Chris Lange

Chris Lange, Whitewater, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly on March 25, 2026, at the age of 74.

Born November 27, 1951, Chris joined the family of Gilbert R. and Betty L. Lange. After graduating from Kettle Moraine High School in 1969, he continued his education at Luther College, graduating in 1973. In 1975, he joined the staff at Lad Lake, Inc., spending his career working with at-risk youth. In 1990, he married Phoebe, creating a forever battle for his place in line for the bathroom. Phoebe predeceased him in 2013.

One of Chris’ greatest joys in life was his daughters, the boys they brought to the family, and his grandchildren. Tamara Lange and Steven Grobschmidt; Naomi, Matt, and Andrew Buckli; Samantha Hetzel-Majdecki, T.J., and Thad Majdecki; Melanie Hetzel-Riggin, L, and Gabe Riggin; Lyndsay Hetzel.

Chris also relished in the outdoors, particularly gardening and caring for his menagerie of animals. His talents as a cook, dare we say chef, struck a balance between legendary and experimental. He also continued his love of music, especially guitar, and stained glass work throughout his life.

Chris is further survived by his brothers Dan (Karen Sommerfeldt) Lange, John (Marge) Lange, and Mark (Lynell) Lange, sister-in-law Penni Liechty, along with many other family members and close friends.

Among those are the many other residents and staff of Fairhaven, who Chris entertained endlessly in the last several years with his punny jokes, artistic efforts, creative Halloween costumes, and cooking experiments. Thank you to all who brought so much joy to Chris’ retirement years.

Memorials may be made in Chris’ name to Fairhaven’s Pollinator Garden Project.

Dunlap Memorial Home in Fort Atkinson is assisting the family.

www.DunlapMemorialHome.com