Stuart Vandre, 75, formerly of Merrill, passed away on February 13, 2024 in Tavares, FL.
Son to Essie Faye (Welch) Vandre and George Vandre, he was born in Merrill, WI on June 6, 1948. Stuart grew up on the family farm before marrying his high school sweetheart, Sheryl Jourdan.
After 20 years of service and being stationed at numerous lighthouses around the country, he retired from the Coast Guard as a Chief Boatswain’s Mate, honored to have played a pivotal role in the Challenger search and recovery. As a longtime resident of Merritt Island, FL, he also retired from the Brevard County Sheriff’s Department after 16 years.
Family and friends were an important part of Stuart’s life. He was most proud to have helped raise his children and to be involved in the lives of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He enjoyed keeping in touch with former sailors and deputies, and traveling to visit family and friends.
Stuart is survived by his wife of 56 years, Sheryl (Jourdan) Vandre of Merritt Island, FL; their 3 children: Julie Duke and husband Scott of Hoschton, GA, Michelle Bush and husband Eric of Melbourne, FL, and Todd Vandre and wife Teresa of Mount Dora, FL; his 6 grandchildren: Nicole Leinenweber, Ryan Duke, Ashley Adams, Anthony Rizzo, Brianna Rizzo, and Carissa Daly; his 9 great grandchildren: Blakely, Gianna, Jayden, Adrianna, Luca, Reagen, Riley, Mia and Lyla; his brother, Wayne Vandre and wife Karen of Merrill, WI; and sisters Juanita Hass and husband David of Homosassa, FL and Faye Vandre of Merrill, WI; and his brother-in-law, Steve Young of Merrill, WI. In addition to his parents, he was pre-deceased by his brother, David Vandre; sister, Lavonna Young; and brother-in-law, Ken Wieloch.
The viewing will be held at Davis Seawinds Funeral Home in Melbourne, FL on March 1 from 10am-12pm, followed by the service with military honors at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in Mims, FL from 2-2:30pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity of your choice.