Evelyn “Evie” Faehling, 85, of West Bend, Wisconsin, passed away on Thursday, October 15, 2026 at Kathy Hospice in West Bend, surrounded by family.
Evie was born on September 15, 1941, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Ervin and Margaret Jankowski. The oldest of seven siblings, Evie grew up to become a woman with a strong spirit, a quick wit, and a personality that left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
In 1963, Evie met the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Faehling. Their whirlwind romance led to marriage on February 8, 1964, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with family, friendship, laughter, and many shared adventures.
Together, Evie and Bob built a family that would become the center of Evie’s world. She was a mother to four children: Tami (Jim) Faehling-Slayton, Chip (Rhonda) Faehling, Michelle (Brian) Faehling, and Robyn Faehling. Her greatest blessings continued to grow with the arrival of eight grandchildren: Emily (Brandon) Epling, Austin Slayton, Kate Schraufnagel, Sydney (Harrison) Clanton, Kaya Faehling, Payton Rossebo, Kade Rossebo, and Rylee Faehling. In her later years, Evie was delighted to spend precious time with her great-grandchildren, Lizzie and Kenzie Epling and Theo Louise, who brought another special kind of joy into her life.
Evie spent her early years raising her children while taking on part-time work. Once the children were in school, she began her career at West Bend Mutual Insurance as a receptionist and switchboard operator. Never one to shy away from a challenge, Evie took classes, developed her skills, and worked her way up to become a senior claims adjuster. She loved her work and, just as importantly, the wonderful friendships she formed along the way. Evie was quite the spitfire, and her coworkers could tell countless stories of her humor, spirited nature, and unforgettable moments. Over the years, she became the central character in more than a few legendary office tales. She retired after a rewarding career, leaving behind friendships and memories that continued long after her working days ended.
Outside of work, Evie loved being surrounded by family or friends and enjoying life’s simple pleasures. She treasured the friendships she made through Bob’s softball leagues and her card club, where she spent time with a fabulous group of women. She also discovered a love of golf, which quickly became a passion she and Bob shared. Evie and Bob also enjoyed their summer trips “Up North” with their children, where Evie always had fun playing cards or riding on the pontoon. In addition, she enjoyed her time coaching volleyball at Holy Angels and West Bend West.
A true sun worshipper, Evie also enjoyed traveling to warmer destinations. Trips to Jamaica with friends and vacations to Mexico with her daughter Michelle’s family were among her cherished highlights. She loved the sunshine, the opportunity to spend time with loved ones, and the memories made along the way.
Evie was preceded in death by her parents, Ervin and Margaret Jankowski; two brothers; one sister; her in-laws; and her beloved daughter, Michelle, who passed away in 2023. Though Michelle’s loss left an immeasurable space in the hearts of those who loved her, the family finds comfort in imagining Evie’s joyful reunion with her daughter.
Evie lived a life enriched by family, meaningful relationships, and experiences shared with the people who mattered most. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the memories she created will continue to bring smiles and comfort to those who knew and loved her.
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Froedtert Hospital in West Bend, Horizon Home Hospice, and Kathy’s Hospice in West Bend for the kindness, compassion, and excellent care they provided to Evie and her family. In addition, the family wants to thank the entire staff at Little Red Inn, where Evie and Bob spent many evenings enjoying old fashions, food and friendships. Going to LRI became the highlight of the day in Evie’s later years.
A celebration of Evie’s life will be held at a later date.