Darlene M. Rodenkirch

Darlene M. “Dolly” Rodenkirch, 88, of Waukesha, formerly of Kewaskum, passed away on Saturday, August 16, 2025.

Born on May 16, 1937, in Kewaskum, Dolly Backhaus entered the world as the beloved daughter of Carl and Beulah (née Bohn) Backhaus. A proud graduate of Kewaskum High School Class of 1955, Dolly launched her professional journey in the accounting department at Regal Ware. On August 1, 1959, Dolly’s life took a romantic turn when she married Russell Rodenkirch at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Kewaskum. After Russ completed his service with the Wisconsin National Guard, the couple settled in Waukesha, where Dolly continued her career at Amron until 1971. With the arrival of her son, Dolly embraced motherhood with grace and love, later joining Husco International, where she worked diligently until her well-earned retirement in 2000. Dolly’s heart was as generous as her spirit—she lovingly cared for her grandson during his early childhood, as well as her parents and her aunt. Her days were filled with joy, whether she was hopping on bus trips with her aunt, shopping for family for Christmas or birthdays, or sharing laughter over bingo cards with her friends.

Those Dolly leaves behind to cherish her memory include her husband, Russ; her son, John (Lori) Rodenkirch; a grandson, Luke (Sami) Rodenkirch; one brother, William Backhaus; brothers and sister-in-law, Mark Rodenkirch, Norman (Sheila) Rodenkirch, and Margaret “Peg” (Bob) Lyons; and other relatives and friends.

In addition to her parents, Dolly was preceded in death by two sisters-in-law, Kathryn Backhaus and Gloria Rodenkirch.

VISITATION: Dolly’s family will greet family and friends on Friday, August 29, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:45 a.m., at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, (331 Main Street, Kewaskum, WI, 53040).

MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: A Mass of Christian Burial will take place following visitation at 12:00 p.m., at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, with Father Patrick Magnor officiating the Service. Burial will take place at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Dolly’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book can be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.