Joel Karnick
Lorraine Stunkel’s Obituary
September 10, 1940 – November 19, 2024
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Lorraine Stunkel, age 84, on November
19, 2024, at her home in Kennan, Wisconsin. Lorraine was born on September 10, 1940, in
Phillips, Wisconsin, to John and Ruth Meives.
Lorraine graduated from Phillips High School in 1958 before attending nursing school at
UW-Eau Claire. She married her high school sweetheart, Lloyd Stunkel, on August 20, 1960.
Together, they bought a dairy farm in Kennan, where they raised their six children and built a life
centered around faith, family, and hard work. After selling the farm, Lorraine worked as a
seamstress at Artisans.
A devoted wife and mother, Lorraine’s life was defined by her unwavering kindness and
generosity. She was known for her warm smile and infectious laughter. Her deep love for her
church and community was evident through her involvement in Ladies Aid and Vacation Bible
School. Lorraine was always there for those in need, whether by offering homemade baked
goods, a thoughtful handwritten card, or simply a hug. Her love and support extended to
everyone she encountered, and she took great joy in sending birthday, anniversary, and
sympathy cards to loved ones.
A gifted cook and baker, Lorraine cherished the times spent hosting family dinners, holiday
gatherings, and Christmas cookie-making traditions in her kitchen. She lovingly sewed blankets
for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating cherished keepsakes for them
to hold on to forever.
Lorraine’s family was the center of her world. She adored her husband, children, grandchildren,
and great-grandchildren. She was blessed with 18 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren,
and she celebrated each new addition to the family with immense joy. She and Lloyd shared 64
years of marriage, filled with love and devotion.
Lorraine is preceded in death by her parents, John and Ruth Meives; her son, Lane Stunkel;
son-in-law, Bob Wanish; daughter-in-law, Theresa Beissel; her sister, Ginny Kramer; and her
brother, Dale Meives. She is survived by her loving husband, Lloyd; daughter Laurie (Jeff), and
sons Larry (Laura), Lyndon (Deenah), Lloyd (Julie), and Leslie (Tammi); her 18 grandchildren
and 25 great-grandchildren; sister Margaret (Larry); sister-in-law Karen Meives; brother-in-law
Richard Kramer; daughter-in-law Mary Stunkel, and many nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Zion Lutheran
Church in Kennan, Wisconsin, with Pastor John Trewyn officiating. Visitation will begin at 9:30
AM, with the service following at 11:00 AM. A luncheon will be served in the church hall after the
service.
Lorraine’s legacy of love, kindness, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
She will be dearly missed.
