Birth date: Mar 8, 1940 Death date: May 5, 2026
Dr. Van R. Speas, 86 of Fort Myers departed this life on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. Van was born in Burlington to Helen M. and Clarence J. Speas on March 8, 1940. He attended Burlington High School through grade 10 and graduated high Read Obituary
He was the best Grampy ever. EE
It’s ironic that Van spent most of his career helping others achieve their best smile, while he so generously shared his with all those who knew him.
I recently looked at many photos that reflected his enormous enthusiasm for adventure, his dedication to family and friends, and his undying love for his dedicated wife, BEST friend, and biggest fan, Myrna.
I will always treasure the memories of a special breakfast conversation just 2 weeks before he passed. He shared hilarious dating advice he gave to a neighbor. He gave me chopstick lessons, I failed miserably. He listened with great interest as we shared all the details of our Japan trip. As we were finishing the last few bites of our egg and cheese croissant's, (his favorite) he boldly announced how proud he was of Myrna, how much he loved and appreciated her. I saw it, I heard it, I felt it, and I will be forever grateful!
It’s ironic that Van spent most of his career helping others achieve their best smile, while he so generously shared his smile with all those who knew him. I recently looked at photos that reflected his enormous enthusiasm for adventure, his dedication to family and friends, and his proud appreciation and love for his biggest fan, BEST friend and wife, Myrna.
I will always treasure the breakfast memories just 2 weeks before he passed. The neighbor’s dating advice, special photos, reflections of Japan, chopstick lessons, and the mutual love and respect shared between Van and Myrna. He boldly announced how much he loved and appreciated Myrna and how very proud he was of her.
I knew Van the years he studied dentistry at Northwestern University, when he came home to Blair NE to spend time with his mother and stepfather Howard Hanson. Van moved to Ft Myers when his widowed mother permanently moved there to her and Howard’s winter home. I enjoyed his sense of humor, attitude toward life, plus his kindness and love for his mother. He drove a VW bug and could talk for hours about the world and all its happenings. We sang together while driving the highway to a local drive-in movie, he entertained me with his famous “eye rolls”, and life was carefree! I knew him as a friend and cared deeply for him and will keep fond memories in my heart forever. My deepest sympathy to his beloved family! I am certain that God has welcomed him into heaven with open arms, for the kindness he has generously given to so many children in need of his surgical skills over the years, and for lovingly caring for his father in his later years of life. I feel grateful to have known him in my lifetime.
Sharon Loftus
I'm heartbroken for the loss of my dear friend. Thank you for the work memories,friendship and kindness. Gonna miss my birthday calls every year! Rest in peace Dr. Speas!
Maria Martinez
What a great guy! I first met him when I moved into the community and he could not have been more hospitable. Smart, witty, with a twinkle in his eye, everyone always loved being with him at the gym, and on occasion, we would have lunch together. A fine man and friend, he will be missed. I wish all the best for the family.
Oh Dr Speas you will be missed. One of the best Orthodontist I have worked for over the last 40 years. Rest in peace my dear friend and Doctor. Many memories with you. Wendy and Jana are sad also
Van was the first person we ever played pickleball with. He ran us all over the court, yet was so patient and kind. We will always remember his heart of gold and love for others. Van, you will be greatly missed.
My husband and I met Van thru playing pickleball with Myrna about 7 years ago. Myrna and I would play in tournaments together, and Van was always there as our biggest cheerleader! He was one of the sweetest, kindest people I’ve ever met, which is why him and Myrna were meant for each other. Myrna, my heart breaks for you and your family. Bob and I hope all of the wonderful, precious memories of
your many years with Van bring you joy and comfort. We love you and are sending hugs to you. 🙏🏻💔 RIP, Van
