Doris Emma Kaun

Doris Emma Kaun, age 88, passed away peacefully while surrounded by family on May 7th, 2024, in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. Doris was born on January 15th, 1936 to Herman and Hildegard Gschwind in Milwaukee, WI.

Doris had a unique childhood, which influenced her unique humor and creativity. She went to Germany with her grandmother at age 1 ½ but was not able to return for over 10 years because of WW2. During that time, she was doted on by her German grandparents, aunts, and uncles from both sides of the family. Following the war, she was reunited with her parents and siblings. As she only spoke German, she had to learn the English language for the first time at age 11. Eventually, she ended up earning a Bachelor of Arts with an English major, then a Master’s of Social Work from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Driven by her dedication for helping others, she worked as a Social Worker at Alpha Psychiatric and Jewish Vocational Services after college. Her love for writing later changed her career path, and she became a reporter and feature writer for Elm Leaves for many years and occasionally wrote for other publications, such as the Milwaukee Journal/Sentinel. 

She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Doris and Dennis celebrated 65 years of marriage, living in Milwaukee, in the Wauwatosa area, and eventually settling in Elm Grove for over 50 years. Family and friends were a very important part of her life and she impacted all who knew her. She also enjoyed traveling, nature, music, dancing, babies, and puppies. She was known for her innocent shenanigans, her “doodles”, paintings, and overall creativity. Over the years, she was active in Book Clubs, Friends of the Elm Grove Library, Writer’s groups (Scribblers), and aerobics. 

She was known for finding joy in the simple things in life and embracing her inner child. She had a contagious sense of humor, a beautiful smile, and the most kind, thoughtful, and caring personality. 

She is survived by husband, Dennis; her children: Robin (Scott), Lance (Ann), Heidi, and Rachel (Greg); grandchildren: Jeana (Dave), Aileen (Danny), Ben (Laura), Tamara (Michael), Chance (Amberly), Payton (Adam), Haley, and Conner; great-grandchildren: Demetri, Nicholas, Matthew, Zoey, Eamon, Parker, Brooke, Milo, Esme, and Elena; brother, Bubi; sister, Lucy (Walt); brother, Ted (Joanne); sisters-in-law, Lindee, Patti, and Sandy (Art); brother-in-law, Bill (Annemarie); and many nieces and nephews. 

Doris was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Hildegard; stepmother, Inge; in-laws, Clarence and Mabel; brother, Tommy (Mark); and infant daughter, Jennifer. A few days later, on May 11, 2024, she was joined by her brother, Randy, who also passed away.

A service will be held in the Chapel at Shorehaven Tower, 1305 W. Wisconsin Ave., in Oconomowoc, WI on Sunday, June 2nd at 4:00 pm.