Bryant K. Van Aernum

Mr. Bryant Van Aernum of Port Washington passed away unexpectedly in Mequon on Feb. 24, 2020. He was 50 years old.
Bryant, born on May 29, 1969, in Pallentine, Ill., was the son of Keith and Mary Molnar Van Aernum.
He grew up in the Town of Port Washington and was attracted to the lake from a young age. Working on local charter boats like the Foxy Lady, Bryant honed his fishing skills.
Shortly after graduating from Port Washington High School, Class of 1987, Bryant became a licensed charter boat captain. He ran boats from the Foxy Lady fleet until he purchased his own boat in 2005 and began Van’s Catch.
Bryant’s sunny disposition and ability to help his customers catch fish ensured that he had clients from all over who came back year after year.
When he wasn’t fishing, Mr. Van Aernum enjoyed tying flies, watching NASCAR, cooking — especially grilling fish — and was involved with the Port Washington Charter Captain’s Association for many years.
In the off-season, Bryant worked at Nate’s Landscaping. He also enjoyed working with charities such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the annual Disabled Veteran’s Fishing Outing. He was always glad to get others out on the water and spread the joy of catching fish.
Survivors include his son Devon of Cedar Grove, former wives Anne Uselding and Rosie Teys, brother Richard (Joanne) Van Aernum, sister Vanessa (David) Simpson, nieces, nephews and many friends and clients.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A gathering of remembrance will be held on Thursday, March 5, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Eernisse Funeral Home, 1600 W. Grand Ave., Port Washington.
If desired, memorials are suggested to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.
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Wisconsin’s largest paid circulation community weekly newspaper. Serving Port Washington, Saukville, Grafton, Fredonia, Belgium, as well as Ozaukee County government. Locally owned and printed in Port Washington, Wisconsin.
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