Valerie E. Andree, 61, died March 15, 2012. She was born in New Haven, Connecticut, the daughter of Mary Evelyn and Edward Kaik.

She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Stephen Andree; by her daughters, Erica (Mark Little), Amy, and Susan Andree; by her mother, Evelyn; and brother Gene; and grandchildren Andre, Adrienne, Greyson, Soren and Freya. She was preceded by her father Edward; and brothers, Edward and William.

She graduated from Saint Mary’s High School in New Haven, Conn., attended Berkeley School of Business in White Plains, N.Y., and North Dakota State School of Science in Wahpeton, N.D. She worked as a paraprofessional for the Rhinelander School District for nearly 20 years, and was a steadfast union representative. She was a caring and compassionate advocate for her students and their families. Family was Valerie’s raison d’être. She was the nexus that held generations together with love despite the miles that separated them. Each of her extended family, her friends, and her medical caregivers were special to her, as she was to them, and she treated everyone she met as her family. All those who knew Val will remember her generosity of spirit, irreverent humor, straightforward advice, abundant hugs, bottomless cookie jar, and her stubborn perseverance in the face of adversity.

Services will be held on Thursday, March 22, at Carlson Funeral Home. Family and friends may visit from 9 to 11 a.m. on Thursday, with a memorial service to follow at 11 a.m.

(Carlson Funeral Home)