Mary E. Van Lanen

Mary E. Van Lanen, 80, Green Bay, passed away at home surrounded by her loving family Friday, April 22, 2016. Mary was born October 17, 1935 the daughter of the late Henry and Anna (Worachek) Duquaine. She married Richard H. Van Lanen October 25, 1952 at St. Louis Church, Dyckesville. Mary was a teacher; she graduated from Door Kewaunee Teachers College in Algoma in 1962. She went on to earn her Masters degree from Oshkosh University in 1975. Mary was a part of the Wisconsin Reading and Teaching Association, National Reading Association and was on the CP board. She taught Catholic Instruction at St Peter & Paul Church and was a Teacher and Reading Specialist at St. Bernard’s Catholic School from 1981, retiring in 1991. Amongst all her academic accomplishments she enjoyed sharing her time with her family. Mary enjoyed many activities with her grandchildren, helping to raise them, taking them to numerous parks and especially supporting their education. She also enjoyed cooking family meals.

Her true calling may have been as a caretaker, tending to the needs, both physically and through prayer, of all who were suffering. Her love for others was reflected in the giving of herself, especially her mother and husband.

She is survived by her children, Robert (Rhonda) Van Lanen of Algoma, Roger (Polly) Van Lanen of Suamico, Ronald (Mary M.) Van Lanen of Green Bay, Ann (Doug) Wichman of Green Bay, and Richard (Yvonne) Van Lanen of Green Bay; sisters, Carol (Will - Deceased) Borley of Green Bay and Donna (Gerald) Fabry of Brussels, brother-in-law Ken (Sue) Van Lanen; 12 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews; companion cat Prince Henry.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Richard H. “Dick” (Aug. 18, 2009).

Visitation at Malcore (East) Funeral Home, 701 N. Baird Street), Thursday April 28, 2016 from 2pm until the time of the Funeral Mass at 4:30pm at SS. Peter and Paul Church with Rev. Anthony Cirignani, OFM officiating. Entombment at Shrine of the Good Shepherd Mausoleum.

The family would like to thank Aurora Medical Staff and Hospice Staff for all their kind assistance and support. A special thanks to all family members, especially Doug and Ann Wichman, for their time and effort to allow our Mother to live her final days comfortably at her beloved home.