Gary W Vanevenhoven

Gary W. Vanevenhoven, 75 of Appleton passed away on July 13, 2015 with his family at his side. Gary was born on June 25, 1940 in Kaukauna to Wilfred and Louise (Marsh) Vanevenhoven. He was a graduate of Kaukauna High School, where he was enshrined in the football hall of fame. He lettered in three sports in Kaukauna. Football, basketball and baseball. After graduation, he attended the University of Wisconsin, LaCrosse. On September 4, 1965 he married the former Mary Helser in Appleton and they enjoyed 50 years together. He served his country as a member of the U.S. Army and was employed with Appleton Paper for 33 years. He was a proud and active member of the AFLCIO, 2-469. He held many positions within the union, including Union President, where he continuously fought for worker's rights. Gary was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather who especially loved spending time with his grandchildren. He enjoyed playing golf and talking politics. He was an avid sports fan and loved watching the Packers and Badgers. He enjoyed fishing and, after retirement, spending his winters in Florida. He was also a handyman and could fix anything in the home.

He will be sadly missed by his wife Mary, children: Dawn (Wayne) Neubert of Darboy, Scott (Susan) Vanevenhoven of Appleton and Jason Vanevenhoven of Appleton, grandchildren: Tyler, Brielle, Katlyn, Mariah, Bryce, Tadenn and Brittany, one great grandchild Kaylee, sisters Darlene (Tim) Vandehey, Sandy (Mike) Coffey and Mary (Rick) Babler, sister-in-law Nancy Vanevenhoven and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Brian Vanevenhoven and brother Bruce Vanevenhoven.

Visitation for Gary will be on Thursday July 16, 2015 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Wichmann Funeral Homes, Superior Street location and Friday July 17, 2015 from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 1810 N. McDonald Street in Appleton. Funeral Liturgy will be at St. Thomas More Catholic Church on Friday at 11:00 AM with Fr. Gerald Falk officiating. For more information and to express condolences, please visit www.wichmannfargo.com.

The family would like to thank the staff and nurses of the Martha Siekman Cancer Center for all the care, support and hugs. Also thank you to the staff and nurses of ThedaCare at Home Hospice. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established.