Bert Roy Van Gorder, 52

TOWNSEND - Bert Roy VanGorder of Townsend died Saturday, Aug. 11, 2007, west of Townsend, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. He was 52.

Mr. VanGorder was born in Bainbridge, Md., son of Loretta Stayton of Felton, and Albert "Van" VanGorder.

He worked as a heavy equipment operator for K. Wolf Construction.

Mr. VanGorder was a jack of all trades, and could do just about anything.

In his spare time, he enjoyed riding Harley Davidson motorcycles and tattooing.

Mr. VanGorder also enjoyed welding and became a talented welder.

He was a perfectionist. No matter what he tackled, he put his heart and soul into it. If he could not figure it out, he would either teach himself how to do it or research the matter.

Above all, Mr. VanGorder loved his family. His children were his life, and he took great strides to be the best father that he could be.

He will be sadly missed by his family and close friends.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his significant other, Christine M. Carr of Townsend; his sons, Christopher VanGorder and Steven VanGorder, both of Harrington, and Axl VanGorder and Harley VanGorder, both of Townsend; his daughters, Shannon VanGorder of Magnolia, and Branda VanGorder of Townsend; seven grandchildren; his brothers, Rick Gene VanGorder of Pittsburgh, and Kert Lee VanGorder of Houston; and a sister, Michelle Mock of Annandale, Va.

Memorial services will be 2 p.m. Saturday in Melvin Funeral Home, 15522 S. DuPont Highway, Harrington, where friends may call one hour prior to the service.

Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Instead of flowers, donations may be made to the VanGorder Children Trust Fund, c/o Delaware First Federal Credit Union, Middletown Branch Office, Middletown Shopping Center, 600 N. Broad St., Suite 10, Middletown, DE 19709-1032.