Richard A. Van Handel

Richard A. Van Handel, 73, passed away on April 17, 2025. He was born on July 8, 1951, to Henry and Leora Van Handel. He was born and raised in Appleton and was a very proud graduate of Xavier High School, class of ’69.

Richard was a peaceful person and a free spirit. He loved listening to and playing music, as well as sharing it. He liked to play guitar, either by himself or with others, even teaching his son and granddaughter how to play. Richard frequented the Vaudette, in Kaukauna, where he made many friends, jamming on Monday nights. He hung out with the Xavier Hawks alum on Wednesday nights for Trivia.  He had a habit of making friends everywhere he went. He was sociable and had the special gift of making everyone around him feel seen and welcome. He lived his life without fear,  a good sense of humor and was a true kid at heart. Richard treasured his faith and his family. He was a good husband, partner, father, and grandfather. He played sports with his daughter and went dancing with his wife. He loved spending time with his grandchildren. He also spread joy by being a cantor at church, riding his motorcycle, and above all, watching the Packers. He was thrilled on game day. Dick filled our lives with love, laughter and music. Rock on, Dick, until we meet again!

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Leora Van Handel; and siblings, Dennis Van Handel and Nancy Walkowski.

Richard is survived by his wife of 33 years, Anne Van Handel; children, Chad (Rachel) Van Handel, Melissa Schmidt, Justin Schmidt, and Kasandra (Bia) Toseland; grandchildren, Tilda Van Handel, Dorothy Van Handel, Maisy Schmidt, Keyonna Joel, and Malachi Toseland; siblings, Susan Seeliger, Margaret (Ed) Brin, Evelyn (Dave) Fahrbach, Paul (Terry) Van Handel, Bill (Suzan) Van Handel, Cindy (Jerry) Slinger, and John (Traycee) Van Handel; mother-in-law, Joan Van Mun; and all the wonderful friends Richard met through the Vaudette and his life.

A service for Richard will be held on Friday, May 9, at 11:00 AM, at St. Paul Catholic Church, 410 E. Wallace St, Combined Locks. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the nurses and doctors at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, as well as Dr. Michael Johnson and associates.