Jay R. Kilsdonk, 69, of Appleton, formerly of Little Chute, passed away May 17, 2026, after a brief illness, at St. Elizabeth's Hospital, Appleton., surrounded by family and friends. He was born September 7, 1956, in Appleton. He graduated from Little Chute High School and later earned a degree from St. Norbert College, DePere. For many years, Jay was employed at Festival Foods, Appleton, and most recently he was Crew Chief at the Northland Avenue McDonald's in Appleton. He was active with United Way and participated in various community activities.

In recent years, Jay felt very blessed that Brooke and Jason Keppler chose him to lead their daughter, Kinsley, in faith by choosing him to be her Godfather. It didn't end there either. Even though he wasn't a huge sports guy, he enjoyed cheering Ashton during his football games on Saturday mornings and was always there when it came time for Addison to perform on her saxophone or her show off her drawing talents.

Jay is survived by his brother, Pat (Linda), Kronenwetter; nieces Emily (Stephen) Balsley, Madison; and Sarah (Travis Grendzinski) Macias, Kronenwetter; and their children, Stella Balsley; and Enzo Macias. He is also survived by his Goddaughters, Sarah Macias and Kinsley Keppler.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Isabel Kilsdonk, Little Chute; and his sister, Elizabeth Kilsdonk, San Diego, California.

A memorial service, led by Jay's longtime friend, Reverend Mark Jones, will be held on Saturday, May 30, at 11:00 a.m., at Brettschneider, Trettin-Nickel Funeral Chapel at 606 N. Oneida Street, Appleton. Starting at 9:30 that day, there will be visitation until the time of the service.
A private burial will be held at a later date.

Special thanks are extended to the staff at St. Elizabeth's Hospital, Appleton, for keeping Jay comfortable and treating him with dignity in his final days; and also to Trisha Rawlings and Logan Rawlings; and Jason Keppler for taking care of Jay and getting him to his many appointments, errands and treatments these past months.

They were a great support and comfort to him throughout his illness.
"Well done, good and faithful servant."
Matthew 25:23
Jay's arrangements are under the care of Brettschneider Trettin-Nickel Funeral
Chapel.
To share memories or to offer condolences, please visit btnfuneral.com