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Allan Lavern
Van Den Heuvel
d. Mar 19, 2026
Grand Rapids
Allan LaVern Van Den Heuvel, age 91, of Grand Rapids, MN passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by the love of his life on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at The Pillars Assisted Living, Grand Rapids, MN.
He was born in 1934 in Holcombe, and raised in Cornell, Wisconsin where he grew up on the family farm alongside his Mother Viva, Father Frank, brothers, Donny, Raymond, Howard, Gary, Ronny, and Sisters Beverly and Laurie. His early years were filled with hard work, laughter, and a fair share of mischief—memories he carried fondly throughout his life. When he left the farm, he joined the Army and spent two years serving his country in the Korean conflict. Something he was very proud of.
At a young age, he met the love of his life, Doris Allen. Their bond grew strong, and they were married, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love and devotion. Together, they raised three children and built a life centered on family.
They first made their home in Silver Bay, Minnesota, before settling in Grand Rapids, where they spent over 50 cherished years at their home on Pokegama Lake. It was there that many lasting memories were made with family and friends.
Over the course of his life, he embraced many professions. From his early days working on the farm, he went on to become an electrician, later owning and operating a resort. Eventually, he developed an interest in tax law and became the owner of his own H&R Block business. The franchise was the most successful H&R Block office outside of the twin cities. He also had a passion for computer programming, and even after retirement, he continued to share his expertise by consulting with Hawkinson Construction on software for their business.
He was an active member of the community and enjoyed being part of the Itasca Driftskippers Snowmobile Club and the Rapids Riders ATV Club. In retirement, he stayed busy and engaged, spending time with family and friends golfing, gardening, four-wheeling, and snowmobiling.
He was preceded in death by his parents his brothers and his sister Laurie. He is survived by his beloved wife, Doris; his son, Chris (Sheila) Van Den Heuvel and two daughters, Jane (Jerome) Berman and Jill Tomasiewicz; one sister, Beverly Kawaller; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry on his legacy of hard work, love, and joy for life.
A visitation will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026, beginning at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Grand Rapids, MN with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 AM at the church. Fr. Blake Rozier will officiate. Burial with full military honors will be at Itasca-Calvary Cemetery, Grand Rapids, MN.
Memorials are preferred to the Itasca Driftskippers, Rapids Riders ATV Club or St. Joseph Catholic Church.
Arrangements are with Rowe Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Grand Rapids, MN. To sign the online guestbook or send condolences visit www.rowefuneralhomeandcreatory.com.
Friday
St. Joseph’s Catholic Church
Starts at 10:00 am
Friday
St. Joseph’s Catholic Church
Starts at 11:00 am
Friday
Itasca-Calvary Cemetery
Starts at 12:15 pm
Visits: 5
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