Richard A. "Rick" Van Horn

Richard A. “Rick” Van Horn of Haslett, Michigan and formerly of Battle Creek passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, December 15, 2024. 

Rick was born February 18, 1943 in Battle Creek, Michigan the son of Arthur Henry and Mary Anne (Hervig) Van Horn. He grew up in Battle Creek and graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1961. He continued his education at Kellogg Community College, and received his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Journalism from Michigan State University. Rick honorably served his country in the U.S. Navy for four years 1966-1970. His tour included time aboard the USS Constellation with a meritorious Unit Commendation and a Vietnam Service Medal among others. Rick was employed for 13 years at Federal Home Insurance Company in Battle Creek and then for 20 years in Communication for the State of Michigan, retiring in 2007. 

Rick was united in marriage to Renee E. Barthel on June 17, 1977, in Battle Creek, Michigan. Surviving are his wife, Renee; children, Erik Van Horn of Paradise CA and Christopher Van Horn of Lansing, MI. Rick was preceded in death by his parents; Arthur and Mary Anne (Hervig) Van Horn.

Rick was a member of the DeWitt Garden Club. His love of photography won him several ribbons. He volunteered at the Capitol Area Food Bank and as a journalist he volunteered as co-editor for the C & O Railroad Historical Society. He loved fishing, reading and going to movies with his friend. Rick will be remembered for his love of music, especially Doo-Wop. He was always willing to tell you the full words of Stardust, especially the prelude.

Inurnment with full military honors will be held 1:00 p.m. Friday, January 3, 2025, at the Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta. A celebration of Rick’s life will also be held on January 7, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday at Community of Christ, 1514 Miller Road, Lansing, MI. Please share your memories. 

Memorial contributions in memory of Rick may be made to the Capitol Area Humane Society, Lansing, MI. Arrangements by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, Battle Creek. Personal messages for the family and favorite memories of Rick may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.