Skip to main content
In Loving Memory
Michael Paul VanBendegom

Michael Paul VanBendegom

December 12, 1946  —  September 26, 2026


Proko Funeral Home

A Life Remembered

Obituary

Michael VanBendegom, born December 12, 1946, in Kenosha, passed away on September 26, 2026. He was a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished grandfather.

Mike married his high school sweetheart, Darlene Pierangeli VanBendegom, and together they built a life filled with love and family. He earned an associate degree and dedicated his career as a purchasing manager, retiring from Rexnord Corporation in Milwaukee.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Darlene, and their children: son Jeff (Martha Frellsen) of Madison, WI, and his adored grandchildren, Claudia and Audrey VanBendegom. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Virginia VanBendegom, and his daughter, Jodi VanBendegom Garavaglia.

Above all else, Mike loved his wife, his family, and his God. His passions included attending races and working on race cars with his son, enjoying concerts, and traveling with his family. Mike will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and his remarkable ability to be a great listener.

Visitation will be from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM on Friday, October 2, 2026, at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 7337 Hubbard Avenue, Middleton, WI, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM. A luncheon will be served at noon. Interment will be held privately in St. George Cemetery, Kenosha, WI. Arrangements are entrusted to Proko Funeral Home, Kenosha, WI.

Service Details

Gatherings in remembrance

Visitation

Friday, October 2, 2026 · 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM

St. Luke Lutheran Church
7337 Hubbard Avenue, Middleton, WI, 53562

Funeral Service

Friday, October 2, 2026 · 11:00 AM

St. Luke Lutheran Church
7337 Hubbard Avenue, Middleton, WI, 53562

Messages of Love

From family and friends

Bruce BUZZELL October 2, 2026
To Darlene and family. Mike is always had a special place in our hearts. It was great working with him at Abbott and commuting together down there. Our friendship through the years has lasted when it was good to see him at times in Kenosha what we were there. I am very honored and blessed to call Mike my friend. God bless and comfort you all.
Maurine and Evelyn from Aurora October 2, 2026
Our deepest condolences. We are thinking of you in this sad time. Maurine, Linda and I get together for a luncheon once in awhile and would like you to join us. Darlene, it was a happy time for me to get to know you and Mike.
Stanley Nosal and Nancy Nosal September 30, 2026
Our deepest condolences to Darlene, Jeff and family on Mike's passing. He was the definition of a true friend; his warm heart and giving spirit will always be remembered. A favorite memory is the experience at the top of the CN Tower in Toronto! Wishing you peace and comfort in the days ahead.
Joan Huber September 30, 2026
Glad we visited in Madison a while back.. got to know Mike and enjoyed our time together that day. God bless ..
Noreen Bloxdorf September 29, 2026
My deepest sympathy, Darlene!
Tom and Angela Lefeber September 29, 2026
Darlene, Jeff, Martha, Claudia, and Audrey, we send our deepest condolences for this great loss of your beloved husband, father, and grandfather. May you find strength in one another and comfort and peace from our Heavenly Father. May Mike rest in peace with our loving and merciful God.
Jan & Cary Ferraro September 29, 2026
Darlene & Jeff, we are saddened to hear of Mike's passing. Our thoughts & prayers are with you and all your family. With our Faith in God, we know he has met eternal life and once again with Jody, and others waiting with open arms. May he rest in peace and may you stay strong till you meet again. With love, Jan & Cary 🙏
Emily Barczak (Linda & Ken Davis’ daughter) September 29, 2026
I am so sorry for your loss! I was just thinking of Mike and Darlene because I came across a photo of Jodi and I when we were little. I know that Mike and Darlene had a beautiful marriage. And they raised 2 beautiful children. It was a major blessing to have Mike in our lives!
Boyd and Theresa Klofenstine September 29, 2026
We are so sorry to hear of Mikes passing. We always enjoyed talking to him as a friend and as a cousin. Such a special man. Our deepest sympathies to Darlene, Jeff and family.
❦

Provided by

Proko Funeral Home