Calen Rye
Caylen Elizabeth (Steppe) Rye Beloved Daughter, Sister, and Friend 1988 – 2025
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Caylen Elizabeth (Steppe) Rye, who left this world far too soon in September 2025. Caylen brought light, laughter, and love to everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Caylen was a vibrant soul—she was curious, compassionate, and endlessly creative. Her presence was magnetic, her smile unforgettable, her humor dark and quirky, and her heart open to all. Whether she was creating dynamic art, making coffee for you, cooking for others, volunteering her time, or simply listening with genuine care, Caylen had a gift for making others feel safe, seen and valued, and bringing her family closer together.
Her coworkers admired her integrity and warmth, and her friends cherished her loyalty and wit. Caylen’s love for animals, nature, music, and spontaneous road trips made every moment with her feel like an adventure.
She is survived by her loving family, who will carry her memory forward with grace: her fiancé – Nick, mom, Anna and siblings Aaron, Marcus, Alex, and Ellia, and dad Jeff (Barb) and siblings – Alec, Tessa, Lara, her extended family, and countless friends whose lives she touched. Though her time with us was brief, Caylen’s impact was immeasurable.
A celebration of Caylen’s life will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Church and Chapel Funeral Home 1875 N. Calhoun Road, Brookfield, WI 53005, where stories, laughter, and tears will honor the beautiful legacy she leaves behind. Visitation will start at 9 AM and a service will be held at 11:00 AM. An interment will follow at Highland Memorial Park Cemetery located at 14875 W Greenfield Ave, New Berlin, WI 53151 at noon.
A livestream will be available beginning at 9:00 am via the following link: https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTc1NzYxNjgwMzM4MDEyMCZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==
As well, you are welcome to return after the service and see a recording of the live stream for 90 days following the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission, reflecting Caylen’s lifelong dedication to kindness to animals and community.