Helen Mary (Deering) Van Epern age 93, of Kaukauna, died peacefully at home June 9, 2026. She was born September 3, 1932 to the late George and Laura (Fox) Deering in Kaukauna.  Helen married her high school sweetheart August 11, 1953. Together they celebrated 53 years until his death January 5, 2007. 

Helen Van Epern was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, historian, and community leader whose life was deeply rooted in family, farming, and the preservation of local history.

Together with her husband, Dick, she farmed for many years, raising their children while building a life centered on hard work, faith, and community. The family farm was not only her home but also a place where she shared her values of dedication, stewardship, and love of the land with future generations. She was actively involved in hosting Farm Progress Days in 1981, proudly showcasing the agricultural heritage that meant so much to her.

A lifelong volunteer, she served as a 4-H leader for many years, mentoring countless young people and encouraging them to develop skills, confidence, and a sense of responsibility. She was also a dedicated member of the HoneyBee Homemaker Club, having joined in 1955 and remaining an active participant throughout her life.

Her passion for antiques and history was well known throughout the region. She found great joy in collecting and preserving artifacts that told the story of earlier generations. Her deep appreciation for local heritage led her to become a charter member of the Town of Kaukauna Historical Society in 1984. She also served on the Outagamie County Historical Society Board of Directors for fifteen years and maintained memberships in several neighboring historical societies.

Among her most meaningful accomplishments was her work recognizing and preserving the legacy of the Grignon family. Through her efforts supporting the cemetery monument and promoting awareness of their contributions to local history, she helped ensure that an important chapter of the area’s past would not be forgotten.

Widely respected as an area historian, she was often sought out for her extensive knowledge of local families, farms, landmarks, and community traditions. Her dedication to preserving history enriched the lives of many and created a lasting legacy for future generations.

Helen is survived by her children: Terry (Kris) Van Epern, Robin Verbruggen, Sandy (Jeff) Kunkel, Guy (Bonnie) Van Epern, Roxy (Jerome) Gebert, and Will (Beth) Van Epern; grandchildren: Derik, Kurt (Carrie) Van Epern, Heidi (Dennis) DeRosso; Casey (Becky) Verbruggen, Laura (Brett) Van Lanen; Kyle (Mandy) Kunkel, Corey, Cameron (Dani) Kunkel; Corey Van Epern; Aidan and Jack Van Epern; Danielle, Andrea and Mikaela Gebert; 17 great-grandchildren; sisters and brothers-in-law: Delores Van Epern, Marion (Jim) Kobussen, Sally Van Epern, Karen (Rick) Ramstack, and Pat Deering; Godchildren: Carol VandeLoo-Crevier, Barbara Legener, Dan Deering, Dan Kobussen, Don Van Epern, and Annie Zeckovich; numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. 

Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Van Epern; son-in-law, Lee Verbruggen; parents, George and Laura Deering; father and mother-in-law, William and Euphemia Van Epern; sister and brother-in-law, Mariann and Richard Legener; brother, Bob Deering; brothers and sisters-in-law: Ray, Don, Carl, Roy Van Epern, Marylou (Roger) Wolf, Helen (Leo) VandeLoo and Bea Van Epern. 

The funeral liturgy for Helen will be at 12:00 noon on Friday June 19, 2026, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 309 Desnoyer Street, Kaukauna with Father Luke Ferris officiating. Visitation will be at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Mass. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established to benefit some of Helen’s favorite charities.  

The family would like to give a special thank you to Compassus Hospice and Mary Hague for their compassion and care.