Florence E. (Van Handel) Rooyakkers

Florence E. Rooyakkers, age 81, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 17, 2025. Florence was born on March 10, 1944, to Barney and Verna (Huss) Van Handel. During her high school years, she met the love of her life and soulmate, Thomas Rooyakkers. The two were married on April 6, 1964, and together they built a beautiful life and raised their family.

In 1975, Florence and Thomas built a cherished family cabin on Lac Vieux Desert in Phelps, Wisconsin, where they lived full-time until 2018. They shared 53 wonderful years together. To escape the harsh Wisconsin winters, they traveled south to Gulfport, Mississippi, where they created many memories with family and friends.

Florence was incredibly proud of her children and grandchildren, supporting them through every milestone. She loved gardening, exercising, and fishing—especially when she was side by side with Thomas. Florence was known for her kindness and the genuine compassion she showed to everyone she met. She will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.

Florence is survived by her children: Kim (Dan) Van Sambeek, Tom (Nicole) Rooyakkers, Tim (Paula) Rooyakkers, Bill (Adriana) Rooyakkers, and Matt (Courtney) Rooyakkers; her grandchildren: Tiffany (Coltin) Dahlke, Clint (Olivia) Van Sambeek, Shelby Van Sambeek, Ben (Caitlin) Rooyakkers, Jack Rooyakkers, Margaret Rooyakkers, Vincent Rooyakkers, Allison Rooyakkers, Vanessa Rooyakkers, John Rooyakkers, and Joe Rooyakkers; and her great-grandchildren: Saylor Van Sambeek, Jasper Dahlke, and Beau Dahlke. She is further survived by her siblings Bernice, Marilyn, Dave (Judy), and Rita (Gene), sister-in-law Marie Van Handel, as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Thomas; and her siblings Roger, Dolores, and Eugene.

A memorial service for Florence will be held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 600 E. Kimberly Ave. Visitation will take place at the church on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. For online condolences please visit www.verkuilenfh.com