Don "Donnie" Van Haren

APOLLO BEACH, Fla. /MADISON-Donald Edward “Donnie” Van Haren, age 59, of Apollo Beach, Fla., passed away unexpectedly at home on Friday, Feb. 16, 2018.  He was born on March 3, 1958 to Elinor “Ellie” (Cadruvi) and Donald Van Haren and raised in Madison, Wis.  Donnie worked for many years in the printing industry as a master printing press operator, and loved it.  He met the love of his life, Jennifer Moore at their Lafollette 25th high school class reunion.   Not only did he marry her, but her married her TWICE.  First on March 3, 2002, in a secret private ceremony and then again on May 4, 2002, in front of friends and family.  Donnie’s daughter, Sarah, had graced them with two grandchildren, Carter (8) and Arianna (2). He and Jennifer were looking forward to Sarah and her family moving closer to them.  Donnie filled his retirement with puttering around the house, working part-time maintaining the outdoor pools in his development, and playing his guitar. He recently received the guitar of his dreams from Jennifer and was practicing with others to form a band. Donnie and Jennifer were known throughout the neighborhood and formed many enduring friendships. Donnie was an avid sports fan with his favorite teams being (of course) the Badgers and Packers.  He could be seen on game day in his “man cave” garage enjoying the game with a beer in hand. Donnie is survived by his wife, Jennifer; daughter, Sarah Van Haren; two grandchildren, Carter and Arianna; mother, Elinor Van Haren; older brothers, Dan (Jill) and Randy (Cindy); younger sisters, Terre (Doc Roddy) and Kim (Barry Engen); and his faithful dog companion, Cooper.  He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Van Haren; and older brother, Ronald Van Haren. A Celebration of Life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Thursday, March 1, 2018. A gathering with food and drink will follow.  Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive 608-221-5420