CHESAPEAKE—George Richard Van Laethem, 72, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2024. He was born in Ensley, Alabama to the late Fernand and Jane Van Laethem.

A proud Army "brat" who traveled the world with his parents, George graduated from W.T. Woodson High School in 1970 and matriculated to Virginia Military Institute (VMI). Completing VMI, he was commissioned in the US Army as a Field Artilleryman in 1974.  He defended our country for 20 years, serving with distinction. Retiring in 1994, George continued to serve our country as a Joint Forces Command defense contractor.

George settled his family in Chesapeake, VA. There he began a different kind of service that involved mentoring young people. He loved coaching softball and soccer, eventually becoming the JV Girls Soccer Coach at Western Branch High School. He also served on Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, ensuring citizens young and old had a wide variety of activities and resources at their disposal.  George also spent 12 years on the Planning Commission for the City of Chesapeake, where he championed controlled and sustainable growth.

Officially retiring in 2013, George spent his remaining years traveling with Anna; visiting his grandchildren; volunteering with the Republican Party of Chesapeake; enjoying a chili dog at Ray's Doghouse on Saturdays; and then watching the University of Alabama play football.  He enjoyed all things Crimson Tide. Roll Tide Roll!

Devoted to his family and friends, loyal without question and a great patriot, George will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Anna; his daughter Ashley Hyman (Alan); and two grandchildren, Tripp and Amelia.

A funeral service will be held 3:00 p.m. Friday, November 1, at New Creation United Methodist Church, 4320 Bruce Rd., Chesapeake. The family will receive friends an hour prior at the church. A reception will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Women's Soccer team at VMI, in care of the VMI Keydet Club, P. O. Box 932, Lexington, VA  24450.  Condolences may be registered at BWFosterFuneralHome.com.