Chip Nunemaker, age 79, passed away peacefully at his home in Kenosha, Wisconsin, surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, December 11, 2025.
Chip was born on May 1, 1946, in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, to Elmer and Ruth (Cox) Nunemaker. He graduated from Oil City High School in 1964 and went on to attend Penn State University before transferring to Bemidji State University, where he graduated in 1968 with a degree in Tech. Ed, Woodworking, and Education. From 1984-1986, Chip continued his education and received his master’s degree in Classroom Guidance and Counseling from Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
In 1968, Chip began a career he was deeply passionate about. He dedicated 35 years to serving as a wood shop teacher at Westosha Central High School in Paddock Lake, Wisconsin. His classroom extended far beyond woodworking—Chip took pride in teaching life skills, proper manners, work ethic, and even how to correctly tie a tie. Never one to sit still, he also drove a school bus before and after school for twenty-two years. During the summers, Chip worked alongside fellow educators building homes through a company aptly named JJA (June, July, and August). From 1975 to 1985, he also shared his talents by teaching adult woodworking classes at Gateway Technical College.
On March 30, 1996, Chip married the love of his life, Peggy Watts, at the Carthage College Chapel. Together, they shared a deep love for the outdoors. Chip especially enjoyed feeding and watching birds, fish, ducks, and other wildlife. A man who was always working with his hands, Chip also found great joy in teaching others to work hard and take pride in their craftsmanship. He was known for his playful sense of humor, a good-natured prank, and an infectious laugh.
Above all, Chip loved his wife, his family, and especially his grandchildren. He took great joy in spending time with them—whether teaching them how to use tools, sharing stories and laughter, or simply being present and cheering them on. He was proud of each of them and found his greatest happiness in watching them grow. Chip also loved the Lord. He and Peggy were active members of Journey Church, where he participated in Freedom Seekers. In June 2020, Chip recommitted his life to God, a decision that held deep meaning for him and his family.
Chip is survived by his beloved wife, Peggy Nunemaker; his children, Kimberly Nunemaker, Tony (Gina) Taylor, and Don (Mandy) Taylor; his cherished grandchildren, Josh, Gabby, TJ, Shawn, Scott, Donis, Reese, Makenna, Ava, and Dylan; and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Turner, and his brothers-in-law, Donis Watts Jr., Bill Watts, Bob Taylor, and Kent Creamer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Ruth Nunemaker; his sisters, Liz, Ginny, and Fran; and his brothers-in-law, Jack, Roger, Skip, and Russ.
A Celebration of Chip’s Life will be held on his birthday, Friday, May 1, at Westosha Central High School from 5:00 pm-7:00 pm in the Commons Area.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be made to Horizon Hospice or the Alzheimer’s Association.
Casey Family Options Funerals & Cremations
3016 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
262-653-0667
www.caseyfamilyoptions.com
