Germaine Kaphingst

Germaine A. Kaphingst, age 97, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, December 9, 2024. She was born on October 10, 1927 to the late Albert and Sophia (Lewandowski) Riehl.

On June 21, 1947 she was united in marriage to Gordon Kaphingst in the town of Ellington. Gordon preceded her in death on February 22, 1986.

Germaine and Gordon owned and operated K & B Auto Company in Black Creek for many years. She was a proud member of the Black Creek American Legion Post 332 Auxillary,

She was a faithful longtime member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Black Creek where she was a member of the Lutheran Women's Missionary Society, past Sunday School teacher, member and past-president of the Ladies Aid. While she was a member at Bethany Lutheran Church, Germaine was a part of the OWLS (Organization of WELS Lutheran Seniors) and was a church greeter along with helping with many funerals at church. Germaine was also a longtime volunteer at the Bargain Garden Thrift Shop that supported Fox Valley Lutheran Schools.

She loved to cook and was known by her family for the great chili. There were countless hours spent tending to her flower and vegetable gardens and later canning the bountiful harvests of her labors. As a sports fan, she watched NASCAR, the Green Bay Packers, college football, and basketball at all levels.

Germaine loved to travel with friends and family. Her favorite times in her life were spent watching her grandchildren's extracurricular activities and sporting events.

She is survived by her children: Gary (Carolyn) Kaphingst, Jean (James) Franz, Kathleen (Daniel) Jenquine, Sheila (Duane) Vander Zanden, and Paul (Suzie Jackson) Kaphingst; grandchildren: Amanda, Kris, David, Kenny, Brad, Tyler, Emily, Corey, Brian, Kyle, Hailee, and Amy; 11 great-grandchildren with one more on the way. Also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Janet Kay; and two sisters: Doris (Lloyd) DeDecker and Vernice (Robert) Kaphingst.

Visitation will take place at Bethany Lutheran Church, 530 W. Parkway Blvd, Appleton on Monday, December 16, 2024 from 10:00 am until the funeral service at 12 noon with Pastor Matt Krenke officiating. Burial will take place at Highland Memorial Park in Appleton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Germaine's memory are appreciated and will be given to her favorite organizations.

Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home, Seymour, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences to Germaine's family may be expressed at www.muehlboettcher.com

Mom, you were right when you sang "I'll be home for Christmas". Enjoy your first Christmas in heaven.