Allen (Al) J. Schlatter passed away on November 21, 2020 at Wisconsin Veteran’s Home in King, Wisconsin.
He was born September 11, 1927 in Racine, Wisconsin. Al grew up in Racine and after high school graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy. After his years of service, he attended University of Wisconsin – Whitewater where he earned an education degree. Shortly after graduating from Whitewater he began teaching in Weyauwega, Wisconsin. In 1963 Al moved to Waupaca, Wisconsin and began teaching at Waupaca High School. Al taught in Waupaca for 38 years where many students knew and enjoyed “Mr. Schlatter.” Al was also a basketball and football coach at Waupaca High School.
Al met his wife, Joanne in 1964, fell in love, and then married in August of 1965. Al and Joanne purchased a home on the beautiful Chain O’ Lakes in Waupaca, with their son Dave, and enjoyed life on the water for many years. Al was an avid golfer, loved fishing, playing baseball, and swimming. After he retired from teaching Al could be spotted daily taking care of his yard and enjoying life with Joanne.
Al loved to tell a good story and enjoyed being able to share his tales with students and family. He was always ready for a good laugh and would be the first one to come up with a prank or practical joke. Al loved spending time with his grandchildren, Lisa and Mary. The time they spent together usually resulted in some sort of life lesson: how to avoid falling in the lake, how to avoid getting a fish hook to the face, how to be on time for lunch, and how to make sure the lawn looked amazing. Time with Grandpa Al was always interesting but was really amazing and fun! Al also enjoyed spending time with extended family and looked forward to the annual family reunion where he would conjure up numerous practical jokes, pranks, and activities for all to enjoy.
Al was preceded in death by his wife Joanne in 2016. He is survived by his son Dave (Karen) Schlatter; his granddaughters: Lisa (Brad) Albers and Mary (Collin) Dykstra; and his great-grandchildren: Maggie and Connor Albers and Wesley and Jacob Dykstra.
To celebrate Al’s life (in lieu of flowers), grill a brat and have a piece of chocolate cake. A public memorial service is not planned due to the current COVID pandemic,
A special thanks to the Wisconsin Veterans Home, Staff, Medical Staff and Administration for the outstanding care provided to Al while he was a member and resident of Ainsworth Hall. The Holly Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.