In Memory: Dr. Conelius (Neil) Vanderkolk (PU DVM ’74)

The Purdue Veterinary Medicine community is saddened to learn of the passing of an alumnus and dedicated veterinarian, Dr. Cornelius “Neil” Vanderkolk, of Oxford, Indiana, who died June 8, 2025. He was 75.

Born in Aurora, Illinois, Dr. Vanderkolk graduated from Lafayette Jefferson High School and went on to enroll at Purdue University, where he earned his DVM degree in 1974. Dr. Vanderkolk served with the Indiana State Board of Animal Health supporting Biosecurity Programs, and was a long-time member of the Indiana Veterinarian Medical Association. He also enjoyed reading history, economics and medical books, and was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Visitation and a memorial service were held Saturday, July 12, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in West Lafayette, Indiana. Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.hippensteelfuneralservice.com.

Click here to view the obituary.

Writer(s): PVM News | pvmnews@purdue.edu

Recent Stories

“Paws Up” – brought to you by the PVM Wellness Committee

Today we are honoring Allison Gossett, who is a large animal veterinary assistant in the Purdue University Veterinary Hospital.

PVM Sets Goal for Participating in Purdue’s United Way Campaign

It’s official – this year’s Purdue United Way Campaign is underway and the College of Veterinary Medicine has set its sights on raising $20,000 toward the University’s collective United Way fundraising goal of $700,000.

Purdue Veterinary Conference Proves Popular as Overall Attendance Tops 1,000

Strong turnout characterized the 2025 Purdue Veterinary Conference with the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine welcoming more than 1,000 participants to the annual event. Held September 16–20 on Purdue’s West Lafayette campus, the annual continuing education conference for veterinary professionals attracted more than 240 veterinarians and 180 veterinary technicians/veterinary nurses, along with industry representatives and exhibitors as well as Purdue Veterinary Medicine faculty, staff, and students.

PVM Scholars Co-edit New Edition of Signature Veterinary Histology Textbook

A new edition of a time-tested and influential veterinary work is on the market thanks to the scholarly efforts of two Purdue Veterinary Medicine faculty members and their team of U.S. and international experts from multiple veterinary schools. “Dellmann’s Textbook of Veterinary Histology” is an essential resource connecting the microscopic world of cells and tissues to the broader understanding of anatomy and physiology in domestic animals.