JOHN R. VAN HAREN

John R. Van Haren, 86, Burlington, formerly of West Bend, died March 3, 2014, at Horizon Lawlis Family Hospice in Mequon.

He was born March 20, 1927, in Oconto Falls, to the late Ben and Mildred (Angus) Van Haren. He spent his early years in Oconto Falls and Gillette where he graduated from high school before going to UW–La Crosse where he received a degree in education.

He proudly served in the Army during World War II.

On June 4, 1949, in La Crosse, he married Claire Marie Budde. Following marriage they made their home in Graceville, Minn., and Burlington before moving to West Bend eight years ago. She preceded him in death on May 12, 2011.

He was a physical education teacher and a vice principal with the Burlington school system, and was a previous member of St. Charles Church. He enjoyed refereeing high school ball games, dancing, playing cards, going to Friday night fish fries, and was a true sports enthusiast. He was an active member of the Burlington American Legion Post for many years.

Survivors include his children, Linda (Paul) Ernst, Green Bay, Jeff (Theresa) Van Haren, Torrance, Calif., Maribeth Miller, Cedarburg, Laurie (Rick) Verga, Cedarburg, Susan (Robin) Roberts, Green Bay; grandchildren, Anne Marie Lochner, Rusty (Nicole) Carruth, John Taylor, Emily Waters, Bridget (Justin) Barisonek, Christopher (Megan) Reilly, Tony Verga, Chris Verga, Jessica Sommerfeldt, Erin Sommerfeldt, Katie Sommerfeldt, Grace Roberts, Lilly Roberts, Chris Roberts, Dan Roberts, Kara Roberts; four great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; other relatives and friends.

He was further preceded in death by his daughter, Cathy Waters; son, Johnny Van Haren; and brother, Ralph (Marge) Van Haren.

The family would like to thank Horizon Hospice in Mequon and Dr. Carol Wood for their care and compassion.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, March 8, at 10 a.m., at St. Charles Catholic Church, Burlington. Visitation is at Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home, 625 S. Browns Lake Drive, Burlington, on Friday, March 7, from 4-7 p.m. Burial will follow the service Saturday in St. Charles Cemetery.

Well-wishers can visit www.danielsfamilyfuneral.com.