Dear Gene and Rita,
What a great guy Van was. He was always kind to me and my family, just as you have been. Sunday afternoons with your folks was quite a treat - even the WWW wrestling Van loved to watch. It was sad to note his passing.
Deb
Debra Eggers
August 29, 2021
We will always remember Van as being a great human being. We will miss having him over for the holiday meals. His sense of humor was second to none. Our most memorable line from Van was "Flattery will get you everywhere."
Pat and Cindy McElliott
August 27, 2021
Van was one of the nicest people I ever got the pleasure to meet. I am not sure if I ever seen him have a bad day. On behalf of everyone from the Cedar Rapids Marriott and myself, we would just like to pass along our condolences. He was a wonderful guy, and he will be missed.
Leo Williams
August 27, 2021
I’m so sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. Van played golf with my dad Ray Penn years ago. When dad moved into Summit Point in 2014 Van took him under his wing. Dad really enjoyed spending time with Van and I was fortunate to spend time with him too. He was truly a wonderful man. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Doug Penn
Doug Penn
August 25, 2021
I'm so sorry to hear of Van's passing. What a guy he was, so gentle and soft spoken. My late husband, Vern Baker worked with Van on the Milwaukee Railroad. Van always hosted our Christmas parties and did such a wonderful job.
I last saw Van at Perkins after his 100th birthday and apologized for not making it. I believe he was with his daughter in-law, we were talking about driving and I said it's nice you can drive him around, she said Oh no, he is doing the driving, I'm riding. I will never forget that. What a special man.
My sympathy,
Annamae Baker
Annamae Baker
August 24, 2021
We were sorry to hear of Van’s passing. We shared many good times with Van and Liz. DuWayne had just talked to him and he had a hard time hearing, but not bad for 102. He left many good friends and will be truly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.
DuWayne and Jennie Davidson
August 24, 2021
I’m saddened to hear of the loss of Van. We shared many good times/conversations in the dental office as well as at Summit Pointe. I will remember him as being well-dressed, never lacking for a story, humorous and a true gentleman.
I feel privileged to have known him.
My sincere condolences to you, Gene & Rita.
Lorna
Lorna Reinecke
August 24, 2021