Leon I. Oetzel

Leon Ivan Oetzel, 96, born October 25, 1928 to Violet and William Oetzel, passed away peacefully, Saturday, February 1, 2025 in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. 

Leon is survived by his daughter, Debbie Oetzel and son, Doug Oetzel; grandchildren: Amy (Joe) Lee, Bill (Christina) Oetzel; and five great-grandchildren: Tom, Katie and David Lee; and Addison and Delaney Oetzel; his sister, Jean Hirt; and sister-in-law’s: Irene (Glenn) Oetzel and Loraine (Myron) Oetzel; many nieces and nephews. Leon was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 69 years, Carol Oetzel; son and daughter-in-law: Larry and Chris Oetzel; his parents; and brothers: Glenn and Myron Oetzel.  

Leon graduated from Sheboygan Central High School and served in the Navy during World War II. He met his loving wife when he was 20 years old while riding the escalator at Pranges Department Store. They married on August 27, 1949. He went on to earn a Bachelors Degree, and was a Chemist, a Plant Manager in the Packaging division as well as the VP of Packaging of many manufacturing companies over the span of his career.

Leon was an avid reader, still reading his Chemical & Engineering News magazines every month and educating family and friends on the latest changes in the engineering world. He also enjoyed playing cards on a monthly basis with his “hand and foot” card club. Leon also enjoyed fishing and boating at the family Three Lakes cabin.

 Funeral services for Leon will be held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 – 11:30 AM at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 701 Washington St. Grafton. Private Interment will be in Zur Ruhe Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church on Tuesday from 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM.  Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.muellerfuneralhome.com.

Leon wished all contributions be made to the St. Paul Lutheran Church School, honoring Leon’s passionate spirit for education.