Raymond F. Vanvalkenburg

Raymond F. VanValkenburg, 93, of Salem, peacefully went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, June 8, 2016. He was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn VanValkenburg, Sr. and Marian Becker VanValkenburg; and his brother, Glenn VanValkenburg, Jr. Raymond was born and raised in Black River, NY. It was here that Raymond first met his future wife, Dorothy, at their church youth group. In 1942, Raymond was drafted into the Army Corps. He was stationed in Iceland as a cryptographer, and proudly served his country during World War II. During this time, he was granted an extended leave and on November 4, 1944, he married his sweetheart Dorothy in Salem, VA. In 1945, Raymond was honorably discharged from the Army. He and Dorothy settled in Salem, VA, where he attended Roanoke College. After graduating, he began his career with George A. Jeffreys Co., where he later served as President and Treasurer. Raymond was a member of First United Methodist Church in Salem. He was very active in his church, where he served as Treasurer for many years. Family left to cherish his memory include his loving and devoted wife of 72 years, Dorothy Jeffreys VanValkenburg; daughters, Sherry V. Reynolds and husband, Stephen, Donna Crotts and husband H.C., and Robin Eller and husband Stephen; grandchildren, John Reynolds, David Reynolds, Todd Crotts, Paul Eller, and Keri Eller; six great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews and extended family; friend and caregiver, Joann DiBlasio; and special cat, Junior. The family expresses a sincere thanks to Dr. Bonnie Culkin and Raymonds caregivers, Brenda, Missy, and Chris, for their love and care. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to First United Methodist Church, 125 W Main St, Salem, VA 24153 or to Ram House, 824 Campbell Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24016. The family will receive friends on Sunday, June 12, 2016 from 2 until 5 p.m. at John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem. A funeral service to honor Raymonds life will be held on Monday, June 13, 2016 at 11 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Salem, with Pastor Bobby Pickle officiating. Military funeral honors and burial will be conducted privately. Online condolences may be expressed at www.johnmoakey.com. The VanValkenburg family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem, 540-389-5441. Service Details. Visitation When Sunday, June 12th, 2016 2:00pm - 5:00pm Location John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home Address 305 Roanoke Boulevard Salem, Virginia 24153 Service When Monday, June 13th, 2016 11:00am Location First United Methodist Church Address 125 West Main Street Salem, Virginia 24153