Mike “Van” VanMeveren passed away in the loving presence of his family on May 9th, 2019 at Avera Hospital in Sioux Falls. Mike was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grand father.
Mike was born April 9, 1957 in Tracy, MN. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, camping, and bonfires. Among his many talents was his love for billiards, something that he did nearly every day of his life. He enjoyed playing on league teams for many years and won numerous awards and trophies for his abilities. Mike loved to see his children and grandchildren who brought joy to his heart. He was always willing to help his family whenever there was a need.
Mike spent many years of his life shingling homes and working in various types of construction. Earlier this year he and his wife Becky celebrated 44 years of marriage together. Mike and Becky worked side-by-side for the past several years in a home-cleaning business, which was fitting since they spent most of their time together. Although in his younger years Mike was well-known for his love of fast cars, having owned several “hot rods,” his foot became “less heavy” in recent years, a fact that became something that family could laugh about. He became known for taking the backroads and going too slow on the Interstates.
Mike’s favorite pastime was fishing at his secret spot nicknamed “the honey hole.” Whether reeling in a prized walleye or a catfish, he always enjoyed sitting on the shore with a rod or two in the water. His love and compassion for animals was something of an obsession for him. Whether caring for his two dogs, rescuing a lost kitten, or caring for an injured bird, Mike saw the beauty and splendor in all of God’s creation.
Mike is survived by his wife Becky (Thompson) VanMeveren; his sons, Shane (Heather) VanMeveren, Jason (Kassie) VanMeveren; grandchildren Dylan (Katie) VanMeveren, Sienna (Mike) Nelson, Gavn Hartmann, Faith VanMeveren; great-grandchildren Hadley Nelson, and Everly VanMeveren.
He was preceded in death by his son Chad, his father Guy, and his mother Della.
A Celebration of Life was held at 11:00 am Monday, May 13, 2019 at First United Methodist Church, in Brookings. Rude’s Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Condolences may be sent to the family through www.rudesfuneralhome.com