(262) 653-0667
3016 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
Chip Nunemaker, age 79, passed away peacefully at his home in Kenosha, Wisconsin, surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, December 11, 2025.
Chip was born on May 1, 1946, in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, to Elmer and Ruth (Cox) Nunemaker. He graduated from Oil City High School in 1964 and went on to attend Penn State University before transferring to Bemidji State University, where he graduated in 1968 with a degree in Tech. Ed, Woodworking, and Education. From 1984-1986, Chip continued his education and received his master’s degree in Classroom Guidance and Counseling from Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
In 1968, Chip began a career he was deeply passionate about. He dedicated 35 years to serving as a wood shop teacher at Westosha Central High School in Paddock Lake, Wisconsin. His classroom extended far beyond woodworking—Chip took pride in teaching life skills, proper manners, work ethic, and even how to correctly tie a tie. Never one to sit still, he also drove a school bus before and after school for twenty-two years. During the summers, Chip worked alongside fellow educators building homes through a company aptly named JJA (June, July, and August). From 1975 to 1985, he also shared his talents by teaching adult woodworking classes at Gateway Technical College.
On March 30, 1996, Chip married the love of his life, Peggy Watts, at the Carthage College Chapel. Together, they shared a deep love for the outdoors. Chip especially enjoyed feeding and watching birds, fish, ducks, and other wildlife. A man who was always working with his hands, Chip also found great joy in teaching others to work hard and take pride in their craftsmanship. He was known for his playful sense of humor, a good-natured prank, and an infectious laugh.
Above all, Chip loved his wife, his family, and especially his grandchildren. He took great joy in spending time with them—whether teaching them how to use tools, sharing stories and laughter, or simply being present and cheering them on. He was proud of each of them and found his greatest happiness in watching them grow. Chip also loved the Lord. He and Peggy were active members of Journey Church, where he participated in Freedom Seekers. In June 2020, Chip recommitted his life to God, a decision that held deep meaning for him and his family.
Chip is survived by his beloved wife, Peggy Nunemaker; his children, Kimberly Nunemaker, Tony (Gina) Taylor, and Don (Mandy) Taylor; his cherished grandchildren, Josh, Gabby, TJ, Shawn, Scott, Donis, Reese, Makenna, Ava, and Dylan; and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Turner, and his brothers-in-law, Donis Watts Jr., Bill Watts, Bob Taylor, and Kent Creamer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Ruth Nunemaker; his sisters, Liz, Ginny, and Fran; and his brothers-in-law, Jack, Roger, Skip, and Russ.
A Celebration of Chip’s Life will be held on his birthday, Friday, May 1 at Westosha Central High School from 5:00 pm-7:00 pm in the Commons Area.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be made to Horizon Hospice or the Alzheimer’s Association.
Casey Family Options Funerals & Cremations
3016 75th Street Kenosha WI 53142
262-653-0667
www.caseyfamilyoptions.com
Mon - Fri: 8AM - 4PM
(262) 653-0667
3016 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
Brian Kevek says:
Chip was the best Teacher I have had! As a Student he was tough but fair!! He always had our backs!! I learned more from him than any other teacher or professor!! I think of him all the time when my security question comes up:
“Who was your best/favorite teacher?”
Thoughts and prayers to you and your family!!
God Speed Mr. Nunemaker!!
William Washack says:
My Condolences to His Family … Chip was one of My Teachers in High School … whom taught me a lot about Life, Respect, and Learning. He definitely was a Fantastic Man and I will miss him dearly. May God Bless and Welcome Him into Heaven … RIP My Friend 🧡
Robert Gelden says:
Chip was a great person the world was a better place with him there for us.
Richard Valentine says:
Best teacher I ever had, he knew how to get the best out of you. His clowning around with students and his laughter was infectious. Chip will be sadly missed by many.
Rob Franke says:
He was a great
Teacher. Still have all the projects I made in his class.
Carla S. says:
Dear Peggy and all of Chip’s family,
My sincere condolences,
May you be at peace as you adjust to this next chapter of life.
I’m forever grateful to The Lord to have been blessed by Peggy and Chip.
Take care,
Carla S.
Rob franke jr says:
Still have all the projects we made.
The clock,bread board. Mug holder. And microwave cart.
Deb Timmons says:
Mr. Nunemaker was a great guy. My bus driver all 4 years of high school. Respected by everyone who knew him. Rest in peace. Hugs and prayers to all family and friends.
Todd Volling says:
So many great memories with Mr. Nunemaker. He genuinely cared about his students and everyone around him. He always had a piece of subtle life advice—sometimes short and blunt—but it stuck with you and made you think.
Every time I put on a necktie, I’m reminded of the day he told us we’d need to know how to wear one someday… for court, or for a funeral. He was right.
Peace and comfort to his family and friends during this time of reflection.
Kevin Ryczek says:
Chip was the best. I still tie my ties as he taught us. “Not man enough to tie a tie not man enough to use the shop tools.” I passed that lesson on to my step kids.