Eugene Van Cleave

Eugene M. Van Cleave, 87, of Battle Creek passed away Monday July 4, 2011 at The Oaks at NorthPointe Woods. He was born on February 17, 1924 in North Vernon, IN to Walter and Florence (Wilkerson) Van Cleave.
Eugene served in the U.S. Army during WWII with the 97th infantry, 922 division. He was a liaison scout and served in both the Pacific and European theater.
Eugene married Margaret E. Hale on September 7, 1942 in San Luis Obispo, CA; she preceded him in death on October 27, 2006. He received his Masters in Education from Ball State University in 1954 and 59 additional credits towards his doctorate from Michigan State University from 1955 to 1961. Eugene was employed by Battle Creek Public Schools as a teacher for eighteen years and as Principle of Ann J. Kellogg School for ten years. He was also a Michigan State University Supervisor of Education interns.
Surviving are, a son, Randy Van Cleave, of Elk Rapids, MI and a daughter, Suzanne Principe, of Woodbridge, CT;  two grandchildren, Rob Van Cleave, of Tampa, FL; and Ellen Klem, of Portland, OR.
Eugene was a member of American Legion Troop 54, National Rifle Association, Hunting and Fishing Clubs, and Ducks Unlimited. He served on committees to help renovate Ann J. Kellogg School, PTA groups in his schools, and supervisor of scout troops in Battle Creek.  He received a Golden Key to the city as a school employee, was Principle of the Year, and in the Who’s Who of American Education in the 1960’s. Eugene enjoyed fishing, reading, art, cars, motorcycles, hunting, playing pool, and dancing.
In accordance with his wishes cremation has taken place. A Memorial service will be held 1:30 p.m. Friday July 8, 2011at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home. Family will receive friends one hour before services. Inurnment will follow at Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to Southern Care Inc. www.henryfuneralhome.org

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