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Amend, Dorothy A.
MADISON
Dorothy A. Amend, age 80, of Madison, passed away on Sunday, Aug. 21, 2022, at UW Hospital. She was born on March 1, 1942, in Portage, Wis., the daughter of Harold and Clara (Esser) Behling.
Dorothy graduated from Portage High School in 1960. She went on to work as an accounting clerk for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, retiring in 1999.
Dorothy was a very active volunteer with the American Red Cross for many years. She loved doing puzzles and always had a few she was working on. Dorothy was very active in her grandchildren’s lives, rarely missing a special or sporting event. She enjoyed traveling to visit family and friends. She was a very caring and practical person who touched many people’s lives.
Dorothy is survived by her children, Timothy (Pamela) Amend, Theresa (Joseph) Gervasi and Tracey Amend; seven grandchildren, Stephanie (Brandon) Hollander, Shaun (Jennifer) Amend, Lindsey (Jeff) Lindberg, Nathan Amend, Danielle (Kevin) Garceau, Nicole (Kyle) Schultz and Courtney Amend; six great-grandchildren, Noah Hollander, Hanna Amend, Reagan Amend, Wyatt McIntyre, JJ Lindberg and Avery Lindberg; two sisters, Mary (Dave) Mellem and Jean Calkins; sister-in-law, Grace Hinzman; and many amazing close friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; infant son, George Amend; brother, Russell Behling; many sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law.
Memorials may be made to the American Red Cross or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Blasdel, Mary L.
MADISON
Mary L. Blasdel, age 86, passed away on Friday, June 10, 2022, at Four Winds Manor in Verona, WI. She was born on October 25, 1935, in the Town of Eden in Iowa County, the daughter of William and Vera (Lindauer) Trankle. Mary graduated from Cobb High School in 1953. On January 13, 1954, she was united in marriage to Delbert Blasdel at the Cobb United Methodist Church. Mary worked for the Wisconsin DNR for many years. She was a member of the Bethany United Methodist Church in Madison and sang in the choir. Mary also volunteered with RSVP of Dane County. In her younger years, Mary played catcher on Verona area softball teams.
She enjoyed traveling and camping with her family, playing cards with friends, bluegrass music, and knitting. Mary loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren immensely; they were an important part of her life. She enjoyed so much hearing about what was going on in each of their lives and seeing photos and videos and getting to occasionally facetime with them. Mary was an avid Wisconsin sports fan; she especially loved cheering on her beloved Green Bay Packers. Delbert and Mary were longtime Green Bay Packer season ticket holders, and even attended Super Bowl XXXI.
Mary is survived by her children, Robert (Shari) Blasdel, Deborah (Kevin Dalton) Blasdel, and Carol Larson; grandchildren, Amanda (Todd) Smith, Tyler (Katelynn) Blasdel, Kirk (Jamie) Blasdel, Jesse (Pam) Dalton, Sonya Dalton, Naomi (Geoff) Bird, and Justin Larson; and great-grandchildren, Lanie, Winnie, Adaline, Nolan, Lincoln, Raelyn, Chip, and Ephraim. She is further survived by her sister Lynn (Joe Ihm) Halverson, brother, Roger (Jill) Trankle, sister-in-law, Evelyn Mueller, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends Ellen and Lloyd Hornbacher and Jackie Zebley.
Her sister Kate Spurley recently passed away 9 days after Mary’s death.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Delbert, sisters Carol Andrew, Gen Andrew, and Phyllis Addison, and sister-in-law Norma Schweitzer.
Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, July 8, 2022, followed by a luncheon at Bethany United Methodist Church, 3910 Mineral Point Road, Madison, WI. The Pastor Brad Mather will officiate.
Visitation will be held Friday from 10:00 am until time of service at the church.
The family would like to thank the staff at St. Mary’s Care Center, Noel Manor, Four Winds Manor, and Agrace Hospicecare for taking good care of Mom over the past three years.
The Becker-Beal Funeral Home of Belleville is assisting the family.
Memorials may be given to Bethany United Methodist Church or Agrace Hospicecare.
Burney, Charles "Chuck"
RED LAKE
Charles Burney, 74, passed away unexpectedly on June 3, 2022. He was born to Claude and Dorothea Burney in Ilion, NY. He received a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering and a master's degree in Water Resource Management.
In 1971 he joined the Peace Corps and spent two years in Nairobi, Kenya where he met his wife, Sharyn who he married in 1974. He cherished his Peace Corp experience working on projects to supply clean drinking water. He spent his career working for the Wisconsin DNR in Water Resource Management and Land Management.
He loved being a dad and shared his love of the outdoors with camping trips and fishing. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren, Hazel and Charlie, and playing hide and seek or monster.
He enjoyed fishing, bowling, and golfing with his many friends and made them laugh with his sense of humor. Another passion was fishing on the lake at his cabin in Northern Wisconsin. He was always willing to help friends with computer problems and handy-man tasks (except plumbing).
He is survived by his wife, Sharyn; daughter, Sarah Burney; son, David Burney; daughter-in-law, Laura Burney; grandchildren: Hazel and Charlie Burney; sisters: Sandra Burney, Patricia Burney (Tom Parkhurst) and Sharon Eckler (Butch); niece, Mary Hardee (Jamie); children: Kaitlyn and Sean; nephew, Michael Eckler (Stacey); children: Vincent and Hanna.
He was preceded in death by his parents: Claude and Dorothea; and brother-in-law, Butch Eckler.
A celebration of life will be held at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, we suggest making a donation to the Salvation Army or the Second Harvest Food Pantry.
Didier, Paul
MIDDELTON
Paul Pierre Didier, died peacefully at home on June 15, 2022, surrounded by his five daughters, at the age of 85.
Paul was born on September 20, 1936, in Milwaukee, WI. He graduated from Marquette High School in 1954, and earned an Engineering Degree from Marquette University in 1958. Paul married Bonnie Jean Stott on September 6, 1958, after being introduced by friends on a blind date. They were married for 61-years.
Paul began his career in 1958 as a Civil Engineer for the City of Milwaukee, and then in 1967 took a position at the Department of Natural Resources in Madison. Paul retired from the DNR in 1998 after 31-years of service. Throughout his life, he and Bonnie enjoyed spending summers at Camp Charles Allis with friends and family and captaining his pontoon boat on Lake Beulah in East Troy, WI. He derived great pleasure in being with his 13 grandchildren and following their interests and accomplishments. He was affectionately known as Bompa or 'Bomps'. Throughout his life, he loved to ride his bike, and in the 1980s ran numerous marathons. One thing he was especially proud of was his family's 1926 Lincoln sedan touring car.
Paul was a devout Catholic and a dutiful servant to the Church as an Usher and Volunteer. He also volunteered many years as a delivery driver for the local Meals on Wheels. Paul served on many committees and boards such as his local condominium board of directors, Camp Charles Allis Association, Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials, and the Lake Beulah Protective & Improvement Association.
