Kenneth Wayne Van Gorder

KENNETH VAN GORDER

1932-2015

Life-long Napa resident, Kenneth Wayne Van Gorder, 83, died peacefully at his home on November 20, 2015.  He was born April 5, 1932 at Parks Victory Hospital to Chester and Ethelynde Van Gorder.  He graduated from Napa High School, Class of 50.  He served in the US Navy from 1951-1959 and retired from the State of California Department of Corrections.

He married the love of his life, Janet on December 6, 1952. Ken had a love for aviation and received his pilot's license on July 15, 1959.  He was a member of the Napa County Sherriff's Aero Squadron for over 50 years and also a member of the Napa Airport Pilots Association.  He loved his airplanes and flew charter for many years for Bridgeford Flying Services and also his long time friend Al Ferrari.  He accumulated 10, 201.5 hours of flight time.

Ken is survived by his loving wife, Janet Van Gorder and daughter Lise (Tim) Tarner.  He was predeceased by his son, Kenny Van Gorder.

Graveside services at Tulocay Cemetery will be private.   The family would like to thank Hospice of Napa Valley for their loving care and compassion of our husband and father.   Memorial contributions in honor of Ken may be made to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Napa Valley, 1515 Pueblo Ave, Napa, CA 94558.  Memories and words of sympathy may be shared with the family on-line at www.tulocaycemetery.org.

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