Theodore H. “Ted” Pagel, Jr
Theodore H. “Ted” Pagel, Jr., age 89, of New Holstein, died peacefully at his home on October 1, 2023. He was born August 19, 1934, in Belle Fourche, SD, to the late Theodore, Sr. and Elva (Smith) Pagel. On November 7, 1953, he married his high school sweetheart, Donna House, and she remained his “magnet” for almost 70 years.
Ted was a police officer from 1956 until 1991, also serving as Sheriff of Calumet County and Chief of Police in New Holstein. He was a charter member of the Wisconsin Law Enforcement Officers Association. He was well-liked and respected as he was always willing to give someone a second chance because he knew everyone can make mistakes. He also built a Texaco gas station/car wash during that time. After retiring from law enforcement, Ted became a farmer and raised Hereford cattle, which he called “his girls”. Later, he and Donna spent their winters in Gulf Shores, Alabama.
Ted was happy to protect and serve but nothing brought him more pride than his family. He was an avid sports fan and helped coach little league and never missed a chance to watch his kids compete in sports. He loved watching the Packers, Brewers, and Badgers. He also enjoyed playing cards, bowling, shooting pool, fishing, boating, water skiing and hunting with his boys.
Ted is survived by the love of his life, Donna; his children: Sue Niesen, Sharon (Peter) Eiring, Debra Pagel (significant other, Michael Michel), Robert (Jennifer) Pagel, Laurie (Allen) Anhalt, Bradley (Dawn) Pagel, and William “Bill” (Tracy) Pagel; fourteen grandchildren: Jeff (Meredith) Niesen, Sarah Eiring (significant other, Josh Bennin), Dustin (Nora) Eiring, Abby (Matt) Bauer, Jessica Sommers, Megan (Marc) Bucaro, Matt Kier (Fiancee, Nicole Leonard), Lucas Pagel, Mike (Kelly) Anhalt, Kayla (Jake) Brenner, Heather (Fatee) Lee, Courtney Pagel (significant other, Jacob Haas), Keeley Buczek, Sidney Zastrow (Fiance,Jordan Hartshorne); 31 great-grandchildren; a brother-in-law: James Heckman; his little dog, Pepper; and many nieces and nephews.
Ted was preceded in death by his parents: Theodore, Sr. and Elva Pagel; sisters: Lea Heckman, Penny Norman, and Elvie Pagel; Donna’s parents: Melford and Lorena House; and sister-in-law: Karen (Joe) Klotz.
A funeral service will be held at 1:30 pm on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at Peace Evangelical and Reform Church (181 Main St.) in Potter, with Rev. Dr. Marc Axelrod officiating. Friends may call from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Friday, October 6, 2023, at Wieting Family Funeral Home (411 W. Main St.) in Chilton, and from 12:00 pm until 1:15 pm at the church on the day of service.
Ted’s family would like to extend a special thank you to his daughter Deb Pagel, a hospice nurse from California who helped her mom care for her dad. To Calumet County Hospice for their excellent care, especially nurse Julie, Dr. Dellaria and social worker Chandel. The family would also like to express sincere appreciation to Pastor Marc for his prayerful visits.
In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established in the name of Ted Pagel.
At the time of the service and following, there will be a link availabile above for those wishing to watch a live stream or archived recording of the service, watch a memorial video, or see pictures of the flowers and gifts given to the family.