Wayne Buteyn was raised in Waupun, attending Waupun schools and graduated from Waupun High School. Following high school, he attended college and then enlisted in the United States Army for three years, spending one year of duty in Vietnam. He married his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth Wedman. Following the military, Wayne returned to the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh and moved on to Milwaukee where he attended and graduated from mortuary school.

Wayne has been active in the community serving on various boards and is a very active member of the Union-Congregational Church. He is a member of the Waupun Lions Club, American Legion Post 210, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6709, and Rock River Country Club. His relaxed time is spent enjoying nature, traveling, and motorcycling. Wayne and Liz’s family includes a son, Andy, and his wife, Cindy, who reside in Milwaukee.

Tyler is a remarkable individual whose journey reflects the values of hard work, commitment, and the importance of community. Born and raised in the close-knit community of Waupun, Wisconsin, Tyler's upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of community and a dedication to making a positive impact. After graduating from Waupun High School in 2011, Tyler pursued his academic and athletic passions at Carroll University, where he excelled both on the football field and in his studies. His time at Carroll University not only shaped his athletic and academic prowess but also fostered his deep appreciation for teamwork and perseverance. Eager to continue his education and pursue his passion for mortuary science, Tyler went on to graduate from the prestigious Worsham College of Mortuary Science in Chicago. It was there that he developed a profound understanding of the importance of honoring and preserving the memories of loved ones with dignity and respect. In 2012, Tyler began his professional career at Werner Harmsen, where he dedicated himself wholeheartedly to his work. Through diligence, empathy, and a tireless work ethic, he quickly progressed within the company, earning the respect of his colleagues and the trust of the community. In 2018, Tyler accomplished a significant milestone in his career by becoming an owner of Werner Harmsen. This achievement stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership, and his commitment to providing compassionate and outstanding service to the community during times of need. Tyler's personal life is equally fulfilling and meaningful. He is a devoted husband to his wife, Kelsey, and a loving father to three children: Sylvie, Hayes, and Lainey. Their youngest, Sylvie, holds a special place in their hearts as a rainbow child, bringing immeasurable joy and love to their family. In addition to his commitments at Werner Harmsen, Tyler is deeply involved in various community organizations, reflecting his genuine dedication to giving back and making a difference. He is an active member of the Lions Club, Downtown Promotions, John Howard Memorial Gun Club, Church Health Services, and numerous other local initiatives. His participation in these organizations demonstrates his strong sense of civic duty and his genuine desire to contribute to the well-being of his community. In his leisure time, Tyler finds joy in spending quality time with his family, cherishing unforgettable moments while boating or embarking on hunting expeditions. His love for the outdoors and adventurous spirit are a reflection of his appreciation for nature and the meaningful connections it fosters. Tyler's commitment to his family, his professional accomplishments at Werner Harmsen, and his extensive involvement in community organizations exemplify his exceptional character and unwavering dedication to making a positive impact on those around him. As a loving father, devoted husband, and respected community leader, Tyler's presence brings warmth, compassion, and inspiration to the lives of those he encounters.

Spencer L. Beek was born and raised in Waupun by his parents Jamie & Sarah. Spencer attended Waupun schools and graduated from Waupun Area High School in 2015. After high school he then attended UW-Milwaukee for one year before realizing his passion in funeral service. Then he went on to obtain his associates degree in mortuary science at Milwaukee Area Technical College in 2020. Spencer is excited to be a part of the Werner-Harmsen family and ready to help the community in which he was born and raised.

In his free time he enjoys being in the outdoors, whether that be hunting, fishing, camping, or kayaking. He also enjoys watching Wisconsin sports teams including Packers, Brewers, Badgers, and Bucks.

