John Van Cleave Death – Today at Viroqua Elementary School, the lights were a little darker because they had lost their most certified physical education teacher. Former Viroqua hockey coach John Van Cleave passed away after battling pancreatic cancer. He was announced dead on Friday, the 13th of January 2023 by Viroqua Area Community Arena. The world is a better place because of John Van Cleave also known to many as JVC, and the lights will shine again because of him.
“Our Viroqua student players received heartbreaking news today as Mr Van Cleave has passed away. He was a favourite teacher for many of them and he was always the first one to ask how a hockey game went the weekend prior.” He leaves behind his beautiful wife Tia Van Cleave.
How did John Van Cleave die?
John was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in April 2022. John began his first round of chemotherapy in June 2022, followed by seven more rounds. In November 2022, John and Tia met with doctors at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester to learn that the current chemotherapy was ineffective, so they devised a new strategy. John is currently participating in a clinical trial with the wonderful care team at Mayo Clinic in Rochester to try to fight this cancer.
John Van Cleave GoFundMe
This GoFundMe page was created by Tracy Abbott of West Salem, Wisconsin to help the family pay for funeral costs and other expenses at this difficult time. As of this morning, the fundraiser page “John and Tia Van Cleave” has raised $9,385 USD out of a $30,000 goal. Peggy Gabrielson was the most generous donor, donating $250.
“As you can imagine, this has been a difficult time for both Tia and John. They are dedicated to keeping fighting this battle, however, they could use your support to help cover daily, medical, and travel expenses. If at this time you are unable to help support them financially, they would love your continued prayers, words of encouragement, positive thoughts, and love you have shown them throughout this journey,” a statement on the page read.
Obituary and Funeral arrangements for John Van Cleave have not been made by the family.
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