Jay Bretschneider

Jay Bretschneider of Grafton, a beloved husband, brother and uncle, peacefully departed this world on Jan. 1, 2024, surrounded by his loving family at Magnolia Trails Memory Care at The Waterford of West Bend. He was 76 years old.

Jay was born in Port Washington on July 5, 1947, the son of Edward and Minnie (nee Mueller) Bretschneider.

He grew up in Fredonia and graduated from Port Washington High School with the Class of 1965.

On Sept. 9, 1972, he married the love of his life, Marlene Schommer, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Belgium.

Jay embarked on a fulfilling career as a machinist at Jor-Mac in Grafton, becoming a valued member of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. His dedication and skills were admired by colleagues. He retired in 2010 after working for more than 35 years.

When not at work, Jay indulged in his passion for auto racing. He could often be found cheering on his favorite drivers and discussing the latest races with fellow racing enthusiasts.

Traveling with his beloved wife Marlene was one of Jay’s greatest pleasures. Together, they explored the beautiful landscapes of Albuquerque, N.M., and reveled in the excitement of Las Vegas, Nev. Their journeys created countless memories that will forever be treasured by Marlene.

Jay is survived by his wife Marlene and his sister Sandy (Larry) Mayer, both of Fredonia. He is further survived by his godson Bradley (Allison) Mayer of Fredonia, brothers-in-law Richard (Pamela) Schommer and Ernie Wood, sisters-in-law Janice (special friend Jim) Kowalezyk, Donna (Michael) Kultgen and Lori (William) Schmit, other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Minnie, his in-laws Alvin and Barbara Schommer, sister-in-law Joyce Wood, brother-in-law Mike Kowalezyk and his niece Lindsay Kultgen.

Funeral services for Jay will be celebrated on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024, at St. John Lutheran Church, 824 Fredonia Ave., Fredonia. Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. to noon, with funeral services starting at noon. Pastor Marshal Frisque will preside over the service.

He will be laid to rest at St. John Lutheran Cemetery in Fredonia.   

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jay’s name to St. John Lutheran Church in Fredonia.

Jay’s family would like to thank the caregivers at Magnolia Trails Memory Care and Preceptor Hospice and Pastor Marshal Frisque for all of their care and compassion.

Eernisse Funeral Home, Port Washington, is honored to serve the Bretschneider family.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.