James Lee "Pete" Van Horn

James Lee "Pete" Van Horn, 80, of Brunswick, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 2, 2015. Pete was born in West Milford, West Virginia to James Willis and Mildred Bayless Van Horn. He grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee attending Central High School and serving as co-captain of the football team and vice president of the senior class. He earned a football scholarship to the University of Wyoming, and later transferred to the University of Tennessee where he was active in the ROTC while completing a degree in mechanical engineering. After graduation, Pete proudly served his country as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Army and became a Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division. Following his military service, Pete was an engineer with Mead Publishing, a job that afforded him the opportunity to live and work in Brunswick, Georgia. He later worked for Rust Engineering and Champion International Corporation, where he was Director of Paper Manufacturing until his retirement in 1999.

In addition to traveling, Pete enjoyed fishing, water skiing, and playing tennis. He was an accomplished and avid woodworker and could often be found in his shop making one-of-a-kind pieces of fine furniture for his family and friends. He was a loving husband, father, friend, and grandfather who will be remembered for his great sense of humor and kind heart.

He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Ruby M. “Rita” Van Horn; four daughters, Zohreh Yamin (her daughter, Emily), Kathryn Nicklaus, Sarah Van Horn McGehee and Mary O’Brien; a son, James Van Horn, Jr.; nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

A reception and Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, August 14 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed at www.edomillerandsons.com