Wayne C. Kirst, 76, of Kewaskum, passed away on August 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Wayne was born on October 31, 1949, in Port Washington, the son of the late Joseph and Hazel (nee Peterson) Kirst.
On March 2, 1990, he was united in marriage to Karen Thelen at Peace United Church of Christ in Kewaskum. Together they shared many happy years until Karen's passing on February 27, 2017. In June of 2018, Wayne found love again and began a new chapter of life's adventures with Dolores Eder.
Wayne found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Whether he was playing cards, taking "Big Red" out for a drive, or cheering on the Green Bay Packers, he embraced every moment. As Luke Bryan's lyrics perfectly describe, Wayne loved "hunting, fishing, and loving every day." A proud member of the New Fane Kettle Riders, he treasured time spent snowmobiling and making memories on the trails. His happy place was his cabin on Rolling Stone Lake, where he could relax, enjoy the outdoors, and welcome the arrival of spring with a hunt for morel mushrooms.
Above all, Wayne loved being surrounded by people. He never met a stranger, enjoyed visiting with friends, and had a remarkable gift for turning even the shortest story into a long story. His quick wit, easy conversation, and larger-than-life personality ensured there was never a dull moment when Wayne was around.
Those Wayne leaves behind to cherish his memory include his special friend, Dolores Eder; three kids, Todd (Stacy) Kirst, Tim (Shelly) Kirst, and Tami (Steve) Staehler; three stepchildren, Tony Rodenkirch, John Rodenkirch, and Sarah Rodenkirch; Dolores’ kids, Charles (Ginny) Bergdorf and Denise Bergdorf (Kevin Rick); 19 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; his siblings, Gary (Diana) Kirst and Diane (Pete) Paitrick; other relatives and friends.
Wayne’s family will greet relatives and friends at Peace United Church of Christ, 343 First Street in Kewaskum, on Thursday, Aug. 13, from 2 p.m. until 3:45 p.m. and will resume from 5 p.m. until 6 p.m. A service for Wayne will begin at 4 p.m., with Rev. Eric Kirkegaard officiating. Following the service at 5 p.m., a social gathering and meal will be starting in the church fellowship hall.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt appreciation to Rev. Eric Kirkegaard and Rev. Jakob Kroner, Grace Clinic at Froedtert, Horizon and Pavilion at Glacier Valley.
Flowers sent to the funeral are requested by the family to use Fleurish Floral in Kewaskum (262-477-1555)
The Myrhum – Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Wayne’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.
