Downs Michael Van De Veer

Downs Michael Van De Veer, 62, of Hanalei, Kauai, died December 19th 2006. Born in Alabama during the era of racial segregation and prejudice, he dedicated his life to ending racism and to help build a just and compassionate society. He battled to the end to provide equal rights and justice for all of God's children.

He was a citizen of the world and an internationally published freelance journalist. In his 20's he served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Liberia, Africa. He worked in the public sector in various capacities, including as an administrator for the County of Santa Cruz. He traveled extensively throughout the world. Most recently he worked with Lions Club International to provide medical equipment for vision care in Nepal. He also served as an advisor to SETU Nepal a nonprofit organization providing transitional housing for women and children displaced by war.

He served on the Board of the Kekahu Foundation and hosted a musical/ discussion show called - Out of the Box: An Answer to the New World Order - on KKCR, Kauai Community Radio.

He is survived by his wife, Catherine "Wicki" Van De Veer of Hanalei, his son, Malcolm X Blake Van De Veer of Maui, Malcolm's mother Cheryl, and brother John Van De Veer, niece Roxanna and nephew Logan of Santa Cruz, California.

At Michael's request, no service will be held.

In his honor an "Out of the Box" fund is being created. This will enable KKCR to expand their existing facility to include and support a local news studio to provide a forum for free speech and to give a voice to the voiceless which Michael worked so hard to preserve.

Donations may be made to the:

KKCR "Out of the Box" Fund

P.O. Box 825 ~ Hanalei, HI 96714

www.kkcr.org

Arrangements by Moanalua Mortuary

www.legacy.com/santacruzsentinel