Shirley J. Wotachek

Shirley Wotachek, 92, Kewaunee, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, passed away at the age of 92 on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at Aurora Hospital. Born on July 28, 1931, to Harold and Elvira (Kuehl) Lutien, Shirley lived a life rich in family and cherished memories.

On July 23, 1949, she married the love of her life, Eugene Wotachek, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Kewaunee, where they shared many joyous years until his passing in 1996. Shirley's dedication to her family was unwavering as she raised their seven daughters, all while working various part-time jobs to provide for her loved ones.

A proud graduate of Kewaunee High School, Shirley found joy in the simple things in life. From cheering on the Packers to camping adventures in her youth, she treasured every moment spent surrounded by her family. However, her greatest joy came from the precious time spent with her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even a great-great-grandchild, creating memories that will endure through the ages.

Shirley is survived by her loving children, Linda (Richard) Euclide, Forestville, WI, Laurie (Gregg) Vanness, Kewaunee, Lana Kudick (Steve), Kewaunee, Jeanne Luedtke (Bill), Green Bay, Wendy (Ken) Kotyza, Kewaunee, Connie (Tim) Luedtke, Kewaunee, Lisa (Mitch) Stauber, Kewaunee; 13 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren with 2 more on the way; and 3 great-great-grandchildren, which she was blessed to be able to have her 5 generation picture taken recently.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene Wotachek; an Infant son; her parents, Harold and Elvira Lutien; sister, Marlene Koudelka; mother- and step-father in-law, Ann and Anthony Serkowski; sisters-in-law, Henrietta (Edward) Krysak, Evelyn (Roland) Berkovitz; brother-in-law, Art Koudelka; as well as by nieces and nephews.

A private family funeral service to celebrate Shirley's life will be held at Kinnard Funeral & Cremation Services - Kewaunee. She will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband, Eugene, at Riverview Cemetery. Online condolence messages may be shared at KinnardFCS.com.

Special thanks to Aurora BayCare Medical Center for the love and care they showed Shirley in her final moments.