Allen Leo Van Ert, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on October 3rd, 2025, just shy of his 87th birthday. Al was born on October 4, 1938, to Leo and Margaret (nee Aschenbrenner) Van Ert in Marshfield, WI.
A distinguished and driven individual, he graduated from Columbus Catholic High School in Marshfield, WI, before attending St. John's University in St. Cloud, Minnesota. He later completed his college education with Political Science and History degrees at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In 1957, he proudly entered the U.S. Army, serving until 1962. On June 24, 1961, he married Angeline Sola in Hurley, Wisconsin, a union based on love and commitment.
He carried a deep respect for education and hard work, and his entrepreneurial spirit was apparent in everything he pursued. His professional journey began in Advertising Sales at the Milwaukee Journal Company, followed by a role in Surgical Suture Sales with Davis & Geck. In May 1969, he ventured into the restaurant business, opening the Burger Chef Restaurant. Five years later, he launched the Family Chef Restaurant in Delafield, Wisconsin, which he successfully operated until its sale in 1994. That same year, he began developing the Kettle Ridge Condominiums, a project he completed in 2000 before retiring.
A true people person, he found joy in social gatherings—whether teeing off on the golf course, enjoying boating adventures on Nagawicka Lake with loved ones, or relaxing at his Florida condo. His dedication to family and work was mirrored by his devotion to community service, exemplified through his active membership in the Delafield-Summit Lions Club.
Al is survived by his wife of 64 years, Angie; sons David (Bridget) and Paul (Jane) Van Ert; grandchildren Sarah (Jamie) Brunk, Nicholas (Susanna), Mitchell, and Mason Van Ert, Jay and Andrew Van Ert; great grandchildren Kady Johnson, Amelia Zombor, Evangelina and Veronica Van Ert; sister Mary Beth (Michael) Gasdick; brothers Wayne (Bette), Leo Jr. (Linda), and Tom Van Ert.
Al is preceded in death by his parents, daughter Debra, sister Dawn, and brothers Gayle, DuWayne, John, and Jimmy.
The family would like to thank the staff at Shorehaven in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, and Agrace Hospice for the wonderful care they provided to Al in his final days.
A funeral service will be held at St Charles Catholic Church, 313 Circle Drive in Hartland, WI, on Monday, October 13, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:30 a.m. until the time of the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to St Charles Catholic Church would be appreciated.
St. Charles Parish
St. Charles Parish
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