Barbara “Barbie” Ann Vande Hey, 63, of De Pere passed away peacefully at her home Sunday, March 9, 2025, after a brave 11-month battle with pancreatic cancer.

Just as she had asked for, the sun was shining on her face, the window cracked open, and blankets not too tight on her feet.

She was born to Edward & Edna (Bright) Belongia in Oconto, Wisconsin on March 17, 1961.

Barb lived her life very spiritually and free. Her empathetic spirit and kindness were a great testament of who she was as a person. She most definitely did it her way and the world was simply all around better with her in it.

Most of all, Barb loved spending time with family and friends. Socializing and enjoying a glass of wine, some good cheese, and listening to amazing tunes. She always made sure everyone around her felt welcomed and received some of her unconditional love. She was always up for some fun.

Barb enjoyed road trips and traveling. She loved the water and had a special draw to the ocean.

Barb was a true lover of animals of all kinds. Always willing to rescue a pet in need, throw a bone over the fence for her neighbor dog, to making Leia (dog), her only “granddaughter” a scrambled egg every time she came to her house.

Barb’s true passion, however, was riding horses. She dreamed of ponies when she was little and would often tell us she asked for one as a gift when she was young. She rode horses for many years at Green Acres Stables, even competing in competitions there. Barb owned and adored her thoroughbred horse Matastar.

She is survived by her doting husband; Thomas Vande Hey, her two children; Jenelle (Tony) Seidl and Christopher Nelson; four grandsons Dillon and Cole Seidl, Emmett and Lowen Nelson; brothers, Michael Belongia, John (Julie) Belongia; brothers- and sisters-in-law Greg Beekman, Mary Kussow, Bob (Bonnie) Vande Hey, Jack (Gail) Vande Hey, Sue (Bob) Behnke, Mark (Therese) Vande Hey, Jayne (Larry) Damp, Kay (Willie) Kussow, Karen (Dave) VandeVoort; special niece Gina “Peep” Waters, many other family members and loved ones also survive.

Barb was preceded in death by her father and mother; Edward and Edna Belongia, sister; Diane Beekman, father- and mother-in-law, Ervin and Gert Vande Hey; brother- and sister-in-law Jerry Kussow and Barbara Vande Hey, and nephew Scott "Scotty" Moeller.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to St Croix Hospice, especially to Edelyn and Christie for your amazing compassion and care for Barb. You will hold a special place in our hearts forever!

Per Mom’s wishes, no formal funeral service will be held. A Celebration of Life will be planned for a later date.