Mr. VanAernam was a lifelong resident of the Irving area. At one time, he had been employed by the J.N. Adam Developmental Center in Perrysburg. He also was a certified welder.
He was a member of the Cayuga Nation and the Great Blue Heron Clan. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.
He was the son of Lois (Jimerson) VanAernam of Irving and the late Alton VanAernam; father of Ted VanAernam; and brother of Sandra VanAernam, Anita Smith, Greta Cross, Tamara VanAernam, Jauna Butler, Michael, Eric, John, Bill and Alton VanAernam Jr.; also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Arrangements were by the Hole-Parker Funeral Chapel Inc., Silver Creek.