George Edwin Van Wagenen

  On June 9th, 2025, after a life lived with integrity, service, and love, George Edwin Van Wagenen passed away peacefully at home in Colorado Springs, Colorado, surrounded by his devoted family. He was 82 years old.   

 

George was born on September 20th, 1942, in Provo, Utah, to Everett Van Wagenen and Viola Crum. He spent his early years in Utah before graduating from high school in 1960. That same year, he was accepted into the University of Utah and studied for 3 years until he was accepted into the United States Air Force Academy, where he proudly earned a Bachelor of Science degree, graduating with the Class of 1967. After George was discharged from the United States Air Force, he continued his education at Weber State College earning a second Bachelor of Science degree in Electronics Engineering Technology, graduating magna cum laude. 

 

  In 1967, George was commissioned into the United States Air Force, where he completed intensive flight training and earned his designation as a rescue helicopter pilot. He served his country with courage and distinction during the Vietnam War as a member of the 40th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron. For his bravery and dedication, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. His military service was a point of quiet pride, and his commitment to duty left a lasting legacy.

 

  On June 8th, 1967, just days before beginning his military career, George married Karen Joy Alaniva at Bellview Baptist Church in Colorado Springs. Together, they shared 58 beautiful years of marriage, raising three sons and eventually welcoming eight grandchildren.

 

  After completing his service in the Air Force, George began a successful 35-year career as a Financial Planner, working with EF Hutton, Shearson Lehman Brothers, Linsco Private Ledger, and the Beottcher Foundation before retiring in 2017. His work was marked by care, trust, and long-standing relationships with clients and colleagues alike.

 

  George had a deep love for riding motorcycles and was a skilled marksman. He found peace on the open road and in the focus and precision of the range—activities he appreciated for their solitude and discipline.

 

  Though not an especially social person, George was deeply devoted to his family. He took quiet pride in the lives and accomplishments of his sons and grandchildren. He expressed his love through consistency, quiet support, and a steady presence that never wavered.

 

  George was a lifetime member of the Association of Graduates (AOG) and served on its board of directors for six years. His commitment to the Air Force Academy and its graduates remained strong throughout his life, and he continued to stay actively involved with the AOG until his final days.

 

  In his later years, George bravely faced the challenges of Parkinson’s disease, a result of exposure to Agent Orange during his service in Vietnam. He bore the illness with quiet strength and dignity, never seeking sympathy, and continued to live with determination and purpose. His courage in facing this final chapter reflected the same resolve he had shown throughout his life.

 

  George is survived by his beloved wife, Karen; their sons George “Tom” (Traci), Matthew (Julia), and Joshua (Meghan); and his grandchildren Zachary (Jackie), Andrew, Ryan (Cassandra), David, Ethan, Charlotte, Reagan, and Grant. He is also survived by his brother, David Van Wagenen (Marsha), as well as extended family and cherished friends near and far.

 

  He is preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Viola Van Wagenen.

 

  A memorial service celebrating George’s life will be held on Tuesday, July 8th, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the United States Air Force Academy Memorial Pavilion. Inurnment with full military honors will follow at the USAFA Cemetery. A reception will be held afterward at the Eisenhower Golf Club. If you plan to attend, please let us know by Wednesday, July 2nd so we can prepare accordingly and send you information on gaining access to USAFA; text/call 719-330-6242.

 

  In honor of George’s legacy, memorial donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, or to the Association of Graduates via the Air Force Academy Foundation:

 

Michael J. Fox Foundation

Grand Central Station

P.O. Box 4777

New York, NY 10163

Or online at: https://www.michaeljfox.org/

 

Air Force Academy Foundation

ATTN: Gift Processing

3116 Academy Drive

USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475

Or online at: https://give.usafa.org/campaigns/43504/donations/new