Winifred Elizabeth “Winnie” Kaiser, age 99, of Weston, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Good Friday, April 3, 2026, closing a long and beautiful life marked by devotion to family, hard work, and a joyful spirit. Born on April 25, 1926, in Marshfield to John and Lillian (Cizek) Lensmire, she grew up in the Marathon area, where she worked alongside her family in their cheese factory and dreamed of becoming a cheesemaker. On September 24, 1947, she married the love of her life, Virgil “Butch” Kaiser, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Marathon, beginning a partnership rooted in faith, love, and shared purpose.
Winnie lived a life defined by resilience and dedication. Over the years, she embraced many roles—loving wife, devoted mother, hardworking farmer, factory employee, and ginseng grower. She approached every task with determination and pride, embodying the values of her generation. Her hands were rarely still, and her days were filled with meaningful work that supported her family and strengthened the home she and Butch built together.
Beyond her work, Winnie found joy in the simple pleasures that brought her closer to the people she loved. She enjoyed walking, playing cards, dancing, and shooting buckets with her grandchildren—moments that became treasured memories for her family. Her warmth, humor, and energy made her a beloved presence at every gathering, and her ability to connect with others left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Winnie is survived by her children—Jackie (Larry) Meyer, Peter Kaiser, Al (Michele) Kaiser, Deb (Marc) Wolding, Randy (Lisa) Kaiser, and Kim Kaiser—as well as her grandchildren and great‑grandchildren, who were a source of immense pride and joy.
She is also survived by her sister, Joan Wirkus; her brother, John Lensmire; sisters‑in‑law Anna Mae Rasmussen and Marge Krautkramer; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Virgil “Butch” Kaiser; her granddaughter, Erin Wolding; her daughter‑in‑law, Donna Kaiser; her parents; and several siblings and in‑laws who welcomed her home with love.
A funeral service honoring Winnie’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 6101 Zinser Street, Weston, WI. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM at the church, with burial to follow in St. Agnes Cemetery. As her family and friends gather to remember her, they celebrate a life lived with grace, generosity, and unwavering love—a legacy that will continue to bless future generations.