Shivangi Sinha
Netflix’s ‘Making a Murderer’ delves into Steven Avery’s life, particularly his entanglements with the criminal justice system that have shaped much of his story. A crucial aspect of understanding Avery’s character lies in examining his early life, including his marriage to Lori Mathiesen. They had four children: Rachel, Jenny, William, and Steven Jr., and made a happy family for the brief period they got to stay together. Beyond his legal struggles, Avery’s relationships and family dynamics provide insight into his personal life as well.
Steven Avery’s Kids Never Got to Know Him as a Father
Steven Avery was just 20 years old when he married 19-year-old Lori Mathiesen, who already had a son, Jason, from a previous relationship. Despite this, Steven was deeply in love with Lori and wanted to build a life together. In 1982, the couple welcomed their first daughter, Rachel, but Steven was incarcerated for animal cruelty at the time, leaving him devastated at missing her birth. After his release, Steven was determined to be more present when their second daughter, Jenny, was born. The couple purchased a home together and worked hard to provide their children with a sense of normalcy and comfort.
In early 1985, Steven and Lori welcomed twin boys, William and Steven Jr., completing their family of six. The couple was overjoyed, feeling as though they had everything they had ever wished for. These were some of their happiest months together, with pride and hope gleaming in their eyes. However, their joy was short-lived; Steven was arrested in July 1985 in relation to the rape and attempted murder of Penny Beerntsen and spent the next 18 years in prison before being exonerated and released in 2003. During his incarceration, Lori eventually divorced him. In 1997, she tied the knot with Peter Dassey, the former husband of Steven’s sister.
Steven’s children have stayed out of the public eye and have rarely commented on their father’s wrongful conviction or subsequent murder conviction in the case of Teresa Halbach. In a rare 2016 interview, his sons stated that they had never truly known him as a father and refrained from offering any opinions on his cases. It appears they prefer to remain distant from the spotlight and the controversies surrounding their father.
Rachel Gallas is Successfully Balancing Her Professional and Personal Life
Rachel, now known as Rachel Gallas, resides in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, where she has built a fulfilling life alongside her husband, Pat Gallas. The couple married in 2005, and Rachel often expresses how she has found a true partner in Pat, someone who provides her with a sense of safety and unwavering support. In 2020, they achieved a significant milestone when they became homeowners, further solidifying their roots in the community. Together, they are raising two wonderful children. Rachel is a dedicated working professional. After completing high school, she began her career at Thermo Fisher Scientific, where she gained valuable experience.
Since 2010, she has been working as a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Operator at Tenneco-Manitowoc, a role that involves precision manufacturing and programming machinery to produce high-quality components. Her expertise and commitment to her work have earned her respect and recognition within her field. Beyond her professional achievements, Rachel is deeply involved in her community. Whether she’s organizing family gatherings, participating in local events, or lending a helping hand to neighbors in need, she is a vibrant and active presence.
Jenny Schleis is Working Hard as a Realtor Today
Jenny Schleis has always been driven by a desire to carve out a strong and independent career for herself. After graduating from Mishicot High School, she entered the insurance industry, where she worked tirelessly for 19 years, experiencing both successes and challenges along the way. Her determination and resilience eventually led her to pursue a new path in real estate. Today, she serves as a Realtor and Administrative Coordinator at Weichert Realtors CornerStone, where she has achieved remarkable success in a relatively short time.
Jenny’s journey in real estate was not without its hurdles—she began at the front desk, dedicating three years to learning the ins and outs of the business before earning her breakthrough. Her hard work and dedication have paid off. On the personal front, Jenny is a proud mother of two daughters who inspire her every day. In 2021, her life took a joyous turn when she found love again. On July 17, 2021, she married Kurt Schleis, who brought two sons from his previous relationship into their blended family. Together, they have built a warm and harmonious home in Mishicot, Wisconsin, where they cherish the joys of their combined family.
Steven Jr. and William Avery Are Proud Fathers and Family Men
Both William Avery and Steven Jr. Avery have chosen to settle in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, where they find comfort in being surrounded by their immediate family and the community they grew up in. Remaining in familiar surroundings has provided a sense of stability and support for the brothers. In an interview, they shared their gratitude for the warmth of the Manitowoc community, stating that they have always been treated with respect, regardless of their father’s past or their family name.
William pursued higher education after completing high school, attending the University of Wisconsin–Manitowoc. He is a proud father to his son, Logan, who is now about 15 years old. William has worked hard to provide a stable and loving home for Logan, co-parenting with his former partner, Cortney Noffke. Steven Jr., on the other hand, is happily married to Terra Devaney, and they are raising three children together. For both brothers, family is at the center of their lives. They value the life they have built for themselves, cherishing the bonds they share with their loved ones and the community that has embraced them.
Read More: Lori Mathiesen: Where is Steven Avery’s Ex-Wife Now?
