Gemma Kay Boll-Horst

Gemma Kay Boll-Horst, age 15, of Sherwood, passed away on September 14, 2026. She was born in Oshkosh on August 16, 2011, to Kristin Boll.

Gemma had a tender heart and a deep love for animals from the time she was very young. Her first best friend was her cat, Finneus, and her childhood love of Hello Kitty eventually grew into a lifelong love of real cats. Animals brought her comfort and joy, and she cherished each of her beloved pets.

Gemma was a sophomore at Kaukauna High School, where she was a member of the orchestra and played the cello. She was known for her beautiful curly hair, genuine smile, and for her creativity and imagination. She enjoyed playing Roblox with her brothers, creating digital art, and drawing on her iPad. She also had a love of anime and enjoyed collecting My Hero Academia and Sanrio.

Some of Gemma’s happiest memories were made with her mom and brothers during the many travels they shared together. She loved swimming at the lake or ocean and especially enjoyed trips to Gulf Shores. She would walk along the beach searching for shells, and at night the family would venture out together to hunt for crabs.

Every year between Christmas and New Year’s, Gemma looked forward to the family’s winter trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where she enjoyed downhill skiing. She also loved trips to Door County and Chicago, and one of her favorite destinations was the Shedd Aquarium.

Trips to the Northwoods brought her another kind of happiness. During the past summer, one of Gemma’s highlights was driving a jet ski for the first time. She loved being out on the water and especially enjoyed tubing. These moments spent with family became memories that will be treasured forever.

Those who knew Gemma will remember most of all the enormous heart she carried. She accepted everyone exactly as they were, without judgment. She was supportive, compassionate, and deeply empathetic, always willing to be there for others. She had a way of making people feel seen, accepted, and cared for. Her kindness reached far beyond what she may have ever realized, and the love she gave so freely will continue to live on in those who knew her. As one person whose life was touched by Gemma said, “Our lives are better for the love we experienced that was Gemma”.

Gemma is survived by her mother, Kristin Boll; her brothers, Sam and Alex; her beloved cats, Auggie, Midnight, Mei-Mei, Melvin, Lottie; and her dog, Maple.

She is further survived by her grandparents, Barb Jens, David Boll (Norma); aunts and uncles Dave (Ellen) Boll, Laura Boll, Erica (Jason) Boll-Schwefel, Courtney (Jason) Koschnik, Kevin Feltes; cousins Kyle (Haley) Feltes, Hannah (Brandon and Alaïa) Feltes, Madison Koschnik, and Jack Koschnik; and many other relatives and friends who loved her dearly.

Gemma was preceded in death by her aunt, Ellen Boll.

Gemma’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all of the first responders and the Calumet County Sheriff’s Department for their care. A special thank you goes to Gemma’s best friend, Caeden Dudley, and Caeden’s family for their love, kindness, and unwavering support during this difficult time.

“A tender heart has a way of absorbing the sorrow around it, even when that sorrow was never theirs to carry.”

A private gathering to celebrate Gemma’s life will be held at a later date for family and close friends.

Memorial donations can be directed to a local Humane Society or a favorite animal charity in Gemma’s memory.

Gemma’s life was far too short, but the love she gave, the lives she touched, and the memories she created will remain forever. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

The family would like to thank Uecker-Witt Funeral Home for their care and support.

Services are in the care of Uecker-Witt Funeral Home, 524 North Park Avenue, Fond du Lac, WI, 54935. Additional information and guestbook can be found at ueckerwitt.com