James R. Vander Velden

James “Dobbin” Vander Velden went to be with our heavenly Father on December 25, 2018. Jim passed peacefully at home surrounded by his family. Jim loved his family tremendously and he fought hard to stay on earth as long as possible.

Jim was born October 4, 1951 to Cleborn and Margaret Vander Velden and later became a Millwright at the former paper mill in Kimberly, Wisconsin. He enjoyed golf, had a passion for fishing, and most recently kept busy working on lawn mowers and snow blowers. Jim was always willing to help anyone in need. He loved Kimberly sports and the outdoors, but especially enjoyed his bond with all of his grandchildren and his many beautiful memories with his boys.

Jim is survived by his sons: Jake (Bre) Vander Velden, Clayton (Sara) Vander Velden, and Ross (April) Vander Velden. His seven grandchildren are Collin, Alec, Aven, Leo, Ellie, Sawyer, and Livie. He is also survived by two sisters: Nancy (special friend Ken) Seidl, Pat (Gene) Gloudemans; as well as Sharry Vander Velden, the mother of Jim's kids. There are also many other relatives and dear friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Cleborn, and Margaret Vander Velden, a sister Judy, and his brother-in -law Fran.

Leading up to this day we were praying that Jim wouldn’t pass on Christmas. But the more we think about it being Christmas, the more perfect it became. The day we celebrate Jesus birth as our Savior, becomes the same day Jim was born eternally to be with the Lord forever in Heaven.

Jim became very faithful the last two years when he was diagnosed with a rare lung disease. He had an incredible faith. He surrendered his life to Jesus, not because he was faced with death, but because he knew that life was bigger than him. Jim gave up control and put his life completely in God’s hands with trust and peace in God’s plan. We love knowing that he is in God’s loving arms, and that we will see him again.

Jim leaves a legacy of being a simple man, who loves God, his sons, and his family more than anything. He taught us to trust in God and don’t wait, be positive, do what you love, live life to the fullest, and he was thankful and grateful for each day!

Visitation will be from 12:00 PM until 3:00 PM on Saturday December 29, 2018 at The Mission Church, located at 314 N. Appleton Street in Appleton. The Celebration of Life Service will begin at 3:00 PM with Pastor John Slotten and Pastor Shawn Whitworth presiding. A reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established in Jim’s name.