Alva Lee Van Vleet

Alva Lee Van Vleet

Aug. 17, 1943 - June 20, 2024

TRENTON, Neb. - Alva Lee Van Vleet was born on Aug. 17, 1943 in Danbury, Neb. to Denzel and Bernice (Lockhart) Van Vleet.

Alva graduated from high school and joined the United States Navy. His Naval career would allow him to further his education, receiving his bachelor’s degree in signals. Alva served proudly for 28 years, seeing most of the country and Vietnam. He retired in Virginia at the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer.

Alva eventually made his way back to southwest Nebraska where he put down roots in Trenton. Alva worked for Southwest Fertilizer and did custom harvesting. He was a member of American Legion Post #337 in Trenton. He enjoyed fishing and riding motorcycles. Alva was happiest when sampling hops or a good, fermented beverage. He spent time watching and attending rodeos and enjoyed western movies on the television.

Alva passed away June 20, 2024 at the Central Nebraska Veterans Home in Kearney, Neb. He was 80 years of age.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Merald Van Vleet; and a special friend, Dessie Lewis.

Survivors include his sons, Michael Lee (Michelle) Van Vleet of Fountain, Colo. and Kevin Dean Van Vleet of Chesapeake, VA; Pat (Ronda) Lewis and Roger (Lisa) Lewis both of Trenton; grandchildren: Stephanie Mia Van Vleet, Christopher Ryan Van Vleet, Josh Lewis, Tommy Lewis, Rebekah Gillispie, Lindsey Kluthe, Lacey Alig, Lexey Humphrey, and Laramey Becker; 22 great-grandchildren; and sister Karen Van Vleet of Wichita, Kan.

Cremation was chosen and memorial services are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 27, 2024 at Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel in McCook with Pastor Jeremy LaBrie officiating. Military honors will take place at the funeral chapel. A private family inurnment will take place at a later date.

Memorials in Alva’s name are suggested to a veterans charity of your choosing. Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook.