Elsie M. Stoegbauer, age 91, of Appleton, WI, passed away on Thursday, March 19, 2026, after a brief illness. She was born on May 16, 1934, in Antigo, WI to the late Leo and Elsie P. (Muenster) Heller. Shortly after her birth, her family moved to Appleton, where she resided for the remainder of her life.

Elsie graduated from Appleton High School (now Appleton West High School) in 1952. After graduation, she began her career at Integrity Mutual Insurance, where she later retired as an underwriter. On October 5, 1957, Elsie married James Stoegbauer at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Appleton. They shared 52 wonderful years together.

Elsie was a devoted lifelong member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. She spent many years volunteering at St. Elizabeth Hospital as a "Pink Lady." She loved traveling across the country with her husband, creating memories they treasured together. And she never lost her delight in life's small joys—especially good chocolate and a fresh Persian donut.

Above all, Elsie cherished time spent with family and friends. She and Jim hosted many memorable gatherings, holidays, and birthday celebrations over the years—they truly were "the hosts with the most."

Elsie is survived by her nieces and nephews:

Mary Heller; Cathy (Bob) Pestka; Sue (Dave) Anderson; Ben (Mary) Anderson; Haley (Ryan) Wood; Thomas (Kathy) Petit; Lori (Byron) Fordham; Ami (Tommy) Procknow; John (Barbara) Petit; Robert (Pam) Griesbach; James (Ann) Griesbach; Debra (Glenn) Andrews; Donald Griesbach (Martin Morales); Barbara (Frankie) Kropacek; Larry Stoegbauer; Frances Deane; Pat (Dan) Bacon; Debbie (Roy) VandeHey; Steve (Genny) Rickert; and Pete (Kay) Rickert.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James "Jim" Stoegbauer; her brother, Eugene Heller; and numerous other relatives.

Elsie will be remembered for her generosity, kindness, and beautiful smile.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 404 W. Lawrence Street, Appleton, with Brother Ray Stadmeyer officiating. Visitation will take place from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service. Memorials may be made to St. Joseph Parish or St. Lawrence Seminary in Mount Calvary.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and hospice staff who supported Elsie at home, and, more recently, at Silverstone Memory Care–Packard, for their compassionate, dedicated, and loving care.