Obituaries

Dr. Steven T. Van Gorden, 58

December 31, 2017

Dr. Steven T. Van Gorden, 58, of Lancaster, passed away on Sunday, December 31, 2017, surrounded by family after a brief but courageous battle with esophageal cancer.
He was the husband of Bernie (Bernetta) Marcin Van Gorden, with whom he shared 32 years of marriage this past June. Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of Donna Ewing Van Gorden of Lancaster, and the late Lloyd S. Van Gorden.
Steve was a 1977 graduate of Conestoga Valley High School, and earned a BS in Biology at Ursinus College. He then attended the Pennsylvania College of Optometry for 4 years. He was an optometrist, working for HealthDrive for the past 21 years.
Steve was known for his sense of humor and had a joke for every occasion. In his spare time, he loved to golf with his friends. He was a die-hard Philadelphia Eagles fan and was a serious fantasy football manager. He was a M*A*S*H aficionado and could recite lines from every episode.
Steve recently attended his 40th class reunion at Conestoga Valley in October and he was happy to spend time with his classmates, enjoying stories and laughing about the past.
In addition to his wife and mother, he is survived by his children, all of Lancaster: Caitlin E., Allison M. and Zachary S.; his siblings Lisa Blowers of Conestoga, Scott married to Lori (Boyd) Van Gorden of Lancaster, and Gerri Kopp of Elizabethtown; his mother-in-law Ann Marcin of Tamaqua and several nephews and a niece.
A time of Sharing and Celebration of Steve’s life will take place on January 13, 2018 at the Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA. Family and friends will be received 9:30-10:30am. A time of sharing special memories and stories will then begin at 10:30am. Steve would want this day to be a relaxed gathering, so casual dress is encouraged.
In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the STEVEN VAN GORDEN EDUCATION BENEFIT ACCOUNT for the education of his children. Donations can be sent to Wells Fargo 1800 Oregon Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601.

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Condolences to the Family

January 09, 2018

My name is Danielle.  I knew Dr. Van Gorden several years back when he use to come to the nursing home I worked at to see patients there for eye care.  He worked for HealthDrive.  Use to bring him the patients and take them back.  He always had a smile on his face and kind words.  My condolences to family and friends.  Wanted to let you all know what an impact he had on me with his personality. 
Danielle Short LPN

January 08, 2018

Dr. Van Gorden took such good care of his patients, and was beloved by all he worked with.  It was my great honor to get to work with him the last three years.  He will be missed by his patients and co-workers alike.  Ann Fogarty

January 08, 2018

You will be missed, my cousin.   So many memories.   My first babysitting job; how you dazzled my friends with your knowledge when you were only 4 and 5.  How much fun I had watching all 4 of you on Saturdays.  Movies and going to Gino’s.  How you almost always beat me in scrabble and trivia crack.  Sorry I wasn’t able to make you my Mom’s cole slaw.  Love you.  XOXO.  Mary Ellen Sailer Paulk

January 07, 2018

Dr. Van Gorden was an exemplary doctor of optometry and practiced with distinction and compassion for over 21 years in our medical group. He took care of a needy population of elderly citizens with consummate professionalism, and was respected by his peers, his patients and all who worked with him. My sincerest condolences to family, friends and colleagues. He will be dearly missed, but his contribution will not be forgotten.  Jeffrey L. Morer, O.D.

January 07, 2018

Condolences and best wishes as you deal with your loss.
Deb Weinhold

January 07, 2018

I will never forget you Steve.  I have tons of fond memories growing up with you.  Mini-golf at Zinn’s, pile ups at The Water Buggy, playing shark at the pool and so much more.
You were always kind to me and always made me laugh.
Rest in Peace brother. 🙂
Shawn Green

Visitation
Saturday, January 13, 2018
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory
3110 Lititz Pike
Lititz, PA 17543
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Services
Saturday, January 13, 2018
10:30 AM
Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory
3110 Lititz Pike
Lititz, PA 17543
Map and Directions

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