John Franklin Van Gorder

John Franklin Van Gorder

West Liberty

John Franklin Van Gorder, 59, died on Monday, April 15, 2024.

John was born on January 5, 1965, and was raised by his grandparents Heather and Lloyd Van Gorder on the Isle of Wight in England. Much of John’s childhood was spent exploring the island’s countryside, woods, and the gardens of nearby Mottistone Manor. He attributed his love of flowers, nature, and Darjeeling tea to his childhood home – as well as his avid and lifelong support of Leeds United!

John spent his life searching for the end of the rainbow. He found magic in music, stories, poetry, and treasure hunting. Perhaps he came closest to what he was looking for in his beloved daughters Lucy and Nicola, his grandson Oliver, and his partner Julianna. John was also very much loved by his cat, Kiki. John made others feel comfortable in their own skin even when he never truly felt comfortable in his. He struggled to find his place in this world but gave others a feeling of meaning and belonging – those who met John, remember John. He never stopped fighting and he never stopped loving or being loved.

John spent sixteen years building a sanctuary for lovers of music and beauty – you can visit his YouTube channel at SteelyMan08. “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.” – Plato