Kelly Viertel, of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, passed away on September 3, 2026, following a massive stroke on September 1. He was born on May 16, 1962, in Berlin, Wisconsin, to Claire and Sally Viertel.

Kelly was never your average person—and honestly, he wouldn’t have wanted to be. He was wonderfully unique, curious, funny, and full of life. For more than 30 years, Kelly studied quantum physics and had a deep fascination with understanding the world around him. He believed in thinking happy thoughts and speaking about happy things—a philosophy that reflected the positivity he hoped to bring into the lives of others.

Kelly loved children and was truly a big kid at heart himself. He loved cars, motorcycles, dogs, animals, and anything that brought excitement and joy. Stock car racing was one of his greatest passions, and racing brought him many treasured friendships and memories throughout his life.

Kelly was also a legendary storyteller. Following in the footsteps of his Grandpa Albert, Kelly proudly earned the title of the family’s number two storyteller, with his cousin Reid Viertel coming in at number three. Whether the story was completely true—or perhaps made just a little better with each telling—Kelly could always make people laugh.

One of the most special relationships in Kelly’s life was the bond he shared with his mother, Sally. For the past seven years, Kelly spent nearly every morning taking his mom for a country ride and enjoying coffee together. Those simple mornings became treasured moments filled with conversation, laughter, and time spent side by side. Kelly was always there for his mother, taking her to appointments, running errands with her, and helping her whenever she needed him. Their bond was truly special, and the love and care Kelly showed his mom was a beautiful reflection of his big heart.

He had a tremendously big heart and spent much of his life helping others. Kelly was the kind of person who would be there when someone needed him, often putting others before himself. He attended Oshkosh North High School—once in a while, anyway—and left behind countless memories and stories that those who knew him will never forget.

Kelly is survived by his beloved mother, Sally Viertel; his daughter, Karlie Viertel; Cheri (Wynn) Jones; Kevin Viertel; Kyle Viertel; and Cami (Shawn) Tovar. He was also especially close to his two nephews, Bryce and Jesse Viertel, whom he loved like sons and was like a second father to. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and a large extended family.

Kelly also leaves behind his beloved dog, Dash, who was a very special part of his life.

He also leaves behind his lifelong friend, Chris Derringer; his racing buddy, Lowell Bennett; and many other dear friends whose lives were touched by his kindness, humor, generosity, and unforgettable personality.

The people Kelly leaves behind will truly miss him. His laughter, his stories, his big heart, and his larger-than-life personality will live on in the memories of everyone fortunate enough to know and love him.

Kelly was preceded in death by his father, Claire Viertel; his grandparents, including his beloved Grandpa Albert; and his aunts and uncles.

May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sunshine warm upon your face. May the rains fall soft upon your fields and, until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Sunday, September 13, 2026, from 1:00pm to 4:00pm, we will be doing a Celebration of Life at our sister funeral home down the road- Seefeld Funeral Home, 1025 Oregon St., Oshkosh, WI 54902. Prayer service will begin at 3:30pm.