Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home

01/06/2026

In memory of Matthew "Matt" Worden

Matthew "Matt" Worden, age 64, passed away on January 3, 2026. Matt was born on February 2, 1961 to Lois and Del Worden in Appleton, WI.

After high school Matt lived in Arizona for a period of time before returning to Appleton. He met his wife Carolyn at an Appleton car dealership where they both worked. They were united in marriage in October of 1990.

Matt was known for his sense of humor, his willingness to help others, and his love of motorcycles, fishing, and hats. He was also known for his love of animals. From the squirrels he overfed, to the birds, and the dove and baby squirrel he rescued. He had many dogs and cats over the years.

Matt is survived by his wife, Carolyn and son, Russell. He is also survived by his sister, Wendy Child, her husband, Jeff and their daughters.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Lois Worden; father, Del Worden; and brother, Jon Worden.

Visitation will take place at Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 from 9:00 am until the funeral service at 11:00 am with Pastor Ty Stoneburner officiating. Burial will take place at the Seymour City Cemetery.

01/05/2026

Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home, one of the longest operated family owned funeral homes in Wisconsin, has a rare open position for an Administrative Assistant.

The ideal candidate will often be the initial point of contact for families that are in need of death care services. Being comfortable with your communication skills, with understanding and compassion, are required qualities in this role. An outgoing personality with the ability to adapt to the personal styles of communication will be essential. Professionalism behind the scenes and in person will be expected. Confidentiality will be maintained in and out of the office at all times.

Willingness to work collaboratively, assist coworkers in achieving goals and results, and the ability to work independently will be expected. Having the ability to quickly shift focus on the needs of the families we serve will be useful.

This role is vital in supporting the licensed funeral directors that meet with families and other staff that support the firm.

Technical skills desired to properly perform include: MS Word, Outlook, Excel, QuickBooks, and a well-rounded understanding of technologies that operate in an office environment, including Apple products (or the drive and ability to learn). The candidate will also learn funeral service customer relations software as it pertains to the daily function of the business. Experience working with or having knowledge of life insurance claims and the claims process will be very helpful. Skills in marketing and social media are a plus.

Attention to detail is a must as this position includes working with important legal and financial documents.

A successful candidate will be responsible for the appearance of the building interior with assistance from other staff.

Candidates can expect to work a scheduled 25 hours per week, plus the potential for more hours as needed by business volume (full-time considered).

Compensation will include an above-average wage based on experience, company paid retirement contribution, paid holidays, and paid time off.

Interviews will be conducted beginning immediately, including evenings. All applications will remain strictly confidential.

To apply for this position please email a cover letter, resume and potential references to:
Joel D. Walters: joel@muehlboettcher.com
920-833-2328

01/05/2026

In memory of Audrey Thede

Audrey Steward Thede, age 91, of Black Creek, Wisconsin passed away at home on January 3, 2026.
Audrey was born on December 25, 1934 in the village of Shiocton, to the late Raymond and Laura (Winterfeldt) Steward, the fourth child of eight.
She attended Briarton Grade School, Briarton; Jefferson and Washington Elementary Schools in Appleton, Woodlawn (one-room school) rural Appleton, 9th grate at Wilson Junior High School, and three years at Appleton Senior High. She graduated in 1953 and went on to attend Outagamie County Rural Normal School in Kaukauna for teaching. She finished her schooling at Oshkosh State College, where she received her Bachelor's Degree in teaching while raising her family of three children and teaching during the process.
She began her teaching career at Cedar Grove School, Hortonville (grades 1-8) for three years; Spring Brook School, (1-8) Seymour, for five years; Shiocton Middle School, (7th) Shiocton, for 2 years; Little Chute Grade (2nd and 8th) for 2 years; and Black Creek Elementary for the final 29 years of her 40 year teaching career.
Audrey was a First Responder for the Town of Maine for three years, and a Red Cross CPR instructor.
Audrey was united in marriage to Quintin I. Thede on June 4, 1955 at Trinity English Lutheran Church in Appleton. After three years in Appleton, they bought one of Quintin's father's farms in the Town of Maine.
After she and Quintin retired, they complied and published five books of local historical interest. For many years, she emailed daily "Thoughts for the Day" from Monday through Friday to her children and grandchildren with a new life lesson each day and a summary of Quintin and her daily activities. She also put together in booklet form, "Quintin's Journey Through Cancer", a daily record of his experiences during his final days.
She was gifted with many artistic skills from wood burning, etching, painting, refinishing furniture, sewing, embroidery, crocheting, bead working and many other numerous crafts and skills of which most were given away as gifts. She also was a big collector of many things, especially Avon, angels, and special pottery. She kept individual photo albums for the entire Thede family of 16 plus her own children. Many scrap books, including all the Christmas cards they received and many other memories for the years to come were placed in notebooks.
She is survived by her children Debbie (Gary) Croell, Dana (Holly Combes) Thede, and Diana Oberg; grandchildren Mike (Kristy Nelson) Croell; Kate (Addison Harjung) Croell, Drew Thede, Lindsey Thede, Erin Oberg, Tara (Richard Wos) Oberg, Evan (Jake Kapinski) Oberg, Nathan (Rebecca) Oberg; and great grandchildren Sylas, Murphie, Jovie, Hoyt, Ailee, and KInlee.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Quintin Thede.
Keeping with Audrey's wishes there will be a private family funeral service. Burial will take place at the South Maine Cemetery at a later date.

