Alison Van Zant

Alison Van Zant, a beloved sister, aunt, great-aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, in the loving embrace of her family. Born on February 16, 1953, in Los Angeles, California, Alison lived a life filled with love, adventure, and compassion. Her gentle spirit touched many, and her legacy will be cherished by all who knew her. Alison was the cherished daughter of the late Robert Ewing Van Zant Jr. and Betty Jean (Davidson) Van Zant. Though her parents and beloved husband, Rian Frederick Aldrich, predeceased her, Alison's life was enriched by the memories they created together. She and Rian were united in marriage on July 3, 1993, in Porterville, California, and shared a deep love for horseback pack trips in the mountains—a testament to their adventurous spirits and shared passions. Alison was an alumna of Glendale College, where her inquisitive nature and dedication to learning laid the foundation for her career as a professional legal transcriber and scopist for the judicial system. Her meticulous attention to detail and unwavering work ethic earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Alison was a woman of diverse interests and talents. She found solace in the great outdoors, often retreating to the mountains for camping trips that rejuvenated her soul. Her love for nature extended to her passion for animal rescues and rehabilitations, where her nurturing heart found a purpose in providing care and comfort to creatures in need. Alison also had a flair for creativity, particularly in her skillful crafting of authentic Indian jewelry, a hobby that combined her appreciation for culture and artistic expression. Alison's generous spirit and boundless love were most evident in her relationships with her family. She is survived by her devoted sisters, Debra Vanatta of Hugo and Valerie Van De Yacht and her husband, Vernie. Alison was a loving and attentive aunt to her nieces and nephews, Nick Vanatta, Terry Vanatta and his wife, Jessica, Noelle Krawiec and her husband, Andy, Janssen Van De Yacht, and Joseph Van De Yacht. The joy she found in spending time with her great-nephews, Dean Vanatta and Ryan Vanatta, was immeasurable, and their visits to Hugo were among her happiest moments. Alison was predeceased by her brother, Robert Ewing Van Zant III, and brother-in-law, Tom Vanatta, whose memories she held close to her heart. Her extended family, including her nieces, nephews, and great-nephews, were the lights of her life, and she treated them as her own. In celebrating Alison's life, we remember a woman of grace, resilience, and unwavering love—a woman who gave selflessly and left an indelible mark on the hearts of her family and friends. Her legacy of kindness and compassion will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. As we bid farewell to this remarkable woman, we take comfort in knowing that Alison is now reunited with her beloved Rian, her parents, and her brother. Her spirit will forever linger in the places she cherished and the lives she touched.