George P. Van Schaik

VAN SCHAIK, George P. Age 89 of Villa Hills, Kentucky, formerly of Trotwood, Ohio passed away Friday, November 3, 2017. George was born in Dayton, Ohio on September 16, 1928 to his parents, Christiaan “Chris” Johannes and Diena “Dina” (Riegen) Van Schaik. George was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Elizabeth (Betty) Ann Rafferty; son, Jeffrey J. Van Schaik; brothers Chris Van Schaik and Frank Van Schaik; and sister Agnes Horn. He is survived by 2 daughters, Christina (husband, David) Dzaran, and Julie (husband, Brady) Coogan; 2 grandchildren, Christopher Dzaran and Kathleen Dzaran; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. George was a 1946 graduate of Kiser High School in Dayton. George’s first job was at Heck’s Delicatessen in Old North Dayton, where he met his wife Betty who he married on September 26, 1953. Later, his job working at a Sun Oil filling station helped prepare him for his tenure as a tank mechanic in the 22nd Infantry Regiment of the U.S. Army, where he was stationed in Germany. After completing his time in the service he went to work for Central Ohio Paper Company and gained experience as a salesman. George was a natural and successful salesman who ultimately opened his own insurance agency in Trotwood, Ohio, George P. Van Schaik Insurance. He maintained this Agency until he retired. George was a compassionate, fun loving, and wonderfully generous person that brought joy to many. He was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. His family was his priority. He never missed an event or gathering. George took great joy in socializing with his many friends, playing cards, camping, bicycling, and fishing and in anything where fun was to be found. George and Betty built their home in Trotwood in 1957, where they lived until the last few years. George was also a committed public servant, and giving back to his community was a great priority in his life. George served as the mayor of Trotwood, as a Trotwood city councilman for 18 years, and as president of the Trotwood Rotary Club. He also dedicated much of his life to service within the Precious Blood church community, where he and Betty belonged for 60 years. He served on the Liturgy Commission, on the Social Justice and Outreach commissions, and at church festivals for many years. In his retirement he continued to serve the community at The Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul organizations. George's joy and love for life will be missed by all he knew. Visitation will be held from 10-11 AM with Memorial Funeral Mass to follow at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at Precious Blood Catholic Church, 4961 Salem Ave, Dayton, Ohio 45416. Inurnment for both George and Betty will follow Mass at Calvary Cemetery. If desired, donations can be made in George's memory to The Salvation Army or the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Condolences may be expressed online at: www.RogersFuneralHomes.com