Karyn Jane Rittenhouse

Karyn Jane Rittenhouse, 53, passed peacefully on February 8, 2026, after a courageous and grace-filled battle with ovarian cancer. Born January 16, 1973, in Appleton, Wisconsin, Karyn lived a life marked by love, stubborn determination, humor, and deep devotion to those around her.

She was raised by her beloved parents, Jean and Tom Langenhuizen, who preceded her in death, and grew up surrounded by a family who made sure she never faced life alone. Her cousins, or chosen sisters, Melanie and Tricia, walked beside her through every season. Her husband, Rick, loved her deeply and was there for every step of life. Her daughter Morgan was her greatest pride. 

Karyn was a fighter. Not just against illness, but for people, for fairness and for what she believed in. She carried herself with integrity, always willing to admit when she was wrong, never letting pride get in the way of love. She faced the world with strength and tenderness, and she left a mark on everyone who knew her.

Above all, Karyn loved her family fiercely. She believed that love meant showing up. And she did, in every possible way. Karyn never wanted to be on the sidelines of the lives she loved.

She was a wife, a mother, a friend, a coworker and a light. She was someone who made people feel supported, seen, and encouraged to be fully themselves.

Though cancer took her far too soon, it could not take her spirit, her humor, or the love she transferred in the hearts of those she leaves behind. Those who loved Karyn can find peace in knowing she is now resting; she is free of pain and worry, and finally able to take the rest she deeply deserves.

Karyn is survived by her daughter, Morgan Rittenhouse; her husband, Rick Rittenhouse; her beloved dogs, Makai and Asher; her mother-in-law, Wanda Wieczorek; her sisters-in-law, Cindy (Don) Baker and Becky Rittenhouse; her nieces, Jessica (Drew) Bumber, Sarah Baker, Katie Baker, and Hannah Nestle; and her nephews, Joe Baker and Tanner (Becca) Nestle.

She is also survived by her cousins: Melanie (Jon) Bates, Tricia (Shawn) Pavlons, Gordy (Nicki) Vandenberg, Tim Vandenberg, Rebecca (Josh) Hanen, Katie (Jake) Tennessen, Emily (Chad) Allen, Ashley (Adam) Ebben, Melissa (Ben) Hargrove, Bill Langenhuizen, Jennifer (Jason) Green, Sarah (Lucas) Van Buskirk, Bill (Angela) Hanselman, Bob Hanselman, Melinda (Nick) Lamphere, Catherine Johannes, Adrian Magrigal, Tina (Alan) Grunwaldt, George (Amanda) Langenhuizen, Dawn (Adam) Guerts, Michael (Abby) Werner, and Michelle (Rob) Best.

She is preceded in death by loving parents, Tom and Jean Langenhuizen, Uncle Dennis Hooyman, Aunt Jane Hooyman, Uncle John Vandenberg, Uncle Lyle Langenhuizen, Aunt Nancy Langenhuizen, Cousins Kristin (Greg) Johnson, and Tim Langenhuizen.