Richard Vander Perren

Richard "Rick" L. Vander Perren, 68, Casco, passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2024. He was born March 3, 1955, in Green Bay to Norbert and Evelyn (Gonnering) Vander Perren.

Rick graduated from Green Bay West High School and then went on to receive his degree in Autobody Restoration from NWTC. On Jan 7, 1995, he married Wendy Swetters.

Rick worked at Denil Cadillac, Bay City Chrysler, as well as S&L Motors before retiring at the age of 57. He was not one to sit still however and took on a one day a week job at Auto Paint Specialists. His dedication to restoring classic cars would be a lifelong labor of love.

Rick enjoyed sharing his incredible baked goods as well as cooking for his family and friends. His chili was award winning, and his blueberry muffins were enjoyed by many. You could be sure that the Thanksgiving turkey would be done on the grill, a delicious tradition of Rick’s doing.

In his free time, Rick liked to garden and tinker in his workshop. He was an avid walker and liked to stroll through car shows. Whether at Iola, Jefferson, or Automotion, Rick relished the opportunity to see the cars and make new friends with his outgoing social nature. Above all else, he loved his family dearly.  

He is survived by his wife, Wendy; children, Matt (Amy) Vander Perren, Mark Vander Perren, Amanda (Andrew) Garrison; grandchildren, Broderick (Rachael) Vander Perren, Samuel Vander Perren, Claudine Vander Perren; sisters-in-law, Vicki Rodriguez, Lori Swetters; brother-in-law, Mark Swetters; mother-in-law, Mary Swetters; nephew, Dimas Rodriguez.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Norbert and Evelyn; brother, James “Jim” Vander Perren; brother-in-law, Armando Rodriguez; father-in-law, Gene Swetters; as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Friends and family will gather at Blaney Funeral Home, 1521 Shawano Ave., from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. (NOON) on Saturday, February 24; Funeral Service to follow at 12 p.m. To send online condolences, please go to www.BlaneyFuneralHome.com. Rick’s family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staffs of Tender Hearts, Heartland Hospice, Aurora BayCare Medical Center for their kindness and compassion given to Rick.