Willow Irene Van Vonderen

With love and heartbreak, we announce the passing of our beautiful daughter, Willow Irene Van Vonderen, age 13, who was called home to heaven on April 15, 2026, while at home surrounded by her mom, dad and brothers.

Willow was born on June 27, 2012, with a rare genetic disorder that made her unlike others, and from the very beginning, she carried a quiet strength that could only be described as remarkable. Through all the hardships she faced, her life held a depth of purpose far beyond what could be seen. She was a gentle soul, entrusted to us by God, who taught us patience, selflessness, and an unconditional love that changed us forever.

Willow found joy in watching her light projections, moments that reflected a peace and wonder that felt almost heavenly. She did not need words to be known—her silent ways touched hearts deeply and left a lasting imprint on everyone who loved her.

Willow was deeply loved by parents, Katie and Michael Van Vonderen who affectionately called her “Toonie”, short for Petunia. She was her dad’s everything, and her dad was her best friend. Their bond was something special—a connection filled with devotion, comfort, and quiet understanding that will live on forever. She was cherished by her brothers, Chandler Scott and Lincoln Van Vonderen, who surrounded her with love every day of her life.

Willow is survived by her parents and brothers; grandparents, Randy and Mary Van Vonderen; Robert and Jenny Kaye; and Ace and Deby Alberts. She is also lovingly remembered by her aunts and uncles, Josh and Lynn Van Vonderen; Lindsey Van Vonderen and fiancé Nick Bishop; Reuben and Tara Kaye; Bobbi and Jacquie Kaye; Sean and Amy McRae; and great grandmother Marge Van Vonderen.

Loved by her cousins Allie, Colin and Sadie Van Vonderen; Braeden, Hudson and Harper Kaye; Ari Kaye; and Parker McRae.

She shared a special bond with her godmothers, Lindsey Van Vonderen, Bobbi Kaye and Jacquie Kaye.

Though our hearts ache in her absence, we find comfort in knowing that Willow is now whole, free, and at peace—held in the arms of Jesus surrounded by a love even greater than ours. She is preceded in death by her great grandparents, Gerhardt and Irene Kiekhaefer; Earl Van Vonderen; Donald and Suzanne Kaye; and Reuben and Marie Zastrow. The light she carried here on earth now shines fully in heaven.

Willow’s life, though quiet, was powerful. She changed us. She softened us. She taught us to slow down, to notice, and to love without limits. Her impact will live on in every life she touched.

Our sweet Willow, you were our greatest gift. Until we hold you again, we will carry you in everything we do.

Visitation will be held at Cotter Funeral Home, 860 N. Webster Ave, De Pere, on Tuesday, April 21 from 4 to 7 p.m.

Visitation will continue at Zion Lutheran Church, 8378 Cty Rd W, Wayside, on Wednesday, April 22 from 9:30 until 10:45 a.m. Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. with Pastor Kyle Wangelin officiating.

The family thanks her caregivers and nurses from Almost Family, St. Vincent Children’s Hospital, and a special thanks to Unity Hospice. We are forever grateful.