Denise Marie Kreklow, 73, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 25, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, after a long and courageous battle with early-onset dementia.

Denise was born on May 29, 1952, in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, to Anola and Frank Kreklow. She grew up in Adell, attending Adell Grade School, and graduated from Random Lake High School. During her high school years, Denise was active in numerous clubs and earned several achievement awards, including selection to attend Badger Girls State through a scholarship program.

She went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and later pursued graduate studies at the University of Illinois, where she received her Master’s Degree in Education.

Denise dedicated her life to education, beginning her teaching career in 1974 at Parkview Elementary School, where she taught second grade. Over the course of 34 years, until her retirement in 2008, she touched the lives of countless children, leaving a lasting impact through her patience, kindness, and love of learning.

She was a proud member of Tri Delta Sorority, the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 0462, and the Daughters of the American Revolution. Denise was also a long time member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church of Adell

Denise lived in West Dundee until 2021, when she returned to Wisconsin as her care needs increased.

Outside of her professional and community involvement, Denise was an avid collector who delighted in the hunt for that special piece to complete her collections. She especially enjoyed visiting flea markets, antique malls, and shops, always searching for a unique find. She loved teaching, gardening, weekly breakfasts with friends and keeping a beautiful home, but most of all her family.

Denise was preceded in death by her parents, Anola and Frank Kreklow, and her brother, Thomas W. Kreklow.

She is survived by her sister-in-law, Dawn Kreklow; her niece, Kayla Denise Kreklow Owens (Matt); her nephew, Andrew Frank Kreklow; and other cherished family members and friends.

The family extends special thanks to the compassionate staff at The Waters of Pewaukee, Shorehaven Health and Rehabilitation, and Agrace Hospice for their loving care and support during Denise’s final days.

A private burial will take place at Emmanuel Lutheran Church Cemetery in Adell, Wisconsin with a Celebration of Life to be held at a later date.

Memorials in Denise’s name may be made to Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Adell, Wisconsin, or to Parkview Elementary School in West Dundee, Illinois, directed to the second-grade reading program.