Jared Paul Van Handel

Jared Paul Van Handel, age 43, passed away on Thursday, October 16, 2025, after a courageous, lifelong battle with Lyme Disease and a two-and-a-half-year battle with cancer.

Born on March 12, 1982, to Dave and Marge Van Handel, Jared lived a life filled with creativity, connection, and an unwavering love for music. A talented guitarist, songwriter, and performer. Whether he was playing his favorite acoustic guitar around the campfire or on a music festival stage with his bluegrass band, Monsters of Grass, Jared’s joy and passion for music was evident. Jared’s creativity extended beyond the stage. Through his several production companies, including Bard Sessions, he helped artists from all over the country bring their music to life through video. His work behind the scenes was just as passionate and intentional as his time on stage.

Kelly Lake was Jared’s happy place, a spot where he felt most at home. He found solace late at night on the pontoon boat, listening to all genres of music, under the moon and stars.  Spending time with his family Up North or making memories with his buddies on one of their snowmobiling trips were some of his most treasured times.

More than anything, Jared was a people person. He had a gift for conversation and could strike up a friendship anywhere. He made people feel seen, heard, and welcome-something that defined how he moved through the world.

Jared leaves behind a legacy of love, music, and friendship. He touched countless lives with his kindness, humor, and relentless enthusiasm for life. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, fellow musicians, and all those lucky enough to have crossed paths with him.

Jared is survived by his daughters: Kathryn and Paige; his parents: Dave and Marge; brother, Eric (Stephanie); niece and nephew: Riley and Owen; as well as many aunts, uncles, extended family members, and amazing friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents: Richard and Grace and Paul and Mary.

Private services for Jared will be held at Verkuilen-Van Deurzen Family Funeral Home, N3972 Columbia Ave., Freedom. A public Celebration of Life will be announced at a future date. Jared will be laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery, Appleton. For online condolences, please visit www.verkuilenfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to https://www.lymedisease.org/ in Jared’s honor to support advocacy and treatment for those affected by Lyme disease.

Jared’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Jared’s friend, Samir, for his unwavering support, care, and exceptional friendship he provided to Jared throughout his journey.