James B. Van Flandern

James Brian Van Flandern died June 29, 2023 peacefully at his home in his favorite recliner with his beloved dog Mickey asleep in his lap. He was with Aileen Van Flandern his wife of 62 years.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio February 8, 1937, he lived his entire life in Cincinnati. He was the son of Charles Gerald Van Flandern and Marguerite O'Brien Van Flandern. He was a graduated from Purcell High School in two years, and then graduated from Xavier University. A man of many interests he went on to teach Economics for a short time at Xavier University. He was very proud to serve, and retire, as a Major in the Army Special Forces Reserve - Green Beret. He had a highly successful career at Merrill Lynch spanning 50 years as a senior vice president and wealth management advisor. He served on countless Boards and worked closely with Catholic Charities, the Archdiocese of Cincinnati and the Franciscan order. He enjoyed fitness and outdoors activities. He was a life-long member of the Sierra club canoeing, kayaking and hiking. His mantra was 'to be part of the solution and not the problem.' The patriarch of a fast-growing family he led by example. His emphasis was poise, respect, higher education and hard work. His leadership of our family through troubled times will be dearly missed.

He is survived by his wife Aileen Van Flandern, his children Marguerite Van Flandern Tarvin, Claire Van Flandern Elson, Geoffrey Van Flandern, his grandchildren Lauren Motz Wilson, R Geoffrey Motz, M Ryan Motz, Nora Elson Johnson, Kate Elson Mahala, Margaret Elson, Elizabeth Van Flandern, Claire Van Flandern, Michael Van Flandern, and his great grandchildren Benjamin Wilson, Madeline Wilson, Sean Wilson, and his sister Marguerite Van Flandern Cox. He is predeceased by his brother John Van Flandern and his granddaughter Erin Van Flandern.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 15 at Guardian Angels Church. Visitation 9 - 10 AM with Funeral Mass to follow.

Memorial donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Guardian Angels Church, Cincinnati.

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