Van Orden’s daughter Sydney dies of cancer after prolonged illness

Congressman Derrick Van Orden has announced that his oldest daughter, Sydney, has died of cancer after battling the disease for a year.

Sydney Marie Martenis is survived by her husband, two sons and a daughter, as well as by her parents and siblings. Last week, the 3rd District Congressman attended an event in La Crosse virtually rather than in person, because of his daughter’s illness.

Van Orden issued this statement:

“It is with the most profound sense of grief and joy that Sara Jane and I announce the passing of our oldest daughter, Sydney Marie (Van Orden) Martenis after a year of battling a very aggressive form of cancer. She died peacefully surrounded by her family.

“We are heartbroken that we cannot share her smile and laugh in person any longer but are so thankful that she is resting with our Lord and that we were able to spend these years with her and her family.

“Sydney is survived by grandma Virginia Whitelock, husband Chris, daughter Madelyn, sons, Charlie and Roman, father and mother Derrick and Sara Jane, Sister Abigail (Williams), brothers, Theodore and Daniel, and many uncles, aunts, and cousins.

“Thank you for all of the tender mercies you have shown to our family. May God bless you all.”

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