Van Verl True

Van True, 91, of Tucson, was born in New Cumberland, Ohio to Wayne and Verna True. Van met his Wife Nadine (Martin) at Tucson High School in 1947. They married in October 1951, shortly after Van enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. The Air Force had Van and Nadine stationed in Texas, Germany, Florida, Mississippi, and Colorado. While in Colorado, Van and Nadine had three children, Michael (Sharon Paeth), David, and Daniel. Shortly after David and Daniel were born, Van and Nadine moved back to Tucson, to be near family. Nadine and Van were incredibly involved in their church and made many lasting friendships there.

While in the Air Force Van was a propeller mechanic, taught electronics, and supervised radar systems maintenance. Van retired from the Air Force in 1971 and worked in the homebuilding industry and was a realtor until he retired a second time. Van was most proud of being a devoted Husband, Father, Grandfather, and friend. He helped Nadine dote on their five grand kids: William, Van, Paisley (Michael), Megan, and Ashley (Daniel). Van always wanted to provide a safe home, full of comfort and food for family and friends. Van loved his wonderful dogs Bucky and Jake and desert tortoises. Van loved travelling and square dancing with Nadine, airplanes, silversmithing, home maintenance projects, and everything automotive. Van was motivated by his faith and was kind to everyone. Van was always eager to listen, encourage, and support those around him.

Van suffered from Parkinson’s disease and COPD, but never let his physical difficulties diminish his kind spirit. After four months apart, Van is again with his Wife of 69 years. Van is survived by his sister Eleanor (Gum), three children, and five Grandchildren. The Family would like to thank The Bradford Home and Emblem Hospice for their excellent, compassionate care during Van’s last months.

Just like with Nadine, we will not say “Goodbye” Van – only “See you later!”

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Curing Kids Cancer at curingkidscancer.org, or Thru the Bible with J. Vernon McGee at www.ttb.org.