Lee "Bud" Van Laanen

Lee "Bud" Van Laanen, 90, Green Bay, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Friday, November 22, 2024, at a local hospital. Born October 1, 1934, in Green Bay, he is the son of the late Lawrence and Dorothy (Van Drisse) Van Laanen. Lee is a graduate of Central Catholic High School, Class of 1952. He entered the Army National Guard where he served as a technician/mechanic for 33 years. Following his retirement from the National Guard, he worked an additional 12 years at Tweet/Garot Mechanical. On October 5, 1957, he married the former Alice Kellner at St. Joseph's Church in Green Bay. She preceded him in death on July 25, 2004. 

Lee was a long-time member of St. Agnes Parish. He also belonged to the 20-year Club National Guard in Marinette and a member of the NCO Club in Green Bay. Lee will be remembered for his love of the outdoors, especially time spent camping, pheasant and deer hunting up at the Jitter Bug Club in Long Lake, WI. He also loved gardening, motorcycles, daily walks and always had a canine friend at his side. 

Bud is survived by his five children, Lori (Rocklyn) Kaye, Julie Van Laanen, Dean Van Laanen, Mark (Vicki) Van Laanen, and Dale (Wanda) Van Laanen; nine grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Alice, of nearly 47 years; sisters, Donna (Jerry) Kapalin and Betty (Dick) Lamal.

Gathering of family and friends will be held at St. Agnes Church, 1484 Ninth Street, Tuesday, December 3, 2024, from 9am until the time of the funeral. Memorial Mass, 11am, Tuesday, at the church with Father Quinn Mann officiating. Full military honors will take place immediately following the Mass. Entombment in the Shrine of the Good Shepherd Mausoleum. 

The family extends a very special thank you to the caring staff at Bellin Hospital. 

In lieu memorials, the family asks that you consider an act of kindness in memory of Lee, especially during this holiday season.