Jean Achauer

Jean Achauer, nee Knickelbein, 95 years, of Minocqua, formerly of Milwaukee, passed away at her home January 23, 2021. Jean was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on November 24, 1925. Preceding her in death are her husband, J. Monroe (Chet) Achauer; her parents, Herman and Gertrude, nee Melang, Knickelbein; and son-in-law, Ron Novak. She leaves three daughters, Jeannette Novak, Jeannine Achauer, Jalaine Marie Achauer, a son, Jay Monroe (Paige) Achauer, a granddaughter, Jandrea Novak and Lindsay Sparbel and Megan Sparbel, step granddaughters. Jean is descended from an old Minocqua family, the Melangs who arrived here in 1888. She graduated from Rufus King High School in Milwaukee and then attended the Milwaukee Conservatory of Music studying voice. In 1943 at age 18, Jean purchased land on Whitefish Lake where the family had a cottage for many years until she and Chet built their retirement home. She met her husband while he was on liberty from Great Lakes Naval Base. A lifelong lover of music, Jean performed with the Shorewood Opera Chorus in multiple leading roles, served as president of the Tuesday Musical Society (the oldest musical society in Milwaukee), and served as secretary of the Wisconsin Chapter of the National Federation of Music Clubs, which at the time, was the only non-political organization affiliated with the United Nations. Growing African Violets was also a passion of hers and she served as president of the Milwaukee African Violet Society, the State Council, and was on the board of the African Violet Society of America. Attending violet conventions gave many memorable trips around the United States for her entire family. Jean especially loved traveling to the West, Canadian Rockies, and Alaska. From early on she played basketball and loved baseball, becoming the home run champion of Milwaukee. She learned to waterski at age 40 and followed up a few years later with downhill skiing. Always an outdoor woman, she enjoyed bird hunting, boating, swimming, and riding her motorcycle. Most of all Jean loved being a wife, mother, and gramma. She never missed any events important to her family. Her family has been truly blessed to have her in their lives. Internment will be on January 27, 2021 at 11:30 at Forest Garden Cemetery in Woodruff. A celebration of life will be held at Whitefish Lake this summer. Bolger Cremation and Funeral Services is assisting the family. Please visit www.bolgerfuneral.com to share condolences, memories or pictures.