John J. Kolste

STOUGHTON/SHEBOYGAN – John J. Kolste, age 78 of Stoughton and formerly of Sheboygan, passed away peacefully on Friday, Oct. 20, 2006 at Skaalen Nursing Home following a long illness. He was born January 2, 1928 in Sheboygan, the son of Arthur and Gertrude (Daniels) Kolste. After graduating from Sheboygan Central High School, he entered the United States Army, and was stationed in the Phillipines. He married Bernice Lohr, and together they had two children. He worked for over 25 years for Vollrath Company in Sheboygan, retiring in January 1991. John’s passions included being a scout leader, church choir director, drawing, painting and spending time with his family. He was known for being an avid Cubs and Bears fan, never watching a game without a Budweiser in hand. John was rewarded in his lifetime with many friends and kindness that he received from staff during his time at Skaalen Home. He is survived by two children, Steven Kolste, Sheboygan Falls and Annie (Bob) Somermeyer, Waunakee; five grandchildren, Aaron (Dana) Kolste, Alison (Jason) Koenig, Sean Somermeyer, Amy Kolste, and Carly Somermeyer; one great grand-daughter, Marin Koenig, and soon to be two more; two sisters, Betty Stahl, Sheboygan and Gail (Dick) Obermeyer. He was preceded in death by his wife, Bernice in 2002; parents, three brothers, Arthur, Fulton, Lester; and two sisters, Mae and Carol. At his request, private family services will be held. He will be interred next to his wife in Wildwood Cemetery, Sheboygan. John’s stories and antics will long be remembered for generations to come. He will be sorely missed. A memorial fund is being established in John’s name at Skaalen Nursing Home