Denise A. Kasper

Denise Ann Kasper, age 65, of Manawa, passed away on March 30, 2025 surrounded by her family.

She was born on December 21, 1959 to Duane and Marlene Brunkey. Denise and Mark Kasper were married and blessed with two wonderful children; Michael and Tonya. Later in life, she and Josh Gassen built a life together over 15 years in the Manawa area. They enjoyed traveling to various waterfalls around the state, camping, and spending time with her many beloved animals. She had a life-long passion for animals that always brought a smile to her face, especially her horses; Lacy, and Apache, her dogs; Ford and Scout, and her cat, Stewart.

Denise was a strong, passionate, loving person, with a spicy attitude and a heart of gold. She taught people that circumstances didn't matter, and to always keep fighting. Her tenacity and strength were an inspiration to many people in the community, embodying the saying of "You don't count the times you get knocked down, you count the times you get back up".

Denise is survived by her loving Significant Other, Josh, her children; Michael (Melissa) Kasper, and Tonya (Brandon) Brehm, her siblings; Sue (Derald) Wohlt, Jan (Mike) Weitzel, and Lynn (Steve) Laabs, her step-sibling, Lynn (Pat) Nichols, her sister-in-law, Patty Kent-Brunkey, and her mom, Marlene Michelkamp. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her dad, Duane "Toby" Brunkey, her step-dad, Harry Michelkamp, her father-in-law, Walter "Butch" Kasper, her brother, Keith Brunkey, and her step-sister, Laura Batterman.

Per Denise's wishes there will be no formal services, she'd ask that you "don't cry because she’s gone but smile because she was here, and laugh about the memories we made together".

Denise's Family would like to extend a thank you to the Pink Ribbon Rebel's, and her care team whom had held a special place in her heart.

To share a memory of Denise or leave a special message for her family, please visit the guest book below.