Donald F. VanDenBerghe, 66, of Manchester, passed away on November 28th, 2024 with his family by his side. Born in Manchester on September 19th, 1958. After graduating from Manchester West High School, Don continued his education attending Norwich University and then graduated from Plymouth State College. Don had an illustrious sales career devoted to making a positive impact in the food industry representing the Maxwell House Coffee division at General Foods, Eight O’Clock Coffee, Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Company, KKM, and Redco Foods. Don also started his own company, VanDenBerghe Consumer Products, and most recently was blessed to work beside the amazing team at Bob’s Red Mill to finish out his career.
He enjoyed fishing, cooking, singing, golfing, coaching hockey, throwing darts, playing cribbage and doing everything he could to make the world a better place. Along with his hobbies, Don believed that any day you could do something for a friend or a neighbor, it was your responsibility to lend a helping hand. Don was a passionate volunteer for Norwich University, a pillar of his community, and a fierce friend to everyone that he met. He taught us all, but especially his sons, that helping others and being a truthful friend is what makes a person good.
Don will be remembered as a loving and devoted husband, father, uncle, and mentor. Family members include his wife, Paula (Roulx) VanDenBerghe of Manchester; his sons, Colin VanDenBerghe and wife Alicia of Epping, Erik VanDenBerghe of Carmel, Indiana; his siblings, Mark W. VanDenBerghe and wife Kerrie of Pasadena, Maryland, Karen E. Hauschild of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Peter J. VanDenBerghe and wife Steff of Suwanee, Georgia, nephews, nieces, and cousins.
If you wish to send a gift in Don’s memory, please make donations to support the Norwich University Foundation and/or the Harold ‘Doc’ Martin Scholarship, awarded to talented students with financial need.
May his memory be a blessing.
(847) 277-9500