The De Pere community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Oceana “OC” Puetz, who passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, June 21, at just 14 years old. As family and friends continue to grieve the devastating loss, an outpouring of love, prayers, and financial support has emerged to help her parents during this incredibly difficult time.
Only weeks before her passing, OC celebrated a major milestone by graduating from eighth grade at De Pere Middle School. She had been looking forward to beginning high school in August, a new chapter filled with hopes, dreams, and opportunities that were tragically cut short.
Those who knew Oceana remember her as a bright, compassionate, and creative young girl whose unique personality brought joy to everyone around her. Affectionately known as “OC,” she had a deep love for art, animals, and expressing herself through her own distinctive style. Family and friends fondly recall her signature look of choker necklaces, fingerless gloves, and leg warmers, which she wore with confidence and authenticity.
OC also enjoyed spending her free time playing Minecraft and Fortnite, hunting for hidden treasures at rummage sales, and celebrating her favorite characters from Star Wars, Baby Yoda, and Spider-Man. Above all, she cherished the moments she shared with her brother, Vander, especially their time playing board games together and practicing archery.
Loved ones describe OC as someone who experienced life with extraordinary depth. She loved wholeheartedly, cared deeply for those around her, and possessed an unforgettable smile capable of brightening any room. Her humor, imagination, and generous spirit created lasting memories that will remain with family and friends forever.
In the wake of her passing, friends and family have organized a fundraising campaign to assist her parents, Ben and Kadia Puetz, with funeral expenses, household costs, and the unexpected financial burdens that often accompany such a tragic loss. Organizers have encouraged those wishing to help to use the family’s officially approved GoFundMe campaign or the verified Venmo account, @OCPuetz, while also reminding supporters to remain cautious of fraudulent donation accounts.
For those unable to contribute financially, the family has expressed heartfelt appreciation for prayers, messages of encouragement, and sharing the fundraiser with others. They say the overwhelming support from the community has brought comfort during one of the most difficult periods of their lives.
As the community continues to mourn, countless tributes have celebrated the remarkable impact OC made in her 14 years. Her kindness, creativity, gentle heart, and vibrant personality will continue to live on through the many lives she touched.
The family has also used this opportunity to encourage anyone struggling with thoughts of suicide or emotional distress to seek help from trusted loved ones or appropriate crisis resources, emphasizing the importance of reaching out during difficult times.
Oceana “OC” Puetz will be deeply missed by her parents, brother, extended family, classmates, teachers, and countless friends. Though her life was far too short, her legacy of love, creativity, and compassion will remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in eternal peace.