Kevin F. Fullerton, age 72, left us peacefully on Friday, April 21, 2023 after an extended illness. He was born to John J. and Lorine M. (nee Murphy) Fullerton on December 17, 1950 in Janesville, Wisconsin. The youngest of five children, he attended St. Mary's School through seventh grade. Kevin lost both of his parents at a very young age. Kevin moved to Dubuque, IA to live with his older sister, Marilynn (DeDe) McDermott and her family. He finished 8th grade at Nativity Catholic School and went on to graduate from Wahlert High School in 1969. Kevin maintained many of his close high school friendships throughout his life, and he always looked forward to a visit with his buddies from Dubuque.
After high school, Kevin attended UW Platteville and studied secondary education. He had a love of history and an even greater passion for working with students. In September of 1970, Kevin married Barbara Johnson. After graduating with his Bachelor's Degree, he moved his family to Menomonee Falls and began his teaching career working at the high schools in the Falls. Together they raised their two children, Patrick and Kara. They enjoyed family vacations to Mt. Rushmore, the Big Horn and Smoky Mountains, Niagara Falls and Toronto, Ontario.
In the early 1980's, Kevin was integral in the development of the Integrated Studies Program (ISP) within the school district to assist students who were at-risk of graduating from high school. He worked tirelessly to ensure all of his students were given opportunities to find success. Kevin enjoyed coaching a variety of athletic teams and became an active member of the community. He enjoyed being a member of the Optimist Club and many other civic organizations. In 1991, Kevin joined the School District of Menomonee Falls administrative team to serve children in new and different ways.
On December 21, 1996, he married Julie Schiellack. Together they had three children; Brian, Ella (deceased) and Brady. Unfortunately, Kevin's professional career was cut short when he suffered a severe neurological incident in 2008. He then retired from the school district.
Kevin loved athletics. He enjoyed coaching and was an avid Badger and Packer fan. He was fortunate enough to attend a Badger's Final Four game, along with two Rose Bowl Championships. Kevin was always up for a Badger road trip and had ongoing bets with his Iowa high school friends. He enjoyed spending that time with both his family and friends.
Kevin loved his Irish heritage, and he fulfilled his lifelong dream to visit Ireland in October of 2022 with two of his nephews, Kevin Ward and Sean O'Connell. Unfortunately, he had only been traveling a few days before suffering a significant brain bleed. He remained hospitalized in Waterford before returning to the United States for his continued care.
Kevin is survived by his wife, Julie, his children, Patrick (Tricia), Kara (Scott) Bunkelman, Brian, and Brady; grandchildren Madeline, Ava and Hayden Fullerton and Maguire Bunkelman. Further survived by sisters Marilyn McDermott and Ellen O'Connell, special in-law Mary O'Connell and many beloved nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents, sister Sheila Fullerton, brother James Fullerton, brothers-in-law Jack O'Connell and James McDermott and infant daughter Ella Lorine. Further loved and remembered by many special friends, colleagues, students, athletes and community members.
Visitation will be at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Menomonee Falls, from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 16th. A Mass of Christian burial will follow at 1:30 p.m. with Rev. Michael Brennan, O.Praem. officiating, Deacon Sandy Sites assisting. A procession to Sunnyside Cemetery in Lannon will follow for final burial. Family and friends are welcome to attend a light meal and fellowship at the Menomonee Falls Knights of Columbus at W164 N9161 Water Street, Menomonee Falls.
Thank you to all who were a part in Kevin's life. He had many wonderful friends and colleagues, dating back to Janesville, Dubuque, Platteville, and Menomonee Falls. You were all important to him, and he treasured his relationships, the funny stories, the hard times together, and the ability to always advocate for students. Kevin was honored to have worked with so many people of such talent and devotion, and his highest hope is that he has left this community a better place.
In lieu of flowers, the family has established two memorials for your consideration:
The Brian and Brady Fullerton Education Fund has been established through UW Credit Union to assist with funding their education. You may contribute directly at a credit union branch or via Venmo @FullertonBoysFund. Confirmation is 4288. If you have any questions please contact Julie.
The Kevin Fullerton Memorial Scholarship (The Fully Fund) has been established to assist at-risk students from Menomonee Falls with furthering their post-secondary education. You may contribute via Venmo @fullyfund. Please use "6566" to confirm. If you have any questions please contact Patrick.
Donations can also be made directly to the family. We ask that you please specify your desired memorial on the envelope or check.