John A. Wyttenbach, age 79, of Monroe lived a full life, yet unexpectedly passed from this life to the eternal, surrounded by his wife, daughters and dear friend John David Putnam on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison. He was born on December 17, 1946, the son of John and Darlene (Hendrickson) Wyttenbach. He was a 1965 graduate of Monroe High School. John was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Mary Schuetz on April 6, 1968 at St. John’s United Church of Christ. John was an incredible and devoted husband to his beloved wife, Mary, of nearly 58 years. Their marriage was a true partnership rooted in faith, respect, and unwavering love. He was a true gentleman - steady, kind, and deeply devoted. He cherished Mary and loved her unconditionally, a love that was evident in both the quiet, everyday moments and a lifetime of shared experiences. Some of these included, cross country motorcycle trips with Mary (on her own motorcycle), traveling around the world, and gardening.
John was the proud father of Andie (Jason) Plachetka and Allison Alexander. His life encapsulated a true devotion to his family, which also included his grandchildren Easton, Tanith, Nadia and Eviana. His greatest joy was riding road bikes on the hills in southern Wisconsin and dragging his daughters on 100 and 150 mile bike tours, because he always believed they could do anything. He valued every moment with his family whether that was hanging out at the condo on the river in Omro, watching his daughters’ swim meets, or watching a good hockey or tennis game that his grandkids played. He was their supporter, always offering encouragement, guidance, and steady leadership that helped build confidence and strength in those he loved.
He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and staying active. He enjoyed kayaking, biking, and playing golf, often inviting others to join him. He was an avid reader who found purpose in sharing what he learned by frequently giving books to others as a way to inspire growth, perspective, and a better life.
John lived a life of purpose and leadership by serving others until his last day with us. As newlyweds, he and Mary immersed themselves into the lifestyle of helping the less fortunate to build homes in a migrant labor camp, through Self-Help Housing. They also taught the residents everyday living skills during their time as VISTA (Volunteers In Service To America) Volunteers in Florida. Soon after, John proudly served in the United States Navy for 8 years as an electronics technician. During his tour with the military, they experienced life in Florida, Connecticut, Hawaii, California and South Carolina.
John was an active and highly respected member of the Monroe Optimists Club for 45 years, serving as Governor of Wisconsin, several terms as president, and volunteering for countless cheese curd shifts. A lifelong entrepreneur since 1981, he owned and operated several businesses in the Monroe area, of which some included; Therma Vue, Styleline, and DaVinci Powder Coating.
John had a wonderful sense of humor and a natural ability to make people laugh, bringing lightness and joy to those around him. He saw the good in every person he met and treated others with kindness, respect, and genuine interest.
John’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the values he instilled, and the love he gave so freely to his family and everyone around him.
John is survived by his wife of nearly 58 years, Mary Wyttenbach of Monroe; daughters, Andie (Jason) Plachetka of Greenville and Allison Alexander of Neenah; grandchildren, Easton and Tanith Plachetka and Nadia and Eviana Alexander; siblings, Christine Hill of Madison and Jim Wyttenbach of Friendship; as well as many extended relatives and friends.
John was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law, Thomas and Ida Schuetz; brother-in-law, Paul Hill; cousin, Pamela Colden; and maternal grandparents, Maurice and Clara Hendrickson.
The family would like to express a heartfelt appreciation to the first responders who by their valiant act gave us a few more hours with John. They would also like to express appreciation to Pastor Chris Schmidt for responding to the Monroe hospital, being with John in those initial hours. Finally, they would like to express their appreciation to the staff at SSM Monroe Hospital and St. Mary’s Hospital for their compassionate care.
Memorial Services will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026 at The Potter’s House Church at 11:00 AM with officiant Chaplain/Pastor John D. Putnam. Visitation will be held on Friday from 9:00 AM until the time of service at the church, followed by military honors in the church parking lot. A private Graveside Service of burial will occur at a later time. A memorial fund will be established in his name to benefit the monroemorningoptimists.org. Shriner Hager Gohlke Funeral Home is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent to the family at: shgfuneralhome.net.
His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’
Matthew 25:23 ESV