Paul is survived by his five daughters: Mary Didier Kuypers (John) of Madison, Susan Didier Struve (Matthew) of Evanston, IL, Sara Didier Brechbill (Shawn) of San Clemente, CA, Jane Didier Wegner (Steve) of Madison and Amy Didier Johnson (Erik) of Middleton. Paul was the loving and adoring grandfather of 13 grandchildren: Genna Didier Jankowski (Alec), Taylor John Kuypers, Paige Elisabeth Schaeffer (Evan), Juliana Evelyn Struve (fiance Andrew Koutsoftas), Sarah Grace Kuypers, Lukas Merrill Brechbill, Natalie Elizabeth Struve, Lily Kathleen Brechbill, Sophia Adeline Wegner, Payton Quinn Johnson, Olivia Caroline Wegner, Avery Grace Johnson and Katharine Eleanor Struve; and one great-grandchild, Hattie James Jankowski.
Paul is preceded in death by his devoted and loving wife, Bonnie Jean (Stott) and son, Michael Paul Didier.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 22, 2022, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 602 Everglade Dr. Madison, WI, officiated by Fr. Bart Timmerman. Visitation will be held at the church prior to the Mass 9:30 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. A luncheon reception will follow Mass at the church. A private family burial will be held at Resurrection Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Camp Charles Allis Assoc., W2035 Beulah Heights Rd, East Troy, WI 53120, Agrace.org or the charity of your choice.
Paul's family would like to extend a special thank you to the exceptional care provided by Jeri and her team at NaturalCareNursing.com and Agrace Hospice.
Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com.
Enerson, Claire Richard "Dick"
WESTFIELD, IN
Claire Richard "Dick" Enerson, age 90, of Westfield, IN, passed away at home on July 3, 2022. He was born May 14, 1932 in Eau Claire, WI, to Claire T. and Mary Velma (Finnegan) Enerson. Claire's parents farmed in North Branch, WI, and he attended North Branch school, a one-room school house, until he entered high school. He graduated from Lincoln High School in Alma Center, Class of 1950. In high school, Claire was active in music, where he played saxophone in the band. In state competition, he won first place in a sax solo. At the age 16, he played professionally in a polka band.
Claire joined the Navy in 1950 and after basic training, entered the Naval School of Music in Anacostia, MD. In 1951 he was stationed in Sasebo, Japan and was a member of the Navy Band for the Com 7 Fleet under Admiral Jocko Clark where he played saxophone and clarinet. The band would play at the EM Club for a month and then spend a month on the bomb line in North Korea. They were known as the best band in the Pacific. He spent two and one-half years in the Pacific.
Claire married Carol (Moore) Enerson on August 28, 1954. He graduated with a forestry degree from Michigan Tech in 1958. He worked with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for over 30 years and started his career as the forest manager of the Flambeau River State Forest. From there, he transferred to Dodgeville where he served as the Park Manager at Governor Dodge State Park before being promoted to area director where he managed and oversaw all natural resources functions in five counties in southwestern Wisconsin.
Claire was a life-long poet who enjoyed writing and sharing his poetry with family and friends. He was a certified hypnotherapist for over 20 years.
Claire and Carol retired in 1987 to Mesa, AZ, and lived there until Carol's passing in 2016. They enjoyed life in the desert and spent many summers traveling to Wisconsin to spend time with family and friends. In 2016, Claire moved to Westfield, IN, where he spent the last few years of his life.
Claire is survived by sons: Craig (Sherry) of Chassel, MI, Bruce (Deb) Enerson of Algonquin, IL; his daughter-in-law, Rose; his grandchildren: Jacob (Ashley) Enerson, Matt (Michelle) Enerson and Nicole (JT) Engstrom; his sister, Mary Jo (Gene) Stoutenburg of Salem, OR; as well as two great-grandchildren: William and Caellum; along with many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carol, his parents, and his brother, Ken Enerson. At Claire's request, no funeral or memorial service is immediately planned.
Germain, Clifford
MADISON
Clifford E. Germain of Madison, age 99, died peacefully at home on September 26, 2022. He was born on September 14, 1923, in Merrill, WI to Elizabeth (Sense) and Glen Germain.
Cliff served in the U.S. army in Germany and France during WWII as a radio technician. After returning to the states he graduated from UW-Madison in 1949 with a BS in Zoology where his most influential professors were Aldo Leopold and John Curtis. Cliff's education, along with his childhood of fishing and hunting in northern Wisconsin, secured his interest in nature and conservation.
Cliff began his career with the Wisconsin Conservation Department (WCD), purchasing acres of wetlands on behalf of the state, including some that would become State Wildlife Areas. Later he became the first ecologist hired by the WCD as staff person for the Preservation of Scientific Areas and then joined the DNR for the remainder of his career as Scientific Areas Program ecologist, partnering with The Nature Conservancy to protect habitat for the state of Wisconsin. Recognized accomplishments include Cliff's induction into the Wisconsin Conservation Hall of Fame in 2014, the establishment of the Cliff Germain award for Excellence in Community-Based Restoration by the Madison Audubon Society in 2008, the dedication of the Germain Hemlocks State Natural Area by the DNR in 2002, and the first ever George B. Fell Award from the Natural Areas Association as the founding member and the driving force for the first state natural areas program in the U.S. in 1987.
Cliff had an eclectic set of interests including growing Sungold tomatoes and maintaining his natural front yard, educating people about climate change, cheering on the Badgers, Packers and the Brewers, playing video poker, traveling the world with his wife Colleen, and spending winters in Sierra Vista, AZ where he led guided hikes and was a Friend of the San Pedro River. Cliff took up golf in his 40s, getting 2 holes in one and golfing with his retired golf league until he was 92 years old. Of course Cliff's biggest joy was being in nature. His favorite spots were the UW-Madison Arboretum, Parfrey's Glen, and the numerous state natural areas he helped to preserve.
Cliff is survived by his family Al Germain (Julie Waldman), Glenn Germain (Maria-Rosa), Chris Schlichenmaier (Jerry), Jhon Koppa (Ivonne Suryana) Joel Koppa, Kathi Koppa (David Inman, daughter Jane Lowy) and grandchildren Sven Hansen (Dawn), Eric Hansen, Carl Germain, Nora Germain, Lily Wilson, Gabriel Weldeslassie, and great grandchildren Heather, Kirsten (Taylor DiSalvo), and Morgan Hansen and great great grandchild Estelle DiSalvo. Cliff maintained close contact with his Minocqua-based family Dee Smedberg, Dave and Jeff (Holly) Hanson, and Erica Schumacher and family and enjoyed their cookies and artwork.
Cliff was preceded in death by his siblings Douglas, Margie, and Stanley, his musically-accomplished first wife Patricia Germain, his second wife and life companion of many happy years Colleen Germain, and children Joan and Michael Koppa.
Cliff was fortunate to have amazing neighbors on "the circle" for the past 50+ years and was particularly close to the Monts and to Bill and Carole. The family would like to thank his colleagues at the DNR, most recently Thomas Meyer, and the team at Agrace - particularly Rachel – as well as the amazing Dr. Datallo, Cliff's caregiver Laura, and, Kelly, his most dedicated and loving caretaker without whom he could not have stayed at home this past year.
There will be a celebration of Cliff's life on Thursday, October 20 from 6:30pm-8:30pm at the Aldo Leopold Nature Center, 330 Femrite Dr, Monona, WI. Memories shared about Cliff are welcomed.
