John DeWolf

John James DeWolf, age 63, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 6, 2026, at his home. He was born March 15, 1963, at Theda Clark Hospital son of the late James and Rosalie (Olson) DeWolf.

Although John was diagnosed with Down Syndrome, his parents refused to let that define him. In 1967 he began his education at Happy Day School which was held at the Congregational Church in Neenah. He attended school in Neenah from 1970-1972 before the family moved to Manitowoc. There he attended Manitowoc County‘s Riverview School, graduating in 1984.

John was part of one of the first religious education programs for special needs individuals provided through Silver Lake College. Thanks to Sr Francine and Sr Lynn, John made his First Communion and was Confirmed.

Following graduation John worked at Holiday House (now Ascend Services) in Manitowoc until moving back to the Fox Valley.

In 1990 John started working at Work Adjustment Services, now known as Lakeside Packaging Plus in Neenah. His work meant the world to him. He was so proud of the work he did and loved the friends he made there, especially Tom and Holly. He was active in Special Olympics and SOAR Fox Cities activities. He particularly enjoyed summer camp at Camp Onaway, bowling, the dances, and anything that allowed him to be social. John loved his family and looked forward to any and all get-togethers: holidays, his birthday and the annual summer family camp weekends.

John is survived by his siblings: Ellen (Charles) Boldt, Manitowoc; Patrick (Diana) DeWolf, Eau Claire; Michael DeWolf, Neenah; Thomas DeWolf, Manitowoc; Peter (Pam) DeWolf, Menasha. He is further survived by aunts and uncles: Joyce Lund, Appleton; James and Frances Olson, IL; Barbara Lauger, WY; 10 nieces and nephews; 17 great nieces and nephews; cousins, and many friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents and 4 uncles: Neil (Nancy) DeWolf, Donald Olson,

Robert (Bob) Lund, and Michael Lauger.

The Mass of Resurrection will be held at 11:00AM on Friday, July 17, 2026, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 324 Nicolet Blvd, Menasha, with Fr. Tom Reynebeau officiating. Visitation at the church from 9:00AM until the time of Mass. Interment will be in St. Margaret’s Cemetery in Neenah. John always wanted to go to Hawaii so the family asks for people to please wear Hawaiian clothing. Shorts are encouraged.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in John’s name to Lakeside Packaging Plus, SOAR Fox Cities, St. Patrick’s Parish or Compassus Hospice.

Special thanks to ANEW Choice and Compassus Hospice for the wonderful care they provided to John.