GREENWOOD
Pat K. Van Valer, 79, died Thursday morning, March 9, 2023. He was a resident of Indianapolis and a longtime resident of Greenwood.
He was born April 17, 1943 in Gas City, IN to Richard “Dick” C. Van Valer and Wilma “Ginger” Kelly Van Valer. Survivors include two sons, William “Bill” P. Van Valer (Megan) of Indianapolis, and John R. Van Valer (Jenny) of Indianapolis; two grandsons, Rory and Graeme; three grandchildren Bobbie, Marian and Nelly; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wives Judy Van Valer and Beverly Van Valer; and a brother, Joe Van Valer.
The family moved to Greenwood in 1945. Pat was a proud graduate of Greenwood High School Class of 1961. He later attended Indiana University and received a bachelor’s degree in zoology and a master’s degree in psychology. His education continued with his graduation from the Indiana School of Law in 1972.
Proud to work in his hometown of Greenwood, Pat worked in the Trust Department for the National Bank of Greenwood, then worked for its successor banks, Merchants Bank and National City Bank. The connections he made growing up in Greenwood led to his successful career. He also found time to be the owner of Landes Costume Company from 1982-1992, and was also the founder/owner of Van Valer Heating &Cooling.
Pat’s heart was always in Johnson County. Since his mother was the founder of the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce, he was able to give back and serve on the board and a term as president. At that time, Pat said “I became aware that our future would depend on quality of life, and I knew that quality of life would be based on philanthropy”.
This was the basis of his volunteerism to give to his community. Pat served as president, board member and various advisory positions for the Johnson County Community Foundation, which he took great pride in the mission and work of. While serving on numerous committees for the foundation, he enjoyed being an advisor to the Washington Jefferson Williams Fund.
He served on the Human Resources Board at the Orchard School in Indianapolis, where he received the school’s Distinguished Friend Award in 2006.
In Pat’s later years, he never stopped giving back to any of his philanthropic endeavors. But the most important part of his life was his children and grandchildren. He was very involved in his son’s path through Orchard School, Brebeuf High School and college. He loved being a part of his grandchildren’s lives.
Pat was a strong father, mentor and role model, and a true friend to all who knew him. He always had an infectious smile and laugh that lifted a room.
Visitation will take place on Friday the 17th. March 2023 from 4-8pm at Wilson St.Pierre Funeral Service &Crematory, Greenwood Chapel, 481 W. Main Street, Greenwood. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, March 18, at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest in Greenwood Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Johnson County Community Foundation, 398 S. Main Street, Franklin, IN 46131 or The Orchard School, 615 W. 64th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260.
Online condolences may be shared with the Van Valer family at www.stpierrefamilyfuneral.com.
