John R Palen

John R. Palen passed away peacefully on October 22, 2025 at the age of 84, surrounded by his loved ones.
Born on March 31st 1941 to his parents George Sr and Fern, John was lucky to be one of 11 children. Growing up on a farm, John learned at an early age the value of hard work and commitment.
On April 8th 1967, John married the love of his life, Diane (nee Bauer). Together they welcomed their daughter Kimberly in 1975.
Throughout the years, John and Diane spent much of their time traveling to Florida and various camp sites throughout Wisconsin. They raised many dogs together, most recently bringing Kayla into the family in 2021.
John worked as a drywaller for many years

John was known for his love of model trains, peanut m&m's, and McDonalds. His grandchildren recount his quirky personality, and how he always called tigers "tagers". John was always prepared to mix his jello with his steak (it all goes to the same place!) and to remind his family and friends to wash their hands after a meal.

He is survived by wife, Diane and his daughter Kimberly Myers (nee Palen), as well as his grandchildren Dyllon Myers, Taylor Myers, and Mary (Samuel) Baer (nee Myers), and a proud great-grandfather to Levi and Isabella. John was excitedly preparing to meet his 3rd great grandchild as well, due to arrive in November of this year. John was also survived by his bonus great-grandchildren, Savannah and Ryder Watt. Finally, he is survived by his loving siblings Lois Krenke (née Palen), Jim (Mary) Palen, and Nancy Wachowiacz (née Palen), as well as his dear sisters-in-law Shirley (George) Palen and Diana (Harold) Palen and many nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents George Sr. and Fern (née Fowles) Palen; his siblings George Palen Jr., Jean Palen, Ruth Brylski, Robert "Bobby" Palen, Harold Palen, Betty Strutz (née Palen), and Lora Lee (née Palen); and brothers-in-law Bert Gleesing, Gerald (Lois) Krenke, and Gerald (Nancy) Wachowiacz.

John will be remembered for his profound presence in the lives of his family and friends. His legacy will continue to live on through them.

The family would like to extend thanks and gratitude to the staff at Aurora Medical Center in Summit, WI, who graciously cared for John many times over the years, as well as the staff at Zilber Family Hospice, who cared for John in his final moments.

In lieu of a funeral, a celebration of life will be held at the Oconomowoc Community Center on November 15th, 2025 from 2pm to 4pm

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