Donald F. Van Vreede

Donald “Don” Francis Van Vreede, age 81 of Appleton, WI passed away on December 5, 2025. He was born to Alois and Elaine (Foley) Van Vreede on January 27, 1944 in Kaukauna, WI. After graduating from Freedom High School as the class valedictorian, he worked a number of different jobs, but was best known for his managerial work, both in banking and his condo association. While Don never married, he found his love in the family, friends, and neighbors who surrounded him every day.

Don was a very upbeat and optimistic person by nature. He would always find the positive in any situation he was in. He enjoyed music, playing his guitar and singing in several choirs in his life – even writing his own music from time to time. Don was a lover of nature and enjoyed landscaping and being surrounded by flowers and plants. In his youth, Don enjoyed traveling and seeing the world outside of Wisconsin whenever he had the opportunity. Don also enjoyed his daily walks, taking them three times a day. One of his favorite things to do was pass the hours by curling up with a good book. More than anything, though, Don loved his family and friends and cherished the time he spent with them at family reunions and holiday get-togethers.

Don will be deeply missed by his siblings, Janice (Matt) Knapp, Carol (LeRoy) Hietpas, Donna (Gary) Sauby, Diane (Richard) Benz, Lyle Van Vreede, Linda Fischer, Gary (Sue) Van Vreede, Mary (Ed) Balcerak, and Lee (Stephanie) Van Vreede; his siblings-in-law, Cathy Van Vreede and Dave Rasmussen; as well as many nieces, nephews, other extended relatives, and dear friends.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, Alois and Elaine Van Vreede; his siblings, Mary Lou Van Vreede, Daniel Van Vreede, and Pat Rasmussen.

A memorial visitation will be held for Don from 9-11 AM on Friday, January 9, 2026 at Wichmann Tri-County Chapel, 1592 S. Oneida St, Menasha, WI 54952 with a memorial service to follow at 11 AM. Don will be laid to rest near his sister, Pat, at St. Joseph Cemetery in Appleton, WI. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Bubolz Nature Preserve using the link below in honor of Don.

Donate to Bubolz Nature Preserve: 

https://gordon-bubolz-nature-preserve-inc.networkforgood.com/projects/65391-support-bubolz-nature-preserve