Van Eugene Litaker

Van Eugene Litaker, age 93, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2026. A lifelong Charlottean, Van grew up on 35th Street and graduated from Tech High School.

A proud graduate of Tech High School, Van cherished the lifelong bonds he formed there. He was incredibly fond of attending their gatherings, always looking forward to reconnecting, sharing memories, and catching up with his fellow classmates.

He truly loved working with his hands. A gifted craftsman, he put his heart into creating items that his family will cherish for generations, including a beautiful kitchen table that is now proudly kept by his granddaughter, Christine. An avid outdoorsman, he also loved fishing and found great peace and joy casting a line out on the water.

His talents extended to the grill as well, where he was a true barbecue enthusiast. He deeply loved attending the annual barbecue at the Caudles and dedicated countless hours to making barbecue for the scouts to sell at Quail Hollow Presbyterian Church. He even concocted his own secret recipe for the barbecue sauce, a special legacy that his family is proud to hold onto and keep alive.

He was deeply committed to mentorship and his community, serving as a dedicated Scout leader for many years. He was incredibly active in the Scouts, guiding young people and leading them on numerous outdoor trips and adventures that created lasting memories for everyone involved.

Beyond his craftsmanship and community involvement, he cherished family connections and always looked forward to trips to the beach, where he loved spending time and sharing laughs with his brothers and sisters.

He is survived by his his wife Ann Shull Litaker; his children, Mark Litaker (Linda), Leigh Ann Wash, and Erin Litaker (Karla); his grandchildren, Christine Neely, Kylie Goodman (Josh), Clay Wash, and Seth Wash (Madison); and his great-grandchildren, Lucas Neely and Selah Neely.

Preceding him in death were his siblings, Doris Litaker Diehl (George), Frank Litaker (Anne), and Carolyn Litaker Reed (Perry).

In keeping with his wishes, no formal funeral services will be held. The family appreciates your thoughts, prayers, and privacy during this time of transition. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make a donation to the MS Society in honor of Van's wife, Ann.