Jake C. Kriescher

Jake Charles Kriescher, 74, of Appleton,WI lost a courageous battle with cancer on August 22, 2026 surrounded by his family. Jake was born in Crystal Falls, MI on January 1st, 1952 to Antone and Cecilia (VanDervan) Kriescher. Shortly after Jake was born, his family moved to Lena, WI where he was raised on his parents farm which instilled in him a strong work ethic. Before finishing high school, Jake joined the United States Navy. Jake was a gifted mechanic which served him well as an aircraft technician in the Navy. After the Navy, Jake worked for local canning factories doing planting, harvesting, and fixing machinery. He decided to change careers and drove truck most of his life as an owner–operator for part of that career. He last drove for John Morgan Transport before his retirement. 

Jake enjoyed going to car, truck, and air shows, traveling, flying Cessna airplanes, and helping others in need. Jake was an active member of Hope Church of Appleton where he also enjoyed Bible study and sharing the Gospel. He and his brother Ernie worked on many types of vehicles together and invented a few things.

He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Debbie Kriescher (Gorzlancyk); his children: Tracy (Eric) Snodgrass, Kelly Kriescher (David Vorpahl), Danielle (Chip) Strand, Derrick Bisping, Scott (Jill) Gogos; His grandchildren: Jeanette (Jesus) Morales, Kyle (Chloe) Schmidt, Eryka Snodgrass (Nico Castro), Brady Vorpahl, Trinady Vorpahl, Kody Vorpahl ( Maddy Olive), Elizabeth Strand (Cody Dahlke), Nicholas Strand, Anna Strand (Noah Lillagan), Hannah Bisping (Justin), Paige and Skye Gogos, and the greatest grand dog ever, Casper; Great grandchildren: Macy and Davina Morales, Paisley and Waylon Schmidt; Sisters: Becky (Tom) Burdick, Joyce (Jim) Farrar, and Alice (Tom) Andersen, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. 

Jake was proceeded in death by his parents, brothers Tony and Ernie, nephew Kevin, and niece Tina. 

We would like to thank ThedaCare Hospice, Midwest Great Dane in De Pere, WI, and Gulfstream Aerospace in Appleton, WI for their kindness and understanding during this difficult time. 

A memorial service will be held on August 30, 2026 at Hope Church, 1320 W. Wisconsin Ave. Appleton WI 54914. A time of visitation will be held from 2PM-4PM followed by a funeral service with Military Honors at 4PM officiated by Pastor Bruce.

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