Nicholas Karpen

Nicholas Joseph Karpen, 64, of North Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, passed away on November 11, 2025. Born on July 11, 1961, in Chicago, Illinois, Nicholas lived a life marked by service, strength, and deep devotion to his family and community.

Nicholas graduated from Almond/Bancroft High School and went on to attend the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, where he played football. His early years laid the foundation for a lifetime of dedication—to his country, his work, and most importantly, his loved ones.

From 1983 to 1987, Nicholas proudly served in the United States Marine Corps as a Field Artillery Fire Control Man. During his service, he earned several commendations including a Letter of Accommodation, Meritorious Mast, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, and the Good Conduct Medal. He achieved the rank of Lance Corporal and carried the values of discipline and resilience with him throughout his life.

After completing his military service, Nicholas continued to serve others as a volunteer firefighter and paramedic with the Plainfield Fire Department. His commitment to helping those in need was unwavering. Later in life, he channeled his entrepreneurial spirit into promoting advertising specialties, where he built a successful business through hard work and genuine connections with others.

Nicholas shared 32 wonderful years of marriage with his wife Kristine Karpen. Together they raised their daughter Kyra Karpen (Chris), who brought immense joy into their lives. Nicholas found great happiness in being a grandfather to Ryder and Ridge Karpen. He cherished every moment spent entertaining them—especially giving them rides on his wheelchair—and took pride in creating lasting memories filled with laughter and love.

He is also lovingly remembered by his mother Emily Karpen; brother Matt Karpen (Sandy); sisters Julie Karpen (Mike) and Maribeth Karpen. He was preceded in death by his father Ron Karpen.

Nicholas had a wide array of interests that reflected his curious mind and generous heart. He enjoyed camping trips with family, watching the History Channel, playing video games and trivia games that challenged him intellectually. A true enthusiast for trying new foods-especially hot sauces—and was always eager to share these experiences with others. Nicholas would never turn down a Chicago style hotdog. His collection of fire trucks was a testament to both his lifelong admiration for firefighting and his appreciation for meaningful keepsakes.

Those who knew Nicholas will remember him as strong and resilient—a man who faced life's challenges with courage and grace. He had an innate ability to connect with people through patience and genuine interest in their stories. Whether around a campfire or at home surrounded by family, Nicholas created spaces filled with warmth and laughter.



May the memory of Nicholas Joseph Karpen bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire acts of kindness and strength in the lives he touched.

The family is truly grateful for the doctors, nurses and staff at the Milwaukee VA especially the Spinal Cord Injury Unit and the loving support from family and friends.

A Memorial Service will be held on November 29, 2025, from 12:00pm to 04:00pm at The FDL American Legion Post 75 -
500 Fond du Lac Ave
Honor Ceremony at 2:30pm with service to follow and memory sharing

In Lieu of flowers the family kindly requests donations go towards funeral expenses.

Private Burial at the Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in King

Cards can be sent to
Kristine Karpen
1812 Thurke Ave North Fond du Lac WI 54937

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