Katie (Kathryn) VandenHeuvel (nee Graper), age 78, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 17th in Green Bay, WI, after an unexpected illness.

Katie grew up in a family of six sisters on Pewaukee Lake, WI and graduated from Waukesha High School. She married Robert (Bob) VandenHeuvel, on New Year's Eve 1967. Katie and Bob shared a deep and lasting bond for 57 years. She was immensely proud of her children, Eric (Denmark, WI) and Kevin (Coeur D'Alene, ID); and grandchildren Koryn (Green Bay) and Alec (Suamico).

Katie's outgoing and expressive personality, as well as natural talents for acting and singing, made her a superb performer. She acted in community theater, local television commercials, and radio ad voice-overs. Her singing gigs ranged from big band variety show productions and telethons, to intimate piano bars. Katie graced many wedding receptions by singing a dedication dance for the newly-married couple.

Her personality was perfectly-suited for a long career in sales and advertising - including radio, billboards, real estate, and an array of other products.

Katie believed deeply in serving her community and helping those that are vulnerable or abused. She helped establish the Ashwaubenon Rescue Squad, the Family Violence Center, and the Marriage Encounter program in Green Bay. Katie volunteered for the Cerebral Palsy telethon and was the first local president of the Green Bay Exchange Club. She was active in the Literary Council to assist immigrants in achieving citizenship and had a young pal for five years in the Pals program. Katie's compassion for those with nowhere to turn was evident in her many years of service at the Golden House.

Katie felt that friendship was one of life's greatest treasures and it was important for her to be a loyal, caring, and loving friend. Her vibrancy, humor, and unlimited kindness will be sorely missed. Katie's sudden passing leaves an emptiness in the hearts of all who knew her, but her spirit and love will live on in the memories of those she left behind.

Katie is survived by her husband Robert, children Eric (Kristine) and Kevin (Ineko); grandchildren Koryn and Alec (Katy Jordan); sisters Peggy (David) Swinehart, Connie Wecker, Ginny Graper, Mardie (Mike) Sachse, and Barb (Tim) Abair; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by sister Mary.

A visitation will be held on December 21, 2024, from 12:00 to 2:00 PM, followed by a service at Pfotenhauer Funeral Home & Cremation Services, East Town location, 2379 E. Mason St, Green Bay, WI 54302.