E. Roxann Van Auken

E. Roxann Van Auken passed away on September 6, 2025, after a 15-year battle with breast cancer. A fight she faced courageously with a cheerful outlook to the end.

She was born in Williamsport, Pa. and moved to Virginia Beach, Va. in the early 1960s, attending Princess Anne H.S. After retirement she and her husband moved to Daytona Beach, Florida in 2016.

Roxann loved sunrises at the beach with her husband, cruising on their schooner, spending time with her family, and keeping up with her grandkids and great grandkids. Her hobbies consisted of reading mystery novels and doing various crafts with her friends. She supported her community by crocheting blankets and hats for the Children’s Hospital. Roxann loved the Lord, raising her family on a Christian foundation. She enjoyed talking about her faith with her friends and family and going to church with her husband.

She is survived by her husband, retired Lt. Gary Van Auken, VBPD, son Sean Adams VBPD Deputy Police Chief (Jerri Lynn Adams), daughter Andrea Thompson nee Adams (Danny Thompson, Waukesha, WI Chief of Police), step-children Kirsten, Zachary Van Auken, and Keegan D. Van Auken, and brother Jack Caputo (Patricia Caputo). She is also survived by grandchildren, Lauren Zdelar (Mark), Maddie Adams, Alec Mesa, Alyssa Morzy (Dylan), Grady Borte, Mia Borte (Rameik), Hudson Borte, Vivian Van Auken, Finn Van Auken, Danny, Jr., and great-children Weylan Zdelar, Wade Zdelar, and Ruby Stewart.

Roxann was preceded in death by her late husband Frederick (Buster) C. Adams (VBPD), parents Jack and Florence Caputo.

Roxann will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who is a true inspiration. She will be forever loved, forever missed and forever in our hearts.

There will be a private celebration of life.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Wounded Warrior Project.