Doreen Jay Depner

Doreen Jay Depner, a beloved mother, daughter, sister, aunt, grandmother and friend, born to eternal life on October 6, 2026, after a courageous fight with lupus, COPD, and vulvar cancer. Born on June 2, 1974, in Appleton, WI.

Doreen enjoyed playing softball in her elementary & junior high days and loved cruising the Ave -College Ave with her friends, she found joy in watching her children play sports. She had a passion for riding her Harley bike and embraced the tranquility of nature. Her creativity shone through in her love for crafting cards, a hobby she pursued in recent years.

Educated at Appleton East then later, obtaining her GED from Fox Valley Technical College, Doreen's career path, predominantly in the hospitality industry. Her most recent at Extended Stay America, Appleton for 5 years, She began her as a housekeeper, and rose through the ranks to front desk agent and ultimately to assistant manager. Throughout her professional journey, her warmth and kindness allowed her to form deep, lasting friendships with colleagues and guests alike. She cherished her wonderful friendship with her pal, Gary Jacobson, and was profoundly thankful for his unwavering support over the years.

Doreen was the treasured daughter of Donna Depner and the late Daniel Depner and Linda Depner. Her father's memory continued to shine brightly in her life, guiding her with strength and wisdom. Doreen's legacy is carried forward by her devoted children, Daniel Depner, Stephanie Depner, Amber Kaufman, and Jasmyne (Rylan) Reoh, and her ten adored grandchildren: Benci, Daniel Jr., Maverick, Zontaviyon(Zeke), Owen, Lola, Colston, James, Ellie, and Rhealynn. Her family was her greatest pride and joy, and she found immense fulfillment in each role she embraced.

Doreen shared a close bond with her siblings, Dee Depner, Darcy Powell, Danielle (Mike) Pawlowski, Jerome Depner, Anna (Jake) Coenen, Christie (Marissa) Depner, and William Depner. She also leaves behind a cherished group of nephews and nieces: Jeremiah and Nathan Depner, Dominick, Jennifer, and Timothy Jr. Powell, Bradley (Abby) Pawlowski, Calvin, Andrew, and Johnathan Pawlowski, Isabella Depner, Riley and Amelia Coenen, Brendon Walsh, Hazel and Everett Tuma.

Though their paths eventually separated, she always held Denny Kaufman, close as the love of her life and the father of their three daughters.

A celebration of Doreen's life will be held on October 19, 2026, 4:30 -830 PM with a short service at 5:45PM at The Hillside at Plamann Park, located at 1375 E Broadway Dr, Appleton, WI 54913.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Karen, Sarah, and Stephanie at Cherry Meadows for their tender care and support during Doreen's final days. Their compassion has been a source of immense comfort, and the family is forever appreciative.

Above all, Doreen was a fiercely loving, free spirit whose nurturing presence will be profoundly missed. Her steady love will remain forever in the hearts of all she touched. May her soul rest in peace, surrounded by the warmth of the love she so generously gave.

Revelation 21:4 — "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away."

Thanks, Danielle Pawlowski & Family