We announce those in our parishes that entered into a New Life. 

Keep them, their families, and friends in your prayers.

At the death of a Christian, whose life of faith was begun in the waters of Baptism and strengthened at the Eucharistic table, the Church intercedes on behalf of the deceased because of its confident belief that death is not the end, nor does it break the bonds forged in life. The Church also ministers to the sorrowing and consoles them in the funeral rites with the comforting Word of God and the Sacrament of the Eucharist.  (From "The Order of Christian Funerals")

Life Notices

Gerald "Jerry" Raymond Knepprath

Gerald “Jerry” Knepprath of Oconomowoc, WI passed away peacefully on December 14, 2024 surrounded by his loving family at home. He was born on December 5, 1939 in Milwaukee, WI. Jerry graduated from Rufus King High School in 1958 and then completed his Master Plumbing training before starting his own industrial plumbing and steam fitting company, Plumbing and Piping, Inc. In 1963 he married the love of his life, Margaret J. Knepprath (Dyke). Together they raised three devoted children: Jerry (Anita) Knepprath, Kristin (Tim) Osterday and Tim (Robin) Knepprath. They have six very loved grandchildren: Delaney (Andrew) Cochran, Tyler Osterday, Jessica Knepprath, Cody Knepprath, Parker Knepprath and Abigail Knepprath. He is survived by his sisters-in-law: Bernice Knepprath, Elizabeth (Rod) Lubner, and Katherine Lutz. Also survived by many nieces and nephews as well as countless close friends that he shared many years of love and laughter.

Jerry was a true gentleman, a warm and loving husband, father, Papa and friend. His greatest joy in his life was his family especially if they were on the lake, at the cabin ATVing or relaxing around the pool in Tierra Verde, FL. Jerry was respected for his integrity and work ethic. He was known to all as the man to call for “fix it” advice. He had many varied interests and hobbies from fast cars, fishing, hunting or just enjoying “God’s Country.” He treasured ending his day by watching the sunset with a good glass of chardonnay whether over Ashippun Lake or the Gulf of Mexico. He fought the good fight and did it his way!

He was preceded in death by his parents, Englebert and Margaret E. Knepprath (Gessner) and his older brother, Richard Knepprath.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Monday, December 23, 2024 at 12:00pm with a visitation for family and friends starting at 10:00am at St Catherine of Alexandria at W359 N8512 Brown Street, Oconomowoc, WI 53066.

In lieu of flowers, you can honor Jerry’s memory by donating to St. Catherine of Alexandria Church.

A special thank you to the many caregivers that took care of Jerry during his short illness: Dr Bret Linzer, ProHealth Hospice Care and At Your Service Healthcare. Also, thank you to all of you who prayed for us and offered your support. May you all be blessed for your kindness.

“Please hold each other close, express your love for one another, be kind to each other and continue to help others in need.”

Patricia (Pat) Smudde

Patricia (Pat) Smudde of Pace, Florida peacefully departed for her heavenly home on December 5th, just one month short of ther 90th birthday, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength and family unity.  Though small in stature (4'10"), she left an imense void in the hearts of all that knew her, proving that great things often come in the smallest of packages.

Pat was born in Three Lakes WI to Frank and Margaret Worden and was the fifth of eight children.  Her early years were spent in the wilderness of the Matanuska Valley in Alaska, where she lived with her parents and silbings working in the fields in exchange for land sponsored by the US Government.

After high school, she returend to WI, met and married the love of her life, William Smudde.  Then she embraced her most cherished role of mother to four spirited childrens, meanwhile managing books for a lawyer, and later various construction companies, including family businesses, where she masterfully balanced work and family life.  

Pat faced many health challenges throughout her life including a cerebral aneurysm, yet her spirit remained undiminished, especially when surrounded by her growing family. 

Her greatest joy came from her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  The moment a little one entered the room, her face would illuminate!  Pat had time for everyone, whether family or strander, offering a listening ear and genuine interest in their stories.  Pat loved to cooke, crochet, feed the birds and would share these talents with all.  Some of her greatest memories were square dancing with her husband and longtime friends from the Left Allemanders.

Pat is survived by her husband of 66 years, William Smudde.  Her sister Joyse Osborn. Children Bart (Patte) Smudde, Karen (Mike) Fink, Brian (Sara) Smudde, Kevin (Brenda) Smudde.  Grandchildren Rachel and Sarah Smudde, Carly (Eric) Solberg, Brittany (Todd) West, Jordan (Ben) Teske, Kelly Hays, Avria Smudde, Alec and Sean Smudde.  Great grandchildren Phoenix, Zodi, Cruz Solberg and Jullian West. 

