Clarence E Vanaken, Jr. “Van” passed away November 3, 2023 at home with his wife of 47 years by his side.
Clarence was born July 1, 1935 in Cedaredge, CO to Clarence and Hazel (Dix) Vanaken. He graduated from Cedaredge High School in 1953 and joined the Army in the same year. He was privileged and honored to go on the Honor Flight to Washington DC.
He married Chrysa Haddan which ended in divorce, but they had two children John and J. Sue.
One of his first jobs was picking up milk from the local dairies and delivering to Grand Junction for processing. He always said the reason he got the job was because he was short and didn’t have to bend over to pick up the cans of milk! He also worked as an auto mechanics teacher while having his own auto shop. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. He loved traveling; he and Nancy traveled to Canada and Alaska fourteen different summers. He was a proud member of the Hotchkiss Elks Lodge for 66 years, the Paonia American Legion for 32 years and the NRA.
He is survived by his wife Nancy, son John and daughter Sue Maurice, along with 3 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Hope West Hospice of Delta. A graveside service will be at 11:00 AM on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at the Cedaredge Cemetery. Crippin Funeral Home & Crematory of Montrose is assisting the family.