Edgar Dale Van Gilder

Edgar Dale Van Gilder, 90 passed away Tuesday July 18, 2023 at Springbrook Center in Westbrook, Maine

He was born October 16, 1932 in Bridgeton, New Jersey the son of Edgar and Elsie (Zimmerman) Van Gilder and graduated from Vineland High School Class of 1950. Following graduation, Dale attended Glassboro State Teachers College and went on to receive his Master’s Degree in Education/Administration from the University of Pennsylvania which was his proudest achievement. Dale began his career teaching history in Millville, New Jersey and later became a school administrator. In 1975 he moved to Maine where he became the principal of Westbrook Junior High School. In the 1980s he became Vice Principal of South Portland High School where he remained until his retirement in 1989. He was a long-time member and one-time president of the Westbrook Rotary Club. He was an avid reader and consumer of knowledge. He also enjoyed gardening and yardwork which allowed him to be outside. Otherwise, he would most likely be seen in his recliner reading or enjoying some of his beloved wife’s meals.

Members of his family include two sons Robert Van Gilder and his wife Diane of Otisfield and James Van Gilder and his wife Amy of Pepperell, Massachusetts; 5 grandchildren Jeni McLellan and her husband Mike, Jillian Schilp, Caleb Van Gilder, William Schilp and Sydney Van Gilder; great grandson Lucas McLellan; brother Neil Van Gilder of Naperville, Illinois; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Lily Faye Van Gilder and by his sister Sue Ellen Van Gilder.

A time of visitation will be held Wednesday August, 9, 2023 from 10:00 to 11:00 am followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at the Rocap Shannon Funeral Home 24 North 2nd St., Millville. Burial will follow at Haleyville Methodist Cemetery. 

Memorials in his name may be made to the Haleyville Methodist Cemetery, 809 Steep Run Road, Millville, NJ 08332.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Edgar Dale Van Gilder, please visit our floral store.