Pat K. Van Valer

Pat K. Van Valer, 79, passed away Thursday morning, March 9, 2023. He was a resident of Indianapolis, and a long time Greenwood resident.

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 granddaughters 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 one 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 receiving Bachelor’s in Zoology, and a Masters degree in Psychology. His education continued by graduating from the Indiana School of Law in 1972.

Pat was proud to work in his hometown of Greenwood, working in the Trust Department for the National Bank of Greenwood, and subsequently working for the successor banks, Merchants Bank and National City Bank. The connections he made with growing up in Greenwood led to his successful career.  He also found time to be an 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.  As 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 its President.  At that time, Pat said “I was becoming aware that our future would depend on quality of life, and I knew that quality of life would be grounded in philanthropy”.

This was the basis in his volunteerism of giving to his community. Pat served as President, Board member, and various advisory positions for the Johnson County Community Foundation, of which he was very proud of its mission and its work. While serving on numerous committees for the Foundation, he enjoyed being an advisor to the Washington Jefferson Williams Fund.

He served on the Personnel Board of the Orchard School in Indianapolis, where he earned 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, were those of his children and grandchildren. He was very involved with 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 sincere friend to all who knew him. He always carried an infectious smile and laugh that lifted a room.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 17, 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 11AM, Saturday, March 18, at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest at 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. 64^th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260.

Online condolences may be shared with the Van Valer family at www.stpierrefamilyfuneral.com.

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