Herbert Van

Herbert M. Van, 75 of Mt. Pleasant and formerly of Rapid City, died peacefully, surrounded by his daughters, November 12, 2021 at the Ann Arbor Veteran Affairs Hospital.

Herbert was born April 3, 1946 in Traverse City the son of Herbert L. and Agnes A. (Henderson) Van.  He graduated from Rapid City High School and was immediately drafted into the U.S. Marines.  He served in the Vietnam War and upon returning home joined the Army Reserves.

Herb worked construction for many years.  After 29 years of dedicated service, Herb retired from the Kalkaska County Road Commission.

He was a proud lifelong member of the Kalkaska VFW and also a member of the Grand Traverse Metis black powder gun club since 1972.  He was the Clearwater Township Fire and Rescue Chief and an overall member for many years.  He often walked in local Pow Wow’s that the veterans were honored in.  Herb also helped many people with their sobriety journey for over 30 years.

Herb enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.  He was known as the ultimate prankster and friend to all! He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, and shooting guns.  He taught his grandchildren to shoot.

Surviving are his daughters Christine Van of Mt. Pleasant, Deborah Van of Kewadin, Rebecca (William) Barber of Williamsburg, sister Sally Dunson of Central Lake, brother Edward Van of Rapid City, grandchildren and great grandchildren Danielle (Kevin) Nicholas, Nathan, & Noah Batista, Kandyce (Karl) Emmett & Reed Ott, Anthony, Kaeleb, Kameron, & Kinsley Keyes, Wayne II “Beaner” (Bobbi) Jessica, Jillian, Marcus & Janielle Keyes, Paul (Brittany) Maddilynn & Natalee Kalinowski, Michael (Estelle) Goodwin, Sydnie (Joe) Tylutki, Shaelyn “Shaebug” Doyle, Kaitlynn, Brooklynn, and Jacqulynn Barber and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers Richard and Greg Van, sister Rhonda Vasher, and dear friend Grace Van.

A Celebration of Life with Military Honors will be held Monday, November 22, at 3:00 p.m. at the Clearwater Township Hall/Gym with a luncheon to follow.  Interment will be in Clearwater Township Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be given to the Fisher House, PO BOX 130466, Ann Arbor, MI 48113.  The Fisher House provides support and accommodations to Veterans and their families during their time of need.

Arrangements are in the care of the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Please sign his online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.