Kenneth P. Vander Zanden, age 81, died in Appleton on Friday, July 31, 2026. He was born in Shiocton on August 30, 1944, to the late Martin and Marie (Van Beek) Vander Zanden.

Ken was very proud to have served in the United States Navy Reserves as a Seabee, retiring as a Chief. Following in his footsteps were two of his children and one grandson who also served in the United States Navy. Following his military service, Ken settled into a life of hard work. True to his Dutch roots, he was known for being frugal and could squeeze two pennies into a quarter, though he still wouldn't want to spend it. Gifted with his hands, he found genuine joy in creating. Whether woodworking, carpentry, counter cross-stitch, or quilting, Ken appreciated the satisfaction of crafting something both beautiful and built to last.

Early in his career, Ken was a member of the State of Wisconsin Carpenters Union and participated in a statewide carpentry competition. He later combined his knowledge of the trades with his gift for conversation while serving with the State of Wisconsin Division of Industry, Labor and Human Relations, Bureau of Apprenticeship. In that role, he guided and counseled partnerships between employers and apprentices, helping countless young people begin successful careers in the skilled trades. In a fitting full-circle moment, Ken had the privilege of signing the apprenticeship contract for his son, Paul, when Paul began his own career as a plumber.

Family gatherings with the Vander Zanden side were anything but quiet. With 14 siblings and more than 74 cousins, it never took long before everyone was talking at once. If you weren't looking directly at Ken, it was nearly impossible to tell which voice belonged to him.

Together, Ken and Luanne worked to raise their family with strong morals, sound principles, and a deep love for the Lord. They made sacrifices to send each of their children through St. John's Nepomucene School in Little Chute, believing a faith-filled education was one of the greatest gifts they could provide. Ken also had a quiet way of showing his love for Luanne. He embraced her appreciation for the Amish, happily driving her to Amish communities, filling their home with handcrafted furniture and quilts, and even growing what the family affectionately called his "Amish beard."

Faith was woven into everyday life in the Vander Zanden home, from prayers before meals and Sunday Mass to the simple reminder to count their blessings because, as Ken often said, there was always someone who had less than they did. It was a lesson in gratitude that remained with his family long after they had grown.

As they celebrate Ken's life, his family gives thanks for the memories they shared, the lessons they learned, and the legacy he leaves behind. They find comfort in knowing he is now at peace in the presence of the Lord he faithfully served throughout his life.

Ken is survived by his children: Deanna (Jeff) Minten, Jennifer Petzold, Steven Vander Zanden, Alan (Jami) Vander Zanden and Paul (Jennifer) Vander Zanden; his grandchildren: Courtney (Jake) Cross, Zach (Melissa) Minten, Jack Petzold, Oskar Petzold, Barbara Petzold, Samantha Vander Zanden, Kayci (Josh) Anunson, Justin Vander Zanden, Kaleb Vander Zanden and Valorie Vander Zanden; as well as many great grandchildren. He is further survived by his siblings: Marty (Viv) Vander Zanden, Bob (Barb) Vander Zanden, Gene (Joan) Vander Zanden, Don (Linda) Vander Zanden, Tom (Carla) Vander Zanden, and Dick (Kathy) Vander Zanden; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

In addition to his parents, Ken is preceded in death by his wife, Louise Ann "Luanne" Collins Vander Zanden; Luanne’s parents, William and Marion Collins; and his siblings and siblings-in-law: John Vander Zanden, Ray (Joyce) Vander Zanden, Nell (Don) Reis, Mary (Harvey) Fenske, Ann (Boniface) Kempen, Pat (Fred) Techlin, Jack (JoAnne) Collins, Bob (Barb) Collins, Mike (Connie) Collins.

Visitation for Ken will be held at O'CONNELL FUENRAL HOME (1776 E. Main Street, Little Chute) on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, beginning at 4:00 p.m. and concluding at 5:45 p.m. His Funeral will begin at 6:00 p.m. with Pastor Dave Vande Hey officiating. Military Honors will immediately follow, conducted by the Kaukauna V.F.W. Post 3319 and American Legion Post 41. Committal St. Joseph Cemetery, Appleton. In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established.