Terrence “Terry” Fraenzl, of Brookfield, Wisconsin, passed away on August 19, 2026, at the age of 83. Born in Milwaukee on May 28, 1943, Terry lived a life grounded in faith, family, hard work, service, and a love of the outdoors.

Terry was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Jean Fraenzl (née Brown). He is survived by his children, Cheryl Fraenzl and Steven Fraenzl, and his extended family, who will remember him for his steady presence and deep love of family.

A gathering for family and friends will be held Friday, September 4, at Schmidt & Bartelt Funeral Home, 10121 W. North Avenue, Wauwatosa. Visitation will take place from 10:30–11:30 a.m. with a service at 11:30 a.m., followed by lunch for friends and family. 

Terry was the devoted son of Isabel and Bernard Fraenzl and grew up in Milwaukee, WI. Some of his happiest memories were spent with his Kurz cousins at the Chain O’ Lakes in Waupaca, WI. Those early experiences helped shape a lifelong love of the outdoors and of time spent with family.

Terry had a strong work ethic and a remarkable ability to fix almost anything. He worked as an electrical technician in the machine tool industry at Kearney & Trecker and later Giddings & Lewis. His extensive knowledge of tools, repair, and maintenance eventually led to a second career as a tool man at ACE Hardware. Whether fixing cars, maintaining the house and yard, or helping someone else solve a handy-man problem, Terry was someone who was good with his hands and eager to support.

Terry loved camping, with adventures that took him across the country and especially throughout Northern Wisconsin and its beautiful state parks. He also enjoyed hiking, cross-country skiing, biking to work, scenic drives on his scooter, and spending time with his children's dogs.

An avid lover of good food and spending time with family, Terry and Ginny frequently hosted dinners for local relatives. He especially loved family celebrations where prime rib and Schaum Torte might be on the menu.

Terry’s Catholic faith was a central part of his life. He was deeply involved at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Wauwatosa, generously giving his time through volunteering and singing in the choir. He was a parishioner for more than 50 years, and through his years of service he built many friendships and became a familiar and valued presence in the parish community. His faith remained a source of strength throughout his life.

But above all, Terry was a family man. He was a loving and devoted father and his children were his greatest source of pride. His family was the center of his life, and he found joy in the time they spent together, the traditions they shared, and the memories they created.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Terry’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association are deeply appreciated.

The service will be livestreamed via Zoom with the following link: Terry Fraenzl Service