Cole Nathaniel Schoepp

Cole Nathaniel Schoepp, age 25, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2025, after an inspiring 11-year battle with brain cancer. Surrounded by loved ones, Cole's journey ended how he lived, courageously, with strength, passion, and a deep love for life.

Cole was Born on March 24th, 2000, in Madison, Wisconsin to Richard and Kathleen Schoepp Despite the challenges he faced, Cole defied expectations and lived life on his own terms. He graduated from high school and went on to earn a degree in archaeology from the University of Wisconsin, La-Crosse. His determination and resilience were matched only by his curiosity and love of learning.

Cole had a deep appreciation for music. He was a talented saxophonist whose love for playing brought joy to those around him. Whether sharing a melody, experimenting in the kitchen, or immersed in the outdoors, Cole poured himself into everything he did. He found peace and purpose in nature, especially while hunting and fishing, two of his greatest passions.

In 2015, Cole and our family traveled to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, where he took part in a clinical trial. We are deeply grateful to Dr. Giles Robinson, Nicole Ramirez, MSN NP, and the incredible staff at St. Jude for their unwavering love and support. Without them, we would not have had the precious time with Cole that we were blessed to share.

St. Jude has a saying: “Once a St. Jude kid, always a St. Jude kid.” That will forever hold true in our hearts.

Cole’s legacy is one of courage, determination, and unwavering love for the people and passions that shaped his life.

Cole was preceded in death by his grandparents, Fred and Joan Schoepp, John and Jeane Buggy and Aunt Sandy (Schoepp) Carroll.

He is survived by his parents Kathy and Rick. His brother Hunter (Remy) Schoepp. His Aunts and Uncles; Randy (Kara) Schoepp, Mindy (Ron) Sweeney, Cindy Schoepp, Jean Schoepp, Bruce (Kristin) Carroll. Jack (Mitzi) Buggy, Mike (Monika) Buggy, Pat (Kim) Buggy, Sue (Pat) Connors. Cousins; Matthew (Rebekah), Sean (Dora), Casey (R.J.), McKenna, Marissa (Isaac), Sarah, Kate, Sara (Shane), Kyle (Erin), Will, John, and Lily. God Parents Judy Stolper and Gene Haug. Cole was proud to be Paisley Weihert’s godfather, and he will forever watch over him.

The family is deeply grateful to Cole's best friend, Griff Weihert, whose unwavering presence by Cole’s side meant more than words can express. Griff supported Cole wholeheartedly, always seeing him for who he truly was and not defined by his illness.

A memorial service will be held on Friday June 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St John’s Catholic Church 209 South St. Waunakee. Friends may call at the church on Friday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services. Burial will take place at a later date at Resurrection Cemetery in Madison.

The family would also like to thank Agrace Hospice for the amazing care provided to Cole on his final journey.

In lieu of flowers the family will make a donation to St. Jude’s in Cole’s name.

We will miss Cole and love him always and forever.

Please share our memories of Cole by posting in his Guestbook.

Winn-Cress Funeral Home

5785 Hwy Q

Waunakee, WI