John David Van Houten

John D. Van Houten, passed away peacefully on the morning of Friday, September 26th, in Chandler AZ, succumbing to long battle with cancer. John was born in Sioux City, IA March 23, 1947, and died at the age of 78.

John was a loving, compassionate and dedicated husband to Donna Van Houten, having been married for 57 years, and father to two children John and Chris. A proud Marine Corp veteran, John served in the Vietnam war and afterwards spent a 30-year career with the Gillette Company, and retired from the company as a Vice President of International Sales & Marketing at the age of 52.

Upon retirement, John & Donna’s passion was travelling the country in their motorhome and visiting family and friends across the country. John was a member, and Commandant for the East Valley Marines, Marine Corp League, Detachment 1296 and dedicated much of his time developing and leading the Toys for Tots program of Maricopa County which provided toys for thousands of local families, and the Marines Helping Veterans Program, which has helped many veterans and their families from all branches of service, and chaired the East Valley Marines Charity Golf Tournament for several years. John will be remembered for his love and dedication to his family and helping the community through his leadership and commitment to helping veterans and families of the local community.

John is survived by wife Donna, his 2 sons, John Van Houten (deceased), Christopher Van Houten, brother Craig & Susie Van Houten, sister Nancy & Terry French, and three grandchildren, Madison, Chase & JD, and numerous nieces & nephews.

His loving, compassionate and giving spirit will be remembered in our hearts forever.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the East Valley Marines, Marine Corp League, Detachment 1296, P.O Box 13192 Chandler, AZ 85248.

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