James Edward Van Epp Jr.

Born on December 18, 1948, he was the beloved son of James Edward Van Epp Sr. and Florica Cicma Van Epp. Dr. Van Epp leaves behind a legacy of kindness and intellectual achievement, survived by his brother, John Van Epp, and his sister, Joanne Feindt, along with her husband, Joseph, a niece and two nephews. He is also remembered by seven cousins, an uncle, and an aunt.

Dr. Van Epp's early years were spent in Cornwall on the Hudson, New York, before his family relocated to Wilmington, Delaware. There, he attended Mount Pleasant High School, where he excelled academically and graduated as valedictorian. Following in his father's footsteps, he pursued a passion for chemistry at Brown University, earning a degree in Organic Chemistry in 1970.

His academic journey continued at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, where he obtained his Ph.D. in 1979. Furthering his expertise, he completed a Post Doctorate Degree at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1980. In addition to his academic accomplishments, Dr. Van Epp served his country as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. His professional career was marked by significant contributions to the Department of Chemistry at Brown University, where he was respected for his dedication to education and research.

For the past decade, Dr. Van Epp resided in Warren, Rhode Island, where he was known for his generous spirit and commitment to helping others. He frequently assisted community members by providing transportation to essential appointments and errands, embodying the values of service and compassion.

Dr. Van Epp was a man of diverse interests, with a deep appreciation for music. His tastes spanned from classical to early rock and roll, with a particular fondness for swing bands. He was an avid theatergoer, often traveling across New England to attend performances, and was a cherished member of the Boston Chapter of the Sherlock Holmes Society.

A lifelong lover of cats, Dr. Van Epp was also an avid reader, amassing a vast and varied library that reflected his wide-ranging interests and intellectual curiosity. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to local animal shelters, honoring his love for animals and his enduring commitment to their welfare.

Dr. Van Epp's kindness, dedication to others, and intellectual contributions will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. His life was a testament to the power of generosity, curiosity, and community, leaving a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to have crossed his path.