Donations in remembrance of Cliff can be made to The Nature Conservancy WI Chapter, The Audubon Society, and Planned Parenthood. Another way to honor Cliff is to read one of his favorite books, "A Sand County Almanac," by Aldo Leopold.
Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com
Higgs, Charles Edward
FORT COLLINS, CO
Charlie passed away peacefully, at home, surrounded by his loved ones.
Charlie was born March 1 1940 in Eads TN to Othal and Nina Higgs. He graduated from Elston Senior High School, Michigan City, IN in 1958.
Charlie married his high school sweetheart Ann K Jarvis on June 12, 1959 in Michigan City IN and they celebrated their 60 year anniversary with family and friends in 2019.
Charlie and Ann welcomed 3 daughters to their loving family; Susan, Linda and Beth.
He was awarded a full scholarship for basketball to the University of Michigan. This allowed him to obtain a degree in his chosen field of Forestry. He started his 36 year career with the WI Dept of Natural Resources in 1962 culminating with his final position of WI State Forester from 1990-1998. During his career, he and Ann were very fortunate to be able to travel the country and meet many friends that shared his love of nature and the outdoors.
After retirement, Charlie and Ann moved to Colorado. He was a member of the Loveland Fishing Club where he loved recruiting new members. He was honored to receive the 2019 Toughest Angler award in acknowledgment of his fortitude and great attitude during his long battle with cancer. He was awarded the 2021 Colorado Master Angler of the Year award for a 34 inch channel cat he caught with a night crawler on 6 pound test line.
Charlie was a member of Our Saviors Lutheran Church, Fort Collins. The family wishes to thank the Pastors and church members for their loving support.
He was preceded in death by his wife Ann in 2020, his parents, 2 brothers; Joe and Richard and other extended family members.
Charlie is survived by his daughters,Susan Higgs, Linda and Joe Moran, Beth Higgs and Ed Hawkins. Grandchildren, Meghan (Brody) and Danielle, Erin (Wesley) and Tyler. Brothers Cecil Higgs (Jutta) and Jim and Janet Higgs and extended family and friends.
Larson, Randy R.
MADISON
Randy R. Larson, age 64, of Wild Rose, formerly of Auburndale, WI was called home by his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on November 20, 2022 at ThedaCare Medical Center in New London with his loving family at his side.
Randy was born in Marshfield, WI on June 28, 1958, the only son of Lory Larson and Coral Larson Paul. He is divorced from Jean Larson, the mother of his daughter. He is survived by his loving mother Coral Paul of Auburndale; his daughter Casey Rae Larson (Michael Clausing) of Wild Rose; his adorable grandson Logan (Buckaroo) Clausing of Wild Rose; and his special and dear friend Karen Kieper. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends who will truly miss him. He was preceded in death by his father Lory Larson; his step-father Lee Paul; grandparents Ray and Myrtle Teska, Myron and Linda Larson; and other close family and friends.
Randy began his career in 1981 as an LTE at the Spooner Fish Hatchery. He became a permanent employee as a Natural Resources Assistant in the fisheries in 1985 at the Black River Falls District Headquarters working with the coolwater fish. He was promoted in 1986 to the Lake Mills Fish Hatchery where he worked with both cold and coolwater fish. In 1988 he became a Hatchery Supervisor at the Wild Rose Fish Hatchery which is the State's Largest coldwater hatchery and only 1 of 2 hatcheries that raise both cold and coolwater fish. Randy managed the hatchery's WPDES permit for 28 years to ensure all its discharges from numerous outfalls to a class A trout stream met permit requirements. He led a spawning crew for Great Lakes spotted musky on Long Lake (Waushara County) for 11 years helping in restoring the species to Green Bay and the Great Lakes. He enjoyed giving slide shows about the hatchery to as many as 16 elementary school groups per year for 20 years. As he supervised staff, Randy gave them the support and tools necessary to meet fish production goals and quotas.
Randy enjoyed many hobbies, his favorites were gardening, working all kinds perennials and beautifying his yard. He was also an avid Wisconsin Sports Fan and loved supporting the Wild Cats. He also loved hunting, fishing and putting models together. Every Christmas he made personal ornaments for family.
A Memorial Service for Randy will be on Saturday, December 10, 2022 at 11:00 AM at St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Wild Rose, WI. Reverend Brian Roehrborn will officiate. A visitation will be held on Saturday morning from 10:00 – 11:00 AM at the church. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Should relatives and friends wish to honor Randy's memory with a gift, you may do so by sending them to Casey Larson, 218 Grant Avenue, Wild Rose WI 54984. Money will be used for his grandson Logan's college education fund.
The Holly Funeral Home of Wild Rose is assisting the family with arrangements.
McCown, Wendy Murl
MADISON
Wendy Murl McCown passed away peacefully on Saturday, Aug. 13, 2022, surrounded by family and friends at Agrace HospiceCare. She had lived gracefully and with much patience with ALS for three years. Wendy was born on April 20, 1952, in Bay Shore, N.Y. She was 70 years old.
Wendy is survived by her husband, Randall; son, Julian McCown-Berndt; beloved dog, Gracie; sisters, Holly Lewitas and Bonnie (Thomas) Barnes; nieces, Cindy, Laura, Sarah and Sandra; nephew, Nathan; and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Wilmur and Kathryn McCown; and parents-in-law, Herbert and Julia Berndt.
Wendy was well loved by family, friends and co-workers at DNR.
A celebration of Wendy’s life will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be made at
www.gundersonfh.com
Mertig, Richard "Dick"
BLACK RIVER FALLS
Richard Alan Mertig age 79 of Black River Falls, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on June 13th, 2022. He was born on March 20th, 1943 in Milwaukee, WI to Richard August and Laura Fredricka Mertig. He married Kathleen Ann Drmolka on August 24th 1968, in Wild Rose, WI.
In 1945, he moved to Hayward, WI with his parents and graduated from Hayward High School in 1961. He received his B.S. degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in January 1966, with majors in biology and resource management.
Richard was employed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources from 1966 to 1998, and was stationed in Wild Rose, Horicon, and Black River Falls. Furthermore, Richard was one of the earliest employees of The Bureau of Real Estate, created in 1973. He continued on and retired in 1998 as a Western Region Real Estate Specialist.
In addition to his civilian life, Richard served in the Wisconsin Army National Guard from 1966 to 1972. He was stationed in Waupaca, Stevens Point, Neillsville, and Black River Falls. He provided support in the Milwaukee Race Riots and Madison Anti-War Riots during 1967.
Through continued faithfulness to his community, Richard served three terms (nine years) on the Black River Falls City Council, and three years on the Black River Falls Regional Police Commission. He was also a member of the Black River Falls Jaycees for five years and received the Key Man Award in 1972. His presence extended further into the Black River Falls Lions Club for forty-five years, where he was president from 1984 to 1985, program chairman for twenty years, and the recipient of the Melven Jones Award in 2011.
After retirement from the Wisconsin D.N.R., his time was spent attending car shows throughout the Midwest, and painting house interiors. He also worked for the Jackson County Circuit Court as a small claim's mediator, was a member of the State Lawyer Regulation Committee, and was a Court Appointed Personal Representative for several contested estates.
