Obituaries

Daryl “Squirrel” Lee Stephens, age 77, of DeForest, passed away at Agrace Hospice in Fitchburg on Tuesday, August 6, 2024.

Daryl was born on June 9, 1947, in Linton, Indiana, to Floyd and Maxine (Fulk) Stephens. He graduated from DeForest High School in 1965. Daryl earned his nickname, Squirrel, while working at The Bud Schultz Store in DeForest during his high school years.

Daryl married Jill Marlene Sorenson on March 15, 1969, at Christian Faith Moravian Church in DeForest, and celebrated their 55th anniversary together this year. Daryl and Jill were blessed with two children, Kari (Joel) Caulum and Kimberly (Erik) Peterson.

Daryl worked for CenturyTel for over 29 years, starting as a telecommunications specialist when it was called Northwest Telephone Company and ending his career as a salesperson for CenturyTel. He also worked as a DJ for Juke Box Bandstand for many years, which he said were “some of the best times of his life.” He had a gift for showmanship that served him well in both these jobs. After retirement in 2003, Daryl worked for Per Mar Security, providing security for many Badger sports events and at the Monona Terrace.

Daryl loved cultivating and caring for his expansive, beautiful gardens; music, especially listening to his vast collection of records; watching his favorite sports teams including the Badgers, Cubs, Brewers, Bears, and Packers; collecting sports and other memorabilia; and spending time with his family and many special pets throughout his life, including his beloved dog Bentley. Daryl had a wonderful sense of humor and the ability to talk to anyone, making friends wherever he went. Daryl was a faithful servant of the Lord and participated in several roles at Christian Faith Moravian Church.

Daryl is survived by his wife; mother; brother, Michael (Bonnie) Stephens; children; grandchildren, Claire Caulum, Tyler (Sammi) Caulum, Paige (Cody) Michels, Kameron (Carolyn) Peterson, and Ethan Peterson; great-grandchildren, Hazel and Vivian Caulum and Elliana and Everleigh Michels; and many other relatives and close friends.

Daryl was preceded in death by his father and grandparents, Jodie and Edna Fulk who shared a part in raising him.

A Funeral Service will take place at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at Christian Faith Moravian Church, 805 E Holum Street, DeForest, WI. Visitation will be held from 9:00 A.M. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Christian Faith Moravian Church or National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI). Ryan Funeral Home located in DeForest is assisting the family.

The family would like to thank Dr. Alexandra McMurray, Dr. David Ringdahl, Agrace, and Home Instead, especially Tim and Roberto.

To view and sign this guestbook please visit www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

Windsor/DeForest Chapel

6924 Lake Road

608-846-4250