Woodsville, NH Milton Leroy VanNorden, 77, died December 28, 2011 at his home, following a period of failing health. He was born in Chelmsford, MA, November 21, 1934, a son of Lemert and Mary (Colbeth) VanNorden. Van served from June 1956 to June 1958 in the United States Army. He married Joanne Wilkins on August 31, 1969. For 25 years Van was a long haul truck driver for the former St. Johnsbury Trucking Company. Then, he worked for Currier Trucking in Lancaster, NH. Later, Van was a bus driver in the Haverhill Cooperative School District; first with Clough Transportation and then for ten years with First Student. He worked at McDonalds in Woodsville for four years, including their opening day. He is a member and former Deacon at the Wells River Congregational Church. For over 25 years, Van was well-known for playing Santa Claus in the area. He was predeceased by his parents and a brother, Richard VanNorden. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Joanne VanNorden of Woodsville; his children, Kevin VanNorden and wife Nicole of Woodsville, NH, Michael VanNorden of Woodsville, Robert VanNorden and Karen and Susan; granddaughters, Paige and Kathleen; a great granddaughter; two sisters, Esther Greenwood and Ruth; and several nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be on Wednesday, January 4, 2012 from 6-8 PM, at Ricker Funeral Home, 1 Birch Street, Woodsville, NH. A brief Prayer Service will follow the calling hours with Rev. Elizabeth J.A. Siwo Okundi of the Wells River Congregational Church officiating. Burial will be in the spring in Pine Grove Cemetery, Woodsville. Memorial contributions may be made to Woodsville Emergency Services, 4910 Dartmouth College Highway, Woodsville, NH 03785.