Roger William Kuhnke

Roger William Kuhnke, age 94, of Appleton, passed away Sunday morning, January 5, 2025, at the Appleton Retirement Community on Packard Street.

Roger was born on April 12, 1930, in Deer Creek Township, Outagamie County, son of the late William and Elinor (Nitzske) Kuhnke. He served in the United States Army from March 1948, until his Honorable Discharge on January 31, 1969, reaching the rank of Sergeant First Class. During his Army career we were all very proud of the numerous medals, citations, sharpshooter, and good conduct awards he amassed! He married the former Misako Shinozaki on July 30, 1951. She preceded him in death on January 20, 2017. Roger met Misako in Tokyo, Japan at a dance and when she said yes to the polka, the rest as they say was history. Roger enjoyed helping others and made friends everywhere he went. After retiring from the Army, Roger worked for the City of Appleton from 1970 to 1992 in the Public Works Department and was a bridge tender for a time. He also loved farming, beekeeping, and making maple syrup.

Roger’s family meant everything to him. He was a loving husband and father. He will be remembered for always being able to tell a good story, his intelligence, and his generosity.

Survivors include his three daughters: Marlene R (Steve) Olson, Mancos, CO and family, Darlene S Bonetti, Green Valley, AZ and family, Arlene M (Jeff) Bergsbaken Appleton, WI and family as well as numerous great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 65 years, Misako, 9 siblings: Ronald, Shirley, John, Donald, Pat, Diane, Barbara, Lucy, and Louis. Surviving siblings include: William (Helga) Kuhnke, Rose (Becky) Pues, Betty (Bruce) Ladwig and Carol Prellwitz. 

A memorial service and celebration of his life will be held at a later date. The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Appleton Retirement Community, from ThedaCare Hospice, Social Worker, Stephanie, and especially Tess, RN for all the compassionate care given to Roger in his final days.