Photo No. 2262

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Van Hereford, a native of Conroe, Texas and longtime Baton Rouge resident, passed away at his home on Monday, October 25, 2015 at the age of 83. After graduating from Sam Houston State University, Van served a tour of duty in the US Army, after which he was employed by Gulf States Utilities. He retired in 1994 as Division Accounting Superintendent, after 39 years of service.

Van was an avid golfer and traveler, having visited Hereford, England to explore his roots. Van was an antique model plane builder and a published designer. His planes were built and flown all over the world. In 2013, he received the National Society of Antique Modeler's Hall of Fame and lifetime achievement award. He was a long time member of Broadmoor Baptist Church and served as a deacon for many years. Van's ancestors were among 'The Old Three Hundred', who settled in Texas with Steven F. Austin in 1824 and were residents of Texas when it became a state. He was also a proud member of the Society of Mayflower Descendants.

He was preceded in death by his father, V.B. (Kelly) Hereford, and mother Maude Elliot Hereford. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Mary Carter, daughter Debra Kay Drude and husband Raymond, their children Lindsay and husband, Kurt Bornkessel, and son Trey. Also survived by their son Kelly and his wife Susan, and their sons Jack and Charlie.

Visitation will be held at Broadmoor Baptist Church on Friday, October 30th from 9:00 to 11:00. The memorial service will begin at 11. In lieu of flowers the family asks donations be made to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation. Please visit PDF.org for more information.