Ernest A. Kroeze

Ernest A. Kroeze, 94, of Eagle, WI passed away on Monday, March 7, 2022 at AngelsGrace Hospice in Oconomowoc, WI.

Ernie was born on January 23, 1928 in Todd County, South Dakota, the son of Chester and Johanna (VanEgmond) Kroeze. He spent a short time in South Dakota before his family moved to Wisconsin where he remained for most of his life. After his schooling, Ernie faithfully served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Ernie married Lois Risseeuw on October 13, 1949 and was blessed with six children: Bill, Debbie, Rhonda, Kathy, Connie, and Sherry. On October 27, 1978, Ernie was united in marriage to Mary Kane in Elkhorn, WI and the two would go on to enjoy over 43 years together.

Ernie worked as a foreman for the telephone company for the majority of his working career, retiring in 1991. He was trusted and respected at his workplaces and he made sure the members of his crews felt appreciated. Prior to his work in the telephone industry, Ernie was a farmer, enjoying that hard work and never losing his appreciation for farming for the remainder of his life. Ernie had a lot of energy; he was feisty and fun to be around. He had a bright and loving personality and he lit up the room wherever he went. Ernie loved his wife, his children, his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren very much. Holding his grandbabies was one of his favorite things to do. He also had a very special connection with his dog, Duke. He was an energetic, loving, kind man and will be dearly missed by those he leaves behind.

Ernest is survived by his loving wife, Mary Kroeze of Eagle, WI; his children, Deborah (Dennis) Roach of Beloit, WI, Rhonda (Kirk) Douglas of Clinton, WI, Kathy (Richard) Wacek of Richmond, VA, Connie (James) Farrell of Clinton, WI, and Sherry (James) Stilwell of Clinton, WI; daughter-in-law, Andrea Kroeze of Clinton, WI; brother, Dean, of Minong, WI, sister-in-law, Pat (Bob) Walters of Dousman, WI; sister-in-law Pat Kroeze of Beaver Dam, WI; brother-in-law Tom (Cheryl) Kane of Oconomowoc, WI; sister-in-law Janet Kane;16 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; and 7 great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a number of nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his loving son, William (Bill) Kroeze, brother Hardy Kroeze and sister Stella Kroeze.

Memorials in Ernie’s honor may be made to the Eagle Food Pantry.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 12, 2022 at the Gibson Family Funeral Home in Eagle, WI (103 W. Eagle St. Eagle, WI 53119). Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until the time of service at the funeral home. Full military honors will take place at the funeral home immediately following the service.

Gibson Family Funeral Homes of Eagle & Palmyra, WI is serving the family. To place an online condolence please visit gibsonfuneral.com 

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