Karen A. Boettcher, age 82, of Brillion, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 24, 2026 surrounded by her children.

Karen was born on May 26, 1944 in Chilton, daughter of the late Herman C. & Esther (Bielke) Behnke. She was a graduate of Brillion High School, class of 1962. She married Leon H. Boettcher on December 9, 1967 at Trinity Ev. Lutheran Church in Brillion. Leon preceded her in death on July 5, 2015. Karen started her working career at White Clover, then worked at Chilton Metal until she and Leon had children. Karen stayed home with their children before returning to work when they were older. She worked at the Canning Factory and then Mom’s Place until her retirement. She was a member of Trinity Ev. Lutheran Church and the Ladies Auxiliary for American Legion Post 126 of Brillion. Karen could cook and bake…REALLY cook and bake!! She made the best meals, and truly enjoyed gathering her family together, feeding and spending time with them. She also liked cats, donkeys and feeding the squirrels. She always looked forward to her Sunday night visits with Bobby & Dan where she provided the snacks. But most of all, Karen loved her family.

Karen is survived by her children: Dan (Barb) Boettcher of Brillion, Mike Boettcher of Brillion, Jody (Earl) Pomplun of Redgranite, and Lori Boettcher (special friend, Mike Malewiski) of De Pere; grandchildren: Brittany (Justin) Rukamp; Travis Pomplun ( fiancé Ally), Derek Pomplun (special friend, Mercedes), Brady Pomplun, Andrew Gajewske (special friend, Alicia), Matthew Gajewske (special friend, AJ), and Jacob Gajewske (special friend, Reese); Great Grand Daughters (Olivia and Teagan) ;sister-in-law: Florence Behnke; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Leon; her father-in-law and mother-in-law: Leonard & Minnie (Hinz) Boettcher; siblings and in-laws: Orlando “Butch” (Barbara) Behnke, Orville “Sonny” Behnke, Anita (Elton) Stichert, Betty (Delmar) Zarnoth, Carol Beyer (Richard Doughty, Lloyd Beyer) , James Behnke, Eldore Boettcher, and Ellen (Marvyn) Boettcher; other relatives, and friends.

Private family funeral services will be held.

Online condolences may be made www.pielhop.com

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Emplify Bellin Health, Unity Hospice, and Rev. Ross Henzi and Rev. Nathan Moldenhauer for their care and compassion not only to our Mom, but to us as well.