Van Peery

Van was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He loved others with the pure love of Christ. All who were fortunate to know him could feel his love and loved him back. There was nothing he couldn’t fix or build and he constantly used his talents to bless and help others. Van was a very spiritual man. He often quoted from the scriptures and loved sharing the gospel. He always had a song in his heart. He cherished his family and always expressed his love for them. He especially loved to see his grandchildren. He made each grandchild feel like they were his favorite. No one could push the kids in the swing as high as grandpa!

Van Collin Peery died peacefully in his home on July 8 th , 2018 in Orem, UT at the age of 69 after a long battle with cancer. He was born on July 29, 1948 in Payson, UT, to Rex and Sarah Marie Peery. Van grew up in the small  farming town of Spring Lake, UT where he had many fond memories on the family farm including riding his horse to school.

He attended Payson High School and graduated in 1966. As a Payson Lion he was very involved in athletics, which included captain of the football team, and competing for state in the high hurdles. After graduating from Payson High, Van continued his studies at Snow College until called to serve an LDS mission to the North British Mission. After returning home he met and married his sweetheart Raquel Purdy of Provo, UT. They were sealed in the Provo LDS Temple. Van and Raquel shared a deep love and affection for each other throughout life.

Van served as Sergeant in the United States Air Force as a medic for four years and later graduated from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor of Science. Before settling in Orem, Van and Raquel moved over 13 times. For the last 20 years Van worked for the University Mall as operations manager and recently retired February of this year. He was known as the go-to-guy who got things done.

Van was an incredibly talented inventor who was always thinking up the next big thing. His passion for kinetic art drove him to co-create the Gumball Gizmo vending machine. He rarely stopped moving and always had a project in the bed of his truck. He served in many capacities in the church including elders quorum president, high priest group leader, counselor in the bishopric, missionary, home teacher and more.

Van loved many things in life. He loved dirt biking, mountain biking, hiking, camping, inventing, fixing things, hunting for gold, gardening, working with his hands, movies, music and more.
Van adored his sweet wife Raquel. They had such a special relationship and love for one another. They loved spending time together. Raquel took such great care of him as his primary caregiver. She was always by his side and showed him so much love and compassion. Dad, you will be greatly missed! We love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck!

Van is survived by his wife Raquel; children, Daniel Peery (Mekel), Gregory Peery (Jeselyn); Michelle McGrath (Jesse), Eric Peery (Krista), Lindsey Anderson, and Alisa Edmunds (Joey). Van has 23 grandchildren and one great grandchild. He is also survived by his siblings, Anita Weiderman, Clyde Peery (Arlene), Pat Hansen, Karla Horton (Chris). He is preceded in death by his parents, Rex and Sarah Marie Peery.

Funeral Services will be Held Wednesday, July 11, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at the LDS Chapel located at 1105 West 600 South, Orem, Utah.   A viewing will be held prior to the services from 9:30 to 10:30.  Interment will be in the Camp Williams cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family on this page.

The family would like to thank Jared Moore at Encompass for his care and concern. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Van's life.