She will be remembered for a life of prayer, service and love
Sister Martin Vandervest, age 98, died on Aug. 29, 2025. The former Audrey Vandervest was born on March 20, 1927, in Dykesville, Wis., the 11th of 12 children of the late Joseph and Josephine (Bader) Vandervest. She entered the convent in 1948, professed her vows in 1951, and celebrated her 75th Jubilee in 2024.
Sister Martin earned a teaching license from Door-Kewaunee Normal and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education at St. Norbert College, De Pere. She received certification as a hospital chaplain in the National Association of Catholic Chaplains at St. Francis Hospital and St. Luke Hospital in Milwaukee. She served as a teacher at the Crippled Children’s Home, Champion; St. John, Howard; St. Boniface, De Pere; St. Mary, Peshtigo; St. Matthew, Green Bay; All Saints, Denmark; SS. Peter & Paul, Institute; St. Anthony, Texas; and Holy Trinity, Casco. She served in pastoral care and hospital chaplaincy at Mercy Medical, Oshkosh; St. Joseph, Marshfield; and St. Catherine, East Chicago, Ind.
After retiring, Sister Martin helped in Community service at the Motherhouse. She loved the Eucharist, being in chapel and praying the rosary for her nephews, nieces, their spouses and children every day. Her smile was her ever present companion. Her gratitude touched many hearts. Sister Martin had a great love for all of God’s creation. She truly lived the Charism of the Sisters – prayer, presence and hospitality.
Survivors include the Sisters of St. Francis of the Holy Cross and Associates; her many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Preceding her in death were her parents: Joseph and Josephine; brothers & sisters-in-law: Martin, Michael (Rose), Louis (Marie), Joseph (Margaret); sisters and brothers-in-law: Anna (Raymond) LaCroix, Rose (Henry) Metzler, Esther (Clifford) Le Grave, Mildred (Francis) Nellis, Mary (Fred) Borlee, Mabel (Joe) Dellis, Cecelia (Bob) Rubens.
Friends may call from 9 to 10:15 am Tuesday, Sept. 9, at Holy Cross Church, 3009 Bay Settlement Road, Green Bay. The Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 am with Rev. David McElroy, O.Praem, as celebrant. Homilist will be Deacon Roger Vandervest. Burial will be in Holy Cross Cemetery.
The Sisters of St. Francis and the family of Sister Martin wish to express their gratitude to the nursing staff at St. Francis Convent, Visiting Angels and Moments Hospice for their loving care and support.