01/04/2026

In loving memory of Janet D. Heiden.

Janet Heiden, age 80, of Seymour, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026 surrounded by her family.

Jan was born in Green Bay on September 27, 1945. She attended school in Green Bay and, after graduating from high school, went on to beauty school, where she completed her training. She married Lee Watermolen, and together they had two daughters. Lee passed away a few years later.

Jan was later introduced to Gary Heiden by her dear friend, Connie Sass. Jan and Gary were married and shared 48 years of a loving marriage.

Jan lived in Seymour for many years, where she was a familiar and friendly face at the local bank. She took pride in her work and valued the relationships she built there.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Gary Heiden; her loving daughters, Kris (Don) Huben and Karri (Todd) Wendt. Jan was a proud and loving grandmother to Lucas (Kara) Wendt, Emily (Paul) Ashman, and Rachael (Luke) Kimball. She took great joy in her role as a great-grandmother to Lee and Tessa Huben; Jacob and Adrian Ashman; Jackson and Lillian Kimball; and Mason, Kaleb, and Alaina Wendt. She is also survived by her beloved family, including her sisters, Bonnie (Larry) LaPlant, Rosie (Steve) Clark, and Jean VanderMuss; her in-laws, Judy Watermolen, JoyLynn (Harold) Ellenbecker, Jim (Alice) Heiden, Tom Heiden, Steve (Pam) Heiden, Laurie (Geno) Linzmeyer, and Jill Stephani (special friend Larry); along with many nieces and nephews who held her dear.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Lee Watermolen; her beloved grandson, Mitchell Huben; her in-laws, Tim VanderMuss, Sharon and Bob Cashman, Terry Watermolen DDS, and Dean Heiden; along with other cherished family members who went before her.

Jan found deep joy in the simple pleasures of life-tending her garden, nurturing fresh vegetables, and caring for her beautiful wildflowers. The Christmas season held special magic for her; she devoted weeks each year to transforming her home into a festive wonderland, with every room glowing with warmth and holiday spirit. Above all, her greatest happiness came from her family. She poured endless love into her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always making sure they knew just how deeply and unconditionally they were cherished.

Jan will be fondly remembered for her unwavering devotion to family, her kind and caring nature, and the genuine warmth she brought to everyone whose life she touched. Her legacy of love and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

We would like to thank Aspire Assisted Living and Compassus Hospice for their loving and compassionate care of Jan.

Visitation for Jan will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home in Seymour from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., with services to follow with Deacon Rich Matuszak officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Saint Jude's Hospital in loving memory of Jan and her love of children.

01/02/2026

In memory of Carolyn Henn

Carolyn Henn, age 80, of Seymour passed away on December 31, 2025 surrounded by her family. She was born on October 15, 1945 to the late Clarence and Antoinette (Hermus) Van Handel.

She was united in marriage to Carl Henn on September 5, 1964. He preceded her in death on September 20, 2021 after 57 years together.
After marrying Carl, Carolyn was his right-hand person running the family farm. After the kids were in school, she worked at Sally B's clothing store. In 1984, she started working at Provimi Veal where she met her lifelong friend Kathy Timm. She worked there for 25 years before retiring due to health issues. She was able to volunteer at the Appleton Medical Center and the Meals on wheels program to help give back to her community when she was able too.

Carolyn and Carl took several bus trips to enjoy retirement. They saw a huge part of the United States and enjoyed meeting other people and seeing the beautiful countryside.

