Elgene Jean "Jean" Hesselman of Neenah, WI, has passed away, leaving behind a family and community who loved her dearly.
These words are offered in her memory — small, but heartfelt.
Elgene spent her working life as ['American Can Co'] and held deeply to the Catholic faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew her best.
The community of faith holds its own well — and Elgene was held.
Elgene (Jean) A. Hesselman (Brodzinski), 88, of Neenah passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at St Elizabeth Hospital in Appleton, WI.
Jean was born on July 3, 1937, in Menasha to John and Anna (Grabowski) Brodzinski. On July 9, 1960, she was united in marriage to John E Hesselman in Menasha, WI. Early in her career, Jean was employed by American Can Co. Later, she co-owned and operated John's Saw Service and Hesselman's Storage alongside her husband. A woman of faith, Jean was a member of St. Gabriel Catholic Church in Neenah, WI. She was involved in her community, serving with the auxiliary of the Fox Crossing (Town of Menasha) Fire Department, where she supported her husband, sons, and the entire department. She was a proud member of the Red Hat Society and found great joy in fishing, traveling, stamping, and embarking on new adventures. Above all, Jean brought smiles and joy to the lives she touched, leaving a legacy of kindness and love.
Jean is survived by her daughter, Cheryl Richardson of Neenah; three sons: Earl (Jodi) Hesselman and Mark (Bibi) Hesselman of Neenah, and Allen (Jackie) Hesselman of Hortonville WI. She was the cherished grandmother of Stephanie (Jon) Desens, Jonathon (Meghan) Hesselman, Kristin Hesselman, Morgan Hesselman, Alexander Switzer, Natalia Hesselman, Roan Hesselman, Sam Marsden, and Michaela Marsden; and the proud great-grandmother of Bailey and Reagan Desens.
She was preceded in death by her husband John E Hesselman, her parents John and Anna Brodzinski; Father & Mother-In-Law Earl and Jane Hesselman; Son-In-Law Bruce Richardson; Sister and Brother-In-Law Mary and Don Yingling. Nephews Scott Yingling and Jeff (Gerri) Yingling.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday May 8, 2026 at St. Gabriel Catholic Church 900 Geiger St., Neenah with Fr. Larry Seidl officiating and Deacon Tom Gritton assisting. Visitation will be at the church from 10:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers a memorial is being established.
Livestream link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLtwPxUpwW4
