Carl W. Kuhnke

Carl W. Kuhnke, 72, a beloved brother, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend of Elkhorn, WI, passed away on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at Mercy Janesville.

Born on June 4, 1954, in Elkhorn, WI, Carl was the son of Dallas and Nora (Cummings) Kuhnke. He graduated from East Troy High School with the Class of 1973. Carl enjoyed sharing stories of his high school cross-country running days and growing up on the farm.

Always tinkering with something or dreaming up his next great idea, Carl had a creative spirit and a talent for working with wood or metal. One of his favorite sayings was, “If you can think it, you can build it,” a motto he truly lived by. He could build something out of just about anything he could get his hands on and loved creating unique gifts for his family, including his beloved bald eagle sculpture.

An avid bicyclist, Carl could ride for miles and even built his own bicycle using parts from other bikes. When he needed a break from pedaling, he enjoyed taking his motorcycle out for a ride. Hunting and fishing were also favorite pastimes, whether waiting for the perfect shot or searching for that pesky tom turkey. Carl had a deep appreciation for nature and gardening. His family looked forward to the fresh vegetables from his garden and peaches from his tree each year.

Above all, Carl treasured his family. He rarely missed an opportunity to attend his grandchildren’s games and events. His grandchildren especially loved his bird calls and turkey calls, playing board games with him, and listening to his many stories. Always willing to share what he knew, Carl was constantly teaching them something new, sparking their curiosity and passing along his knowledge.

Carl is survived by his four children, Carrie (Mike) Storlie, David (Melissa) Kuhnke, Jamie (Andy) Curler, and Jessie (Nick Mueller) Kuhnke; seven grandchildren, Gavin Storlie, Ella Storlie, Lily Storlie, Madeline Kuhnke, Sophia Kuhnke, Brynlee Kuhnke, and Eden Curler; five siblings, Steve (Patty) Kuhnke, Margaret Harris, Tom Kuhnke, Pamela (Robert) Friesema, and Arthur Kuhnke; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Judy Meyer and Cathy Irek; brother-in-law, Bob Harris; and grand-dog, Mason.

Carl will be remembered for his creativity, hard work, and caring nature, but most of all for the love he gave his family. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A Memorial Service will be held at 6:00 PM on Thursday, November 19, 2026, at Haase-Lockwood & Associates Funeral Home, 730 N. Wisconsin St., Elkhorn, WI. Visitation will take place from 4:00 PM until the time of service at the funeral home.