Obituary of John H. VanHorn

John H. Van Horn, a long time resident of Point Pleasant Beach, has passed away peacefully at the age of 96. John and his late wife of over 60 years, Elizabeth "Betty" Stines, were both born in Point Pleasant Beach and resided there most of their adult lives. John spent his childhood in "West" Point Pleasant and graduated from Point Pleasant Beach High School in 1934. John was a true member of the "Greatest Generation", living through very hard times in The Depression, working to help support himself and his family from the age of ten, earning his civilian pilots license through the Civilian Pilot Training Program prior to World War II, and serving as a bomber pilot in the Army Air Force. His military service took him to Italy where he distinguished himself by flying fifty missions over European targets, including being in combat in the air on D-day in 1944. He returned from combat and was a flight instructor stationed in Savannah, GA to the end of hostilities. In civilian life John worked for Dale Yacht Basin reaching the position of Vice President before the operation's four locations were sold in 1958. He then took a position as Chief Residential Appraiser with Ocean Federal Savings and Loan, now OceanFirst Bank. John was very involved with the Point Pleasant Presbyterian Church, serving as a Deacon, Trustee, Elder and on numerous building committees. He served on the board of the Point Pleasant Beach Library for many years where his main mission was maintaining the building and grounds. In his retirement years, John spent endless hours in his shop on various projects and "straightening up". He was also known for his backyard garden with its twelve foot high tomato plants. He and Betty were constant companions and traveled extensively around the country. John also spent much time studying national and international monetary policies, particularly those of his favorite President, Franklin Roosevelt. John is survived by his son John Jr. (Susan) and many family and extended family members. He was the son of the late Watson and Clara Schauffele Van Horn and had survived both of his younger brothers Joseph and Robert Van Horn. A private service will be held at a later date. Donations in remembrance of John can be made to the Point Pleasant Presbyterian Church or a charity of your choice. For online condolences to the family visit www.pableevertzfunerahome.com