Vernon W. Freund, age 78, of New Holstein, passed away Friday, June 3, 2016, at his home. He was born July 1, 1937, in Charlesburg to Albert & Josephine (Steiner) Freund. He graduated from New Holstein High School in 1955. On September 28, 1957, he married Kathleen "Kathy" Groeschel at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Marytown. Vern had worked at the Kohler Co. until retiring in 1999. He was a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church in New Holstein, the Holy Name Society, Chilton Eagles Club, Brothertown Fishing Club and the Kohler Quarter Century Club. He enjoyed the annual sturgeon spearing season on Lake Winnebago. Vern was avidly involved in baseball; he played with the Marytown AC's in his younger days, coached little league baseball in New Holstein for many years, proudly coaching his sons over the years. He played many sheepshead games with friends and family; he and his wife belonged to several card clubs. Vern also enjoyed golfing with his friends. Survivors include his wife, Kathy; four sons, David (Christine) Freund of Cedar Grove, Paul Freund of New Holstein, Gary (Kara) Freund of New Holstein and Wayne (Carly) Freund of Appleton; five grandchildren, Megan, Jaclyn, Damon, Isabella and Vivian; his brother-in-law, Charles (Verena) Groeschel of New Holstein. He is further survived by other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert & Josephine Freund. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, June 7, 2016, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 1724 Madison Street New Holstein, WI 53061. Rev. Harold Berryman will officiate with Parish Director, Joe Zenk assisting. Vern will be laid to rest in the parish cemetery. Visitation: Family and friends may call at the Sippel Funeral Home, 2618 Altona Avenue New Holstein, WI on Monday, June 6th from 3:00 – 7:00 PM. Visitation will also be at the church Tuesday morning from 9:00 – 9:45 AM. A memorial fund will be established in his name. For additional information, please contact the Sippel Funeral Home in New Holstein (920) 898-4300 or visit www.sippelfuneralhome.net Vern was very fortunate to have some of his grandchildren living close by to him to cherish one another's company. He was a kind, gentle and generous husband, dad and grandfather. Vern's family is very appreciative of the care provided by the Affinity Visiting Nurses, especially Jamie.