Obituary of David Lee Van Oort

Memorial Tribute

David Lee Van Oort, son of Harvey J. and Gloria A. (Baartman) Van Oort, was born in Sheldon, Iowa on January 18, 1967. He grew up in Sanborn, Iowa along with his sister, Pam and four brothers: Keith, Steven, Daryl and Chad. He received his education at River Valley Community School in Rock Valley, Iowa.

    As an adult, David made his home at Village Northwest Unlimited located in Sheldon. He enjoyed the 34 years he spent there and took part in many of the programs and activities they offered. Having always been a sports fan, he looked forward to participating in the Special Olympics; even qualifying for a trip to the state competition with a few events. Along with sports, he liked motorcycles and stock cars – actually, racing of any kind, but it could be a toss-up on Saturday morning whether to watch a football game or tune into a good old Scooby-Doo cartoon (those were hard to beat). When TV had nothing to offer, just listening to music, going outside for a walk or doing a little fishing seemed to fit the bill.  

    While living at the Village, David made good use of his time working at the beverage can redemption center and helping insert mail pieces for the Golden Shopper periodical.  

    On Wednesday, July 19, 2023, David passed from this life at the age of 56 years. He now joins his father, Harvey Van Oort (2022); his grandparents: Pete and Mina Van Oort and Pete and Sadie Baartman; his niece, Paige Van Oort; and other loved ones.

   Left to cherish his memory are his mother, Gloria Van Oort of Sanborn, Iowa; brothers: Keith (Candy) Van Oort of Sheldon, Iowa. Steven Van Oort of Archer, Iowa, Daryl (Brenda) Van Oort of Ashton, Iowa, and Chad Van Oort of Sanborn, Iowa; one sister, Pam (Kelly) DeGroot also of Sanborn; other relatives and friends.