Jean Karrels

Jean Karrels of Altoona, Fla., formerly of Random Lake, a beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2025, at her residence. She was 98 years old.

Jean was born in Town of Sherman, Wis., on Sept. 9, 1926, the daughter of John and Johanna “Jennie” (nee Meyer) Deppiesse.

Jean was a woman of unwavering spirit and grace, touching the lives of all who knew her.

On Nov. 18, 1944, Jean married the love of her life, Milton Karrels, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Random Lake. Their marriage was a partnership filled with love, laughter and shared joys that lasted until Milton’s passing in 2013. The couple ran the family dairy farm in the Town of Belgium for many years.

A devoted homemaker, Jean found delight in caring for her family, nurturing a warm and loving home.

Jean was a faithful member of St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church in Eustis, Fla. She previously belonged to Our Lady of The Lakes Parish in Random Lake, where she contributed to the community she loved.

She was an avid golfer, finding joy on the course with her husband Milton and close friends.

A creative spirit, she enjoyed making special treasures for her grandchildren and spending quiet moments solving crossword puzzles.

She is survived by her six loving children, Gerald (Kathy), James (Mary), Eugene (Merrilyn), Janice (Ken) Depies, Rita (Lanny) Kissner and Susan (Darryl) Zimdars. Jean is further survived by 12 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends in Wisconsin and Florida.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband Milton and her siblings Leon, Vincent, Everett and Martin Deppiesse, Julia Mueller and Veronica Meyer.

In accordance with Jean’s wishes, private family services will be held at a later date.

She will be laid to rest next to her husband Milton in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Random Lake.

Memorials are appreciated to St. Mary of the Lakes Catholic Church, 218 Opklawaha Ave., Eustis, FL 32726.

Eernisse Funeral Home, Port Washington, is honored to serve the Karrels family.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.