Wayne K.

Topel

Wayne Kenneth Topel, 79, Lake Mills, passed away peacefully, Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at his home.

He was born on February 2, 1947, son of the late Albert and Grace (Kuhl) Topel in Watertown, WI.

He grew up on a number of farms, always helping his parents on the family farm which he took over in 1983 when his father passed away. He was still farming until his health worsened last year.

Wayne started school in Lake Mills then the family moved to Milford so he attended Milford grade school on Hwy A through 8th grade and completed his schooling at Lake Mills High School, graduating with the class of 1965. While in school he played Football and Basketball.

Wayne served in the U.S. Army National Guard and was active with the Lake Mills Fire Department for 20 years.

Throughout Wayne's career he had been employed at Ole Olson's Service Station in Lake Mills during school and after, worked at Hamlin, Inc. for 15 years, and had worked at Countryside Nursing Home / Alden Estates for 22 years then retired to farming.

In 1967 he met his wife Sandy and they were married on May 24, 1969, in Milwaukee. Together they raised four children. He enjoyed attending his 11 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildrens' baptisms, confirmations, sporting events, and graduations.

In earlier years he was an avid bowler.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Sandy; four children, Steven (Jenny), Timothy (Dawn), Wendy (Ed Kastrosky), Daniel (Tara Leigh); 11 grandchildren, Lacey (Chris) Kern, Trevor Topel, Catlin (Randy Barnes) Topel, Courtney (Joel) Ulrich, Andrew Topel, Hannah Tesch, Alexis (Hunter) Milbrath, Braden Topel, Brandon Topel, Isabelle Topel, Marissa (Logan Renz) Topel; 7 great grandchildren, Audrey McMahon, Noah McMahon, Aubree Kern, Gracelyn Ulrich, Keith Ulrich, Kassidy Kern, Mack Milbrath; other relatives and friends.

Also preceded in death by his brother and sister-in-law, Warren (Carole) Topel.

Funeral services will be held at 4 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Lake Mills.

Friends may call after 2 p.m. on Saturday at the church until the time of service.

If desired, memorials would be appreciated to the family, Trinity Lutheran Church, or Rainbow Hospice Care.

A Special thank you to Rainbow Hospice for the comforting care given to Wayne the last couple months.

www.claussenfuneralhome.com