Elmer R. Couwenhoven

Elmer R. Couwenhoven, age 91, of Sheboygan, passed away on Monday, June 24, 2024, at Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice. 

Elmer was born in Sheboygan on June 1, 1933, the only child of Simon and Elita (Van Dommelen) Couwenhoven. He was baptized and confirmed at Zion United Church of Christ in Sheboygan. 

He attended Pigeon River Grade School and graduated from Central High School in 1951. A few years later he began working as a self-employed carpenter. 

Elmer was united in marriage to Alyce Kraemer on July 19, 1958, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Sheboygan. The couple celebrated 50 years of marriage with family and friends which included their officiating pastor, Ronald Onnen and his wife. 

Elmer was involved in a bowling league, taught Sunday School, and held various church offices, Etc. He enjoyed working outside on his lawn, gardening, wood splitting, canning, and the yearly trip on the Badger with fellow tractor friends. He most enjoyed time spent with family and friends. 

Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Alyce; three children, Jeffrey (Terri) Couwenhoven, Janice Couwenhoven, and Jane Ratajczak (Steve Jenson); grandchildren, Anna Couwenhoven, Lindy (Alex) Mann-Couwenhoven, Maggie Ratajczak (Jason Lisowe), Alex (Michaela) Krupski, Katie Ratajczak, Elizabeth (Adam) Oehlers, Abbie Ratajczak, and Daniel Ratajczak (Natalie Englebert); great-grandchildren, Quinnton Ratajczak, LeRoy Golbach, Cora Koenig, Owen Krupski, and baby Mann on the way; nephew David (Jody) Kraemer and niece, Dawn (Tim) Kraemer-Meseck.

Along with his parents, Elmer was preceded in death by a daughter, Judith Couwenhoven, parents-in-law, Edgar and Anita Kraemer and a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Allan and Susan Kraemer.

A Funeral Service for Elmer will take place at NOON on Monday, July 8, 2024, at Grace Ev. Lutheran Church, W1264 Cty Rd FF in Haven, WI, with Pastor Adam Barkley officiating. Family will greet visitors at the church on Monday from 10:00 AM until the time of the service. Elmer will be laid to rest at Wildwood Cemetery. 

Memorials in Elmer’s name can be made to Grace. Ev. Lutheran Church. 

The family would like to thank the staff at both St. Nicholas Hospital and Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice. We will be forever grateful for the comfort and support that was shown during this difficult time.