In Memory

Van Baggett

Van Baggett

Demerest Van Baggett,  February 4, 1946 - May 24, 2010 

Van Baggett was a natural leader whose winning presence allowed him to take control of various situations with ease. Equipped with a clear and calculating focus, he possessed a tough-minded, "take charge" attitude. He had the ability to make even routine situations seem exciting, and he was at ease with the role of playing problem solver. Van always sought out the scene of where the action was. Sociable, analytical and pleasant, Van was an individual who enjoyed life's challenges. His parents were Marcus and Emogene Baggett. Van was raised in Florence, Alabama. Always able to express himself well, Van possessed strong interpersonal skills. He was optimistic in his outlook on life and was able at all times to be open and direct in his communication. Armed with a great wit, Van was raised to be accepting of others and to implement a strong personal work ethic. Blessed with a balanced attitude, Van was able to relate well with others. His occasional role as family mediator gave him the opportunity to ease tense situations when they occurred.

Van was raised with three siblings. He had two sisters, Lorraine and Jeannie and one brother Mark. Van had a strong desire to be treated fairly and would readily offer others the same fairness in return. Van was attentive to Marjorie's feelings, and he charmed Marjorie and others with his gift for being able to give freely and generously. A good listener with an engaging personality, Van was able to bring pleasure and unexpected humor to the relationship. Very much like a kid himself, Van identified with the inquisitive and creative side of his children's personalities. He was able to direct his energy and spontaneity towards helping his children acquire added common sense skills. Van was blessed with two sons, Brett and Brandon.

Van was a Navy Veteran. He was a cool thinker who could handle himself well in a crisis. He served in the United States Navy from 1967 to 1969. He showed leadership qualities and could make tough decisions when he was called upon to do so. Van enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. He had something of an artistic flair in many of the things that he did. He put this creativity toward all of his pastimes. Because he liked to take risks, Van was a perfect match for athletics and exercise Van loved all sports, but his favorite was basketball. He played in High School as well as in the Navy in Scotland. He was enthusiastic and confident about his activities. In high school, Van won Miami Herald High School player of the year! Van was also something of a sports fan and enjoyed watching his favorite events whenever he got the opportunity.

Van was the kind of person who could win others over easily. A concrete communicator, he relied on his senses to increase his involvement and awareness of others. He was always able to provide amusing repartee to his friends and acquaintances, offering a seemingly endless supply of quips, anecdotes, jokes and stories. If Van had a theme song written about him, it might well have been "Don't Worry, Be Happy." He enjoyed his life and the experience of living it. This is how everyone will remember Van Baggett.

Van is survived by his beloved wife Marjorie, his two sons Brett and Brandon, his brother Mark and many loving friends. The Celebration of Van's Life is under the care of Forest Lawn South Funeral Home. The Visitation will be held on Friday, May 28, 2010 from 2-4PM, followed by a Funeral Service on Saturday, May 29, 2010 at 9:30AM at 2401 S.W. 64th Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33317. (The Pyramid Cemetery on the corner of 595 and Davie Rd.) 

Provided by Gene Baker



 
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05/04/16 08:35 AM #1    

Kirt Sullivan


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