DONALD VAN ROSSUM

Donald E. Van Rossum, of Neenah, age 84, passed away peacefully after a lengthy illness, on Saturday, May 10, 2014, at Park View Health Center in Oshkosh. He was born July 21, 1929, in Oshkosh, son of the late George and Marie (Otto) Van Rossum. Don married Edythe Meyer on October 12, 1957, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Appleton. He served his country proudly in the US Army during the Korean Conflict where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with the "V" bar for heroic achievement in connection with military operations against an armed enemy. Edythe referred to Don as her "gentle giant." He was one of those people that could make friends with anyone, and he did. Don was a 50 year member of St. Gabriel Catholic Church of Neenah, the Appleton VFW Post #2778, and he volunteered for 22 years at St. Vincent DePaul. Survivors include his wife, Edythe; a sister, Helen Van Rossum; and many nieces and nephews. Don was preceded in death by a sister, Mary (Donald) Klapstein; and two brothers: David Van Rossum, Thomas Van Rossum. The Mass of Resurrection will be held at 11:30 AM on Thursday, May 15, 2014, at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, 900 Geiger St., Neenah, with Rev. Larry Seidl officiating. The visitation will be held at the church on Thursday from 10:30 AM until the hour of service. In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established. Full military rites will follow the service at the church. The family would like to thank the staff of Park View Health Center in Oshkosh for all the wonderful care they gave to Don during his final years.