Albert Charles Kudrle, age 85, passed away on March 16, 2026, in Appleton, Wisconsin.

He was born on May 4, 1940, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Charles Albert and Cora James Kudrle.

Albert was a proud graduate of Norwich University in Northfield, Vermont. He went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Army for nine years, including service in Phu Bai, Vietnam. In recognition of his bravery and dedication, he was awarded the Bronze Star.

During his military service, Albert received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with Device, Expert Badge with Carbine Bar, and Marksman Badge with Rifle Bar.

Albert was a life member of VFW Post 2778 in Appleton and proudly served as Post Commander from 2010 to 2011. He was instrumental in helping establish the VFW Honor Guard at the post and served as its armorer, reflecting his continued commitment to honoring fellow veterans.

Following his military service, Albert returned to civilian life and built a life centered on hard work, family, and community. One of the highlights of his life was living in Alaska, an experience he treasured deeply. After settling in Wisconsin, he discovered a love for fishing and enjoyed many fishing trips, especially with his coworkers from Neenah Foundry, where he was a dedicated employee.

Albert had a wide range of hobbies and passions. He was actively involved in a barbecue club and a ham radio club, forming lasting friendships through both. He also generously gave his time preparing meals with a close-knit team for the Salvation Army. In quieter moments, he enjoyed woodworking, wood carving, candy making, and baking. His homemade lace cookies were a favorite among family and friends and were often requested.

He was united in marriage to his beloved wife, Sheila, with whom he shared 64 wonderful years.

Albert is lovingly survived by his children: Sharon Kudrle of Boston, Massachusetts; and Corene (Kevin) Dul of Gastonia, North Carolina.

He was a proud grandfather to Ryan (Kelsey) Dul of McAdenville, North Carolina; Kevin (Jenni) Dul of Spartanburg, South Carolina; and Katie Dul of Gastonia, North Carolina.

He is also survived by his cherished great-grandchildren, Caleb and Henry Dul of McAdenville, North Carolina.

Albert will be remembered for his strength, leadership, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his family, his fellow veterans, and his community. His life was one of service, craftsmanship, friendship, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Visitation will be at 1:30 followed by a Funeral Mass at Saint Bernard’s Catholic Church in Appleton, Wisconsin, on Wednesday, March 25, at 3:00 PM.

Wichmann Funeral Home of Appleton, Wisconsin, is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Water Project benefiting wells in Africa. www.thewaterproject.com.