The six individuals who perished in a Wisconsin house fire have been identified as a former church pastor, two of his daughters, and three of his granddaughters, according to authorities and church officials.

The fire occurred early Sunday morning in the village of Necedah.

The Juneau County Sheriff’s Office announced in a news release on 2nd July that the victims were 66-year-old Steven Witte, 38-year-old Charis Kuehl, 35-year-old Lydia Witte, and three children, aged two, five, and eight. 

In a joint statement, staff from Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Green Bay and Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod President Mark Schroeder shared that Steve Witte had served as a missionary in Thailand and as a pastor at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church from 2001 to 2009.

The Church put out a statement on their website which read in part: "The Epistle reading for this week contained Paul's words that he was perplexed, but not in despair.

"There are times when what God allows is perplexing. Members Steve and Mary Witte are on furlough and were holding a family get-together near Necedah. During the night a fire broke out and six members of the family died."

The statement continued: "Though "perplexed" a Christian never need be "in despair." God's thoughts are hidden, but He has promised that he works through tragedy to accomplish what will be revealed as part of his good and gracious love for His children. Please keep all who mourn in your prayers!"

The state fire marshal is assisting in investigating the fire, which the sheriff’s office stated appears to have been accidental.