Dennis "Vinnie" VanBoxtel

Dennis “Vinnie” VanBoxtel, age 74 of Appleton, WI passed away on February 6, 2026. He was born to Sylvester and Delores (Arnoldussen) VanBoxtel on May 16, 1951 in Green Bay, WI. After graduating from Seymour High School with the class of ’69, he went on to take some additional courses at the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay. Dennis worked for over 40 years at Appleton Papers and retired in 2013. Dennis met the love of his life, Kathleen “Kathy” Calmes and they were married in August of 1978. Together, they raised two wonderful daughters.

Dennis was known as a very laid-back, go-with-the-flow type of guy, but always ready to help anyone and everyone in need, especially his family and friends. Dennis was a passionate sports fan and on most days, you could find him cheering on his favorite teams, especially the Packers and the Brewers. More than anything else, though, Dennis loved his family and cherished every moment he could spend with his beloved wife, kids, grandkids and grandpups. He was so proud of everyone he helped to raise.

Dennis will be deeply missed by his wife, Kathy; his daughters, Sara (Jose) and Carrie (Kenny); his grandchildren, Sam and Hannah; his siblings, Dan (Teri), Steve (Paula), Ken (Tina), Darlene (Joe), and Diane (Russ); his siblings-in-law, Mike (Jeannie), Frank (Barb), and Sharon (Stu); as well as many nieces, nephews, other extended relatives, and dear friends.

Dennis is preceded in death by his parents, Sylvester and Delores; his parents-in-law, Frank and Helen; and his siblings-in-law, Patty, Ellen, Robert, Barbara, and Linda.

A memorial visitation will be held for Dennis from 9-11 AM on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 1810 N McDonald St, Appleton, WI 54911 with a mass to follow at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the YMCA of the Fox Cities using the link below.

Dennis’ family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and supporting staff at ThedaCare At Home Hospice for all their care, compassion, and expertise given during his final days.

Donate to the YMCA of the Fox Cities: https://www.ymcafoxcities.org/give