The Van Metres have significantly enhanced the health and well being of students at Central through contributions that created state-of-the-art weight training and fitness facilities at the school. While neither Mr. nor Mrs. Van Metre attended Central, their sons David, Jr. (CHS 1982) and James (CHS 1981) enjoyed academic and athletic success there, and the family has been strong supporters of Central ever since. After helping renovate athletic facilities at Mr.Van Metre’s alma mater in Iowa, the couple turned their attention to Central and all OPS schools. Their belief that physical fitness enhances students’ overall health as well as their athletic success led to the complete renovation of weight training and fitness programs in Omaha’s junior highs, senior highs and alternative schools. In addition, Mr. and Mrs. Van Metre fulfilled similar needs of the North and South Omaha Boys and Girls Clubs, and continue to work to improve City athletic fields in areas east of 52nd Street. A strong supporter of the Central High Foundation and its activities, Mr. Van Metre was a key player in making the dream of an office for the Foundation a reality. Mr. Van Metre is also actively involved each year in planning the Golf Outing, a fundraiser for the CHS Athletic Department.
Carol passed away in 2016 at the age of 77 and Dave passed away in 2023 at the age of 86.