Richard enjoyed Canadian fishing trips with his friends, traveling with his family, car shows, and gardening. After Lions Club meetings, you would often find him rehashing discussions at the Skyline Golf Course Bar. On the other hand, it was acknowledged that he disliked large crowds, mean people, and the occasional discussion of radical self-serving politics.
Survived by wife Kathy, children Laura Mertig (Gene Arentz) of Onalaska, WI; Jeffrey Mertig of Chippewa Falls, WI; and Daniel Mertig (Tina Proeber) of Savannah, Georgia; grandchildren Adam and Owen Pfaff, Dillon and Dustin Arentz, Jillian and Jayton Mertig, and Lily and Jack Mertig. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Laura.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday June 24th from 2pm-4pm at the Skyline Golf Course (612 N. 11thStreet Black River Falls). In Lieu of Flowers, memorials are preferably directed to Friends of the Black River, Black River Falls Lions Club, PBS TV and radio, and Kathy's House (9101 West Doyne Ave Milwaukee, WI 53226).
Messling, Marlene Beth
DEERFIELD
Marlene Beth Anderson was born on a farm in Mound Valley near Middlebury Church outside Platteville, Wis., to Gladys Lenore Klosterman and William Henry Anderson, the seventh of eight children.
Marlene graduated from Doudna Laboratory School and following graduation from Platteville High School, earned a Bachelor of Arts, Arts and Sciences and a Masters of Arts degree in Teaching, from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.
Marlene met LaRoy Messling between degrees and they married in 1972. Together they built a beautiful home and park landscape in Deerfield, Wis., which was a source of joy and entertainment. Together they gardened, birdwatched, explored and were best friends for 50 years, and were adored by many cats.
Marlene worked for the early Social Security Administration doing intake processing. She briefly worked for the McDonald's Madison office. The majority of her professional career was spent at the Bureau of Finance, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
Marlene loved life and was loved in return. She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, aunt, and friend. Marlene is survived by her husband, LaRoy Messling; siblings, Wilma Anderson, Marshall Anderson (Bernetta) and Laurel Anderson (Pat); along with several generations of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by sisters, Moya Thomas and Loa Mueller Nelson; and brothers, Carroll and Elwood Anderson.
Marlene was inspired by and inspired others as a member of the Madison Area Doll Club, Mad City Quilt Guild, Monona Senior Center Monday Morning Group, and the Fort Atkinson Piecemakers Guild. She developed her own style, excelling at fabric art, making beautiful jackets, hats, wall-hangings, bags and quilts. She often embellished her works with found materials. She was considered the "yoyo queen" of fabric. She created whimsical and artistic awards and prizes. Many handmade Christmas cards, quilts, and spontaneous gifts were given. She enjoyed making people happy throughout her full, creative, and interesting life.
Marlene chose cremation and will be buried at County Line Cemetery, outside Platteville. A Celebration of Life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.
Online condolences may be made:
Morehouse, David C.
MADISON
David C. Morehouse passed away at home on June 14, 2022, at the age of 75. David was born on February 9, 1947, in Madison, WI. He was the son of Albert J. and Virginia K. (Lorenz) Morehouse.
He was a graduate of Madison East High School class of 1965. He entered the United State Marine Corps in October 1966 and served two tours of duty in Vietnam, the first during the Tet Offensive. Over his lifetime David did many things, he was a son, brother, father, Marine, electrician, outdoorsman, artist, gardener, and a veteran. He always believed that his greatest professional accomplishments were his work on the restoration of the Wisconsin State Capital and with the National Park Service in Washington DC.
In October 1986, he married Alice Schmitz (Wurgler). He is survived by his wife, his son, Nicholas (Shelly) Morehouse; a grandson, Silas Morehouse and Jacob his Chocolate Lab. He is further survived by his siblings: Jeanne (Jack) Sexton, Tari (George) Brewe, Joe, and John (Jeana) Morehouse and their families and by his aunt Sister Anne Morehouse. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Daniel.
A small family remembrance will be held in honor of David after cremation. Charitable donations in David’s memory can be made to Agrace Hospice Care: 5395 Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711 or
Agrace.org/Donate
Rappe, Diane Carol
MADISON
Diane Carol Rappe, age 79, of Madison, passed away on Sunday, June 26, 2022, at St. Mary's Hospital. She was born on Sept. 20, 1942, in Madison, the daughter of Frederick and Vivian (Bennett) Streber.
Diane graduated from Madison East High School in 1960. She married Jack Rappe on Jan. 27, 1962, in Madison. Jack and Diane recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in Florida this year.
After high school Diane graduated from nurses training and worked at Monona Grove Clinic for 10 years as an LPN. Then she worked for the State of Wisconsin and retired from the DNR.
Diane was a member of Al-Anon and Bashford United Methodist Church. She enjoyed shopping, traveling, and having lunch with the girls. Diane loved spending time at her second home in Florida during the winter months.
Diane is survived by her husband, Jack; sons, Jay Rappe and Jeffrey (Karen) Rappe; brother, Thomas (Diane) Streber; and many nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by two separate anencephalic sons who died at birth; and her parents.
A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, July 6, 2022. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Wednesday.
Memorials may be gifted in Diane's name to Monona Serenity Group.
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Ross, Thomas A.
MENASHA
Thomas A. Ross passed away peacefully January 9th, 2022, with his wife at his side.
He was born in Rhinelander, WI to Angeline Elizabeth Bertha Anderson Gilley and Frank Thomas Gilley. He was later adopted by his stepfather, Donald Ross.
Tom graduated from Rhinelander High School in 1964 and from DeVry Tech of Chicago with a degree in Radio & TV Repair. He earned his FCC First Class Radiotelegraph License, then enlisted in the Army Signal Corps serving an MP post near the Korean DMZ.
He is survived by his wife, Jolene; daughters: Kristi (Brian Clausen) Ross-Clausen of Appleton and Ruth (Mike) Tress of Wausau; grandchildren: Alexander Clausen (fiancé' Amalie Ludwig) of Appleton, Carl Bartaszewicz of Wausau; Jessica (Jake Kalmon) Bartaszewicz of Medford and great-grandsons Ryker and Marek Kalmon.
Burial will be in Forest Home Cemetery, Rhinelander, in the spring.
The family would like to thank Oak Park place staff and Christina and Danielle from Moments Hospice for their care and concern for Tom and his family.
Stahl, Harvey Albert
SISTER BAY
Harvey Albert Stahl, 88, of Sister Bay, passed away on Saturday, November 26, 2022 at Door County Medical Center in Sturgeon Bay.
He was born December 6, 1933 in Ephraim, son of the late Joseph and Elsie (Hoefert) Stahl. After graduating from Gibraltar High School with the Class of 1952, he enlisted in the United States Navy. Harvey served an eight month tour in Japan as an aircraft captain before his honorable discharge in 1956. He returned to Door County and worked for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources as a superintendent for 32 years, serving at Potawatomi State Park and Newport State Park. Harvey was a volunteer firefighter for the Sister Bay Liberty Grove Fire Department for 25 years, retiring as Assistant Chief in 1994 He was also a 4-H Club Leader and a woodcarving instructor for The Clearing, Elderhostel, and Sievers School of Fine Arts. He was a member of Shepherd of the Bay Lutheran Church in Ellison Bay. Harvey was united in marriage with Rita Mary Weber on November 16, 1963 at Bethany Lutheran Church in Ephraim. Together, they were blessed with 57 years of marriage until she preceded him in death on November 21, 2020. He enjoyed woodcarving, spending time outdoors, and cross-country skiing. Harvey was proud of his Door County roots and took great pride in being a lifelong neighbor and friend to many in his community.
