John L. Vander Sanden

John Vander Sanden, age 77, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025, with his family by his side at Theda Care in Appleton. John was born in Appleton, WI on November 10, 1947, to Cornelius (Casey) and Rosella Vander Sanden (Kroes). John married Arleen Emerich on June 22, 1973, and together they raised 3 wonderful children. They were married for 51 years.

He lived all his life in Wisconsin and graduated from St. John High School in 1965. He served in and was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in June 1969. He worked at Thilmany Papers after service. He served as a letter carrier for Kaukauna Post Office for 38 years until retirement. He was a firefighter, Captain and fire inspector for the Town of Vander Broek Volunteer Fire Department.

John lived a simple life rich with accomplishments and interests, always finding joy in the simple pleasures and the company of loved ones. He cherished the time spent with his wife, daughters, and grandchildren, sharing many of his hobbies with them. John had numerous interests, including gardening, cutting wood, watching sports, shooting pool, fishing, and helping neighbors. He was an avid outdoorsman who found solace and excitement in hunting and fishing. John took great pride in his gardening, joyfully sharing his bountiful produce with family, friends, neighbors, and the broader community. Having grown up a farmer, John carried a strong work ethic and a constant willingness to help others. His memory will forever inspire and uplift all who had the privilege of knowing him, as he leaves behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, and a profound love for life and nature.

He was proceeded in death by Casey and Rosella Vander Sanden and Ann and Raymond Emerich. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Arleen Vander Sanden; sisters: Darlene (Bill) Crowe and Jane (Joel) Schweitzer, daughters: Beth (Pat) Bogen, Amy (Josh) Vander Busard, and Debra(Vance) Dalton; and grandchildren: Taylor (special friend-Norah), Samantha (special friend-Jack), and Kendra Bogen; Anna and Emily Busard; Hunter (Cali) Sprangers; Hailey (special friend-Jacob), and Havannah Dalton; and loving dogs Ross and Major.

Services will be on Saturday March 1, 2025. Visitation will be from 10am-12pm with a memorial mass at 12pm held at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 309 Desnoyer St. in Kaukauna, WI. There will be a spring burial at Holy Cross Church Cemetery in Kaukauna. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Vanden Broek Fire Department and First Responders. 

A special thank you to the compassionate staff at Fresenius Kidney Care of Kaukauna and Theda Clark of Appleton and Neenah for their continued care and support.