Vaninger, Jon Leroy, passed away, Tuesday, April 7, 2026.

Jon was born May 15, 1941, to Leroy and Erna (nee Beck) Vaninger. Jon attended Cleveland High School and Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy, (now Missouri University of Science and Technology) with a degree in electrical engineering. Jon was a proud member of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. During the reconstruction of the ADZ corporation house project, Jon worked as a director and construction advisor during the renovation of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity house. In 2010, Jon was inducted as a member of the University Academy of Electrical and Computer Engineers. He was a licensed and registered professional engineer for over forty years and a certified packaging professional engineer. He was awarded lifetime achievement in the PMMI Institute of Packaging Professionals and a life member of the PMMI College of Fellows. Jon was a member of Pi Alpha Kappa, an honorary society.

Jon is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia; children, Laura (Nick) LaMarca, Julia Vaninger, and John (Lynne) Vaninger; five grandchildren; two great grandchildren; and his sister, Sharon Vaninger. He was preceded in death by his brother, Stanley.

Jon was a passionate devotee of the university, serving as vice president of the Miner Alumni board for 15 years, and served many years on the finance committee for the university. Jon was a member of the Order of the Golden Shillelagh. Jon "picked up the Shillelagh" to make a difference in other's lives. In keeping with his devotion to the University, and to higher education, Jon established a scholarship to help students in need achieve their education. Jon helped many others financially as they pursued their education.

Jon had a successful career spanning more than 40 years in the packaging industry highlighted by the founding of Van Pak Corporation in 1976. He was joined by his partner, Jim Stoeppler, and they expanded the company into Van Pak Manufacturing and robotic sales. Jon was a member of the Packaging Professional's Organization (IOPP) for over 30 years and was made an honorary life member in 2009.

Over the years, he was very actively involved with his children's sports, coaching them in baseball, softball, and soccer. Jon was the founding member of the St. Louis South-West Stars SLABA team which incorporated students from many West County high schools. Jon made sure that any player who qualified, but couldn't afford the fees, was taken care of.  Jon wanted to give everyone a chance. Jon was the Director and coach from 1996-2009.

Services: In keeping with his wishes, no funeral or memorial service will be held. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association , 11433 Olde Cabin Rd., Suite 100, St. Louis, MO 63141 or The Backstoppers, Inc. , P. O. Box 795168, St. Louis, MO 63179-0700 or a charity of your choice. A celebration of life forthcoming in the Spring.

As a service of the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, friends may sign the family's on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.