Harvey will be missed by children, Ruth Stahl of Peachtree City, GA, Valerie (David) Edwards of Verona, WI, and Brian (Marcy) Stahl of Wausau, WI; brother, Danny Stahl; sister-in-law, Jean Stahl; and dear friends, Roger and Rudy Bahlert.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Elsie Stahl; wife, Rita Stahl; brothers, Ervin (Lois), Joseph (Patricia), and David Stahl; and brother-in-law. Robert (Joyce) Weber.
A memorial service to honor Harvey and Rita will be held in April of 2023.
Memorials may be given in his honor for Shepherd of the Bay Lutheran Church or Friends of Wisconsin State Parks.
Casperson Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Sister Bay is assisting the Stahl family.
Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Harvey may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.caspersonfuneralhome.com
Woehler, Eugene E.
MADISON
Eugene E. Woehler, aged 99, passed away September 27, 2022 at his home.
"Big Gene" was born in 1923 in Appleton, WI the oldest child of Erna (Jens) and Arthur Woehler. He graduated from Appleton West High School in 1941 and was among the first group of 19 year olds drafted into WWII. Intelligent and capable, he was assigned to the (then) Army Air Force as a weather observer in North Africa, serving in Algeria and Tunisia.
Gene attended the University of Wisconsin, graduating in 1949 with a degree in Soil Conservation. He worked for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources as a Wildlife Biologist, retiring in 1985.
Gene married Marlene Baxter September 5, 1959. They were married for 58 years until Marlene's death in 2018.
Gene is survived by daughter, Kristin Marlow; grandchildren: James (Emily Smith), Margaret, and Bruce Marlow, all of Madison; sister, Doris McMahon of Cedarburg; and her daughter, Pamela Liegeois and family; and many other extended family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, infant brother James, wife Marlene, and son-in-law Brad Marlow.
There will be a memorial visitation from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, October 7, 2022 at Cress Funeral Service, 3610 Speedway Rd., Madison, WI 53705. Gene was laid to rest at Sunset Memory Gardens.
Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com
Awve, Curtis 'Curt'
MADISON
Curt Awve, age 67, of Madison, passed away on Friday, April 30, 2021, at Bay Harbor Assisted Living. He was born on Jan. 23, 1954, in Milwaukee, Wis., the son of Vernon and Delores (Adamski) Awve.
Curtis is survived by his wife, Susan; brother, Craig (Nancy) Awve; two nephews, Andrew (Annie) Awve and Mike (Connie) Awve; and two great-nephews, Levi Awve and Asher Awve.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 4 p.m. on Monday, May 10, 2021. A visitation will be held from 3 p.m. until the time of the service on Monday. Due to COVID-19 guidelines, social distancing and face masks are required.
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com
Berndt, Harold 'Hal'
TOWN OF NEWBOLD
Harold “Hal” Berndt, age 93, of the Town of Newbold passed away Monday, July 5, 2021 in the comfort of his home. He was born November 20, 1927 in Wausau, WI to Edwin and Bertha (Nimz) Berndt.
Hal graduated from Wausau High School in 1945 and immediately joined the Navy at age 17. He served as a Motor Mechanic 3rd Class on the USS Micka, DE during WWII.Upon completion of his time in the Navy, he pursued his Forestry degree at the University of Michigan where he earned his degree with distinction in June, 1950.He married Lucille “Lu” Tanner from Ogdensburg WI on June 24, 1950.
Hal went to work for the Wisconsin Conservation Department as a forester/photo interpreter in Tomahawk in 1950. In 1953 his career with the State of Wisconsin took him to West Bend where he worked until 1955, he then moved to Rhinelander as the acting Supervisor of the American Legion State Forest and was the manager of Hugo Sauer Nursery until 1970. After a short three years in Woodruff as Area Director of Resource Management for Oneida, Forest, and Vilas counties, he returned to Rhinelander in 1973. He then served as Asst District Director for the North Central District until his retirement in 1987. He spent his entire 37 year professional career working for the Wisconsin Dept of Natural Resources.
Hal was a faithful member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Rhinelander. He served as Council President, Youth Director for 14 years, Sunday School teacher and Superintendent, and was a member of many various boards and committees.
Hal’s community activities include coaching many youth sports teams, including Little League and Babe Ruth baseball and grade school basketball. He was an early supporter of the Rhinelander Ice Association and coached Squirts, PeeWees and Bantams youth hockey for over 20 years. He initiated the Kiwanis ‘Learn to Skate’ program, instructing many skaters for over 19 years.
Hal was an original member of the board of directors for the Camp 10 Ski Area and served on National Ski Patrol. Hal enjoyed skiing slopes with friends and family anywhere from Camp 10 to the Colorado Rockies.
Hal was a long-time member of Kiwanis. He served as president of the Rhinelander Kiwanis Club and Lt Governor of Kiwanis 25th District. He was also the recipient of the Kiwanis Hixon Award, the highest award for individual service. Other leadership activities include member of the Rhinelander Union High School Board of Education, 1968-70, and was a member of the Town of Newbold Planning Commission. Hal and Lu volunteered at the Rhinelander Logging Museum and delivered Meals on Wheels for many years.
An early hobby was flying. He obtained his pilots license in 1947 and used a plane to court Lucille. He logged many solo hours in the air, especially over Rib Mountain. When Hal was not working or volunteering, he could be found golfing, playing tennis, skiing, hunting grouse, fishing bass, planting trees and logging his property, as well as spending time in his workshop. Hal and Lu enjoyed travelling within all 50 States. And they especially treasured spending time with their children and grandchildren.
Hal is survived by his four children: Luan Dudley of Rhinelander, Julie Berndt of Rhinelander, Marti (Tom) Franti of Lincoln, NE, Terry (Dawn) Berndt of Rhinelander, 7 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, and his brother Donald of Woodruff.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Lu Berndt, brother Chuck and infant brother Ronald Berndt.
The family would like to thank Senior Heart Home Care for their loving care of our dad. Their care was always very personal and sincere. A special thanks to Wanita Cook and Tina Bishop, his Guardian Angels.
Visitation for Hal will be held on Tuesday, July 20, 2021 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Carlson Funeral Home and from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Wednesday, July 21, 2021 at the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church. Memorial services will be held on Wednesday, July 21, 2021 at 11:00 AM at the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church. A complete notice will follow in the River News and at www.carlsonfh.com.
You may leave your private condolences for the Berndt family at
Carpenter, Terry
WAUTOMA
Terry D. Carpenter, age 75, of Wautoma, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly, Tuesday morning, March 30, 2021 at his home.
He was born November 27, 1945 in Burlington, Wisconsin the son of Lawrence and Arlene (Rockow) Carpenter. On September 7, 1966 he married Marilyn L. Fedran in Wautoma and later raised four wonderful daughters, Brenda, Lisa, Teena and Heather.
