Obituary
Wayne D. Auer
Wayne David Auer, age 86, of Trempealeau, WI, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2025, at Marinuka Manor, in Galesville, WI.
Wayne was born and raised in Arcadia, WI, where he loved exploring the many Auer family businesses and spending time outdoors. He was the son of Lavern and Margaret (Slaby) Auer, and his roots in the community ran deep. From a young age, he developed a passion for sports, hunting, fishing, camping, and forming lifelong friendships.
His greatest joy came when he met the love of his life, Kathie Kopp. Together they built a beautiful life and were married for 61 years, raising three children: Todd (Kimberly Olson) Auer, Bruce (Kimberly Duell) Auer, and Debra Auer.
Wayne was a devoted husband, dad, and grandpa who always very passionately watched each sporting event he could. His love for sports grew right alongside his children and he was always their loudest supporter. He worked passionately for over 30 years at Fiberite (now Solvay), served in the National Guard, and was an active Knights of Columbus member.
In retirement, Wayne and Kathie spent many happy years in Florida, where he discovered a love for golf. Later in life, they returned home to Wisconsin and found joy in reconnecting with friends at the Ettrick Golf Course. Even when his health prevented him from playing, Wayne cherished the community and camaraderie he found there.
Wayne is survived by his loving wife Kathie; children Todd (Kimberly), Bruce (Kimberly), and Debra; grandchildren PJ (Kassi) Auer, Alyssa Weisenberger (Nick Schaffner), Brayden (Noah) Kerchal, Nicole Auer (Dylan Fluekiger), Konor (Cody) Bork, Aspen Auer (Chase Percival), Clay Gardener, Kamren (Nicholas) Kinser, Ethan Auer, and Cole Auer; along with his six great-grandchildren Rowan, Corbyn, Axl, Brixton, Baylor, and Lennon.
He is also survived by his sister, Nancy (Auer) Smick; and sister-in-law, Lena Auer. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Jim Auer, and brother-in-law, Mark Smick.
The family would like to extend a thank you to the wonderful staff at Marinuka Manor for their kind care and support in Wayne’s final days.
A celebration of life will be held at the St Bartholomew Parish Hall in Trempealeau, WI on July 22nd from 4-8pm.
Condolences may be made to the family by visiting CouleeCremation.com.
So sorry to hear about your dad Wayne. All the memories are rushing thru my mind All good fun RIP Wayne
So sorry to hear about Wayne’s passing. I grew up in Acadia and he was a good friend to my brothers, Wayne and Jim Sobotta.
Condolences to Kathie and family on the death of Wayne. Just saw his obituary in the LaCrosse Tribune and it brought back memories of my childhood in Arcadia. My parents and his parents would go fishing up north so we spent time together. I did run into Wayne several years ago at the Ettrick Golf Course.
Condolences. Such a good guy.
You will be missed Uncle Wayne! Have no words to describe the emptiness we are feeling, but we know you truly have earned your angel wings. Our deepest sympathy and condolences. Aunt Kathie, Todd, Bruce, Debbie, and the entire family are in our prayers and thoughts. Godspeed with everlasting Peace. We love you. –Natalie & Mark in SC
Oh the memories the memories. Our softball days in Arcadia and the many trips to Sammy’s Pizza in Winona. Wayne was a special guy, may he rest in peace.
So sorry to hear about Wayne’s passing.
Worked with Wayne at Fiberite starting at the weave shop and ended up in Texas with Wayne at the Fiberite weaving shop.
Wayne was a great guy and we drank a lot of beer together.
God bless the Auer family and my prayers are with you all.