Rachel E. Fietzer

1937 - 2025

Rachel E. Fietzer, age 88, passed away on Monday, November 24, 2025 at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center in Appleton. She was born on June 3, 1937 in Hilbert to the late Oscar and Marie (Maile) Plate. Rachel was united in marriage to Duane Fietzer 68 ½ years ago, on May 11, 1957 in Hilbert, WI.

Rachel lived life filled with faith, joy, and the kind of everyday sweetness that made everyone who knew her feel at home, quite literally, as she always had a dessert waiting, no matter the day or the season. In her younger years, she and her twin sister, Ruby, filled their church with harmony as members of the choir. Church remained a steady and cherished part of her life, a place where her faith and her generous spirit could shine.

Rachel was a Milwaukee Brewers fan but she never missed an opportunity to cheer on her grandchildren in their sporting events from the sidelines. Their games were some of her happiest moments, and she was always their proudest supporter.

After retiring from Thrivent Financial travel was a great adventure she shared with her husband, Duane. Together they explored the United States from coast to coast and even journeyed to Norway, creating memories that became treasured stories. When the Wisconsin winters rolled in, the couple happily swapped snow for sunshine, spending their winters in Florida where she enjoyed golfing and long, relaxing days. Rachel also had a soft spot for a little fun, whether it was an occasional trip to the casino or going out to eat, she loved time spent together, laughing and enjoying good company and great food.

At home, she took pride in being a meticulous homemaker. Her home was warm, welcoming, and tended to with love but, above all she was devoted to her family.

Rachel is survived by her husband, Duane Fietzer; children: Debbie (John) Wiegand, Diane (Tony) Monday, Dave (Sue) Fietzer, Doreen (John) Supple; grandchildren: Ashley (Eric Robinson) Supple, John (Amber Goljenboom) Supple, Sadie Rachel Fietzer, Ruby Rachel Fietzer; great grandchildren: Walker, Cordelia, Qyah Goljenboom-Supple, Lincoln Chapple; and sister-in-law, MarJean Plate. She was further preceded in death by her siblings: Alta (Earl) Pagel, Elaine (Bob) Kramer, Merlin (Norma) Plate, Virgil Plate, Alice (Ted) Stenklyft, Ruby (Jim) Gruett, and Ervin (Mary Ann) Plate.

Funeral services were held at 11:00 am on Monday, December 1, 2025 at Valley Funeral Home, 2211 N Richmond Street, Appleton. Visitation will take place at the funeral home on Monday from 9:30 am until the time of service. Entombment will take place at Highland Memorial Park in Appleton.