Michael John Vanderheyden's Obituary
Racine-Michael John Vanderheyden, 82, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 1, 2022, at Pleasant Point Senior Living.
Michael was born to the late John and Ruth (nee Poplawski) Vanderheyden on June 24, 1940, in Racine. He worked at the Racine Journal Times for several years where he held many positions including mechanic, district manager and payroll manager. Michael also worked at GE Medical Systems, Meetings and Incentives and Haban Manufacturing.
Michael attended Sacred Heart Catholic Church in his early days and more recently, attended St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church. He was an early adopter of computer technology and throughout his life enjoyed learning about and fixing them for family and friends. Michael even volunteered his time at St. Rita’s School fixing computers for staff and students. He was an avid Green Bay Packers fan and scheduled his weekends around watching the Packer games. Michael found his adventurous side when he decided to try skydiving at the age of 70. Michael always had a big smile on his face and was a loving and gentle man who enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.
Michael will be deeply missed by his children: Steven Vanderheyden (Lynn), Kristine Poole (Frank Hitselberger), and Paul Vanderheyden (Laura); 12 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren; niece, Lisa Schildt (Paul Sohn); nephew, Ronald Schildt (Kelly); brother-in-law, Gordy Johnson; along with several other relatives and friends.
Michael is predeceased by his sister, Elizabeth “Lee Ann” Johnson; and niece, Susie Rosenquist.
A celebration of Michael’s life will be held at the Wilson Funeral Home on Saturday, November 12, 2022, at 10:00 AM with Fr. Terry Huebner officiating. Family and friends are invited to a time of visitation at the funeral home on Saturday from 9:00 AM until the time of service. Inurnment with committal services will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park. The family asks memorials in Michael’s name be directed to Dementia
Society of America (88 N Main St, Doylestown, PA 18901). You may also donate at the following link, https://dementiasociety.charityproud.org/donate or a charitable organization of your choice.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Pleasant Point Senior Living and Hospice Alliance for their wonderful care of Michael.
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