Mary Jane (Horak) Van Aken, 94, passed away January 4, 2012 at Shalom Park Care Center in Denver CO. She was born October 2, 1917 to Rudolph and Jennie (Switlik) Horak in WaKeeney KS.
She attended school in WaKeeney graduating from Trego High School in 1935. She took Fort Hays State University extension courses at Trego County High School working towards a degree in Liberal Arts. She altered her life goals to marry and raise a family.
She was a career mother placing nothing above her family. She unselfishly devoted 100% of her time to lovingly raise 6 children. She accepted and exceeded in this goal, guided by her strong Presbyterian faith and traditional core family values. In later years she traveled extensively throughout the US (including Hawaii), Europe, and Australia.
On August 29, 1938 she married Kenneth D. Van Aken in Great Bend KS, and subsequently settled in WaKeeney.
Mary Jane is survived by her daughter; Mary Lou Swim (Bob), sons; Rex Van Aken (Shirley) Ken Van Aken (Shirley), David Van Aken (Shirley), and Mike Van Aken (Ruth). A daughter, Mary Lou Swim (Bob). Daughter-in-law Vicki (Myers) Van Aken. 21 grandchildren, 46 great grandchildren and 1 great-great granddaughter.
She is preceded in death by her husband Kenneth, son Morgan, and grandson Ryan Van Aken.
Service for Mary Jane will be on Monday, January 9, 2012, 10:30am at the Schmitt Funeral Home in WaKeeney KS. Visitation prior to the service starting at 9:00 am.
Memorials are requested to Shalom Park Care Center-Hospice and will be in care of Schmitt Funeral Home 336 N. 12th WaKeeney KS 67672