Eli James Plagemann, age 9, of Kiel, was tragically taken from us too early on Friday, September 8,2017.

Eli was born on July 3, 2008, in Manitowoc, son of James & Heather (Hardtke) Plagemann.

He attended Zielanis Elementary School in Kiel, where he had just begun his 4th grade year. Eli enjoyed school where he made friends with everyone, even the teachers.

Eli had a thoughtful and compassionate heart, when he walked into a room, you couldn't help but smile. Eli was always happy and energetic which seemed to rub off on you. He had many joys in his life but his family was number one. Eli wouldn't miss out on the daily selfie with his sisters, being that protective older brother to Payton, or his cuddles with his big sister, April. He had a knack for the outdoors, he loved to fish and could even bait his own hook. Eli shared his first hunting season with his dad last year. They share the love of the outdoors, as well as the love for watching stock car races. Eli looked forward to his little fights with Uncle Mark, hanging out with Uncle Pat, video games with Uncle Austin, and spending time with all of his aunts, uncles, and cousins. Next to the joy he found in surrounding himself with family and friends, was the joy he had when eating a pickle or finishing off the pickle juice in an empty jar.

Eli is survived by his parents: James & Heather; two sisters: April Hardtke & Payton Plagemann; grandparents: Brenda & James Gorzelitz, Dave & Tina Hardtke, Jim & Kay Plagemann, and Cindy & Darrell Styczynski; great-grandparents: LeRoy Hibbard, Judy Hardtke, Bev Dunkelberger; aunts and uncles: Kayla (Kory) Pieper, Stephanie (Caleb) Madson, Austin Gorzelitz, Jennifer Morrissey, Alyssa Gilbert (Fiance, Kayne Laplante), Katie Gorzelitz, Brian Gorzelitz, Kristin Plagemann (Special Friend, Dan Dahm), Mark Plagemann, Mark Peirick (Special Friend, Nisa Johnson), Gregg Peirick (Special Friend, Melanie Behling); and eleven cousins with two on the way. He is further survived by his special uncles: Patrick Brocher and Eddie (Jessica) Williams, many great aunts and uncles, other relatives and many special friends.

He is preceded in death by his aunt: Amylynn Plagemann; cousin: Daisy Dahm, great-grandparents: Beverly Hibbard, Margaret Gorzelitz, Ferdinand Gorzelitz, George Hardtke, Stuart Klahn, Henry (Mabel) Plagemann, and Anthony (Joyce) Pernat.

Funeral services for Eli will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, September 14,2017 at Meiselwitz-Vollstedt Funeral Home (815 6th Street, Kiel) with Rev. Melinda Feller officiating. Cremation will take place following the service.

The family will greet relatives and friends at the funeral home on Wednesday, September 13, 2017 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The visitation will continue on Thursday from 9:00 AM until 10:45 AM.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Eli's name.

The family wishes to thank Shawano County EMTs, Hospital, and officers.