Gary Lane Van Vorous I

Gary Lane Van Vorous I, "Gary Lane" to those who knew and loved him, 82, of Menominee, MI, formerly of Sister Bay, WI, died in the comfort of his home, Saturday morning, March 8, 2025 with his family at his side.

He was born March 28, 1942 in Sturgeon Bay, WI, the son of Hudson Anthony Van Vorous and Marian Ruth (Johnson) Van Vorous. Gary grew up in Fish Creek, WI. He graduated from Gibraltar High School with the class of 1960 and moved to Milwaukee, WI where he started his musical career, forming "Gary Lane & the Mad Lads." As Gary traveled the country, he performed with many of the top recording artists of the time period and even met Dick Clark. Gary also got to know many of the kids who danced on the American Band Stand.

In 1975, he started Sub & Stuff Submarine Sandwiches Shops, which included locations in Milwaukee, Wauwatosa, Watertown, and Port Washington, all in Wisconsin. Gary also owned and operated the Sun Dazzle Pub, a popular sports bar in Milwaukee, known for the famous "Gut Buster" burrito, for 26 years. At the Port Washington location, he began serving Mexican food and changed the name to Beanies, when he sold after the marriage to his second wife.

In 1989, Gary formed a partnership with Mike and Oscar Johnson and took over renovating the old Husby's in Sister Bay, WI, which included adding a new bar and kitchen with an expanded menu.

He managed Husby's for many years before purchasing the old Shell gas station on Bay Shore Drive and Mill Road in Sister Bay and a cottage, also on Bay Shore Drive. After many unforeseen obstacles, Gary changed the old gas station into Beanie's Mexican and American restaurant, which he operated for 11 years from 1995 until 2006, when he retired.

For a short time after, he performed in rock shows and around Milwaukee and brought "A Night to Remember", Doo Wopp, and Rock shows at the Door Community Auditorium in Fish Creek.

Gary was a smoker throughout his life, and it eventually took a toll on him, as he struggled with COPD in recent years.

The music that he has played will play on in the hearts of his sons, Gary Van Vorous II of Milwaukee, WI and Terry Van Vorous of Sturgeon Bay; fianceé, Tina Brodbeck of Menominee, MI; sister-in-law, Dixie Van Vorous of Sister Bay, WI; nieces and nephews; other relatives; and friends.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers and sister, Gale Van Vorous, Sandra Marine, and Douglas Van Vorous; other relatives; and his beloved friend, Judith Johnson, with whom he shared a lifetime with.

Gary will be laid to rest in Blossomberg Cemetery in Peninsula State Park in Fish Creek, WI with a graveside service at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 28, 2025 with Pastor Frank Kauzlarich officiating.

Casperson Funeral Home & Cremation Services is assisting the Van Vorous family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Gary may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.CaspersonFuneralHome.com.

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