It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dorothy Joanne Draeger, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, who was called home to be with her Lord on February 19, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on July 4, 1941, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to the late Anton and Lorraine Langenkamp (nee Petermann), Dorothy enriched the lives of all who knew her with her unwavering spirit, passion for education, and deep commitment to her faith. 

Dorothy earned her Bachelor's degree in English and Secondary Education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and pursued a Master’s degree in English, laying the foundation for her career as a dedicated teacher. She began her teaching journey within the Milwaukee Public Schools and later retired from West Bend East High School, leaving behind a legacy of inspired students and colleagues. 

A long-standing member of Trinity Lutheran Church in West Bend, Dorothy devoted her time volunteering as a Sunday School teacher and superintendent, leading Vacation Bible School programs, and serving as a member of the Stephen Ministry. Her faith was a guiding force in her life, and she cherished the opportunity to serve others in her community. Above all, Dorothy treasured her family. She was a loving wife to her husband, Gary Draeger over 62 wonderful years; a devoted mother; and an adoring grandmother. Family gatherings brought her immense joy, and she instilled the love of reading and learning as well as the importance of grammar in all her loved ones.

Those left to cherish Dorothy’s memory include her husband, Gary Draeger; children, Brian (Megan) Draeger and Jeff (Jillian) Draeger; grandchildren, Benjamin, Elias, Samantha, Grayson, Jordan, Cameron, Colby, and Jeffrey John “JJ”; sisters, Marilyn Riese and Jean Schauer; brother, James (Jackie) Langenkamp; other relatives and friends.

In addition to her parents, Dorothy is preceded in death by her infant daughter, Laura Christine; brothers-in-law, Wally Riese and Paul Schauer. 

In celebration of her remarkable life, a memorial service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church (140 North Seventh Ave, West Bend) on March 7, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Prior to the memorial, a visitation will take place at the church beginning at 9:00 AM.

Dorothy’s vibrant spirit and dedication to her family, students, and faith will remain in our hearts forever. She truly made the world a better place, and her legacy will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know her. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Trinity Lutheran Church or Cedar Community Partners in Caring. The Draeger family would like to thank Nikki Nass and the amazing caring staff at Cedar Community (Forestview) along with special friend Kim.

Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Dorothy’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book can be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.