature and delighted in entertaining all listeners with jokes and stories. His woodworking hobby transformed time-worn furnishings into useful and lovely pieces. He was an assistant scoutmaster for Boy Scout troops at both Benson Memorial and St. Giles churches and served as deacon at the latter. His most recent career was with Prudential Realty where he made many friends.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Marie; son, John T. Van Pelt; daughter, Valerie Hunt and her husband, Arthur; grandson, Harrison; sisters, Shirley Johnston and husband, Bob, Faye Mote and husband, John; brother-in-law, George Campbell.
During his courageous battle with cancer, he was lovingly cared for by the dedicated staff of Blue Ridge Healthcare - many, many thanks from his family to them and the loyal friends who kept Johnny's spirits up with their faithful calls and visits.
A service and reception will be held Saturday, January 20th from 4-6 p.m. at the home, 4718 Connell Drive.
Memorial contributions may be made to: the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718.
Arrangements are by the Cremation Society of the Carolinas.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The News & Observer on Jan. 17, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for John Van Pelt

8 Entries

Keith Mote

January 26, 2007

Aunt Marie, John, and Valerie,

Our prayers are with you during this difficult time of loss. Uncle Johnny will be forever remembered for his jokes and sense of humor - I'll never forget the "ugly contests" Johnny orchestrated with the cousins at the beach - but he was also very caring. Mom always loved her big brother Johnny and still entertains us with her boyhood stories of him. We love you and miss Johnny too.

Keith and Michelle Mote Family

Laura Polk

January 21, 2007

Valerie,

I read your dad's obituary online today. When looking at his photo, I was reminded how much you look like him. I dread the day that I have to go through what you are going through. I have been thinking about you, your mom and brother a lot the past few days. Please call me if you need someone to talk to. You are a wonderful friend - and I know you were a wonderful daughter to your father.

I am sorry I could not attend the service - if only I lived a little closer! I will call you next week.

Take care,
Laura

Mike and Amy Faulkenberry

January 19, 2007

Aunt Marie,
Uncle Johnny will be greatly missed, his sense of humor and creative spirit will be remembered always. Our prayers are with your family.

Mark and Barbara Yow

January 18, 2007

John, We are so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

monica cooke

January 18, 2007

Marie,
I am so sorry to hear of John's passing. He was a neat man who was always willing to chat or help! You both were always on the list to visit when I was in Raleigh. I will miss the stories of his hunting with my brother in law, Ed. My family extends their sympathy to all of yours at this time. Monica (Marcy's sister)

Vince White

January 17, 2007

I did not get to see John much in his final days due to an illness of my own, but I spoke with him several times on the phone. He will live on as one of my most precious memories. Knowing John the last 12 years was definitely an experience I will treasure forever.

Carl and Linda Yow

January 17, 2007

Dear Mrs Van Pelt, John and Valerie,

We were very sorry to hear of Mr. Van Pelt's passing. I will always think fondly of his great humor and love of life. You are in our hearts always.

Prudy & Ron Frederick

January 17, 2007

Marie, John and Valerie,

We are so sorry about John's passing. He was such an interesting and caring person, and we know he'll be deeply missed.

Please let us know what we can do for you. I'll be bringing some food by on Friday. We'll be in Charleston, SC this weekend with Emmy at a multi-state soccer tournament, so we'll miss the memorial service at your home. I'm sorry.

Again, let us know what we can do!

Your neighbors and friends!

Prudy, Ron, Betsy & Emmy

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