John A. Vanne

John Allen Vanne, age 81 of Two Rivers, passed away peacefully at home August 27th 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on May 7, 1944 in Two Rivers to Orville and Florence (Lacke) Vanne, John spent his early years in the Two Rivers and Manitowoc area where he formed the deep roots that would ground his life.

A proud veteran, John served honorably in the U.S. Army from 1961 to 1964. In 1966, he married Sharon Timm (Suettinger), daughter of Howie and Ione Timm, and together they raised three children. In 1978, John remarried Mary Metz, and together they built a warm home on Scheuer Road where they shared a life full of love, laughter, and dedication to family.

John started his building career working for Floyd Hanes Building and Remodeling where he learned many valuable skills and built a lifelong friendship. He then continued his craft with Frank Check Builders, building homes and learning skills that would help so many others throughout his life. Eventually, John found his place at Eggers Industries where he worked until his retirement in 2009. He often spoke fondly of the wonderful people he met and worked alongside throughout his career.

John’s passions were many. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and was happiest with a chainsaw in hand, cutting wood. A competitor at heart, he spent over 20 years participating in truck pulling, a sport that brought him joy and camaraderie. Beyond hobbies, John’s greatest legacy was his generosity. From 1997 to 2009, he and Mary opened their home to foster care, welcoming 15 children and adopting two. This act of kindness reflected John’s boundless compassion and dedication to others.

John is survived by his wife Mary Vanne; children Melissa Vanne, Sheila Vanne (special friend Christopher P), Jesse (Jill) Vanne, Jesse (Caressa) Swetlik, Danielle Vanne, and Christina Vanne; his brother, Orville Jr. and sister-in-law Pam; brother-in-law Bob Gunnufson Sr; 15 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and many other loving family members. He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Shirley Gunnufson; and a great-grandchild Leila Braun.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to Heartland Hospice for their expert care and unwavering support during this difficult time.

A celebration of life will be held at City Limits Bar & Banquet Hall, 3627 County Rd. C R in Manitowoc on Saturday, September 6th from 1pm until 5pm. Food will be provided. Military honors will be accorded outside the Banquet Hall at 3 pm by members of the American Legion Post #165 and VFW Post #1248 of Two Rivers.

Online condolence messages may be shared at DejaMartin.com.

Deja & Martin Funeral Chapels of Two Rivers is assisting the Vanne family with funeral arrangements.