Karen J. Wockenfus, age 73 of Shawano, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, September 30, 2021 at her home.
Karen was born November 5, 1947 in Shawano, a daughter of the late Oliver and Marcella (Koehler) Vorpahl. She attended school in Shawano, graduating from Shawano High School with the class of 1965. Following high school, Karen moved to Appleton where she worked at Prange Company. Over the years she also worked at Stan & Buds as a bartender, Eagle Knitting Mills, and Heritage Hardwoods, retiring in 2001. On June 15, 1985, she was united in marriage to James Wockenfus at St. Martin Lutheran Church – Belle Plaine where Karen was a lifelong member, and sang in the choir. Following their marriage, the couple lived in Shawano. By a stroke of luck, Karen and Jim were able to travel worldwide, and saw many places together until Jim’s passing on September 15, 2016. Karen enjoyed playing cards, the occasional trip to the casino, was an avid fan of the Brewers and Packers, and was a cat lover.
Survivors include her two sisters, Marsha (Larry) Beger of Fredonia, and Christine (Randall) Jeske of Cecil; her nephew, Andrew (Lori) Beger, and their children Dylan (Kyla) Beger, Jordin Beger, and Peyton Beger; her nieces, Carrie (Terry) Meloy, and their children, Madison, Lena, and Chase, Alaina (Roosevelt Veal) Beger, and Olivia Jeske; her great-great-nephew, Kylan Beger; her step-children, Brenda (Bret) Klotzbuecher, and Scott (Julie) Young, and their families; and many relatives and friends.
A memorial service for Karen will be held on Wednesday, October 6, 2021 at 11:30 AM at St. Martin Lutheran Church – Belle Plaine. Pastor Kurt Kluge will officiate. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM and continue until the time of service. Inurnment will be at St. Martin Lutheran Cemetery – Belle Plaine.