Roll Call Tribute

John Francis Van Wert, Jr., COL USA (Ret) 

March 4, 1932 - June 19, 2025 

COL John F. Van Wert, Jr., U.S.A. (Ret.) died on Thursday, June 19, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Jacquelyn "Jo Lynn" Hill Van Wert for 67 years.

Born March 4, 1932 in Marshall, Texas, he was the son of the late John F. Van Wert, Sr. and Alma Hanks Van Wert. After graduating from high school in Marshall, he continued his education at Texas A & M University where he excelled on the golf team. His love of golf stayed with him throughout his life. While in high school he taught swimming and also served as a life guard.

After graduating from Texas A & M, COL Van Wert began his 27 year military career as an infantry aviator, piloting both fixed and rotary wing aircraft. He participated in the Berlin Airlift, served two tours in Vietnam and was in country for the Tet Offensive. He received many awards during his career including the Bronze Star and the Distinguished Flying Cross

After retiring from the military, COL Van Wert began a second career with The World Bank serving as Chief of Facilities. In that role he managed all aspects of their facilities.

In retirement, he and Jo Lynn traveled often between Arkansas, Texas and Virginia as they cared for their aging parents. They often would stop in Tennessee to spend time with his brother. COL Van Wert loved spending time on the golf course and in his garden but his greatest joy was spending time with his family.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, John F. Van Wert III, his wife Jill; his daughter, Ellison Van Wert-Alger, her husband, Brian; his grandsons, Jason M. Alger and Sgt. Michael Joseph Alger, USA; his brother, Jerry C. Van Wert, his wife, Ginny; and his sister, Sally Van Wert-Satterwhite. He is also survived by his nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, James H. Van Wert.

The family will receive friends at Money and King Funeral Home, 171 Maple Ave., West, Vienna, VA on Saturday, July 19, 2025 from 2-4:00 PM. COL Van Wert will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery with Full Military Honors at a date to be determined.