James J. Van Laeys

York - James J. Van Laeys, age 76, passed away peacefully at home on February 11, 2025. 

Born in Camden, New Jersey on October 18, 1948, Jim was the son of the late Edward and Yolanda (DiBerardino) Van Laeys. He graduated from York Catholic High School in 1967 then attended computer programming school.

Jim was the husband of Lucinda (Cindy Fink) Van Laeys with whom he celebrated 52 years of marriage. He was employed at Johnson Controls for 43 years working in Customer Service for most of those years. After his retirement he enjoyed working part-time at Beshore & Koller Ford.

Jim’s greatest joy was being Grampy to his granddaughters and sharing experiences with them. His love of music and history began in his childhood and continued throughout his life. In 1996 he became active as a Civil War re-enactor with the 87th PVI for 27 years before his illness forced him to retire. His passion for music led him to singing and playing guitars in numerous bands beginning in high school. He was a charter member of The Susquehanna Travellers, a Civil War era musical group. Jim was a member of Zion UM Church and enjoyed singing in the choir as well as with the group Master’s Men. 

Jim is survived by two children; his son Chad and wife Amy and their daughter Charlotte, of York, and daughter Noelle and husband Doug Dandridge and their children Samantha, Danica and Melanie, of Lancaster.

The family would like to thank Hospice for All Seasons for their tender, compassionate care of Jim.

Funeral services will be held Monday, February 17, 2025 at Heffner Funeral Chapel & Crematory, Inc. 1551 Kenneth Rd., York, with visitation at 10:00 and the service at 11:00. The service will be officiated by Rev. Richard Bowers and Pastor Nathan Trimmer. Following a luncheon at Wyndham Garden, a graveside burial service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made to support ALS research at als.org

Send condolences at HeffnerCare.com