FUNERAL SERVICES SET FOR VAN STEPHENSON
Founding member of BlackHawk, Van Stephenson, died of cancer late Sunday evening at his home in Nashville. Stephenson, who retired from BlackHawk last year to spend more time with his family, and battle malignant melanoma cancer, is survived by his wife and three children, he was 45. Van Stephenson developed malignant melanoma in 1999 and has waged a courageous battle against the disease ever since. The type of cancer he had was particularly stubborn and kept returning after each treatment against it. Stephenson tried several ambitious, experimental treatments in the last few months, before it was apparent some 6 weeks ago that he would not survive. Not long after he resigned from BlackHawk, Stephenson wrote a song that seems inspired by the knowledge that his disease might be fatal. The tune "Ships of Heaven" is a powerful and beautifully written affirmation of a life well-led and love reaped. It is the 15th cut on BlackHawk's current GREATEST HITS album that his former partners, Henry Paul and Dave Robbins, dedicated to him. REMARKABLE CHOIR - The final chorus of "Ships of Heaven" is sung by "The Ships of Heaven Tabernacle Choir," made up of many of the people Van loved including his wife Karen, his daughter, Julie, and his son, Wes. Stephenson Memorial services: Visitation is open to the public at Brentwood Funeral Home, 9010 Church Street East, Brentwood, TN 37027, beginning tomorrow, 4/11 from 4-7pm. Funeral Service: Belmont Church, 16th Ave. South & Grand, Thurday, 4/12, 1PM open to public. Donations can be made in Van's name to The American Cancer Society and Brentwood Relay for Life.

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The Unofficial Photographer of The Wilkinsons