Bruce Edward Vanden Avond, 71 of De Pere, WI, passed away peacefully after a hard 4 year battle with cancer. He was born in Green Bay to the late Earl (Florence) Vanden Avond.

Bruce was a 1971 graduate of Preble High. He was loyal to his school, working for the board of Education for 35 years, as well as the "Chain Gang" for the football games. He would always say, "I guess I never left Preble."

He was an avid Packer fan, any Trivia question about the Packers, "ask Bruce!" He was a proud season ticket holder. He also enjoyed attending his grandsons' sporting events. Grandpa was always there.

He was a caring gentleman, who always put others first without a complaint, even throughout his cancer journey. Bruce and Carolyn enjoyed many things throughout their life together, but they especially enjoyed their many trips to Door County.

Bruce is survived by his best friend and loving wife of 24 years Carolyn, and children Jody and Jon Meshke, and Jason and Shannon Gardner, his grandchildren, Jace Meshke, Jayden and Bryson Gardner. He is further survived by his sisters, Lynn (Randy) Wiegand of Shell Lake, Wi, and Julie (Peter) Andrew of Suamico, WI, as well as numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws Phil (Alice) Goral, and his infant brother.

Friends and family may call on at Nativity of Our Lord Parish, 2270 S Oneida St, Green Bay, WI 54304 from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM on Tuesday, August 13, 2024. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin immediately following the visitation with Fr. Matt Simonar officiating. Ryan Funeral Home, De Pere, is assisting the family.

A special thank you to the Green Bay Oncology Staff, Dr. Burnett, Heartland Hospice, especially Cindy, sister and brother-in-law Julie and Pete, our neighbors, Brittany and Jason, Cindy, Ann and Paul, children Jason and Jody, for all your love and support through Bruce's journey.