Sheila Mae Kapke

Mrs. Sheila Mae Kapke (nee Wahlen), daughter of the late Evelyn and Arthur Wahlen, passed away in the early morning of Oct. 26 just shy of her 85th birthday.

She was born Nov. 12, 1939, in Milwaukee, Wis., where she attended the public schools of Milwaukee and was a 1958 graduate of Riverside High School.

She was united in holy matrimony to Kenneth LeRoy Kapke in May 1962 at Epiphany Lutheran Church in Milwaukee.

They completed their family on Halloween of 1966 when they adopted their only child, Jeffrey. When their home was finally finished being built, the couple moved to Grafton in 1972, where they remained happily with Jeffrey, Sheila’s parents and their dachshund Heidi. In addition to their Grafton home, they also owned a lakefront cabin in St. Germain, Wis., where they spent many memorable summers together.

Both Sheila and her husband were dedicated members of St. John Lutheran Church in Grafton, serving faithfully over the decades. Sheila was a talented member of the church choir, singing countless hymns in her melodic soprano voice. She was also a member of St. John’s Glory Ringers Bell Choir, playing especially beautiful songs during holiday seasons.

Above all, she was a master needle crafter. You name it, she could knit it. She often gifted her knitted socks, mittens and hats for Christmas, which were happily received by many family members. Throughout her life, she also knit countless hats for newborn children, donating them to local hospitals.

She is survived by her son Jeffrey (Tara) Kapke of Grafton, Wis. She is also survived by three grandchildren, Kylene, Adam and James, along with other family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

Sheila was preceded in death by her parents, loving husband and her brother, Gerald.

A memorial service will be held for Sheila on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at 1 p.m. at St. John Lutheran Church, 1193 Lakefield Rd., Grafton, WI 53024. Visitation will be held at the church from noon until the service.

Immediately following the service, there will be a luncheon. A private burial will be held for Sheila at Lakefield Cemetery in Grafton.

Please see www.muellerfuneralhome.com for online condolences.