Lori was born in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, and graduated from Waupun High School. Her grandfather started Kratz Smedema Funeral Home in 1941 so Lori grew up in the business and developed an interest in mortuary science. She pursued that interest, earning her mortuary science degree from MATC-West Allis, and ultimately becoming the family’s third-generation owner of Kratz Smedema Funeral Home,with locations in Cambria and Fox Lake. In 2013 Lori began providing on-call support to Werner Harmsen Funeral Home in Waupun and, in 2014, when she became a widow, Lori utilized Werner Harmsen to handle her husband’s funeral service.

The team at Werner Harmsen has always felt like family so, when it was time for Lori to begin succession planning for Kratz Smedema Funeral Home, she knew Werner Harmsen would provide compassion, grace and kindness to the community she has faithfully served since 1992. In 2024, Werner Harmsen acquired Kratz Smedema Funeral Home in Cambria and Lori joined the Werner Harmsen team as funeral director. Outside of work, Lori is a licensed EMT and volunteer firefighter for the Cambria and Fox Lake Fire Departments, enjoys working out and instructing exercise classes, spending time with her dogs Maddie and Emmie, and spending time with her four children, seven grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.

Angie Daane was raised in Waupun, the daughter of Jim and Sue Zimmerman. She attended Waupun High School, graduating in 1999, and then attended MPTC where she received an Associates Degree as an Administrative Assistant.

She then married Clay Daane and they have three children; Taylor, Brayden, and Emma. Angie started working for Werner-Harmsen in November 2005. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family, jogging, and the outdoors.

Kaytlin Ruis joined Werner Harmsen in January 2024 and is responsible for all the accounts payable, bookkeeping, and financial work for the business. She was raised in the Alto area, the daughter of Steve and Heidi Smits. Kaytlin attended Central Wisconsin Christian school and in May 2023 received her bachelor's degree in finance and marketing from Marian University. 

Kaytlin is married to the love of her life, Cayden, and they are the proud pup parents to a black lab named Kimber. Outside of work, Kaytlin enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, waterskiing, cooking and baking.

Meet Lucy, our beloved black lab! With her shiny coat and playful spirit, she brings so much joy to our lives. Lucy's eyes light up with excitement every time she sees a ball, and she's an excellent swimmer too. But what she loves most is snuggling up with us at night, providing warmth and comfort. Her loyalty and affection make her a cherished member of our family. Whether it's a game of fetch or a relaxing evening at home, Lucy is always by our side, filling our days with love and happiness."

Introducing Maddie, our lively and spirited furry friend! Maddie's eyes light up with joy whenever she's outdoors, where she feels most at home. Her favorite pastime is playing with her beloved ball, which never fails to bring out her contagious enthusiasm. Whether she's fetching the ball or chasing it around in the yard, Maddie's playful nature is always on full display. With her zest for life and endless energy, she never fails to bring a smile to our faces. Maddie's love for the outdoors and her playful spirit make her an integral part of our lives. She is not just a pet but a cherished companion, filling our home with warmth and laughter. 

Mike Werner served in the National Guard in the 1960s and went on to graduate from mortuary school. In 1969 he purchased Beyers Funeral Home in Waupun, now known as Werner Harmsen Funeral Home. 

He owned and operated the Funeral Home, as well as the Werner Harmsen furniture store, until his retirement in 2017. He was honored for 50 years of practice as a funeral director and was instrumental in shaping the economic landscape of Waupun by growing and diversifying his businesses, supporting local nonprofits, and serving on numerous boards within the community. 

In 2022 Mike made the initial contribution to start the Waupun Community Fund, a 501(c)3 non-profit fundraising committee aimed at supporting city improvements. His donation allowed the entrance to Shaler Park and Forest Mound Cemetery to be repaired, as well as for updates to be made to the parking area for Veterans Park. This gift led to a mayoral proclamation naming the entrance to Shaler Park as "Mike Werner Way". 

Mike was instrumental in the Waupun community, serving with respect and dignity for generations. The Werner Harmsen team who worked beside him will honor and remember his legacy through its commitment to the community and to providing compassion and care during life's most difficult moments. 

Michael D. Werner

1944 - 2024