Cleo D. Schlichenmayer

Our angel got his wings on March 24, 2026 in Appleton, WI. In answer to our prayer, his passing was peaceful and he was surrounded by the love of his girls and son-in-law. Cleo was a gentle giant, a true gentleman, a handyman, and a lover of animals and nature with an adorable smile and sense of humor.

Cleo was born in Aberdeen, South Dakota on January 31, 1951 to parents Theodore and Audrey (nee Hammer) Schlichenmayer. In 1967, he was surprised to meet the love of his life, Kathy, as she threw herself into his lap and said "I think I love you." They were married in 1969. They moved to Wisconsin in 1971 and welcomed their only child, a daughter Carrie, in 1972.

Cleo was an avid outdoorsman. He spent many years volunteering at Bubolz Nature Preserve where he met his lifelong hunting and fishing buddies (Mike, Randy, TD, and Mike). He loved working with children and volunteered many years at his church, St. John UCC, in various roles such as: Church Council President, confirmation leader, kitchen boss for fund raising and community events. He retired, from Kimberly-Clark Corporation, after working 38 years as a Security Officer.

Cleo is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen (nee Fredenberg); his loving puppy, Clancy; his daughter, Carrie (Joel) Smith, his grandpuppy, Howie; his granddaughter, Harper (Adam) Smith; and great grandpuppy, Guppy; his sister, Kathy (Roger) Johnson, his sister, Kim (Ron) Wynia, his brother, Ted (Lana) Schlichenmayer; and many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ted & Audrey Schlichenmayer, and 2 beloved puppies, Odie and O2.

We the family, would like to thank the amazing hospice nurses and CNAs of ThedaCare and Cherry Meadows who provided loving care and support for Cleo and all of 6 of us. A special thank you to bonus family member, Grace Buechler, for all of the love, care and support she provided. We also appreciate all of the messages, cards, and memorial gifts of love and support that we have received.

To honor our angel's wishes, no funeral or celebration of life will be held. We, the family, will honor him privately. Our honey bunch/Doody/Grapa’s amazing hugs will truly be missed but we find comfort in knowing that he is whole again.