Van Baxter Kershner

He was born on July 18, 1926, in Hagerstown, Maryland, son of the late Franklin Howard and Elsie May Becthel Kershner.

He was a Navy veteran, serving during World War II, was a quiet man, and loved the Lord and church. He worked on the railroad for 40 years and was a loving father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He loved gardening and was an animal lover, especially horses.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 14 siblings, and a granddaughter, Brittany Rae Knight.

He is survived by his children, Abby Armentrout and her husband, Greg of McGaheysville, VA, Laura Kershner of Jefferson, MD, and Phillip Van Lear Kershner of Keymar, MD; a granddaughter, Heather Poffenberger and her husband, D.J., and great grandchildren, Tristan and Audrey Rae Poffenberger. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, including Victor Guilminoe III and Susie Morgan Higgins.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Friday, September 2, 2011, at East Lawn Memorial Gardens in Harrisonburg, VA.

The family would like to give a special thank to Shenandoah Nursing Home, as well as Hospice of the Shenandoah for their wonderful care and support.

Memorial contributions may be made, in Van's memory, to the Salvation Army.

Family may share memories and sign the guest register book online at www.reynoldshamrickfuenralhomes.com