Pat was preceded in death by her daughter in law Patte Smudde, her parents and 6 siblings, Richard (Patsy) Worden, Jackie Worden, Kenneth Worden, Ronald Worden, Lois Burns, Peggy Kain.

Memorial Services will be at 12 pm on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 120 Nashotah Rd, Nashotah, WI 53058 with visitation at 11am and Lencheon to follow.

Rita T. Kester

Rita Kester (nee Ramig) was born into eternal life and was welcomed with open arms by her Lord and Savior on November 29th. She is now dancing with her beloved husband, Ed, catching up and laughing with many family and friends who left this earthly world before her.

Rita was born in Milwaukee on October 24^th, 1937, to Carl and Rosalind (nee Hassett) Ramig. Rita was the oldest of 4 children- Yvonne, Marjorie, and Donald. She was a 1955 graduate of St John's Cathedral High School, later joining the workforce at RCA Records. Not long after, she met her knight in shining armor, Ed Kester, who swept her off her feet, and they married on July 19, 1958, at St. Anne’s. They soon welcomed five wonderful boys into the world-Daniel, Dennis, Douglas, David, and Donald.

In 1967, they made Oconomowoc their home. They joined St. Jerome’s Catholic Parish and were active members. Rita proudly worked as the parish CCD secretary for 35 years, working many hours spreading her steadfast faith to the youth and parishioners. You could always see her at the St Jerome’s Holiday Bazaars, donned as Mrs. Santa spreading her joy and spirit to everyone around her. Rita and Ed also volunteered at the Summit Fire Department, and the VFW Auxiliary. In 1995, Ed and Rita moved to Watertown to be closer to their business, E & R Autobody. They moved back to Oconomowoc after Ed retired. In all these ventures, Rita was quick to make lifelong friends whom she loved dearly and treated them like family the rest of her earthly life.

Rita’s most treasured and proudest accomplishments were her five boys. With five boys, life was beautifully chaotic, but Rita never blinked and proudly took on the role as Mom. Rita and Ed taught them the proper values, to be strong, loving, successful, and to be the God-fearing men they are today.

Her grandchildren were the apple of her eye. Rita attended every sporting event, concert, church pageant, any activity that she could. Always cheering and clapping as loud as she could from the front row. She had a special relationship with each one, making sure they felt special and loved in their own way. Always showing her love as the most wonderful, amazing, grandmother could.

Family and friends were her greatest importance and joy. She adored her sisters, brother, in-laws, and many nieces and nephews. Rita cherished spending time and making wonderful memories with them, whether it be camping, cookouts, and many other family events. She loved her many church and “Cooney” friends. She lived to socialize and build strong relationships that lasted a lifetime. Her face lit up anytime she would talk about her loved ones or reminisce on memories. She treasured every minute with each-and-everyone.

Rita was known for her contagious spirited laughter, animated soul, and quick wit. She would drop everything for a friend in need, and always made you feel like you were the most important person on Earth. Always quick with a strong, warm embrace, and a whisper in your ear saying softly, “I just want you to know how much I love you, never forget that.”

Rita is preceded in death by the love of her life Ed and brother-in-law Donald Kapheim, as well as many other family members and friends.

Rita is survived by her (5) sons, Daniel (Linda), Dennis (Eileen), Doug (Tammy), David (Melody), and Don (Carrie);  (11) grandchildren:  Vanessa (Josh) Grendahl,  Cassandra (Nick) Becker, Zachary (Ana) Kester, Michael, Matthew (fiancée Natalia), and Mason Wong, Emily Kester, Noah Kester, Mackenzie Kester, Lucas Kester, Gabrielle (Brandon) Brabender, (5) great grandsons, Logan, Archer, Jackson, Grant, and Koda; sisters Yvonne and Marjorie, brother Don, as well as many nieces and nephews.

A funeral of Catholic mass will be held on December 14^th at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church W359N8512 Brown St. Mapleton. Visitation will be from 9-11 am, with Mass starting at 11am. Her family invites everyone to a luncheon at St. Catherine’s after mass. A private Catholic burial will follow that afternoon. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Oconomowoc Free Clinic.

If you are unable to attend but would like to watch the service for Rita, use the following link:

St Joan of Arc and St. Catherine of Alexandria - YouTube

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Marquardt Manor in Watertown, for the years of care they gave to our beloved Rita.

