Jon Kieler

Jon “Jonny” Kieler, age 36, of Madison, passed away Tuesday, December 12, 2017, at UW Hospitals & Clinics surrounded by many family and friends. Jon was born May 8, 1981, at Stevens Point, WI, the son of Jo Schaefer (Dave Stai) of Chippewa Falls and Danny (Victoria) Kieler of Kieler. He graduated from Chippewa Falls High School in 2000, attended UW Madison and graduated from Madison College in 2007 with a degree in nursing. Jon’s career in nursing began as a CNA at the age of 16 at the Rutledge Home in Chippewa Falls. Following graduation as an RN he worked at Select Specialty Hospital, St. Mary’s, UW Hospital, and Renown Hospital in Reno. He was an exceptional nurse and often received recognition from his patients, their families and coworkers regarding his skills and kindness. He truly loved being a nurse and being on the go. Jon was a kind hearted soul, always sharing his smile and laughter, helping others and creating memories. Jon loved sharing experiences, especially Colorado skiing, golfing, biking, boating, eating crab legs with lots of butter, listening to music and watching his favorite sports teams. He had numerous friends and once Jon was your friend, he was your friend for life. He always wanted to give to others in life and in death by organ donation.
Survivors include his parents, siblings: Stephanie Kieler-Nemmers, Kieler; Jason (Jenny) Kieler, Kieler; Tony (Deb) Stai, Rochester, MN; Brian Stai, Henrico, NC; Chad (Deb) Stai, Eau Claire, WI; grandparents: Martin and Marcella Kieler, Kieler; nine nieces and nephews including: his Godson Eric, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and his service dog Ruby, the Queen of King Charles Spaniels. Jon was preceded in death by his grandparents, Marie and Arvin “Growler” Schaefer.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held Saturday, January 27, 2018, at 11:00 AM at St. Thomas Church, 124 South Main Street, Potosi, WI, with Father Richard Leffler officiating. Burial will be in St. Andrew’s Cemetery, Tennyson, WI. Family and friends may call from 9:00 AM until time of services at the church. Lunch will be served at the Holiday Gardens, Potosi, WI. The family requests that in lieu of flowers and plants, donations be made to the Jon Kieler Memorial Fund. The fund will be used to help others in their battle with depression and alcohol addiction.
Jon’s family and friends wish to express thanks and gratitude to the staff of UW Hospital, ICU-TLC for their excellent and compassionate care. Martin Schwartz Funeral Home and Crematory in Potosi, WI is serving the family.