Darrell R. Vancampen

Darrell R. VanCampen (87) passed away at his residence in Jupiter, Florida, on June 17, 2023. Darrell grew up in Two Buttes, CO and graduated from high school in the top of his class (there were only 6 people in his class). He was born during the Depression and grew up reading encyclopedias from cover to cover as they were the only books available to him.

After graduating from Colorado State University in 1957 Darrell went on for his Master of Science, then his Doctor of Philosophy at North Carolina State University. Darrell did his postdoctoral fellowship at Cornell University and continued to work there until his retirement in 1998. He was a research chemist and Head of the U.S. Plant Soil & Nutrition Lab at Cornell University.

Darrell is survived by his sons Anthony (Valerie) VanCampen, Bryan VanCampen and John (Debbie) Tassone.  He also leaves behind his grandchildren Jackson and Annalise Tassone, his brother-in-law John (Anne) Gorsky and many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews, including Heidi (Bill) Raines, Amy (Billy) Haley, Whitnee, Justin, Raelynn and Cassian Konwinski.

Darrell is predeceased by his wife Judy Gorsky VanCampen, his parents, Robert and Pauline VanCampen, and his brothers Delmar and Gene VanCampen.

Darrell and Judy lived in Ithaca and spent winters in Tequesta, Florida.  Darrell was an avid golfer and gardener.  He was a humble, loving, funny, smart and gentle soul. He had the best one liners and could tell a story like no other, keeping all of us amused by his stories about growing up in the Mid-west. Darrell volunteered for many years for Gadabout and was a mentor and friend to many seeking help through AA.

Funeral arrangements will be handled by Bangs Funeral Home in Ithaca, NY. Calling hours will be Friday, June 23 from 4-5 pm at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to The Wounded Veterans Relief Fund (www.wvrf.org). Online condolences at www.bangsfuneralhome.com