Mary VV McNamara

Mildred Proctor Van Valkenburgh, wife of Pierre Van Valkenburgh (Branch 5), died in New York City on 18 September 1998. She was born on a farm in Stoutland, Missouri, on 22 June 1910,

The daughter of a Deacon in the Baptist Church and the youngest of three girls, Mildred attended business school, and was proud to tell that she worked for Harry Truman when he ran for Senator from the state of Missouri. When Pierre started his own business, Mildred managed his office, and he credits their success to her efficiency and meticulous bookkeeping. She used to laugh about how wise she was "to marry the Boss."

Mildred and Pierre were NAVVF members from the early days, and attended many of the Reunions. They enjoyed several trips with the group, and had happy memories of the Holland and Australia/New Zealand trips in particular.

Mildred is remembered by her family and friends for her cheerful optimism, good sense, and wonderful sense of humor. She was very special, and all of us will miss her.