Terry was a graduate of Wautoma High School. He later served his country in the United States Navy from 1965 until his honorable discharge in 1971. Terry began working for the Department of Natural Resources as a fish technician until his retirement in 2003. Terry will be remembered for his quiet and humble personality, dedication to family and friends and enjoyment of the outdoors. His greatest love was his family.
He is survived by his wife, Marilyn L. Carpenter, Wautoma; his loving daughters, Brenda (Craig) Ramczyk, Wild Rose, Lisa (Joe) Niebauer, Greenville, Teena (Chad) Krause, Almond, Heather (Rob) Lichtenberg, Minocqua; his grandchildren, Chyan, Cierra, Cole, Evan, Henry, and Owen; his siblings, Judy Caswell and Buzz Carpenter ; further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and many special friends.
To honor Terry’s wishes a private family service will be held. Stahl Funeral Services are assisting the family with arrangements, www.stahlfuneralhome.com
Our family would like to say a special thank you to the wonderful people who assisted us in our time of need: Jeff Stahl, E. Kreczner, B. Wenzel, Z. Gunderson, K. Koch, and of course Thor.
Fernholz, Willis B. 'Willie'
LACROSSE
Willis B. Fernholz of Onalaska went to eternal life on March 20, 2021.
He was born in Arcadia, WI to Bernard and Clotilda “Sally” (Haines) Fernholz on March 22, 1931. He graduated from Arcadia High School and went on to Winona State University, earning a degree as a biologist. He married Charlotte Jane Schaffner on October 22, 1955.
Willie worked for the Wisconsin DNR for 35 years, earning the Upper Mississippi River Conservation Committee Award for his achievements in preserving the river. He was instrumental in purchasing land through the DNR, preserving it for public use. Willie proudly served our country in the U.S. Army and the Wisconsin National Guard for over 40 years, retiring as a Command Sergeant Major. Willie took much pride in his children, teaching them to hunt, fish, camp, canning vegetables from his garden and making his own venison sausage.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Charlotte; son, Harley; and his siblings, Cleon "Choker" Fernholz and Carol Zepp. Survivors include his three daughters, Valerie (Joel) Behrens, Wanda (Ken) Thorson and Kate (Mark) Squier; four grandchildren, Brandon (Jodi) Behrens, Breanna (Scott) Martin, Libby (Erik Kahl) Thorson and Ben (Ashley) Squier. He is further survived by six great grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, April 23rd, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1031 Main St., in Onalaska, with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. Msgr. Steve Kachel will officiate. Burial, with military honors, will follow at the Onalaska City Cemetery. Guests are asked to where a mask or facial covering and to be mindful of social distancing guidelines while in attendance. Due to Covid restrictions, there will be no luncheon served.
Glodoski, Lawrence P. 'Larry'
HAYWARD
Lawrence P. "Larry" Glodoski, age 60, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 13, 2021 at his residence in Hayward, WI with his wife Mary at his side. He was born on February 13, 1961 in Milwaukee, WI, the son of Donald Richard and Eleanore Louise (Kropp) Glodoski. He was united in marriage to Mary Alice Nepper on March 3, 1984.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Alice Glodoski of Hayward; his children, Michael (Whitney Stoker) Glodoski of Menomonie, Cheryl "Rosie" (Michael) Gates of Milwaukee, Anthony "Tony" Glodoski of Hayward, James (Ulises Rangel) Glodoski of Austin, TX and Katherine "Katie" Glodoski of Denver, CO; his grandchildren, Leo, Aldon, Olivia, Spencer and Sasha; his siblings, Martin (Cindy Huebner) Glodoski of Hayward and Penny (Joe) Bloechl of Milwaukee; his mother-in-law, Cynthia Nepper of Wisconsin Rapids; his beloved cousin and kidney donor, Kay Glodowski of Tomahawk; and many nieces, nephews, brother and sister in laws and dear friends.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated privately and a celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
Memorials may be directed to… Gift of Life Transplant House 705 2nd St SW Rochester, MN 55902 or Regional Hospice Services and Palliative Care 15910 W Company Lake Rd, Hayward, WI 54843
Please leave your condolences for the family online at:
John Charles Haack, 63, of Shell Lake, Wisconsin, died Monday, Nov. 29, 2021, at UW Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin.
John was born November 16, 1958, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Charles and Bernice (Huth) Haack, the youngest of five children. After graduating from Wisconsin Lutheran HS in 1976, he attended UW-Stevens Point, majoring in wildlife biology and received his degree on May 18, 1980. Six days later on May 24,1980, he was married to Valerie Peyton in Weyauwega, Wisconsin.
The couple moved to Northwest Wisconsin, eventually settling permanently in the Shell Lake area in 1984 where they raised their family. John’s family was everything to him – he spent his lifetime teaching Valerie, their three daughters, Tabatha, Amanda, and Jennifer, and eventually his nine grandchildren, how to take care of the environment and enjoy being outdoors as much as he did.
He continued his life-long love of learning and teaching by volunteering as a Wisconsin Hunter Ed instructor, giving nature talks, and hosting workshops at Hunt Hill Audubon Sanctuary, leading tours for the Natural Resources Foundation, and serving as curator to the Wisconsin Canoe Heritage Museum.
John became even busier in retirement than he had been during his career, using the extra free time to pursue his personal interests, unbridled. He had countless hobbies, including, but not limited to, fishing, hunting, wild rice gathering and processing, beekeeping, welding, woodworking, gardening, SCUBA diving, swimming, canoeing, biking, hiking, camping, maple syrup making, growing shiitake mushrooms … the list goes on. Those who knew him well can attest that it was a rare moment to catch John idle.
He was well known for sharing his knowledge of so many topics with anyone who would seek him out. It was impossible to ask John a question and get a hurried answer, as he always made time to explain and help the listener to understand important details. He was born to teach.
John is survived by his wife, Valerie; daughters, Tabatha (Rakesh) Muraharishetty, Amanda (Giancarlo) Farfan, and Jennifer (Drew) Knoop; nine grandchildren, Tara, Meena, and Ian Muraharishetty, Savannah and Levi Farfan, and Hudson, Evelyn, Eden, and Elliot Knoop; as well as his sisters, Barbara Gulczynski and Jean Haack.
John was preceded in death by his father and mother, Charles and Bernice Haack, and his brothers, Tom and Jim Haack.
An Open House Celebration of John’s Life is planned for Tuesday, Dec. 21, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Knoop Wedding Barn, 22938 Cty. Rd. H, Shell Lake, WI 54871.
Pastor Andrew Palmquist will share an opening prayer and message. Following, hot food and beverages will be served while leaving the mic open for friends and family to share treasured memories about John. Guests are encouraged to dress warmly for a Wisconsin winter day as the heated space in the large barn is limited.
Weather permitting, there will also be outside gathering spaces heated by warming fires to allow for social distancing and the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors as he would have preferred.
In lieu of flowers, John’s family requests you consider a donation to the National Kidney Foundation or Hunt Hill Audubon Sanctuary in his name.
