Connor Van Doren

Connor Van Doren, a beloved father, grandpa, and friend, peacefully entered eternal life on Sunday, July 2, 2023, surrounded by his loving children. Born on March 9, 1939, in Wausau, WI, Connor was the cherished only child of Dean and Meta (O'Connor) Van Doren. His family relocated to the Appleton area during his youth, where he graduated from Appleton High School in 1958. Throughout his high school years, Connor found joy in participating in multiple sports, particularly football. In 1960, he proudly joined the army reserves, dedicating himself to serving his country.
On November 26, 1966, Connor married the love of his life, Maureen Flanagan. Together, they nurtured their children in Appleton, and Connor took great pleasure in coaching their athletic endeavors. Working tirelessly as a truck driver, Connor amassed a wealth of intriguing tales from his time on the road. Following his retirement from trucking, he transitioned into a part-time truck driving instructor position at Fox Valley Technical College before ultimately embracing his permanent residence at the family cottage-a place Connor often referred to as his "tiny slice of Heaven on earth." Immersed in nature, Connor delighted in engaging in various outdoor activities, including scuba diving, snowmobiling, utving, hunting, fishing, golfing, and wielding a chainsaw amidst the woods. Known for his knack for fixing things and working with small engines, one would often find Connor tinkering in the garage. At day's end, he would relish a gin martini in the company of his dear friends.
With the arrival of his first grandchild, Connor affectionately became known as "Gramps." Above all else, he cherished spending time with his grandkids, imparting his wisdom and creating treasured memories.
Connor leaves behind a profound void in the hearts of his children: Todd (Julie) Van Doren of Vista, CA; Ann (Jody) Seubert of Appleton, WI; Dean Van Doren (special friend Carrie) of Rhinelander, WI; as well as his adored grandchildren: Elizabeth, Carson, Ariana, Jaden, and Aubrey. He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-laws: Mary Ellen Hurst, Michael, Pat, Barbara and Kathleen Flanagan; other relatives; and cherished friends who held a special place in his heart.
Connor was preceded in death by his parents, Maureen, his father and mother-in-law, Thomas and Beulah Flanagan, and his brother-in-laws, Thomas Flanagan and Dr. Charles Hurst.
A memorial service honoring the life of Connor Van Doren will be held at 12 NOON on Saturday, July 8, 2023, at BRETTSCHNEIDER TRETTIN NICKEL FUNERAL CHAPEL, located at 606 N. Oneida Street, Appleton. Friends may gather to pay their respects from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.
Though he has departed this earthly realm, Connor's memory will forever be treasured by those whose lives he touched. His legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace, forever remembered as a remarkable father, adoring grandpa, and dear friend.