Frederick Peter Van Kempen Jr.

February 7, 1947 - June 24, 2026

Fred died in Portland, Oregon in the arms of his beloved wife, Shelley after a long illness. He will be remembered for his quiet, steady presence, his wry sense of humor and wise insights about relationships and human nature.

Fred was born in Albany, NY to Marian and Peter Van Kempen and grew up with his brother Gary. He graduated from Bethlehem Central High School in Delmar, NY in 1965 before headed to Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa, graduating in 1969. He received a Master of Divinity from New Brunswick Theological Seminary and was an ordained minister in the Reformed Church in America for many years before becoming a counselor. He graduated from Fordham University with a Masters Degree in Social Work in 1987 and began a nearly 30 year career as a licensed clinical social worker and credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor. He was an avid reader of mostly non-fiction, an oft consulted expert about cars of all kinds, a follower of national news and a lover of music: classical, jazz and classic rock.

Fred is survived by his devoted partner in life, Shelley Van Kempen and his cherished son, Andrew Van Kempen and wife Maggy (Vogt) as well as his brother Gary (Dorinda) Van Kempen and several nieces, nephews, and friends. A private memorial gathering will be held.

The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff of Tenderly Hospice, and the skilled staff of the Angel Light Care Home both in Beaverton, OR who hovered over and ministered to him in the most caring, tender way. In lieu of flowers, Fred asked that you consider a donation to Fordham University School of Social Services at www.fordham.edu/giving or by mailing checks to Bank of America-Gift Processing Center, Fordham University, PO Box 417762, Boston, MA 02241-7762 and note online or on the check that the gift is intended for the School of Social Services in Fred’s memory.

Arrangements by Young’s Funeral Home, Tigard, Oregon