Hawley, Michael Gary
CRIVITZ
Michael Gary Hawley 75 of Crivitz passed away at home with his family by his side on December 30, 2021. He was born to the late Charles and Marguerite Hawley on December 22, 1946 in Wausau, WI.
He went to High Falls Grade School and graduated from Crivitz High School in 1964. He attended University of Stevens Point and was on the dean’s list. Mike identified an unknown aquatic insect.
He married the love of his life Marilyn Kasal on June 8, 1968. The couple resided in Marinette. Mike worked for the Department of Natural Resources as a fishery biologist for over 42 years until retiring and moving to High Falls. He enjoyed spending time in the outdoors with his family. He had a lifelong passion for athletics.
He is survived by his loving wife Marilyn, two sons James (Martha) and Chuck Hawley. Three grandchildren Alex, Emma and Ethan Hawley. Brother Niel (Michiko) Steitzer, Dave (Marilyn) Steitzer, Dick Steitzer, Richard Hawley, sister Jeanne Bufe, Beverly Heinrichs and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by brother Charles Hawley, sister Joyce Heart.
The family will greet relatives and friends at the Faith Presbyterian Church in Crivitz on Saturday January 8th from 9-11 AM the Service will be at 11AM with Pastor David Pleuss officiating.
Jacobs, John
RHINELANDER
John “Jake” Jacobs (87) passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 18, 2021. He was born in Manitowoc, Wisconsin to the late Josephine (nee Dufek) and Bernhardt Jacobs. Jake served in the U.S. Army in a Military Police Company U.S. 1st Division before marrying the love of his life, Sharon. Together, they raised three children: Michael Jacobs, Sandra (Bob) Meller, and Barbara (Eric) Paulsen. Jake adored his grandkids: Megan (Jesse), Kaitlyn, Matt (Trisha), Jacob, and Noah; as well as his one great-grandchild Albie.
Jake was an avid outdoorsman. He worked for the WI DNR for 32 years and loved hunting, fishing, golf, and hockey. His favorite places were the Northwoods, Door County, and the mountains in the western US. In addition to his love of the outdoors, Jake passed on his love of card games, books, and dogs to his family.
Jake is preceded in death by his parents, Aunt Lucy Dufek, and sisters Mary, Joanne, and Barbara. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the WI DNR or the Parks Project in Jake’s honor.
A private family service will be held for John at a later date. You may leave your private condolences for the Jacobs family at www.carlsonfh.com. The Carlson Funeral Home (715-369-1414) is handling the arrangements for the family.
Jepsen, Edward Andrew
MADISON
Ed Jepsen was born in Rockford, Ill., on June 28, 1950, and left planet Earth on Christmas morning 2021, after living with cancer for nearly five years. A born scientist, he will be remembered by family and friends for his kindness and generosity, intellectual curiosity, passionate care for planet Earth, sense of humor, enthusiasm and sincere interest in the well-being of others.
Ed married Kristin Groth in July of 2000, and they brought much love and joy to each other's lives. They shared a love of the outdoors, of plants and trees, wildlife, the arts, various community volunteer activities and travel. And if family or friends joined them? Bonus. They enjoyed a honeymoon to England, a music cruise in the British Virgin Islands, plays and museums in New York City, and traveling to Jepsen family reunions, and treasured exploring our National and State parks.
Ed's spirit needed nature. Wherever he was, he loved to seek out and explore the highest peak. He enjoyed annual winter camping trips and jumping into rivers - with or without clothes on. He was a voracious reader, but if given a choice, he'd always opt for going, doing, exploring and experiencing.
Ed encouraged his brothers, and others, to think about how to make a difference and leave a legacy - to be deliberate and do something that would make a positive difference in the world and with people.
Ed spent most of his adult life in Madison, Wis., where he married his first wife, Karen, and welcomed their children, Andrew and Kira, all while earning a double master's degree in forestry and forestry soils from the University of Wisconsin.
Andrew lives in Westlake Village, Calif., with his wife, Sarah, and their children, Ryan and Audrey. His daughter, Kira, is married to Jameson Brown, and they live in Boston, Mass., with their infant daughter, Celine.
Ed, "Dzia Dzia," was magical with little ones. Even at 71 he was a child at heart, heading right to the floor to play with them. He was never too tired to snuggle and share a book, such as "Who Sank the Boat?", one of Ryan's favorites. Ed loved his 37 years of working for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources with a focus on conservation, resource management and stewardship. He was responsible for longitudinal plant studies related to climate change, and traveled extensively in the Midwest to gather data and tend to department projects. He felt lucky to have a career he truly loved, and he instilled the value of that in Andrew and Kira.
Ed and Kristin met as volunteers for Tenney Park and the Yahara River Parkway in Madison, east side parks they both valued and supported. A crowning volunteer effort for Ed was his work with the Friends of Yahara River Parkway, a nonprofit group that advocates for the parkway and adjacent parks. Under his leadership and decades of work, the Yahara Parkway underpass for East Johnson Street was completed. Pedestrians and cyclists no longer had to dodge cars to cross East Johnson Street. Ed was fondly nicknamed "Captain Tenacity" for his Yahara Parkway work.
Trout fishing was a passion of Ed's, as were hiking, canoeing and kayaking. He valued the underpinnings of democracy and supported politicians who promoted policies that would help create a more equitable world. He looked forward to the PBS NewsHour and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and pondered and acted on ways to make our world a better place. He commuted on bicycle, shared a car with Kristin for many years, and was always mindful of sustainable choices.
Ed loved "Weeona," a Central Wisconsin lake cabin surrounded by forest, owned by beloved friends who treated him like family. In typical Ed fashion, he demonstrated his profound appreciation for his frequent visits to Weeona by creating a comprehensive, sustainable forest management plan which provided them with a blueprint to maintain the wild nature of this property for generations to come.
Ed was the second oldest of seven brothers, born to John and Angela "Nelly" Jepsen. For the past 30 years, the brothers and their families have gathered for a family reunion every other year, in various locations across the United States. On each of these reunions, Ed was the scout and planner for the best hikes, mountains to climb, rivers to canoe/kayak and places to fish. For each reunion he planned one especially challenging outdoor activity, or the "bi-annual family death march," as his son Andrew affectionately called it. Ed's nieces and nephews still laugh about the wind-blasted canoe trip in Door County, the marathon canoe trip on the Saugatuck River in Michigan and the trudge up a "fourteener" in Colorado. All had fond memories of these adventures and Ed was revered as "the nature app" for his extensive knowledge of fauna, flora, geology and history on these adventures - and any time in the outdoors. His friends and family will miss that.
It has been said that "people die in the manner in which they lived," and Ed was no exception. The last phase of Ed's life was filled with love, grace, humor and his dedication to the search for truth. "Ed always wanted to know the truth, even when it was hard," Kristin said affectionately. "He would say, 'Then we can make good choices.'"
10 days before he died, Ed's phone was exploding with loving texts and phone calls. He observed, "It seems like people just can't get enough of me." He was right, everyone wishes they had more time with him. Ed will be sorely missed and fondly remembered by all the people whose lives he touched.
