Melvin "Van" Roehling

Melvin Van Roehling, beloved husband, father and grandfather, died peacefully at home on August 18, 2024. Melvin "Van" Roehling, born in Washington County, Texas, to Melvin Roehling and Lunette Thaler Roehling, passed away surrounded by his loving family. Van was a man full of life who never met a stranger and his gift for conversation made everyone feel like a lifelong friend. Van's passion for cooking and creating led him to establish Van Roehling Sauces & Rubs in 2007, a venture that brought joy to many through his delectable BBQ sauces, seasonings, candied jalapenos, jams, salsas, and other specialty food items. He took immense pleasure in experimenting with new seasonings and unique flavor combinations, often inviting others into his kitchen with the enthusiastic request, “Hey, try this and let me know what you think.” Through his culinary creations, Van touched countless lives and his recipes became cherished additions to many family tables. Before pursuing his dream in the culinary world, Van dedicated himself to serving his community as an officer with the Houston Police Department and later applied his skills and expertise by owning and operating a private investigation firm. In his personal life, Van was first married to Barbara Parsons Roehling, with whom he shared three children: Jacqueline (Jax), Jeremy, and Jared. In 2005, Van met the love of his life, Cindy, and they married in 2008. Their union brought together two families, creating their own modern-day Brady Bunch with a total of six children. With the unwavering support of Cindy and their children, Van expanded VR Foods into a beloved family business that saw great success. An avid outdoorsman, Van found solace and joy in nature. He could often be found fishing or hunting with his children and grandchildren, relaxing on the porch swing, soaking up the sun, or tinkering in the garage. These moments were always accompanied by his hearty laughter, engaging stories, and a wealth of jokes that could light up any gathering. Van lived his life with unwavering faith, always ready to offer a listening ear, wise advice, and words of encouragement to his family and friends. He led his loved ones in prayer and gratitude before every shared meal, instilling in them the importance of faith and thankfulness. While we mourn his loss, we take comfort in knowing that he is rejoicing in heaven with his Lord and Savior. Van is preceded in death by his parents, Lunette and Melvin Roehling; his brother, Jerry Roehling; his fathers-in-law, Charles Haynes and Oren Curless; and his mother-in-law, Dorothy Curless. He is survived by his devoted wife, Cindy Roehling; his sister, Gloria Campbell and her husband Edwin; his six children: Jacqueline (Jax) Roehling and wife Courtney, Shawn Francis, TeNeaka Francis, Jeremy Roehling and wife Julie, Jared Roehling, and Samantha Kelpen and husband Justin; and his six grandchildren: Dylan, Mikey, Alden, Becca, Brady, and Casey. Van's legacy of love, kindness, and culinary delight will continue to live on through his family and all those whose lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” Matthew 5:4 In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Houston Policeman’s Burial Fund via The Houston Police Retired Officers Association The Addison family and staff of Magnolia Funeral Home extend condolences to Van's family and friends during this difficult time. No services are schedule through the funeral home.