Chad Elliott Waukechon, 49, of Bonduel, started his journey to the spirit world unexpectedly on Sunday, May 26, 2019. Chad was born on Dec. 29, 1969, in Wausau, son of Joseph “Buzz” and Mila (Svendsen) Waukechon Jr. Chad was united in marriage to Heidi Scheinert in a traditional Native American ceremony by the Wolf River on May 19, 1996, and in a traditional Christian ceremony at Jerusalem Lutheran Church in Lunds on May 25, 1996.
Upon graduation from Shawano High School, he furthered his education by earning his bachelor’s degree in urban and regional studies from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. Chad continued his education at the University of Minnesota-Duluth where he earned his master’s degree in education administration.
Chad took pride in his service to his fellow people of the Menominee Tribe. Chad held many positions throughout his professional career; from working in archaeology for Menominee Historic Preservation, to serving as dean of letters and science and campus vice president for the College of Menominee Nation. Most recently, Chad worked in the Menominee Tribal Offices as an assistant administrator. He felt especially honored being involved in repatriation of his Menominee ancestors. Chad was a board member for ThedaCare in Shawano. He also owned his own consulting business, 3E Guided Solutions.
Chad was passionate about the environment and was an avid hunter and fisherman with his father. He enjoyed spending his time on the Menominee Reservation and at his “swamp” with his family. He was recently becoming more fluent with the Menominee language. Chad was also an enrolled member of the Bad River Band of the Lake Superior Chippewa, and was proud of his Danish and Irish roots, as well.
Chad was known for his leadership abilities, his integrity and his sense of humor. He loved and supported his family in all of their endeavors. Chad was a steadfast and loyal friend, son, husband, and father. He is missed terribly.
Chad is survived by his best friend and wife of 23 years, Heidi; two children, Joseph Peter Waukechon and Gracie Cecilia Waukechon; his parents, Joseph “Buzz” and Mila Waukechon, of Shawano; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Susan and Peter Scheinert, of Shawano; and a special uncle, Gary Svendsen. He is further survived by other relatives and many friends.
Chad was preceded in death by an unborn child.
A memorial service for Chad will be held at the College of Menominee Nation’s Cultural Learning Center in Keshena, at noon on Saturday, June 29, 2019. Visitation will be held at the CMN Cultural Learning Center from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.
Chad’s family requests no flowers be sent. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family to assist with Chad’s children’s college expenses.
Chad’s family would like to thank Nahwahquaw and all the special people involved in giving Chad a proper farewell, as well as friends helping Heidi, Buzz, and Mila.
Mesek Kenaw-nian