Virginia J. Oechler

Virginia Joy Oechler, 88, of Kenosha, WI, was taken home to heaven on Friday, August 28, 2026 after a brief hospital stay.

Born in Kenosha on November 20, 1937, she was the daughter of the late Leroy and Gladys (Schmidt) Hoff. She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith and was a very faithful church member her entire life. In her later years she served regularly on the altar guild at Mt Zion Lutheran Church.

Virginia attended Lincoln State Graded School for her elementary education and graduated from Mary D. Bradford High School in 1956. At 14 years old she met her future husband Richard at the wedding of her Aunt Helen and Richard’s cousin Norman. They dated all through high school and on May 17, 1958, Virginia and Richard were married at Friedens Lutheran Church in Kenosha.

Throughout her lifetime Virginia was part of many bowling teams and was recognized for 50 years of participation by the Lutheran Bowling Association. She spent many years watching her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in their various activities. Her greatest joy on earth was her family.

Virginia is survived by her husband of 68 years, Richard; their two daughters and sons-in-law: Marie and Gregg Pfarr, Sturtevant, WI; Dona and Kevin Buch, Manitowoc, WI; and daughter-in-law, Corky Oechler, Weyauwega, WI; six grandchildren: Clair (Becky) Inniger, Michele (Dan) Sittig, Jarrod Pfarr, Hillary (Tony) Peterson, Kaleb (Emily) Buch, and Garrett (Amanda) Buch; great-grandchildren: Andrea and Gwendolyn Inniger; Hudson and Tayah Sittig; Heather and Eddie Peterson; Hailey, Addy and Kamille Buch; and Noelle Buch.

In addition to her parents, Virginia was preceded in death by her father and mother-in-law, Henry and Hattie Oechler; her son, Dale Oechler; her grandchildren, Heather Buch and Clint Inniger; her brother and sister-in-law, Leroy and Carol Hoff; her sister and brother-in-law, Doris and Frank Smaniotto; and Richard’s three brothers and sisters-in-law, Don (Doris), Gil (Edna) and Marv (Bev).

“Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” Matt.28:20

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026, at New Life Lutheran Church East Campus, 5038 19th Ave, Kenosha, WI. A visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials in memory of Virginia to Shoreland Lutheran High School or New Life Lutheran Church.

Casey Family Options is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

Thoughts for Virginia J. Oechler;

  • Karen and Dann Reske says:

    Was such a sweet woman. Enjoyed our gatherings at Buch great grandchildren’s birthday parties. Glad her suffering has ended and she is with the Lord. Condolences to her family

  • Mary Burnett says:

    We’re so sorry to hear about your Mom’s passing, Marie. May warm memories of her hold her close in your heart.

    Mary and Mick Burnett

  • Lynnette Hoff says:

    Renee called and told Heidi, Randy and I about your Mother passing on to Heaven. We are so sorry for your loss. Love you all and may God wrap his loving arms around you and comfort you.

    Lynnette, Randy and Heidi

  • Steve & Sandy Dankert says:

    Our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Virginia Oechler, especially Richard, her wonderful husband, daughters Marie and Dona and their amazing husbands. We have been friends of the family for many, many years and cherished our times together. Grief is very hard but sharing in special memories will help to ease your pain. Our dear Lord welcomed Virginia with open arms. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers. GOD BLESS! 🙏❤️🙏❤️

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