Mrs. Joanne L. Kultgen of Random Lake passed away peacefully at her residence on Thursday morning, February 19, 2026, at the age of 86.

Joanne was born in Fredonia on July 22, 1939, the daughter of John and Elaine (née Jung) Wagner. She was baptized at St. Rose Parish and attended St. Rose Grade School through the eighth grade. She went on to graduate from Port Washington High School with the Class of 1957. Following high school, Joanne attended Spencerian College in Milwaukee, where she majored in accounting and business.

After completing her education, Joanne accepted a position with West Bend Company, where she advanced to become the head bookkeeper in her department.

On November 9, 1963, Joanne married the love of her life, Leander “Lee” Kultgen, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. The couple made their home in Random Lake and were blessed with two children, Debbie and Todd. After becoming a mother, Joanne devoted herself to raising her family while also managing the bookkeeping for her husband’s businesses, K & K Konstruction and later Lee Kultgen Construction.

As her children grew older, Joanne pursued her creative talents by founding her own business, Joanne’s Creations, which she operated successfully for 20 years. She earned numerous ribbons and awards at craft shows, including several “Best of Show” honors.

A faithful member of Our Lady of the Lakes Parish, Joanne was also active in the Christian Women. She enjoyed traveling, playing cards, golfing, occasional trips to the casino, and spending time at the family’s home on Lake Winnebago. Joanne had a special gift for oil painting and created many of the treasured pieces that adorn her family’s home. Above all, she cherished the time spent with her children and grandchildren.

Joanne is survived by her daughter, Debbie (Steve) Kultgen of Random Lake; her son, Todd (Kris) Kultgen of Batavia; and her grandsons, Kyle and Luke Kultgen. She is further survived by her brother, Neil (JoAnn) Wagner; brothers- and sisters-in-law Henry (Judy) Kultgen, Paul (Bev) Kultgen, Mary Schommer, and Pam Kultgen; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lee; her parents; her brother, Gerald (the late Darlene) Wagner; her parents-in-law, Leo and Ann Kultgen; her brother-in-laws Alfred Kultgen, John Kultgen and Ronnie Schommer; and her nephew, Mark Schommer.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 6:00 PM on Friday, February 27, at Our Lady of the Lakes Parish – St. Mary’s Chapel, 230 Butler Street, Random Lake. Father Don Thimm will preside. The family will receive guests at the church on Friday from 3:30 PM until 5:45 PM. Joanne will be laid to rest beside her husband at St. Rose of Lima Cemetery the following day.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice or the Random Lake Ambulance Service in Joanne’s memory.

The Eernisse Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements; online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuenralhome.com .