Carolyn cherished her family and enjoyed spending time with her kids, grandchildren and adored her great-grandchildren, Dash and Indy. Carolyn also had a special four-legged friend, Trucker.

Carolyn was an amazing mom, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, sister and friend to many. She touched many hearts and was kind to everyone she met. Her children were fortunate that we were able to have her as our mom for so many years. After her first heart surgery in 2008, we were blessed to have her for another 17 years. Being able to celebrate her 80th Birthday in October was an amazing day for all of us. Mom said it was "the best day ever".

She is survived by her children: Tim (Nancy) Henn; Lisa (Tim) Roberts, and Lynn (Bruce) Brinkman; grandchildren: Trevor Henn, Craig Henn, Emily Brinkman, Holly (Jack) Trentadue, and Brian Roberts; and two great-grandsons, Dash Trentadue and Indy Trentadue; guardian angel and best friend Kathy Timm, siblings: Jim (Peg) Van Handel, Phyllis (Al) Lanser, Pete (Janet) Van Handel, and Greg (Nancy) Van Handel; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by two brothers: Bill Van Handel and Michael Van Handel; one brother-in-law, LeRoy (Mary) Henn; two sisters-in-law: Joyce (Earl) Kramer, and Alice (Rodney) Malkoff.

Visitation will take place at New Life United Methodist Church, Seymour on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 9 am until the funeral service at 11 am with Pastor Gail Ray officiating. Burial will take place at St. Sebastian Catholic Cemetery, Issar.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established.

The family extends a special thanks to the care staff at Rennes Health and Rehab and Theda Care hospice for taking great care of mom her final months

Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences to Carolyn's family can be made at

View Carolyn Henn's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/31/2025

Wishing you all a SAFE and Happy New Year's.

12/31/2025

Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home, one of the longest operated family owned funeral homes in Wisconsin, has a rare open position for an Administrative Assistant.

The ideal candidate will often be the initial point of contact for families that are in need of death care services. Being comfortable with your communication skills, with understanding and compassion, are required qualities in this role. An outgoing personality with the ability to adapt to the personal styles of communication will be essential. Professionalism behind the scenes and in person will be expected. Confidentiality will be maintained in and out of the office at all times.

Willingness to work collaboratively, assist coworkers in achieving goals and results, and the ability to work independently will be expected. Having the ability to quickly shift focus on the needs of the families we serve will be useful.

This role is vital in supporting the licensed funeral directors that meet with families and other staff that support the firm. Technical skills desired to properly perform include: MS Word, Outlook, Excel, QuickBooks, and a well-rounded understanding of technologies that operate in an office environment, including Apple products (or the drive and ability to learn). The candidate will also learn funeral service customer relations software as it pertains to the daily function of the business. Experience working with or having knowledge of life insurance claims and the claims process will be very helpful. Skills in marketing and social media are a plus. Attention to detail is a must as this position includes working with important legal and financial documents.

A successful candidate will be responsible for the appearance of the building interior with assistance from other staff.

Candidates can expect to work a scheduled 25 hours per week, plus the potential for more hours as needed by business volume (full-time considered). Compensation will include an above-average wage based on experience, company paid retirement contribution, paid holidays, and paid time off.

Interviews will be conducted beginning immediately, including evenings. All applications will remain strictly confidential.

To apply for this position please email a cover letter, resume and potential references to:

Joel D. Walters: joel@muehlboettcher.com
920-833-2328

12/28/2025

In memory of Marian Zuleger.

Marian R. Zuleger, age 97, of Black Creek passed away on December 26, 2025 at Brewster Village in Appleton. She was born on August 29, 1928 a daughter of the late Edwin and Clara (Bartman) Sassman.

She was united in marriage to Earl Zuleger on June 4, 1949 having celebrated 71 years of marriage. Earl preceded her in death on February 11, 2021.

Marian was a devoted member of St. John United Church of Christ in Black Creek where she was active in the Women's Guild, taught Sunday school, sang in the choir for over 75 years, and also served as the church secretary. She was also a member of the Duhm-Masch American Legion Post Auxiliary.

Marian enjoyed quilting, having made over 400 quilts for her family, friends, and those in need through the Girl Scouts. She was a sports fan and loved watching high school basketball, Brewer games, Wisconsin Badgers, and of course the Packers. Marian swong her first golf club at the age of 75.

