Jay Wegenke

Jay Edward Wegenke , age 65 of Montello passed away Monday, April 4, 2022 at UW Hospital in Madison.  Jay was born in Portage on October 18, 1956 to Wallace “Hunk” and Diane (Gessner) Wegenke of Montello.  He graduated from Montello High School in 1974 and went to work in the trades.  Jay married Tonie Schaffrath and they had three daughters and later divorced.  He married Dayna Behnke on December 3, 2005 and together they have enjoyed many wonderful adventures together.

Jay was a skilled carpenter and concrete finisher working for several area contractors and ultimately for himself.  He was an avid outdoorsman, especially hunting and fishing as well as camping.  Jay was always up for a good time and looked forward to gathering with family and friends.  He was willing to help anyone in need and had a great sense of humor.  Jaybird otherwise known as the J.E.W. will be remembered for his cleverness to nickname anyone and his endless stories.

Jay is survived by his wife, Dayna and mother, Diane Metcalf of Montello as well as six children: Megan (Willy) Stalker of Montello, Molly (Dustin) Daley of Milwaukee, Tessa (Tim Blaylark) Wegenke of Minneapolis, Andrew (Nikki) Raimer of Menasha, Brandon (Janet) Raimer of Dane and Candace (Shane) Heller of Alma Center.  He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Maisie, Rowin, Xander, Hayden, Quinn, Ava and Julian as well as his siblings: Mark (Patti), Jean (John) Sheller and Susy (Jim) Schultz and other extended family members.

Jay is preceded in death by his father, Wallace, step-father, Bob Metcalf, grandson, Max Stalker and in-laws: Charles Behnke and Sharon Schroeder.

A memorial service for Jay Wegenke will be held on Saturday, April 9, 2022 at 11:30 AM at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Montello.  Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until the hour of service.  Rev. Pete Zietlow will preside and inurnment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations are preferred to the family.

Crawford Funeral and Cremation Service of Montello and Oxford is honored to be serving the family. www.CrawfordFH.com