Van B. Brock, Jr., 86, of Baton Rouge, LA, passed away Friday, August 18, 2023. He was born July 29, 1937, in Bogalusa, LA. Van attended Baton Rouge High School, graduating in 1955. The love of Van’s life was Joyce. Their first date literally started off with a bang; someone threw a firecracker over the balcony at the movie and it burned her dress. When asked why he married Joyce, he would say it was “her legs.” He danced with her in the kitchen and tenderly cared for her throughout their 64 years together. During their marriage, they created a beautiful family that always came first. Van had the amazing ability to make each of his kids feel like they were his favorite. He constantly made them laugh, sang “You are so Beautiful” to his girls, played monster in the dark, attended events and games, and cheered each on in whatever they pursued. His love encompassed them, giving them the courage to move ahead in life with whatever challenges they faced. His arms, ears, and heart were always open to them no matter the time of day or what they had done. Van truly had a gift with people, never meeting a stranger. He greeted all with a smile and a firm handshake or hug. He helped them feel heard, important, and loved–no matter who they were or their circumstance. He was someone special and unique. He didn’t think so, but maybe that is what truly made him so. Van had many interests. He liked taxidermy, which he learned from a mail-order kit, bass fishing, metal detecting–his greatest treasure being his boys' Hot Wheels found in the backyard, playing in the pool with his grandkids, and LSU football. Van served in the Air Force, stationed at England Air Force Base. He worked for and retired from the Louisiana State Retirement System where he met many lifelong friends. Van kept his family laughing until the end. His presence filled their space and is sorely missed. He is preceded in death by Jan Brock (Daughter), Billy Brock, (Brother), Van B Brock SR (Father), and Dorothy Fortenberry Brock (Mother).
He is survived by his wife, Joyce Van Osdell Brock; his children: Joy Smith, Stan Brock, Brett Brock (Laura), DeAnn Burkart (Tim), and Kelly Beckstead (Mike); grandchildren: Jansen, Jacelyn, and Jordan Smith; Anthony, Austin, and Aaron Brock; Katelynn, Zachary, Tyler, and Dallin Burkart; Madeline, Garrett, and Anna Beckstead; great-grandchildren: Melody, Lucien, Isabell, Vivian, and Oakley; and sisters: Shirley Brock and Nancy Firman. A viewing will be held on Saturday, Aug. 26, at Rabenhorst East Funeral Home from 10:00-1:00.
Afterward, services will be held at 1:00. A graveside service will follow at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Cemetery in Pride, LA.
