Mary Evonne (Vonnie) Durand passed away and joined her husband Eugene Lawrence (Jack) Durand on July 8, 2021. Vonnie was at her home surrounded by her two sons and two daughters. She has four grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Vonnie was also the mother to five foster children. Preceding her passing was her husband Jack of more than 50 years.

Vonnie was a life-long resident of Spooner and graduated from Spooner High School in 1950. She married Jack, her high school sweetheart, in 1953. Vonnie’s many early endeavors include working for an airline and school secretary. All during her life with Jack, she supported Dur-a-Bilt Cabinets, the family business. Both Vonnie and Jack were active members of the St. Francis de Sales as well as the Sacred Heart Catholic Churches. While her children were young, Vonnie contributed countless hours towards serving as a Boy and Girl Scout leader. For several decades, Vonnie volunteered on the Washburn County Fair Board and was honored for her service.

Among her many additional interests and talents, Vonnie loved gardening and flower arranging. She became a Master Gardener and was a long-time member of the Spooner Garden Club.

Vonnie created beautiful quilts and hand-braided rugs which she took great pleasure in gifting to her beloved family members. Every piece of fabric in her works of art carried a personal story. She also loved cooking, canning, wine making, and especially baking.

The Northwoods was a sanctuary and refuge for Vonnie, as she immersed herself in its flora and fauna. Whether she was canoeing, warming by a bon fire, or deer hunting with her husband and sons, Vonnie was most content being in nature. At the age of 76, Vonnie was proud of her trophy buck, taken sixty years after her first.

In lieu of cards, flowers, or gifts, donations to the Alzheimer’s Association would honor her memory.

There will be a private family ceremony.

Last Update: Jul 12, 2021 6:07 am CDT