It is with great sadness, the family announces the passing of Alfred H. “Alfie” Schlender, Jr., of Sullivan, on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at his home, after a long-time struggle with mental illness.

Alfie was born on June 17, 1965, in Oconomowoc, WI, the son of Alfred and Ethel (Cox) Schlender, Sr.  He graduated from Kettle Moraine High School in the early 1980’s and began a career as a drywall finisher.  He was a member of Painter’s Union - Local 781 and worked for many drywall companies throughout southeastern Wisconsin.  Alfie was a hard worker and did side-jobs often to the benefit of many locals and he took pride in his finished product.  In recent years, he became an outdoor painter, a job he grew to love.  Alfie loved and appreciated his family but was closest to his dog, Jax.  He had a flare for keeping up his yard and gardens, and enjoyed the wind in his face atop his motorcycle. 

A note from his family serves Alfie well:

“His fierce love and protection of his companion and beloved dog, Jax.

The simple joy he found in physical labor, his resilience to battle addiction time and time again, and his personal quest be close to family.

His ability to smile and crack a joke, despite his own struggles and hardships.

His selflessness and hugs, asking how a person was doing, and inquiring on others life events.”

Alfie was loved deeply and appreciated by his family, and he will be missed.

Alfred is survived by: his aunts Mitzi (Allan) Frank of Oconomowoc and Pauline (Barry) Stephan of Sullivan, uncle G. Paul Schlender of Seguin, TX, and aunt-in-law Donna Schlender of Oconomowoc.  He is also survived by his cousins, other family members, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, aunts, uncles, and other relatives.

A memorial service will be held at 6:00PM on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at the Olsen-Gibson Funeral Home of Jefferson.  A visitation will be on Thursday from 5:00PM until the time of service at the funeral home.