Shirleeann Kohel

Shirleeann Kohel (nee Krotts) reunited with her husband, Loren, on September 14, 2025 at the age of 89. She also reunited with her parents William George Krotts and Elsie Irene Kruck. Shirleeann was born in Waukesha on November 20, 1935. Preceded in death by her beloved husband, Loren J. Kohel. They were married for 68 years when Loren passed.

Dear sister of James S. Krotts and very close to Loren's sister Joan Carbone. Dedicated mother of Susan (Jeff) Knapp, Robert (Elaine) Kohel and Linda (Tim) Pesch. Amazing grandmother of Robbie (Kari) Pesch, Amy (Dave) Paprocki, Ryan (Jen) Pesch, Andrew (Amanda) Knapp, Evan (Allison) Knapp and Aaron (Alaina) Curren-Knapp. Proud great-grandmother of Madison, Charlie, Penny, Polly, Elsie, William, Aoife and Charlotte.

Shirleeann spent much of her early years visiting her grandparents, Charles and Anna Kruck, who lived near Frame Park on the Fox River just north of downtown Waukesha. She would tell stories of catching bullheads with her grandfather and her adventures with her wonderful cousins. She stayed in touch with her cousins for the rest of her life, making sure her children joined in the fun.

But Shirleeann was a southwest Milwaukee girl, through and through! She went to grade school at Jefferson Elementary School and graduated from Nathan Hale High School in West Allis. She told us stories of riding the streetcar and bus to Mitchell Street stores with her mother for wonderful shopping trips. Shirleeann developed very close friends in high school who she stayed in close contact with most of her life.

She met her future husband while in high school and married in 1955. She and Loren built a loving family with Susan, Robert and Linda on the southwest side of Milwaukee while supporting Loren's love of playing drums and singing for various polka bands in the Milwaukee area. She stayed close to her family and grew close to Loren's family and cousins. She loved to help with raising her grandchildren and spending quality time with her great-grandchildren.

On the day she left us, she spent the day helping to celebrate birthdays for two of her great-grandchildren. Although frail, she thoroughly enjoyed the company of her large and loving family. Although she didn't jump in the bounce house with her great grandchildren, she loved watching the activity with joy that only the younger can sometimes provide!

Shirleeann's long life of warmth, dedication to her family and friends and thoughtfulness will be truly missed by all!

Please feel free to leave a message or share a memory and/or pictures of your interactions with Shirleeann!

Visitation at the funeral home from 5 to 7 pm on Friday, September 26, 2025, with a memorial service at 6 pm.