Peter Klapatch

Peter Charles Klapatch, age 73, passed away peacefully at his home in Dane, Wisconsin on March 13, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.

Peter was born on September 8, 1952 in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin to Leonard and Madeline (Butler) Klapatch. He was one of eight kids, with four brothers and three sisters. He attended Corpus Christi and SBHS where he excelled in music, wrestled, and played football. His love of music led him to attend UWGB where he graduated with a degree in Music Education in 1974. He started his career teaching in Mondovi WI, then Evansville WI, and eventually at Waunakee High School, where he took great pride in the marching, concert, and pep bands, retiring in 2008.

When he wasn't working, he enjoyed everything outdoors - hunting, fishing, camping, picking stones on the beach, and birding. He loved judging state solo-ensemble, often remarking how nice it was to be in the presence of highly talented musicians. Quality time spent with his siblings and relatives was also of great importance. Most of all he loved watching his grandchildren grow.

Peter was a loving, caring man who was full of optimism and positivity. He will be deeply missed by Kim, the love of his life, who joined him on his journey almost 21 years ago.

In addition to his wife, Peter is survived by two sons, Andrew (Kelli) Klapatch and their children Mae and Lucy, and Myles (Tere) Klapatch; one son-in-law, Caleb (Jamie) Brown and their children Jayce and Jaelynne; brothers Pat (Chris) Klapatch, Jim (Kathy) Klapatch, Paul (LuAnn) Klapatch, Joe Klapatch; sisters Barb (Randy) Fondow, Elizabeth (Steve) Spaude, Mary Nickel; sister-in-law Linda (Carl) Ballard, brother-in-law Mike Brown, and countless nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Peter was preceded in death by his parents, Kim’s parents Harold and Bernice Brown, nephew Jonah Klapatch, nephew-in-law Garrett Starr, sisters-in-law Kathy Magby and Marlys Trunkhill, and brothers-in-law Bob Nickel and Michael Jinbo.

There will be a private memorial service held at a later date.