Marian is survived by her children: Sharon (Peter) Passick, Duane (Karen) Zuleger, Janet (Jim) Coe, and Barry Zuleger; six grandchildren: Rebecca (Ben) Mann, Steven Passick, Crissy Zuleger, Tammy (Jeremy) Spangler, Amber Coe, and Taylor (Dawn Griffin) Coe; two great-grandchildren: Ariana and Emma Mann; brother, LaVerne (Joyce) Sassman. She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

In addition to her husband and parents, Marian was preceded in death by her sisters, Vera (Ben) Krueger and Esther Henry; and brother, Ralph (Helen) Sassman.

A visitation for Marian will take place on Wednesday, December 31, 2025 at St. John United Church of Christ in Black Creek from 9 am until the funeral service at 11 am with Pastor Moira Finley officiating. Burial will take place at Highland Memorial Park in Appleton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Marian's memory are appreciated.

12/25/2025

12/23/2025

In memory of Shirley Pagel

Shirley M. Pagel, age 89 of Black Creek, formerly of Fence, WI passed away peacefully on Monday, December 22, 2025.

She was born on August 18, 1936 in Wrightstown, daughter of the late Lawrence and Adaline (Frederick) Zirbel. Shirley was united in marriage to Robert "Bob" Pagel on August 25, 1955. They were married for 63 years. He preceded her in death on July 6, 2019.

She graduated from Wrightstown High School. Bob and Shirley owned and operated Pagel's Superette in Black Creek in the 1970's. They retired to northern Wisconsin or "God's Country" as they loved to call it.
Shirley always had a smile on her face and enjoyed spending time with family and friends particularly her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved cooking, fishing, camping, watching the Brewers and watching her birds... especially the hummingbirds.

She is survived by her two daughters: Pamela "Pam" (Paul) Batte, Fence, and SharRee (Robert) Gritt, Black Creek; one son, Robert "Bob" (Heather) Pagel, Appleton; eight grandchildren: Matthew (Brenda) Batte, Angela Wilkinson, BethAnn (Dan) Riesenweber, Amanda (Ryan) Riehl, Stefanie (Kurt) Zuleger, Sarah (Tom) Curry, Alexis (Andrew) Stroman and Natalie Payette; twelve great-grandchildren; brother, Richard Zirbel; sister; Pat (Roger) Oldenburg, and numerous nieces and nephews. Further survived by sisters-in-law: Mary Zirbel and Sandy (Jerry) Klukow.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Pagel; siblings: Bob Zirbel, Gerald (Phyllis) Zirbel, and Carol Cunningham; sister-in-law: Jan Zirbel; and brothers-in-law: Gary (Nancy) Pagel and Wayne (Gerry) Pagel.

Visitation will take place on Saturday, January 10th, 2026 at Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home, Seymour from 9:30 am until the memorial service at 11:00 am with Pastor Ty Stoneburner officiating.
In addition, a celebration of life will be held in Fence, WI at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Shirley's memory to St. Jude Children's Hospital are appreciated.

Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences to Shirley's family can be made at

View Shirley Pagel's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/22/2025

In memory of Donna Braun

Donna A. Braun, age 80, of Seymour passed away peacefully on December 19th, 2025. She was born on August 9, 1945, to Henry and Mildred (Boettcher) Voelz.

Donna was joined in marriage to Roger Braun on August 19, 1961, having celebrated 60 years of marriage prior to Roger's passing.

Donna provided in home day care for 38 years in Seymour. She and Roger also owned and operated a dairy farm for nine years in Frazer Corners.
She enjoyed cooking, baking and reading cookbooks for new recipes. Donna was known for her black bottom cupcakes and basic hot dish, staples of the Braun family.
She enjoyed reading, crocheting, supporting her granddaughters, and spending time with family.

Donna is survived by her daughter, Nancy (Chris) Sievert; two granddaughters: Courtney (Zack) Davis and Morgan (Clayton) Bscherer; great grandchildren Rendley Davis and Ryder Davis; siblings Marcella Kohn and Henry Voelz, sister-in-law Lois Lemke; brother-in-law Ronald (Jean) Hinkfuss; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Donna is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Roger, in-laws Esther and George Hinkfuss; siblings Vernon (Cecelia) Voelz, Kenneth (Alice) Voelz, Betty (George) Cole, Jernice (Clark) Rounds, and brothers-in-law John Lemke and Willard Kohn.

Funeral services for Donna will be held at Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home, Seymour, on Saturday December 27th at 12 Noon with Pastor Steve Apfel officiating. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10:00 AM until the time of services. Burial will take place at the parish cemetery.

Online condolences may be expressed to Donna's family at

View Donna Braun's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.