Daniel Rust VanGerpen

Dan was born in Los Angeles on January 9, 1933, to father Rolland Phillips VanGerpen and mother Dorothy Francis VanGerpen. He spent most of his adult life in Raytown, Missouri. Dan received two Master degree(s) from Webster University in 1993. He spent his early career in the Aerospace Industry in California. Also, he worked at Dick Smith Ford and in the beverage truck body industry. Dan retired in 1999 and moved back to California. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite, Shriners, and a lifetime member of Boy Scout Troop 121.

Dan once wrote and believed life was a journey and would not have changed any part of his life. He felt blessed with a loving family, excellent teachers, mentors, friends, acquaintances, and associates. However, it was all of “us” who he touched and left with a positive impression during his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rolland and Dorothy VanGerpen, his brother, Robert VanGerpen, and beloved wife of 37 years, LeAnn VanGerpen.

He is survived by his loving wife Julie Nims, his children Denise VanGerpen (Denise’s mother, Phyllis preceded Dan in death), Karen Missler (Jack), and Susan Cristalee; his step-children Teresa Jamison (Michael), Vicki Cerame, Kelly Ferguson, twelve grandchildren and many great, great grandchildren.

Dad (DanDan, Granddad), the mountains and trails of heaven are now waiting for you to explore. We love you. Until we meet again.

Funeral services will be 10am, Thursday, April 22, 2021 at Floral Hills Funeral Home. Burial in Floral Hills Memorial Gardens. The funeral will be livestreamed on Floral Hills Facebook page, starting five minutes prior to 10am. Memorial contributions may be made to Boy Scout Troop 121, www.troopwebhost.org/troop121granitebay and/or Raytown Masonic Lodge #391, 6309 Overton Ave, Raytown, MO 64133.