Kristine Elizabeth Heinrich

Kristine Elizabeth Heinrich passed away peacefully at Angels Grace surrounded by her loved ones on November 13, 2024, at the age of 76. Kris was born on January 6, 1948, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and the cherished daughter of Joseph and Doreen Heintskill (nee Duggins).

Growing up in Milwaukee and attending John Marshall High School, Kris later pursued her passion for art by taking classes at Mount Mary University. It was through a blind date orchestrated by a mutual friend that she met her true love, Richard. Their love story blossomed, culminating in a joyous union on October 5, 1968. Together, they relocated to Oconomowoc, where they started a beautiful family.

Throughout her life, Kris found joy in woodworking and repurposing antiques. Her entrepreneurial spirit led to the purchase of an historic, early 20th-century barn where she spent many fulfilling hours with her family during its 14-year restoration, affectionately named "The Gathering Place." This transformed space became a haven where she could share her passion for history and antiques, creating a welcoming environment for all who visited.

Kris was a beacon of light in the lives of all who knew her, exemplifying kindness, compassion, and selflessness. She dedicated her life to caring for others, always putting their needs before her own, and her impact on the world around her was immeasurable. Kris's profound faith guided her every action, and through her unwavering commitment to service, she touched countless hearts and souls. Kris's passion for volunteering shone brightly through her work with Angels Grace and Habitat for Humanity, where she selflessly devoted her time and energy to helping those in need.

Kris is survived by her husband of 56 years, Richard; her three sons David (Ann), Peter (Chelsea) and Thomas (Anne); grandchildren Nickolas, Kaitlin, Rachel, Molly, Joshua, Luke, Samuel and a new grandchild due in early 2025. She is also survived by her sister Kathleen and many nieces, nephews and other family and friends.

Kris is preceded in death by her parents; and siblings Joanne and Joey.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Angels Grace Hospice and the doctors at Froedtert Hospital for their compassionate care. The family also expresses their deepest gratitude to Dr. Hunter for his dedicated care and unwavering support and prayers.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorials be made to Angels Grace or the Oconomowoc Free Clinic in honor of Kris's giving spirit.

As we mourn the loss of Kris, let us also celebrate the joy and love she brought into the world. A visitation will take place on Thursday, November 21, 2024 at St. Catherine of Alexandria Catholic Church (W359 N8512, W359N8512 Brown St, Oconomowoc, WI 53066) from 10am-12pm with a service to follow. Following the service, Kris will be laid to rest in the church cemetery.

Leota "Lee" June Hayden-Young

Leota “Lee” June Hayden-Young of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, the light of our family, left us for heaven suddenly on Thursday, October 17. Lee is survived by her loving husband, Jim, her children, Teri (Rick) Kalis, Todd (Rhonda) Hayden, Suzi (Gregg) Thelen, many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and extended family.

Lee was born on August 22, 1941, in Umatilla, Oregon to Charles (Jack) and Loretta Harpster. She was preceded in death by her first husband Mike Hayden whom she was married to for 51 years. She grew up in Eastern Oregon and moved to Portland where she met and married Mike. The family made their way to Colorado and eventually settled in Oconomowoc. In 2020, she married Jim Young and expanded her family.

Lee lived an incredibly full life filled with family, friends, and her beloved red setter Gingerbelle. Her greatest passions included being an artist, gardening, animals, golf, bridge, book club, lake country living and traveling the world. Lee loved to help anyone in need, helping at the St. Catherine chapter of St. Vincent de Paul and hunting for treasures.

Lee was a hair stylist for most of her life. She was an active member at St. Catherine and St. Jerome parishes. Lee was a board member and art teacher at Shorehaven. She was involved for many years with the Oconomowoc Festival of the Arts and greatly enjoyed her time with the Lac La Belle Yacht Club.

The celebration of life visitation will be held at St. Catherine’s Church, W359N8512 Brown Street, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin 53066, on Saturday October 26, 2024, starting at 10:00 am with a Funeral Mass immediately following at 12:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Lee’s name to the St. Catherine’s chapter of St. Vincent de Paul, in care of Jim Young at W393N6056 Mary Lane Court Oconomowoc, Wisconsin 53066.

We were blessed beyond words to have you in our lives. We will love and miss you forever

Lee Judith Pauli

Lee Judith Pauli (nee Johnson) aged 84 passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her family on September 16, 2024. Lee was born in Buffalo Minnesota on November 21, 1939. She attended Buffalo Senior High School and then the University of Minnesota where she studied Physical Therapy. During her time at U of M, she participated in synchronized swimming and was proud to be the only female in her chemistry class.

