Van Lewis Parker, son of the late George and Lois Walton Parker, passed peacefully in his home in Glenns early Saturday morning, Aug. 26, 2017.

His brief, yet courageous, fight with cancer showcased his stubborn and brave spirit. At the mere age of 55, Van loved more passionately and worked harder than many of those who live nearly a century. Those who met Van through life or through his automotive repair shop can vouch for his selfless nature and unending love for friends and family.

His legacy can be seen in the eyes of his children, the smile of his wife, in the glare of the sun shining on the repair shop doors as they open for the day, and in the wonderful friendships that bond the souls of the loyal and kind.

He is survived by his wife, Deborah; children, Brandon and Kaitlyn; nephew, Michael Parker; father-in-law, Calvin Robinson; sister-in-law, Susan Hodges; nieces, Sarah Pullen Alfarisi and Hannah Pullen, and nephews, Andrew Pullen and Calvin Robinson.

The family received friends from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, at Bristow-Faulkner Funeral Home. A funeral service was held at 11 a.m. at Salem United Methodist Church in Gloucester on Wednesday Aug. 30, 2017. Interment followed in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Salem United Methodist Church, 11408 Salem Church Road or Gloucester Volunteer Fire and Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 1417, both in Gloucester, Va. 23061.

Arrangements by Bristow-Faulkner Funeral Home in Saluda, Va.