Audrey Lynn Van Ess

Audrey Lynn (Jorsch)Van Ess

November 11^th 1949 - November 2^nd 2023

Audrey passed away peacefully at Sharon Richardson Hospice from a lengthy illness, on November 2nd_ surrounded by her loving family. Celebrating this incredible life is an easy task, as she was a unique personality and mind that all fell in love with.

Early on she displayed a mental aptitude and talent that would follow her throughout life. Her work experience was several positions at Schultz Savo Stores that included secretary and administrative assistant to the executive wing and later the advertising department. After that, Audrey handled all the administrative and financial responsibility for Sales Marketing Group, a business Dale and Audrey had for 35+ years. A highlight of that business was the introduction of Snapple in Illinois, Wisconsin and Indiana that they managed for 5 years.

Throughout their marriage of 46 years Audrey displayed a passion for building and enhancing the homes they lived in. Together they built two homes in Kohler and a log cabin in Boulder Junction WI, along with a complete refurbishing of the home in Elkhart Lake they resided in for 26 years. Audrey designed and built all three as well as decorating. The log cabin was 100 percent her inspiration and has been called “stunning” by realtors in the area.   

Another part of Audrey’s life was throwing costume parties for their many friends. Halloween parties were often as well as other themes throughout the years. She was known for these parties, and they were well attended, great fun and challenged the creativity of all involved.

The next passion was traveling where she organized trips with friends and family that spanned the five major continents as well as numerous European rivers as well as ocean cruises. Mexico was also a favorite spot with the resort membership they owned with multiple locations available. But the most thrilling adventure was a two-week photo safari in Kenya. Being an animal lover, she was in her element riding through the African bush snapping photos by the hundreds.

With the multitude of friendships developed over their life together in Elkhart Lake, those relationships have been a priority in their lives and kept them very busy before Audreys condition slowed that down. They were blessed with many friends and people who became a part of our lives over the years.

Audrey is survived by her loving husband Dale; children Kristin Van Ess, Joel (Susy) Van Ess, Jamie (Georgia) Van Ess and Cassandra (Mark) Kaiser; and four grandchildren Devon Van Ess, Gabriela Van Ess, and Evan & Ethan Kaiser. She is also survived by her mother Janet Gorr; sister Kathy Jorsch; and brothers Thomas Jorsch and Timothy (Jennifer) Jorsch. She was preceded in death by her father, Chris Jorsch and stepfather Carl Gorr.

There will be a private service held for family and close friends. A celebration of life will be scheduled in June 2024 as a tribute to Audrey because she touched so many lives.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Sharon Richardson for their loving care and especially the St Nicholas Home Healthcare team who has helped for several years with Audrey's condition.

A memorial fund will be established in Audrey’s name for a future designation.

For online condolences and additional information please visit www.wenigfh.com. The Wenig Funeral Home of Sheboygan Falls (920-467-3431) is serving the family with arrangements.