Robert John VanLanen

Robert John VanLanen, known to most as “Big Bob,” passed away on March 8, 2026, at his home in Weston, Wisconsin, surrounded by the love of his family and under the care of Aspirus Hospice. He was 67 years old and had faced a short but courageous battle with a progressive disease.

Bob was born on September 13, 1958, in Eland, Wisconsin, to William and Mary VanLanen. He lived a full life defined by hard work, a big personality, and an even bigger heart.

Bob graduated from Wittenberg-Birnamwood High School and went on to build a life rooted in grit and determination. A skilled welder by trade, he was also an entrepreneur who never stopped pursuing new ventures. Over the years he owned and operated several local businesses, including Rainbow Snow, The Sugar Shack, and The Judy Peterson Dance Studio. No matter what project he took on, Bob approached it with determination, skill, and pride.

Bob married Diane in 1979 and quickly became an important father figure to her two sons, Ronald and Robert. In 1985, they welcomed their first and only child together, Krystle. In 2025, Bob experienced one of the greatest joys of his life when he became a grandfather to his beloved granddaughter, Delaney.

To his family and friends, Bob was someone you could lean on and believe in. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose generosity, humor, and ability to fix just about anything left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Whether it was repairing a broken machine, solving a tough problem, or simply lending a helping hand, Bob was always there.

He loved spending time with his family, cheering on the Green Bay Packers, golfing with his close friends, hunting and being outdoors, and taking memorable trips to Mexico with those he loved most. Known for his quick wit and sarcasm, Bob balanced his humor with a deeply generous heart. He was thrifty when it came to himself but incredibly giving when it came to helping others.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Diane (Holmes); his daughter, Krystle (Nelson) Drees; his cherished granddaughter, Delaney; and his stepson, Robert Ramsey. He is also survived by his siblings, Cindy (Dan) Borcherding, Russell (Janice) VanLanen, and Gregory (Cindy) VanLanen, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mary VanLanen; his stepson, Ronald Ramsey; his mother-in-law, Irene Holmes; his father-in-law, Edwin Holmes; and his uncle, Jack VanLanen.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Trailside Bar. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and honor the life of a man who meant so much to so many.

"All our times have come… Seasons don’t fear the reaper, nor do the wind, the sun or the rain."

Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Weston is assisting the VanLanen family with arrangements. You may sign the family guestbook at www.ascendweston.org