Elaine Wangeman

Elaine Wangeman, 78, of Cedar Grove, passed away peacefully Sunday, October 22, 2023 at Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice surrounded by her family. She left this world the way she lived – on her own terms.

Elaine was born December 14, 1944 in Oceanside, CA, the daughter of Frederick and Elaine (Stuermer) Arpke. She grew up in Sheboygan, graduating from Sheboygan South High School in 1963. For many years, she worked as a CNA at Aurora Memorial Hospital in Sheboygan.

On December 21, 1968, Elaine was united in marriage with Robert in Sheboygan. The two shared 48 years of marriage before Robert’s passing in 2017.

A long-time member of Ebenezer UCC in Sheboygan, Elaine had volunteered many hours in the nursery. Most recently, she had enjoyed attending Vineyard Church in Grafton with her daughter’s family.  She enjoyed reading, dancing, walking, and attending her exercise class at First Reformed Church in Cedar Grove. She was feisty and determined, but always kind. Above all, she fiercely loved and supported her family.

Elaine is survived by her daughter Helena Vanessa (David) Villarreal of Cedar Grove; grandchildren Michael (Nikolina) Villarreal and Vanessa Villarreal (Tanner Klessig); great-grandchild Riley Villarreal; sister Judy Riem; her beloved cat Tommy; other relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Robert, great-grandchild Zayden Villarreal and her brother Rodney Arpke.

A funeral service to celebrate Elaine’s life will be held at 4:00PM on Friday, October 27, 2023 at Wenig Funeral Home, 108 Center Ave. in Oostburg. The family will receive visitors at the funeral home on Friday from 2:00-4:00PM.

She will be laid to rest at Cedar Grove Cemetery beside Robert.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested.

Wenig Funeral Home – Oostburg (920-564-2771) is assisting the family with arrangements. Please visit www.wenigfh.com for online condolences.