Jon Puerner

Jon C. Puerner, 77, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2024, in Wausau, WI.

Jon was a loving husband to Nancy and devoted father to Jennifer and Michael, whose love for his family, his musical talents, and endless “dad jokes” will be remembered fondly.

Born December 9, 1946, in Fort Atkinson, WI, Jon grew up in a love-filled home with his father, Captain Leo Puerner, and mother, Helen Puerner. He had a love for horses, playing piano, and became an avid photographer as he got older. After graduating high school, Jon was drafted into the Army and served our country proudly for 3 years. Upon his return from being stationed in Germany and the completion of his Army service, Jon attended Wisconsin School of Electronics, where he received his Associate’s degree in engineering, and he would later move to Milwaukee, WI to begin his career. It was in Milwaukee that Jon met Nancy (Grinker) Puerner, who he married on September 25, 1981. Within the next five years, Jon and Nancy welcomed two children into the world: Jennifer Lynn and Michael Jon. Jon’s devotion to his children was endless, and he and Nancy raised their children with more love and adoration than can be put into words.

Jon’s career spanned 39 years, starting at Allen-Bradley and ending with his retirement from Ricoh USA in 2011. Shortly after retiring, Jon and Nancy moved to Weston, WI to be close to their kids, who both established careers in central WI. Jon and Nancy found a welcoming retirement community at their new home at Birchwood Highlands, where Jon made many dear friends and was affectionately known as the “Piano Man” for his beautiful piano skills. Jon served as the pianist for the Birchwood Highlands choir for over 10 years, and was proud of his own original song, “Happy Birthday Jesus,” that he wrote when he was younger, had copyrighted, and played with the choir each Christmas season.

Above all else, Jon’s personality brought warmth and joy to all who knew him; he was a humble, quiet-spoken, loyal man who is mourned deeply by all. Jon’s memory will remain in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those who were honored to have known him.

Jon was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Helen, and his infant brother, John Michael. He is survived by his wife, Nancy; his children—Jennifer Kochan (Adam) and Michael Puerner (Kerri); along with beloved cousins, extended family, and friends who became family.

A celebration of Jon’s life will take place on Thursday, October 24th, 2024, at Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 2809 Jelinek Avenue, Weston, WI. Visitation will take place from 3:00 - 5:30 p.m. with a brief memorial service beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Weston, is assisting Jon’s family. Condolences may be shared at www.ascendweston.org.