Edward George VanZweden

Edward George Van Zweden at 81 sadly left our world in his home Wednesday, July 24, 2024, due to complications of the lungs.

He was born on May 6, 1943, in Ogden, Utah, to his mother, Eva May VanZweden and father, Edward George VanZweden, Sr.

Edward is survived by his wife, Patricia Ruth VanZweden; son, Robb (Kim) VanZweden; daughter, Melanie VanZweden (Nathaniel) Conger; sisters, Kay VanZweden Lopez and Judy VanZweden Hobson; and brothers, Greg and Kirk VanZweden. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Kyle (Marissa), Hailey and Skyler (Brendan Scarbrough) VanZweden, and Ava Conger.

He graduated from Ogden High School class of 1961 and after Weber State University earning a bachelor’s degree in social work. Edward then spent a handful of years working in the field of social work before deciding to earn a master’s degree from the University of Utah, which was conferred in early 1970s. Edward was a devoted student and lifetime learner, enjoyed history and was an avid reader. He also loved sports, mainly Weber State Wildcats and the LA dodgers, which he shared the affinity with his son.

During college Edward married Jolene Jessop in February of 1964 and they had a son which they named Robb. They were married for about 11 years and divorced but remained good friends and co-parents. Edward and Jolene managed to foster a great relationship with their son and had worked together to provide the best. He later married Patricia and they had a daughter, Melanie. Altogether this had been a wonderful family dynamic that remained.

With career Edward worked his way through the ranks with the State of Utah in the Child and Family Services Division achieving the position of Director and overseer. His demeanor was calm and cool, which made Edward a perfect fit for that role. Those that worked with him and knew him well would strongly agree.

He was motivated and his accomplishments were many. Edward was a passionate runner and ran several marathons. He was a devoted father, husband, brother, and grandfather, dedicating his life to family, career and living his best. Edward also spent a lot of personal time making a positive impact with people that struggled with drug addiction and personal matters. After retiring he volunteered for Riverdale Utah Drug Court program as a drug and alcohol counselor helping those afflicted. This spoke volumes to Edward’s character as a person and professional.

After retirement Edward and the love of his lifetime Patricia sought out to travel and visit as many vacation destinations as possible – with family and friends. At times it seemed they were travelling abroad more than they were home.

Edward was loved and adored by those around him and those that knew him well. He had countless friends and a lot of them remained throughout his lifetime. Edward will be loved and missed every day.

Our family was grateful for our loved ones, those that expressed their love for Edward and all of them that shared appreciation for his life.

Join us in celebrating Edward’s life at a Memorial Service on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary, 3408 Washington Blvd. Friends may visit with family on Thursday from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at the mortuary. 

In lieu of flowers please donate to the YCC: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/yccdonate

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