Jacqueline Van Meter

Jacqueline “Jackie” Van Meter died peacefully on January 11, 2023.  She was born in Belleville, Michigan on August 12, 1923, to the late Clifford Caldwell and Rachel (Poriquet) Caldwell.

Jackie attended Belleville High School, where she excelled as captain of the debate team winning several medals in state competitions.  After graduation, she attended Grace Hospital School of Nursing, where she received her degree as a Registered Nurse.  She married William L. Van Meter in 1943, a career Air Force officer. They lived abroad for many years, where she continued her career as a nurse in various military hospitals.

Jackie always loved to travel, and took every opportunity to visit Europe, the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.  She was an avid gardener, a voracious reader and was passionate about all animals. After retiring in the 1990’s, she volunteered with the Red Cross and was awarded a medal by Elizabeth Dole for her outstanding work during that time.  She remained an enthusiastic, life-long fan of the Detroit Tigers.

Jacqueline is survived by her sister, Bettina Caldwell; daughter, Johanna Woodson; son Pete Van Meter and his wife Adelia; granddaughters Emile Van Meter and Ellen Van Meter; great-granddaughters, Em, Adeline, and Lucie. She is predeceased by her oldest son, William L. Van Meter, Jr.  She will always be remembered for her boundless energy, kindness, generosity, a terrific sense of humor and her ability to connect with all people. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jackie’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association https://act.alz.org/.