Vincent Michael McCabe, 93, passed away peacefully on Saturday afternoon, April 26, 2025, surrounded by family. Born to Peter and Emma (Bougie) McCabe on October 1, 1931, Vince was the only surviving son among nine children.
Vince grew up on the family farm near Freedom, WI where he developed a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for family values. He graduated from Nicolet High School in 1949 and briefly attended St. Norberts College before enlisting in the United States Navy. He proudly served his country during the Korean War.
On July 7, 1951, Vince married his high school sweetheart, Patricia Schmechel. Their marriage spanned nearly 60 years until her passing on February 10, 2011. Together, they gathered many cherished memories with friends and family at the McCabe farm near Freedom, WI, their cottages on Pelican Lake and near Crivitz, WI, and during various vacations. After retirement they enjoyed winter retreats to Lake Wales and Madeira Beach, Florida, and South Padre Island, Texas. A special highlight for Vince was a trip visit to Ireland, where he reestablished connections with long-lost relatives.
Vince worked at Wisconsin Public Service Corporation for 37 years, starting his career as an appliance service technician in 1956. He advanced from local representative in De Pere to electric service coordinator in Oshkosh, and finally to assistant electric superintendent in Green Bay. His commitment and expertise left a lasting impact on the community.
Known for his industrious nature, Vince was always busy with multiple projects. This included building a cottage with lumber reclaimed from an old barn and residential electrical work. Community involvement was part of life for Vince. Including membership and leadership roles in the Knights of Columbus, singing in the church choirs, and performing maintenance work at the parishes he belonged to. Fishing trips to Canada with his family were special events. Spending time with all his children and grandchildren brought great joy (most of the time!).
On November 10, 2018, Vince found a new companion when he married Beatrice “Judy†(Lutes) Prilliman. They enjoyed six years together before Vince’s passing.
Vince is survived by his four children: Michele McCabe, Lisa Demers, Kim (Al) Lobdell, and Peter (Ronette) McCabe. He leaves behind a legacy of love through his 11 grandchildren: Christina Spector, Michael Wagner, Mathew Wagner, Nick Alexander, Kelly Vang, Nate Demers, Andrew Lobdell, Jennifer Lobdell, Tom McCabe, Dave McCabe, and Alyssa Spadino. Vince is also survived by thirteen great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his first wife Patricia, their infant daughter Christine, his parents Peter and Emma, and all his siblings.
We kindly invite friends and family to attend a visitation at Ryan Funeral Home and Crematory, located at 305 N. Tenth St, De Pere, WI from 4 PM to 8 PM on Friday, May 2, 2025. A prayer service is scheduled to take place at 7 PM and will be conducted by Father Willie VandeLoo. A private funeral service will take place at McCormick Assisted Living Saturday at 10:00 a.m. with Fr. Willie Van De Loo officiating, followed by burial with Military Honors at St. Patrick Cemetery, West 41 Frontage Road, Kaukauna, WI 54130.
The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to McCormick Assisted Living and Unity Hospice personnel for the compassionate care provided to Vince during his stay at McCormick Assisted Living.
In Vince's memory, donations can be made to McCormick Assisted Living or Unity Hospice instead of flowers.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Vincent, please visit our floral store. |