Gregory "Shovel" Vandenheuvel

Gregory Allen “Shovel” VanDenHeuvel passed away March 12, 2023. He was 71 years old. He was born September 24, 1951 in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin to Richard and Harriet VanDenHeuvel.  “Shovel” worked for the county as a supervisor for the Hwy department he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and trapping, and loved spending time with his family. He was an avid Minnesota Viking fan.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Richard, and Harriet VanDenHeuvel; father-in-law, Kenneth Gumtow.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years Mary Jane VanDenHeuvel of Silver Bay, Minnesota; daughters, Nicole Marie VanDenHeuvel of Silver Bay, Minnesota, and Tara Lynn VanDenHeuvel of St. Paul, Minnesota; mother-in-law, Lucille Gumtow of Florida; brothers, Larry VanDenHeuvel of Cloquet, Minnesota, and Todd VanDenHeuvel of Two Harbors, Minnesota; brother in laws, Bob Gumtow (Natalie) of Florida, and Bill Gumtow of Florida; four grandchildren, Michael, Marisa, Macaiden, and Amara; two great-grandchildren, Maverick, and Clayre.

Shovel was well known for his cooking abilities and his fish cakes were almost famous. He also canned many jars of various kinds of pickles over the years. Shovel was one of the hardest workers and had an excellent work ethic he accomplished much in his lifetime and he was enjoying wintering in Texas.

A gathering of friends and family will be held at a later date to honor Shovel.