Mantz, Kaelynn

Kaelynn Mantz left this earthly life for the eternal safety of the arms of her Heavenly Father on Monday, November 1, 2010. Karen and Jack Mantz were blessed with her birth on June 17, 1972, coming home to join her big brothers Joel and Dan, and big sister, Dena. Kaelynn was nearly taken from us in November, 1975, at the age of 3, due to Reyes Syndrome and was in a coma for 9 days, and then again, at age 18, due to a dog attack. But the Lord gave her back to us both times; this time I guess He decided He was going to take care of her Himself. Before her illness took control of her life, Kaelynn loved music, and truly had the voice of an angel. She was also a lover of all things culinary, and had more cookbooks than anyone. She had such a big heart, often reaching out to help others and giving of herself, even when she had so little herself. She also adored her dog Wrigley, her loyal companion of the last 11 years. Kaelynn is survived by her mother, Karen Malone, Waupaca; her father, Jack Mantz, Phoenix, AZ, brothers, Joel, Oshkosh, Daniel, Chicago and sister, Dena, Appleton, step-brother, Jay Schmoll, Phoenix, AZ, nephews, Ryan and Jake Mantz, (Joel’s sons,) grandmother, Helen Jackovich, Appleton, numerous aunts, uncles and cousins, her faithful friend, Heather Smith and the man Kaelynn chose to share her life with these past years, Michael (Hank) Smith. Kaelynn was preceded in death by her grandparents, Howard and Florence Strahl and Gordon (Bud) Mantz, step-sister, Tammy Schmoll, Phoenix, AZ and several aunts and uncles. Kaelynn will be missed by her family and friends; we will remember and cherish happier, healthier days, with this special woman. The memory of Kaelynn will forever remain in our hearts. Knowing that she is free, at last, from pain and suffering, will bring comfort to those of us who loved her the most. Goodbye for now, our precious girl; until we can once again hold you in our arms, we will hold you in our hearts, and pray that you know how very much you were, and will always be, loved. Be at peace, my child, for there is no one who deserves it more. The Holly Funeral Home of Waupaca is assisting the family with cremation. In accordance with the family’s wishes, there will be no visitation. A private service will be held at a later date.