Michael Francis Vanney

Mike Vanney, age 70, died July 1, 2024 surrounded by loved ones, after a struggle with colon cancer followed by leukemia.

Mike was born May 18, 1954, to Richard and Dorothy (Larson) Vanney. He graduated from Rhinelander High School in 1972. In 1974 he married Anne (Hagen) and started a family. A logger from the age of 16, Mike made many lifelong friends throughout the Northwoods of Wisconsin. 

A loving and devoted father of four, Mike loved spending time with family and friends, especially on the Wisconsin River — boating, fishing, waterskiing and teaching others to ski. Mike always welcomed visitors and will be remembered for his hospitality, entertaining stories and quick wit. He’d never turn down a good game of cards or dice. He was a talented carpenter and gardener and was skilled at operating machinery. An avid outdoorsman, Mike enjoyed spending much of his time in the woods. 

He is survived by his significant other of 20 years, Dawn Larson; his four children: Sheila Vanney (Kevin Crumley), Angela (Chris) Adams, Fran Vanney (Derik Houle), and Rick (Sam) Vanney; siblings Paula Drivas and Peter (Amy) Vanney; one grandchild: Sean Crumley; aunts Janet (David) Taleff and Darlene (Vanney) Terzinski; uncles Roger (Kathy) Larson and Tom Vanney; many nieces, nephews, and countless friends. 

Mike was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Steve and Jeff Vanney. 

No formal services are planned.