International Women’s Day: Celebrating the Strong Women at Krause

In celebration of International Women’s Day this year, we’re taking the time to acknowledge some of our female funeral directors at Krause Funeral Home. We’ve profiled a few of our own strong women here at Krause to acknowledge this special holiday around the world. These talented and passionate women are dedicated to serving families throughout New Berlin, Brookfield, and Milwaukee with high-quality and compassionate care.

Brenda J. Buchanan

Brenda is a Funeral Director and Manager of Operations at Krause. She’s worked at Krause since November 1999. After receiving her associate degree in mortuary science from Milwaukee Area Technical College, she began an apprenticeship in May 1997. Brenda has always been dedicated to excellence and is a Dale Carnegie and Life Appreciation graduate and a Certified Celebrant.

Elaine K. Petry

Elaine has been a Funeral Director at Krause since 2003. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in English, and an associate degree in Funeral Service, and is also a Certified Celebrant. Elaine is the Location Manager at our New Berlin funeral home.

Lynn K. Stranberg

Lynn has been at Krause since 2006 and brings 30 years of experience to helping families throughout Milwaukee County.  She’s a Certified Life Celebrant and Licensed Cosmetologist who received an associate degree in mortuary science and cosmetology.

Sandra C. Knoff

Sandra started at Krause as an apprentice in 2012 and now serves as a Funeral Director and Location Manager at our Brookfield funeral home. She received her associate degree in Funeral Service from Milwaukee Area Technical College and is a Certified Celebrant and Equine Massage Therapist. In her spare time, she enjoys horseback riding and working on her farm.

Kathleen B. Pirkey

Kathleen B. Pirkey joined Krause in 2012 as a Funeral Director. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1988 and earned her associate degree in mortuary science from Milwaukee Area Technical College in 2004. She is a Certified Life Celebrant and has over two decades of experience in funeral service.

We are proud of each of these women’s daily contributions to our staff and devoted service to families throughout our area. If you’d like to learn more about our funeral or cremation services, contact our team today. We’re available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have.