Crystal Jean

(Behling) Hafenstein

Crystal Jean Hafenstein, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on December 5, 2025, in Lake Mills, WI.

She was born on March 20, 1930, to Arnold and Violet Behling of Watertown, and graduated from Watertown High School in 1948.

Crystal met the love of her life, Harold Hafenstein of Lake Mills, at a party—an unexpected spark that was the beginning to an extraordinary partnership. They married on April 16, 1949, and shared an incredible 76 years of marriage, filled with devotion, humor, and deep companionship. Together they raised three children—Shari Lynn of Lake Mills, Larry Lee (Karen) of Lake Mills, and Kurt Alan of Lake Mills—and later welcomed six grandchildren: Damian Hafenstein of Wyoming, Jason (Rebecca) Hafenstein of Sheboygan, Jaclyn Hafenstein of Fort Atkinson, Kaycee (Nate) Welke of Fort Atkinson, Sada (Adam) Dorn of New London, and Gerrit Hafenstein of New London, along with five great grandchildren Regan and Aria Welke, Alicia Bischoff, Vanessa Bischoff, Monica Bischoff (Jeff Embertson), and  two great great grandchildren Ripley Bischoff and Dottie Embertson.

Throughout her life, Crystal lived with warmth, generosity, and a strong work ethic. She began as a Girl Scout Brownie Leader and later became an active member of the Moravian Church of Lake Mills. She participated in Women's Fellowship, served as treasurer, helped plan banquet dinners for the Men's Fellowship, and contributed to many Christmas Bazaars. She was also a member of the Gull Lake Association and loved being part of the places she called home.

Crystal worked in several roles over the years but spent two decades with APV Crepaco in Lake Mills, retiring in 1990. She was known as a dependable worker and could proudly claim credit for introducing her son to a coworker who later became her daughter-in-law.

After retirement, Crystal and Harold moved north to Springbrook, WI, settling on Gull Lake—a place where they spent countless peaceful days fishing, hunting, laughing, and enjoying the outdoors together.

Crystal will be remembered for the love she poured into everything she did, especially her cooking and baking. From hearty dinners to her well-loved pies that made their way to southern Wisconsin each Christmas, she made memories through food and togetherness. She enjoyed puzzles, game shows, cheering for the Brewers and Packers, and catching up with friends during her regular visits to The Cat's Meow Beauty Parlor. She had a big heart, a joyful laugh, and a gift for making others feel welcome.

Crystal's life was full and deeply meaningful. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, strength, and love that will remain with all who knew her. She will be dearly missed and forever cherished.

Private Family services will be held.

Burial will be in Rock Lake Cemetery.

If desired, memorials would be appreciated to Rainbow Hospice.

The family would like to thank The Lakehouse and Rainbow Hospice for their loving and compassionate care.

"But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:31

This year, Crystal celebrates Christmas in perfect peace, lifted up and renewed in the presence of Jesus.

www.claussenfuneralhome.com