Wilhelm Van Luyn “Billy”

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Wilhelm Van Luyn, who departed this world on May 23, 2026, at the age of 74. Born on April 2, 1952, in the vibrant borough of Brooklyn, New York, Father was a beacon of strength and love, whose legacy will forever shine in the hearts of all who knew him. Wilhem was the cherished son of the late Wilhelm Conrad Van Luyn and Edith Rotella Van Luyn. He grew up in a bustling household, surrounded by the love and camaraderie of his siblings, Edith Cryder, Catherine Van Luyn, Joan Van Luyn, Hellen Henry, Alice Ricks, Rosemarie Geiss, Ronald Van Luyn, and Irene Skinner. His upbringing in Brooklyn instilled in him a deep sense of community and resilience, qualities that he carried throughout his life. Fulfilling his duty to his country, Father served with honor and distinction in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. His four years of military service demonstrated his unwavering commitment to protecting the freedoms we hold dear. Following his military service, Father dedicated 35 years of his professional life as a U.S. Seaman Merchant Marine with the U.S. Sealift Command. His career was marked by his dedication and tireless work ethic, ensuring the safe and efficient transport of goods across the seas. Father's personal life was rich with love and devotion. He shared a deep and enduring partnership with his beloved wife, Annabelle Van Luyn. Together, they built a family that was the center of his world. He leaves behind a legacy of love in his children: Daniel Robles, Mary Gold Donaldson and her husband Jeff Donaldson, Jackeline Van Luyn, Jack Van Luyn and his wife May Van Luyn, and Wilhelm Van Luyn III. His heart was further filled with joy by his nine grandchildren: Krysteen Berghauser, Ethan Donaldson, Madison Breedlove, Ari VanLuyn, Samara Van Luyn, Nelson Laguerra, Jace Van Luyn, Mayla Van Luyn, and Ellie Van Luyn, and his great-grandchild, Noah Berghauser, each of whom held a special place in his heart. Father's life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and family. He was a man of quiet strength, whose gentle spirit and generous heart touched the lives of many. His legacy will live on in the countless memories he created with his loved ones, and in the values he instilled in those who were fortunate enough to know him. As we bid farewell to Father, we take solace in knowing that he has been reunited with his parents, Wilhelm and Edith, in eternal peace. His life will be celebrated in a memorial service where family and friends will gather to honor his memory and share stories of a life profoundly lived. Father Van Luyn's journey on this earth has ended, but his spirit will forever remain a guiding light for his family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a veterans' charity of your choice, in honor of his service and dedication to his country. Rest in peace, dear Father. You have left an indelible mark on this world, and you will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving you.