Agnes Cecilia (Konopka) Held of Germantown, Wisconsin, died on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at a ripe old age of 95. On July 23, 1930, Agnes was the 7th of 10 children born to John and Anna (Gumienny) Konopka. The family lived on a farm in Krakow, Wisconsin. After graduating Pulaski High School in 1947, Agnes moved to Milwaukee to seek work and was employed at Briggs & Stratton, where she met her future husband, John H. Held. They married on November 25, 1950, and raised five children in Brown Deer, Wisconsin.
Agnes was a good cook, and she kept a spotless home for her family. After first obtaining her driver’s license at age 40, Agnes also worked outside the home; at Wisconsin Gasket Company and then, most proudly, in the Domestic Department at Kohl’s Department Store at Bay Shore for over 20 years. She retired with a lifetime employee discount for her hard work and dedication. Customers would seek out her help and extend many compliments over the years.
One special way Agnes would share her love and generosity was to always bring Door Prizes to any kind of gathering of friends, family, or neighbors; which always added so much fun and has become a family tradition.
Agnes is survived by her five children Laura (Jim) Meyer, Linda (Bill) Johnson, Debra (Wally) Duquaine, John (Betty) Held, and James Held; eight grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren; one brother Joseph Konopka; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other dear relatives and friends.
At age 95, Agnes was preceded in death by her husband, John; brothers Anthony, Bernard, Aloysius, Frank, Casimir; sisters Mary Stock, 3-year-old Theresa, and Helen La Plante; many brother and sister in-laws, and other loved relatives.
The family would like to thank Dr. Jeffrey Maehl for the many years of care provided for our mother. We also thank NewCastle Rehab and Kathy’s Hospice for their wonderful care in the last days.
As per Aggie’s wishes, a private family graveside service is planned for her burial.
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