Obituaries

Karen M Buechel

June 6, 1965 - July 27, 2026 - Chilton, WI

Funeral Service

Monday, Aug. 3, 2026

6:00 pm


Wieting Family Funeral Home

411 W Main St.

Chilton, WI 53014

Funeral Visitation

Monday, Aug. 3, 2026

3:00 pm - 5:45 pm


Wieting Family Funeral Home

411 W Main St.

Chilton, WI

Karen M Buechel

Chilton WI

Karen M. Buechel, age 61, of Chilton died on Monday, July 27, 2026 at her home in Chilton.  She was born June 6, 1965 in Chilton, daughter of the late Robert & Kathleen (Hoffmann) Vander Putten.

She was raised in New Holstein, Wisconsin and was a proud graduate of New Holstein High School, class of 1983.  Following her graduation, she began her working career at HG Weber in Kiel.  She later worked for a number of years at the Chilton High School as one of the cooks before transitioning to Worthington Cylinders in Chilton.  She remained a faithful employee there until health concerns took her away from her daily employment.  

Karen utilized her cooking skills occasionally helping in the kitchen at the Eagles Club in Chilton. She loved being outside during the summer months where she could tend to her flowers and her large garden where she grew fresh fruits and vegetables. Each and every year, her bountiful crop would be canned or frozen for use in between harvests.

With a big heart, Karen went out of her way to make sure that the people that she loved were celebrated throughout their lives, especially at milestone moments like birthdays, anniversaries and any other life endeavor that may arise.  Her strong commitment to family was evident, especially with her children and grandchildren. Karen was always able to find unconventional ways to show her  deep appreciation and love to those closest to her.  

Survivors include her children: Shaun (Haily) Buechel, Dominique (Ean) Von Wald; her grandchildren: Berkley Buechel & Everett Von Wald; and her siblings: John (Shannon) Vander Putten, Barb (Brian) Retlich, & Beth (John) Riehn.  She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  

She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister: Roberta Vander Putten; a niece: McKenna Kate Vander Putten; and a nephew: Maxwell Roger Vander Putten.

Funeral service will be at 6:00 pm on Monday, August 3, 2026 at the Wieting Family Funeral Home (411 W. Main St.) in Chilton.  A time of visitation will be held at the funeral home on Monday, August 3, 2026 from 3:00 pm until 5:45 pm.  At the time of the service and following, there will be a link available above for those wishing to watch a memorial video or see pictures of the flowers and gifts given to the family.  
 

Condolences


Karen helped me and taught me a lot throughout the years. When my daughter, Alisa, was little, she asked me if I wanted to go through baptism together so I didn't have to do it alone. She taught me how to save money by buying things in bulk when they were on sale, and then freezing them in smaller packages. She taught me to shop the clearance throughout the year, so I didn't have a huge expense all at once. She helped me out when I needed help, and I did the same for her in return. She helped my son, Corbin, as well. I will miss our late night talks and how we could talk to each about anything going on in our lives. She will be deeply missed.

Lisa Hoerth (Niece and Friend) 2026-07-31 11:30:01

So sorry to hear this news. Praying for family Kait

Kathleen M Grissman(Oneal) (High school ) 2026-07-31 01:31:53

Shaun, Dominique & Family … my sincere condolences and sympathy! I always appreciated and admired your mom, especially her unfailing love and support for you both in your life at school. You are all in my prayers for God’s comfort and strength.

Tim Schaid (Acquaintance ) 2026-07-30 09:37:08

You fought one hard battle my friend. God has you in his arms now and you’re free of pain . I will miss you dearly as we had so many fun times , laughs , talks , years of working together and a great friendship. You always had a heart of gold . RIP . I will always hold my memories of you in my heart . Sending prayers to the whole family and close friends.

Christine Bates (Friend ) 2026-07-29 22:35:32

Oh Karen, we’ve been friends since 1984…. So many great memories. My deepest condolences go out to Shawn and Dom, you had an amazing mom. Hugs to her brother and sisters. She will be missed dearly. You and Bert are dancing in Heaven. No more pain. Love you my dear friend

Dawn Mueller (Friend) 2026-07-29 17:21:27

Sending my sympathy for your loss!

Judy Woelfel (New Holstein ) 2026-07-29 12:30:48


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