David C. Van Gorder; Retired Taft High Teacher
David C. Van Gorder, who taught science at Taft High School for 24 years, has died at a Van Nuys hospital. He was 66.
A longtime resident of Canoga Park, Van Gorder died Saturday of complications of pneumonia, his sister, Paula Richmond, said.
Born July 16, 1924, in Blue Island, Ill., Van Gorder came to California in 1959 and the following year began teaching science at Taft High School, where he also taught students in audiovisual equipment used in school productions.
After his retirement from Taft in 1984, Van Gorder worked as a substitute teacher at junior highs and high schools in the San Fernando Valley. He also was a member of the Woodland Hills Masonic Lodge No. 811, past patron of Order of Eastern Star No. 505 in Reseda, affiliated with the Order of Eastern Star No. 611 in Van Nuys, and a lieutenant commander in the Valley Ho Power Squadron for boating enthusiasts.
In addition to his sister, Van Gorder is survived by two nieces.
A funeral is scheduled today at 10 a.m. at Gates, Kingsley & Gates Mortuary, 6909 Canoga Ave., Canoga Park, which is handling arrangements. Burial will follow at Oakwood Memorial Park in Chatsworth. Donations can be sent in Van Gorder’s name to the Eastern Star Home Endowment Fund or a charity of the donor’s choice.
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