Donald E. Brockman

Don Brockman, age 74, passed away at his home, overlooking his farm, surrounded by the love of his family on December 28, 2024. He was born in Appleton on December 18, 1950, and raised in Freedom by his parents, Vilas and Germaine (Brux) Brockman. He married Nancy Vande Wettering on January 24, 1976.

Don farmed in the area his entire life, and purchased his farm in the town of Buchanan on April 1, 1979. He and his family milked cows until 2001, when they converted to custom heifer raising, and “Brockman Family Farm” was developed. The farm was his life and he was proud to know that his kids and grandchildren will continue to operate it and carry on his legacy. Don was always willing to help out a fellow farmer or family member if they needed anything, and he could usually fix just about anything. Don also enjoyed hunting and sturgeon spearing.

Don will be missed by his wife of almost 49 years, Nancy; his six children: Jodi (Darrin) Matthies, Jacki (Mike) Wegand, Joanne Brockman, Jane (Philip) Vande Voort, Jyl (Lyle Hutchinson) Brockman and Jesse (Liz) Brockman; nine grandchildren: Brenna, Caleb and Micha Matthies, Ashlynn, Eli and Jordy Vande Voort, Andi, Lane and Logan Brockman; siblings: Dennis (Judy) Brockman, Duane (Pam) Brockman, Susan (Steve) Peeters, Marilee Cappaert and Kevin (Jory) Brockman; in-laws: Doug (Dawn) Vande Wettering and Sherry Vande Wettering; Godson, Derek Van Deurzen; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Vilas and Germaine Brockman; father and mother-in-law, Robert and Ella Mae Vande Wettering; brother-in-law, Dan Vande Wettering; and a niece, Emily Pahl.

A memorial gathering will be held from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at the Verkuilen-Van Deurzen Family Funeral Home Kaukauna Location, 2401 Fieldcrest Drive. In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established in Don's name to help aid lymphoma research.

The Brockman family would like to extend a special thank you to the team at Compassus Hospice, especially Craig, Karissa, Crystal and Tiffany, for your loving care and support during Don’s final days.