Richard Michael Van

Richard was born on July 29, 1953 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was a loving son, husband, father, uncle, grandfather, great grandfather, great uncle, and friend. He graduated from Wautoma High School in 1971 and worked at Mark's Brothers Pickles before enlisting in the Marine Corps in 1973. He rose to the rank of Lance Corporal, earning a National Defense Service Medal and a Sharpshooter Rifle Badge.

After the Marine Corps, he was employed by San Bernardino County, but spent the majority of his career at Fontana Unified School District as a DOT Certified Heavy Duty Mechanic. He was an avid Representative of the United Steelworkers Local 8599 and was very proud to be elected President and serve four years. Richard had a love for fast cars, especially his new Camaro SS and his Corvette. He also loved racing. He had extensive Hot Wheels and Diecast collections. One of his favorite hobbies was target shooting with his friends and family. He also enjoyed riding his motorcycle, driving his boat, and traveling in his motorhome. Richard is survived by his wife, Debra; his children Kimberlee Van and Richard (Rebecca) Van; his step children Robert (Cherie) Turner and Jennifer (John) Castro; his mother Nancy Van; his siblings Thomas Van, Robert (Kelly) Van, Susan (Steve) Katner, Mark (Laura) Van, and John D. (Donna) Van; fifteen step grandchildren; six step great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, John M. Van. Services will be held with full military honors at Riverside National Cemetery (22495 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA 92518) on Monday, July 23, 2018 at 1:30PM.