John R Lemke

John Robert Lemke, 73, of Cudahy, WI, passed away on September 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on August 11, 1953, in Knox, IN, and grew up in Portage, IN, graduating from Portage High School in 1971.

In November 1972, John married the love of his life, Katherine Ann Napier. Together, they built the foundation for the life they would share for more than five decades. Katie was his rock, his companion, his partner, and the person who knew him best. As John faced significant health challenges in recent years, she cared for him with extraordinary devotion, managing every detail and providing the steady presence that held their family together.

John spent 45 years with Wausau Equipment Company in New Berlin, WI, a career he enjoyed and took great pride in. He began as a mechanic and worked his way up to a successful role in sales. His work carried him across the country and around the world, including trips to Germany, Turkey, and China. His career reflected who he was: hardworking, capable, and having endless knowledge about how things worked.

John had a larger‑than‑life personality and a booming voice that could fill any room. He was tough and strong‑willed, yet beneath that exterior was a deeply caring and sentimental man who didn’t always show his softer side. He had a sharp sense of humor and was a gifted storyteller.

A lifelong history buff, John loved visiting presidential homes and historic sites. He enjoyed cars, target shooting, and spending time in the yard or garage. If something was broken, he could fix it. He loved music and seemed to know every word to every song—from The Beatles to Frank Sinatra—and was always singing along. Above all, John loved his family. He was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren and cherished every moment spent with them.

John is survived by his wife of 53 years, Katherine; his daughters Danielle (James) Gustafson, Sally Truettner, and Courtney (Nicholas) Mani; and his grandchildren Logan and Carter Gustafson, Tricia, Amber, Evelyn, and Madison Truettner, and Blake, Nolan, and Tess Mani. He will also be deeply missed by his beloved dog, Lola, who brought him constant companionship and joy.

He is further survived by his siblings Deborah Whitacre, Philip Lemke, and Patricia Esserman, along with extended family and friends whose lives he touched.

John was preceded in death by his granddaughter Cassidy Nicole; his parents, Robert and Phyllis Lemke; his parents‑in‑law, Donald and Grace Napier; his son-in-law Jason Truettner, and his nephew and godson, Marc Royce.

John lived a life marked by hard work, curiosity, humor, music, and, above all, family. He leaves behind the people he loved, the lessons he taught, the stories he told, and countless memories that will be shared for years to come. His family will carry pieces of him forward—in the traditions he created, the wisdom he passed down, and the way he shaped their lives. The mark he left on those he loved will remain.

That is John’s legacy.

__________________________________________________

We invite you to join us on Sunday, September 20, 2026 to remember and raise a toast to John. The Bucyrus Club1919 12th AvenueSouth Milwaukee, WI 531721:00 PM - doors open for gathering and remembrance 3:00 PM - eulogy and opportunity to share memories for all Light meal to follow.

We would like to express our appreciation to our friends and family who have encouraged and supported us over the last nine months. It has meant more to us than we can express. We also want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all of the doctors, nurses, CNAs, and other hospital staff who cared for John at Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center this year. Special recognition goes to Dr. Ahmad Khraisat, Dr. Ather Syed, and Dr. Ahmet Demircioglu, who not only provided exceptional care to John but also supported our entire family during this time.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Children’s Wisconsin Foundation. These donations will be earmarked to support the Therapy Dog Program—a volunteer program that allows certified dogs and their handlers to visit patients and provide comfort and support during hospital stays.

You may donate using the following link or mailing address:https://give.childrenswi.org/page/75722/donate/1?utm_source=fdnwebsiteChildren’s Wisconsin FoundationCCC Suite 220PO Box 1997Milwaukee, WI 53201-1997