James Francis Van Ackeren peacefully passed away in Chehalis, Washington, on Oct. 6, 2023. He was 101 years old.
James was born in Humphrey, Nebraska, on June 18, 1922. When he was 8 years old, he moved with his parents, Ben and Catherine, and his older brother, Donald, to Kent, Washington. There, he attended grade school and graduated from Kent High School. He attended Washington State University in Pullman, Washington. In September 1942, he enlisted in the United States Army. He entered into active duty in March 1943 and served in Normandy, northern France, Rhineland, and central Europe as a staff sergeant. He was awarded an honorable discharge on Dec. 20, 1945.
James returned to his home in Kent where he joined his father and brother in the retail shoe business. He met Novella Neilander, and several years later they were married in St. James Cathedral in Seattle, Washington, on April 17, 1951. James opened up his own shoe store in downtown Renton, Washington. The store was named “Van’s Shoes.” He stayed in Renton for 20 years. He moved his family to Chehalis, Washington, in June 1971. There, he owned Van’s Shoes at Bartel’s. He worked there until he retired at 60 years old. James was a member of Riverside Men’s Golf Club and was an active member at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, as well as The Knights of Columbus.
James enjoyed traveling to the East Coast and was very fond of Santa Barbara. He was an avid golfer, and he loved to play his piano.
James is preceded in death by his parents and brother, his daughter Jennifer and his wife, Novella.
James is survived by his two daughters, Janet Schultz and Jody Manfred.
The daughters would like to give special thanks to all the caregivers at Woodland Estates, the kitchen staff and the administrative staff.
A service will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Chehalis on Nov. 16, 2023, at 11 a.m. Reception on site.
