VANOVER, NEVEL FRANK, JR. – December 13, 1930 – May 10, 2003

Losing his battle with cancer, Nevel Frank “Van” Vanover, Jr., 72, passed away peacefully at his home in California. He was born December 13, 1930. Preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years, Rhea Mae Vanover, they were reunited by Van’s passing May 10, 2003.

Mr. Vanover left behind a legacy of community involvement, patriotism, religious beliefs and was an active participant in his children’s lives. He was tutor, mentor and friend to his five children, 16 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Mr. Vanover enjoyed many years of being a Boy Scout Leader, helping several achieve the rank of Eagle Scout; a dedicated chaperon for the Camp Fire Girls; Past commander of the Delano American Legion; volunteer Delano Police Officer, substitute teacher for Delano high School; a member of the Desert Empire Parade Committee; volunteer at the Ridgecrest Senior Center; and taught welding to under privileged children. His community awareness, old world charm and manner, and his loyalty and willingness to lend a helping hand to friends, neighbors and colleagues will be missed.

Mr. Vanover is survived by his children: Nevel Frank Vanover III, of Bakersfield, California; Mary Swope and husband, Larry of Maricopa, California; Jan Lamb and husband John, of Ridgecrest, California; Robert Vanover and wife, Victoria, of Hesperia, California; and Christiemae and Dean Perry of Ridgecrest, California.

He was preceded in death by his brother Don Vanover and is survived by his three sisters: Mary Jane Waldron and husband, Thayne, of Folsom, California; Dana Bybee of Morgan, Utah; and Connie Eager of Boise, Idaho.

Graveside services are pending in the Malad City Cemetery.