Lee is survived by her children Lynn Esp, Kerry Wagner, Chris (Debbie) Wagner, grandchildren Ezra Otto, (fiancé Kristin) Jake Esp (fiancé Katelynn) Abby Wagner (fiancé Dylan), Annaleah Esp, Kiki Wagner, Olivia Wagner, and great granddaughter Hunter Esp.

She is also survived by Dan (Stephanie) Pauli, Aeden Pauli, Eric (Annie) Pauli, Shamus and Liam Pauli.  She is further survived by her sisters Lynn White, Paula (Charley) Streiff, Vicky (Tom) Stringer, sister-in-law Bev Johnson. She was preceded in death by her parents Walter and Verna Johnson, her brother Kim Johnson, and her husband Stan Pauli.

During her career as a Physical Therapist, she was employed by Saint Coletta of Greater Wisconsin, Happy Times Day Center, Jefferson School District, Milwaukee Public School District, Shared Therapeutic Services, and Lutheran Social Services.  In 1996, Lee was named Physical Therapist of the Year by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel as a result of her positive and encouraging dedication to her patients and the Physical Therapy Industry.

In addition to attending many activities of her grandchildren, one of her greatest joys was volunteering in the Santisimo Sacramento Physical Therapy clinic in Piura Peru. During her five trips to Peru, she used her skills as a Pediatric Physical Therapist to work with young people, as well as teach their families how to do the exercises so that they could work with their children after she returned to the states. She also helped transport wheelchairs, walkers, therapy balls, and other equipment to Peru.  When her trips to Peru ended, she continued as a an active fundraiser for the mission.

Lee was a warm and loving mother and grandmother with a deep appreciation for the talents of her family. She took great interest in their work and school life.  She was a service driven humanitarian who had a keen ability to anticipate and meet unspoken needs through financial and volunteer assistance. She was a hardworking team player who was loved by her patients,  supervisors and co-workers.

Lee’s hobbies include knitting, yoga, walking, reading, and baking. She was famous in our family for her caramel rolls, German pancakes, lemon poppyseed bread, and seven layer bars.  She always made sure to have each grandchild‘s favorite on hand when they arrived.

Lee enjoyed watching sports, attending plays, jazz and blues concerts as well as two tablespoons of Tito’s (on the rocks!)

During retirement, she tutored elementary students in reading at Cushing Elementary, Delafield, Wisconsin. She was able to incorporate her physical therapy training in encouraging the students to read.

Lee’s family would like to thank Angels Grace Hospice Team, especially Nurse Katie, Chaplain Jennifer, and Music Therapist Rory.

Services for Lee will be held on October 24, 2024 at Saint Joan of Arc Parish,  120 Nashotah Road in Delafield Wisconsin. There will be a visitation from 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM followed by Mass at 12:30 PM. At Lee’s request, the family will be wearing bright colors.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint Anthony on the Lake (Reference Peru Physical Therapy Clinic) W280 N2101 Prospect Avenue, Pewaukee Wisconsin 53072 Attn:  Maureen Michaels.

Sharryl Joy Mercier

Sharryl Joy Mercier, born on April 26, 1939, in Milwaukee, WI, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2024 in Oconomowoc, WI at the age of 85. She was the beloved daughter of Dorothy Mae Durham Andrews and James Samuel Andrews. Sharryl is preceded in death by her brothers, Jesse James Andrews (Dorothy) and John Major Eugene Andrews, and sister Delsina Madosa Andrews.

In 1952 Sharryl met the love of her life, Richard Mercier, at the Climax Theater in Milwaukee, WI, and on July 11, 1959, they were married. Together they had three beautiful children; Lynette Mercier, Raquel Mercier and Kevin Mercier (Jessica). She was a dedicated homemaker and housewife for 60+ years and Oconomowoc was where they built their lives of 65 years together.

Sharryl was a beautiful woman inside and out with a heart of gold. She will always be remembered for her thoughtfulness to others and her dedication to her family. Sharryl was an incredible role model for her children (Lynette, Raquel & Kevin) and grandchildren; Stephanie Mercier (Raquel), Jake Mercier (Kevin & Jessica), Dawson Mercier (Kevin & Jessica) and Joseph Mercier (Kevin & Jessica).

She will be deeply missed by all who knew her but we take comfort in knowing she is reunited with those who have gone before us.

A private memorial service will be held in remembrance of Sharryl’s amazing life at St. Catherine of Alexandria in Oconomowoc, WI.