Juliana Marie “Julie” Densow

Juliana Marie “Julie” Densow (nee’ Kukanich), 85, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026. She was born on April 18, 1940 in Eagle River.

Juliana graduated from Eagle River Union High School in 1958 and began her professional career at Lyman Carter Law in her hometown. After marrying, she relocated to Rhinelander and dedicated 33 years of service to the State of Wisconsin Department of Corrections as the Northern Region Executive Secretary before retiring in 1995.

A woman of deep faith, Juliana was a devoted member of St. Peter the Fisherman Parish in Eagle River and also attended Nativity of Our Lord Church in Rhinelander. Her love of music found expression through playing the organ and singing during services and sharing her talent with her children.

Juliana embraced life with warmth and enthusiasm. She found joy in tending her flower gardens, gathering with family for picnics and holidays, and the annual Croatian Day Celebration; traveling cross country with her husband, especially wintering in Gulf Shores. Celebrating her Croatian heritage and its music held a special place in her heart. She remained active throughout, enjoying bowling, cross-country skiing, dancing and golf.

She is survived by her husband of 37 years, Donald Densow; daughter Christine Counter of Eagle River; brothers Joseph (Alice) of Ontonagon, Mich.; Julius (Betty) and Quentin (Patricia) Kukanich, also of Eagle River; granddaughter Brianna Counter of Fort Atkinson; two great granddaughters, many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and cousins.

Juliana was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Julia Kukanich; brothers Raymond and Leon Kukanich and son Bradley Counter.

Visitation will be held at Gaffney-Busha Funeral home on Tuesday, Feb.10 from 10 a.m. to noon, with a service to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America or Cure Alzheimer’s Fund in honor of Juliana’s enduring strength and compassion for others.

May Juliana’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

Arrangements by Gaffney-Busha Funeral Home, Eagle River. Online condolences may be expressed at gaffney-busha.com.