Loreen Kempfer

Loreen Kempfer

April 05, 1942 - November 26, 2025

Obituary

SUN PRAIRIE - Loreen B. "Lorie" Kempfer, age 83, of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2025. She was born on April 5, 1942, and grew up on her family's farm in Sun Prairie-a place that shaped her strong work ethic, warm heart, and love of simple joys.


Lorie graduated from Sun Prairie High School in 1960. In 1961, she met the love of her life, James D. Kempfer of Madison, and the two were married on July 13, 1963. Throughout her life, Lorie worked many jobs, but she was especially known for her years with Madison Schools and American Family Insurance, where her kindness and dedication touched many lives.


Lorie had a vibrant personality and a wide range of passions. She loved being outdoors, planting flowers and taking care of her yard, classic cars, had a special fondness for Betty Boop memorabilia, and adored her three parrots-Crackers, Skipper, and Poco-who brought her endless joy and companionship.


Lorie is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Chris Kempfer; her granddaughter, Alyssa and husband Kyle Morris; five great-grandchildren, Callie, Savanna, Kameron, Weston, and Emmett; and her great-great-grandson, Finn. She is further survived by her sister, Faye Rathbun; and her brother, Lyle and his wife Kathleen Braaten. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Irene Braaten; her sisters, Lavaune Blaska and Gwen Buehler; and her former husband, James Kempfer.


The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to The Cottages of Madison and Hospice for the exceptional care, support, and compassion they provided to Lorie over the last two months.


Lorie will be remembered for her humor, her strength, her generous heart, and the love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.


A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. A private service will be held at ROSELAWN MEMORIAL PARK.


Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.


Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420



Events

10
Visitation
Wed Dec 10, 2025 @ 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM CDT
Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
No photos of Loreen have been shared yet.
AK
A Memorial Tree was planted for Loreen B. "Lorie" Kempfer
Other •
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Gunderson Funeral Home - Madison
MB
Michelle Bergeson
Other •
Lori was a very sweet and welcoming person. I knew her through Alyssa, and Lori was friends with everyone she met. No matter who you were she went to meet you and tell you stories and make you smile or laugh. She will be very missed by everyone. Hugs to everyone!
LB
Lyle and Kay Braaten
Other •
Forever my sister, always in my thoughts.
DJ
Danni Jorenby
Other •
Miss. Lori was one of the funniest, kindest, and most flamboyant person I have ever had the privilege to know. She welcomed everyone with an open heart and mind. Watching her over the years dealing with children in school was a sight to behold. She made such a lasting impression on so many.
LK
Lana Kinning
Other •
As a former student at Lindbergh Elementary school I fondly remember Miss. Lorie as a very loving lady and her hair was always perfect! She always greeted the kids with a little Boopity Boop in the hallways.
SS
Steve Spaeni
Other •
So sorry for your loss Mark Your Mom was a hoot ! I worked with her at LaFollette! She was a wonderful soul ! Again, our condolences Steve and Monica Spaeni

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