Lefty Wolfgram

Clarence “Lefty” Wolfgram, age 92, passed away on Monday afternoon, September 23, 2013 at St. Elizabeth Hospital, following a brief illness. Lefty was born in Appleton on August 5, 1921, son of the late Theodore and Myra Wolfgram. He attended local schools and chose to enlist in the United States Army, “a little short” of his eighteenth birthday. He faithfully served for six years, and was awarded the Purple Heart for the injuries he received after being hit by a hand grenade while serving in the Philippine Islands during World War II. Lefty married the former Marjorie Cleveland, and celebrated many happy years together, prior to her death in 1994. Lefty's love was driving. He drove for Consolidated Freightways for many years, and also owned and operated service stations in Appleton and Neenah. He was also an excellent dancer, enjoying many of the area dance halls over the years.

He leaves behind four daughters: Karen (Terry) Lembcke of Appleton; Darla (Tom) Dey of Neenah; Gail (Steve) Bruce of Neenah; and Carol Gosz of Appleton; a longtime and special friend: Gerri Esslinger of Appleton; six grandchildren: Shawn (Cheryl) Esslinger, Chad Esslinger, Ryan (Samantha) Vander Wielen, Blaine (Jennifer) Vander Wielen, Corry (Stacey) Gosz, and Chris Gosz; four step-grandchildren: Scott (Sherry) Lembcke, Mark Lembcke, Eric Bruce, and Tyler (Alexis) Bruce; eight great-grandchildren: Cody, Aarika, Amber, Devin, Jacob, Hailey, Hunter, and Jasmine; and three step-great-grandchildren: Andrew, Mallory, and Ava. Lefty was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Marjorie, and brothers George (Olga) Wolfgram and Arthur (Myrtle) Wolfgram.

A memorial service with complete military honors will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 28, 2013 at the Wichmann Funeral Home, Tri County Chapel, 1592 Oneida Street in Menasha. Friends may call at the funeral home on Saturday morning from 9:00 AM until the time of the service. Online condolences may be offered at www.wichmannfargo.com.

The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to everyone at Manor Care as well as St. Elizabeth Hospital in Appleton. We will forever remember your loving care and kindness.