Patrick Karlen
Patrick “Pat” Karlen, 65, Marathon passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, Jan. 1,2026 at his home.
He was born on March 17,1960, in Medford, son of Gertrude (Dahlke) Karlen, Edgar and the late Ervin Karlen. On April 24,1982, he married Rebecca Blair at Holy Family Catholic Church, Poniatowski. She preceded him in death on October 10,2012.
He devoted much of his life to working alongside his father, where he learned the true meaning of craftsmanship, dedication and pride. Together, they left their mark on countless residential and agricultural buildings, each project a testament to their skill and care. In 1996, Pat started his own construction company. For decades, he poured his heart into building and remodeling homes, garages, decks and more, earning a reputation for quality work, reliability and meticulous attention to detail.
His hands shaped more than wood and concrete; they created spaces where families gathered, celebrated and built memories that will last for generations. His legacy lives on not only in the structures he built, but in the lives enriched by them.
Above all else, he cherished his family. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren—watching sporting events, attending concerts and plays, and simply being present for the moments that mattered most. Whether cheering from the stands or sitting quietly in the audience, he was their biggest supporter.
He found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He had a lifelong love for John Deere tractors and took great pride in mowing his lawn and caring for his yard, trees and flowers. His shed was a reflection of who he was meticulously organized, immaculately cleaned, and always ready for the next project.
He also shared a special bond with his beloved dog, Lucky. Lucky was his constant companion, always close by whether he was working in the yard, spending time in the shed or relaxing at home, bringing him daily joy and comfort.
Survivors include his mother, Gertrude Karlen, Edgar; his daughter, April (Scott) Kaiser, Mosinee; his fiancé, Mary Lou Kurtzweil, Marathon; Mary Lou’s children: Tracy (Ryan) Neumann, Sun Prairie, Daniel (Stephanie) Kurtzweil, Wausau and Eric (Jayda) Kurtzweil, Marathon and his grandchildren: Tucker, Noah and Aiden Kaiser, Caleb and Deacon Neumann, Beau and Wade Jahnke and Mara, Lana and Louella Kurtzweil. Pat is further survived by his siblings: Nancy (Tom) Heath, Marathon and Brian (Jenese) Karlen, Marathon, and many nieces, nephews and friends.
The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 15,2026, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Marathon. The Rev. Msgr. Joseph Diermeier will preside. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026 from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. and again on Thursday from 9 a.m. until the time of service, all at the church. Peterson/ Kraemer Funeral Home, Marathon is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.________________ http://www.petersonkraemer.com
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