Wayne Robert Kohnke

Wayne “Butch” or “Bud” Kohnke, 84, of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at Angels Grace Hospice on Friday, October 24, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Wayne was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose easygoing nature, quick wit, and contagious laugh brought joy to everyone around him.

He proudly served in the U.S. Army, where he met the love of his life, Agnes, while stationed in Germany. The two shared 62 years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, loyalty, laughter, and family.

Wayne worked as a draftsman, a role that reflected his attention to detail and steady hand—qualities that showed up not only in his work but in how he lived his life.

He recently had the honor of participating in the Stars and Stripes Honor Flight, a moment of pride and reflection that meant the world to him.

Wayne found joy in the simple pleasures of life—fishing on Lake Michigan with friends, bowling, stamp collecting, watching and feeding the birds in his backyard, and enjoying a good Jack Daniel’s. He especially loved time spent with the family dogs, Calvin and Kiera, who were never far from his side and brought him comfort and companionship. His devious smile and unmistakable laugh will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Agnes; daughters Stephanie Kohnke and Sherrie (Paul) Williams; grandchildren Briana Falkosky, Meghan (Jim) Kerska, Nathan Williams, Steven Williams, and Eric Williams; and great-granddaughters Natalie, Evelyn, and Lily Kerska. Wayne is preceded in death by his parents Harry and Lillia Kohnke; his parents-in-law Heinz and Helene Sporn; and his sister Eileen Kohnke.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and nurses who cared for Wayne with such patience, compassion, and dignity. Your kindness brought comfort, friendship, and peace when it was needed most, and will never be forgotten.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 6:00 PM, with visitation beginning at 4:00 PM, at Pagenkopf Funeral Home (2228 N Silver Maple Ln, Oconomowoc, WI 53066).

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Stars and Stripes Honor Flight of Wisconsin (PO Box 867, Menomonee Falls, WI 53052) or online at https://www.starsandstripeshonorflight.org/donate/  
Please include: “In memory of Wayne R. Kohnke.”

Wayne will be remembered for the way he loved life—fully, deeply, and with a joy that was absolutely contagious.