Denise R. Wickesberg

Denise R. Wickesberg Denise Renee Wickesberg (nee Grosklaus) of Allenton, WI died unexpectedly after a brief illness on Tuesday, January 30, 2018. She was 60 years old. Born to Leroy and Joyce Grosklaus on December 25, 1957, Denise was raised in Grafton and a longtime resident of Ozaukee County. Though much of her life was spent in pain, Denise wanted to live. After a lifelong battle with addiction and mental health issues, Denise is finally at peace. She left behind a wake of heartache and hurt, for which she now asks for forgiveness. Despite these challenges, her love for her family was unfailing. She was more than her illness. Denise took pride in her culinary skills, and was happiest in the kitchen cooking and baking for family and friends. She had a special knack for entertaining, organizing, crafting, and decorating. A fierce Scrabble competitor, Denise never backed down from a challenge at any game. She loved friendly competition and passed this on to her children and grandchildren. Denise was thankful for another chance at a role in her children’s life. In her final years, Denise enjoyed going to the zoo, museum, and movies with her grandchildren. She loved fishing, campfires, and early morning conversations around a pot of coffee. Few in life are fortunate to have a true friend. Denise found that friend in Trava Barnett, currently of Athens, GA. For over 30 years Trava walked this journey beside her with loyalty, grace, patience, and unconditional love. Through thick and thin, their friendship was Denise’s lifeline, and the two of them had many stories to tell of their adventures together. Denise is the loving mother of Christopher (Ye Jin), of Indianapolis, IN; Aaron, of La Crosse, WI; and proud grandmother of Daniel, Lucy, and Teddy. She is further survived by fiancé Richard Utecht of Allenton, WI; brother Kevin (Gigi) of CA; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister Holly Peterson. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of memorials, please consider extending grace to someone in your life.