Van Culpepper of Yakima, Washington, lost his hard-fought battle to cancer on Tuesday September 19, 2023. He died peacefully in his home, surrounded by his loved ones, wife of 50 years Deb, son Chris, daughter Elizabeth, granddaughters Bella and Tessa and Max (his loyal black Labrador).

Van was born in 1949 in McAllen, XT to Walter and Jennie Culpepper. After the death of his parents, he and his siblings went to live with his aunt and uncle, Oleta and Duncan McRae in Prescott, Arkansas. While there, Van excelled in academics, community and sports. Upon graduation, Van went to undergrad at Texas A&M (last of the old Cav). Van studied law at University of Arkansas where he met the love of his life, his wife Deborah. They joined the Army Jag Corps and were stationed with their children in Virginia, Kentucky, Seoul Korea and eventually Ft. Lewis (Tacoma), Washington. After 20 years in the reserves, Van retired as an LTC.

Van and his family moved to Yakima, Washington. He and Deb opened a law practice, Culpepper & Culpepper. Van retired recently as one of the most prominent bankruptcy attorneys in Eastern Washington. Van and his wifel oved adventure and worldwide travel. He was an avid duck hunter with his trusty labs, fisherman, golfer and bridge player and still found time to coach little league teams for his children. 

Van is survived by his wife Deborah, son Christopher, daughter Elizabeth (Jessica Schiller), granddaughters Bella and Tessa, and four-legged son, Max. His siblings Susan Leedy, Joel (Marian), Duncan (Debra), Malcom Culpepper and cousin Ellen McRae join us in honoring the life and legacy of a remarkable human being, a generoushusband, father, son, brother, grandfather and friend. He cared for everyone with compassion, diplomacy, humility, love, loyalty and grace.

We miss you terribly. May you rest in peace, shining your light forevermore. A Celebration of Life honoring Van will be scheduled in the fall.