Van Doren Jolin

The Northwoods Has Lost a Legend: Van Jolin

The Northwoods has lost a true legend with the passing of Van Jolin—an extraordinary father and grandfather, and one of Wisconsin’s most respected and beloved fishing guides. Known across the region for his unmatched knowledge of the lakes, sharp wit, and warm, welcoming spirit, Van leaves behind a legacy of laughter, storytelling, and unforgettable days on the water.

Van was born in Antigo, Wisconsin, on April 6, 1936. As a kid, he spent his summers in the Northwoods where his family built and ran Deerpath Resort on Upper Gresham Lake. Those summers—filled with fishing, helping around the resort, and soaking up lake life—sparked a love for the outdoors that never left him. In the 1950s, the family made the move up north full-time from Birnamwood, turning their summer getaway into a way of life. Van started guiding guests as a teenager, and what began as helping out turned into a lifelong passion. By 1971, Van had taken the reins at the resort.

Throughout his career, Van guided a wide range of people—from local families to professional athletes and politicians. He helped many catch their first muskie or personal best, and he did it all with humor, humility, and heart. In 2003, Van was inducted into the Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame as a Legendary Guide, an honor recognizing both his decades of experience and the unforgettable memories he created for those lucky enough to fish with him. He was inducted alongside his brother Jed, marking the first time two siblings were honored in the same year.

One of Van’s most memorable catches came on the final day of the 1964 muskie season, when he helped a client reel in a 54-inch, 40-pound trophy. Still, Van never measured success by the size of the fish. As he once said, “I just love fishing and being in that atmosphere of the resort... having fun and entertaining people—that’s what got me started.”

In the early 2000s, Van underwent triple bypass surgery—but even that couldn’t keep him off the water for long. Though his doctor urged him to take a full year off from guiding, he was back in the boat within weeks. And even in recent months, despite ongoing health challenges, his passion never faded. He remained determined to be out on the water, doing what he loved most—surrounded by nature and good company.

Van’s talent as a fisherman was only matched by his gift for connecting with people. He was known for his jokes, stories, and the way he made everyone feel genuinely welcome—like an old friend, no matter how long you’d known him. His warmth, humor, and easygoing nature left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Van was a devoted family man through and through. He adored his granddaughters and loved nothing more than teasing them and telling his best—or worst—jokes with a sparkle in his eye. To his granddaughters and family, he was a joyful soul, a cherished storyteller, and the heart of so many of their best memories. He brought comfort, laughter, and a sense of home that will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

He is survived by his daughter, Briana Marston (Scott Marston); his son, Michael Jolin; and his granddaughters, Kendra and Ashley Marston.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the countless people who had the privilege of learning from him, laughing with him, and sharing his company. Van’s legacy lives on in every cast, every fish tale, and every peaceful moment in the Northwoods.

Memorial Gathering for Van will be held on Saturday, August 9th at Nimsgern Funeral Home Chapel in Woodruff, WI from 1:00 pm till 2:00 pm followed by a Memorial Service at 2:00 pm. Family and friends are also invited to gather at 4:00 PM at Bushwood Tavern (Deerpath Resort) for a toast in honor of Van.

Online condolences may be shared at nimsgernfuneral.com

NIMSGERN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES IS SERVING THE FAMILY.