In loving memory of

Loretta Jane Caris
May 16, 1984 - November 26, 2021

Loretta Jane Caris of Antigo passed away unexpectedly on Friday, November 26th at the age of 37 while visiting with loved ones in her home state of Florida.

Loretta was born on May 16th, 1984 in Gainesville, Fla., and was raised by her father, James "Jim" Brunger. She was a self-proclaimed "daddy's girl" and spoke fondly of him often with her closest friends.

She attended Bell High School in Florida where she met her future husband and graduated in 2002 before working as a CNA and moving to Cocoa Beach for several years.

In 2008, Loretta moved to Antigo, Wis. to establish the roots for what would eventually become Caris Family Farm with her then fiancé, Kenny Caris. They married in 2011 and shared two beautiful children, Kendall and Rylan, who were the light of her life. The couple later divorced.

Loretta enjoyed spending time at the lake with friends and family, cooking delicious meals for her loved ones, taking spontaneous adventures, and soaking up the sun whenever possible. She especially loved celebrating Christmas (sometimes decorating for it well before Thanksgiving...) and making it the most magical time of the year for her children. Nothing brought her more joy than simply being near them and seeing them happy.

Loretta worked as a city mail carrier for the United States Post Office in Antigo beginning in 2018 and was known for delivering a kindhearted smile to everyone she encountered on her routes.

In addition to Kenny and their children in Antigo, Loretta is survived by her father, James Brunger, of Florida, a brother, Michael Brunger, of Arkansas, a sister, Opal Brunger, of Florida, an aunt and uncle, Dan and Debbie Brunger, of Florida, an uncle, John Brunger, of Florida, a niece, Jolee Buchanan, of Florida, as well as best friends in both Wisconsin and Florida.

Loretta was an exceptionally beautiful person, both inside and out. Memories of her friendship, infectious laugh, and unforgettable smile will be treasured forever by those who knew her.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 10th at 6 p.m. at Bradley Funeral Home in Antigo. A visitation will take place Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. at the funeral home.

Tributes

JOHN and SUSAN BRUNGER wrote on Dec 4, 2021:

"Breaks my heart. God bless Loretta's sweet children. "

James Mawoussi Ridgeway wrote on Dec 3, 2021:

"I went to school with Loretta from Kindergarten through our senior year. She also rode my granny?s bus and as one of the last stops on her route, we spent many hours together laughing and singing on the school bus. She was a sweet person and a great friend and will surely be missed. "

Chris Gookin wrote on Dec 3, 2021:

"I taught Loretta at Bell Elementary. I will always remember her bright smile and wonderful attitude. My condolences and prayers go out to her entire family. May God bring you peace and comfort through sweet memories of Loretta. "