Sherwin J. Fuerbringer

Sherwin John “Pinky” Fuerbringer, 84, passed away peacefully on February 20th, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Pinky was born on October 29th, 1940, in Watertown, Wisconsin to his parents John and Alice (Nee Gleiter) Fuerbringer. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Roseanne. His other siblings are sister Sally Holmes and brother Del Fuerbringer. Pinky grew up in Jefferson, Wisconsin. He graduated from St. John’s Lutheran grade school in 1954 and Jefferson High School in 1958 where he played football, basketball, and baseball. He was named captain and 2nd team all-conference in basketball his senior year. Pinky attended UW-Lacrosse, graduating with a degree in math and physical education in 1962 and a master’s degree in 1966. Pinky married Judy Ruesch in Jefferson at St. John’s Lutheran Church on August 17th, 1963. They celebrated 61 years of marriage in 2024. He taught P.E. and math at Madison Junior High School for 34 years while coaching football and 9th grader girls’ basketball, volleyball, and softball. He touched many lives during his time as a teacher and coach and loved doing so. He retired in 1996.

Pinky is survived by his loving wife, Judy, daughters: Dawn (Joe) Lass, Heidi Epperson (Parrish Marshall), and Joey Johannes, five grandchildren: Carly Novak (Dan) and Kayla Lass, Abby and Haley Epperson, and Carter Konkle (Shelby); great grandchildren: Emma Altmann (Lass), Hudson Konkle, and Connor and Liam Novak. Pinky loved to sing and dance and always had a smile and positive attitude or joke to offer. He kept a good attitude even in his final days and will always be remembered with a smile on his face. He was blessed with amazing staff at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital and St. Paul Elder Services who took excellent care of him during his final days. He and his family were so thankful for their care and compassion; it will never be forgotten. 

A memorial service will be held on Saturday March 8, 2025, at 11:00am at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church 2330 E Calumet, Appleton. Friends and family may gather at the church from 9:00am until the service begins. Please join us for a luncheon to follow.

Memorial gifts can be made to the pastor’s fund at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Appleton. 

Pinky and Judy are both charter members of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church.