Ed was preceded in death by his parents, John and Angela (Nelly) Jepsen. He is survived by his wife, Kristin Groth; son, Andrew (Sarah), and their children, Ryan and Audrey; daughter, Kira Brown (Jameson) and their daughter, Celine; his first wife, Karen; and brothers, John (Pat), Alan (Marisa), Stan (Barb), Stephen (Mary Ann), Chris (Tori) and Chuck; as well as their 17 children and two grandchildren. He is also survived by many in Kristin's family and countless friends who also helped him leave this earth feeling well and truly loved.
Memorials to honor Ed are easy: Give a gift of time or money to help heal our environment, promote equity or protect our democracy. Be recklessly kind. Get a vaccine.
A gathering to celebrate Ed will start at 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 7, 2022, at Tenney Park's John Wall Pavilion in Madison, with a program at 7 p.m., and end with a toast to Ed as the sun sets over Lake Mendota at 8:06 p.m. Ed was always on the lookout for a good sunset.
Leith, Dennis A,
MINOCQUA
Dennis (Denny, aka Butch) A. Leith, age 72, passed away on Sept. 17 due to complications of Parkinson’s Disease. A loving son, husband, and father, Denny lived for most of his life in the Minocqua area. He was born in Antigo WI to Patricia (Gustafson) and Leslie Leith, and he married Virginia (Ginny) Shaker in 1979.
A graduate of Rhinelander High School and Michigan Tech University, Denny worked for most of his career at the DNR, retiring as Forest Superintendent of the Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest. Over his years in forestry and recreation, Denny received many awards, most notably property manager of the year and the lifetime achievement award. His motto at work was to always leave things better than he found them, and, in the vast majority of cases, that’s exactly what he did.
Denny was also very active in the community: a charter member of Ascension Lutheran Church, a long-time coach of various youth sports, a school board member, a member of the Ascension Caring Committee, the organizer of a dedicated breakfast group, and a member of the Kiwanis Club. He was known for his ready smile and willingness to help, often going far beyond expectations.
Perhaps his most incredible achievement was the way he dealt with his disease. After an almost 20-year challenge with Parkinson’s Disease, Denny remained positive and hopeful. His courage and grace while dealing with many health issues were inspirational to many.
Denny loved many activities, including hunting near his beloved cabin, camping, visiting national parks, and almost any outdoor activity. However, he loved nothing more than his family.
His family and friends will dearly miss Denny, including his wife, Ginny, of St. Germain; his children, Jon (Maggie) of Lake Tomahawk, and Andy (Kelly) of Oshkosh; his grandchildren Thomas, Elle, Blake, and Kaylee; his sister, Phyllis (Gary) Stone; his sister-in-law Kathy Leith; and a wide circle of friends, including former colleagues, classmates, hunting companions, support group members, church members, and so many others. Lee Calvey of Minocqua was a close friend during many of Denny’s later, most challenging years.
Denny was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Susan; and a brother, Thomas.
The family thanks the staff of Ascension Lutheran Church and Pine Crest for their love and care.
The family also plans to make a donation in Denny’s name to the Wisconsin Parkinson Association wiparkinson.org Denny was a co-founder of the area Parkinson’s Support Group, which has helped many over the years.
A celebration of life will be held at Ascension Lutheran Church in Minocqua on Friday, Oct. 1st with visitation from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. and a short service at 3:00 p.m.
For online condolences, please visit www.nimsgernfuneral.com
Lubinski, Julia A.
DE PERE
Julia A. Lubinski, age 60 passed away on Wednesday, February 3, 2021 at St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay. She was born on April 16, 1960 in Green Bay, the daughter of the late Jerome and Irene (Foelker) Lubinski. She graduated from Green Bay Southwest High School and furthered her education at UW Oshkosh for business. She started her career for the State of Wisconsin with the Dept. of Natural Resources at Peninsula State Park and later transitioned working for Wisconsin Dept.
of Children and Families in Green Bay. Julia enjoyed time spent with family up at Kelly Lake. Julia attended all of Greg and Sue’s family events and was loved as the “Honorary Aunt” by their many nieces and nephews. She loved cheering on her nieces, Rose and Grace, at their different sporting events and dance recitals. Julia enjoyed her family trip to Florida with her nieces to Disney. She was known for traveling out west with friends, South Dakota and California were her most recent. She was very happy to be able to see Rose and Kolten exchange vows last May. Julia was an active participant of book clubs and game nights with friends and family and a member at New Hope United Methodist Church.
Julia is survived by one brother, Greg (Sue) Lubinski of Green Bay, two nieces: Rose (Kolten) VanElzen and Grace Lubinski of Green Bay; step-mother, Bernice Lubinski, step-sisters: Janet Peterson and Beth Peterson; she is further survived by many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, Paul and infant brother, Brian.
Friends and family may visit on Saturday March 13, 2021 at Newcomer Chapel, 340 S. Monroe Ave, Green Bay from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm with a service to follow at 3:00 pm with Pastor Rick Haberland. Private entombment will take place at Allouez Catholic Mausoleum.
The family would like to extend a thank you to The New Hope Ladies and Ruth, Melanie, Cindy, Jody, Patsy, Tena, and the countless other friends many of whom we might not have known who helped her during her cancer treatments.
Online condolences may be made at www.newcomergreenbay.com
Marty, Leonard H.
BELLEVILLE
Leonard H. Marty, age 96, passed away on Sunday, March 7, 2021, at Girlie's Manor in Mount Horeb. He was born on Dec. 18, 1924, in Pine Bluff, Wis., the son of Leonard and Caroline (Brink) Marty. While growing up Lenny attended Belleville High School and graduated from Mount Horeb High School in 1942. He then served in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1945 and 1946. On June 28, 1947, he was united in marriage to Audrey Westby at the Zwingli United Church of Christ-Mount Vernon. Lenny had worked for the Mount Vernon Telephone Company, Gisholt, Sub-Zero, and the Wisconsin DNR, from where he retired in 1987. He had also owned and operated Marty's Bar in Mount Vernon for many years. Lenny was a member of the Mount Vernon Sportman's Club, American Legion Post 385 in Verona, and Zwingli United Church of Christ-Mount Vernon. He had helped organize the annual fast-pitch softball tournaments in Mount Vernon and served on the First UCC Consistory in Belleville. Lenny also enjoyed the outdoors, hunting and fishing, along with going out to supper clubs, dancing, and playing euchre.
Lenny is survived by his daughters, Cheryl (Ronald) Schneider, Kathy Sies, and Patti (Gary) Best; grandchildren, Staci Beckman, Todd (Jessica) Schneider, Nathan (Shana) Sies, Jon Sies, Amanda (Paul) Nemec, and Justin Best; and great-grandchildren, Owen, Jillian, Cooper, Abigail, Calin, Camren, and Lainey. He is further survived by a brother-in-law, Ralph Westby; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Audrey; granddaughter, Jennifer Schneider Crubaugh; son-in-law, Edward Sies; sisters, Marie Viney, Amanda Hankel, and Ann Vollenweider; and brothers, Joseph, Woodrow, and Edwin Marty.
Funeral services will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 13 at the BECKER-BEAL FUNERAL HOME, 109 Greenway Cross, Belleville, Wis., with Pat Pluss officiating. Burial with military honors will be in the Mount Vernon Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call from 11 a.m. until time of services on Saturday, March 13, at the BECKER-BEAL FUNERAL HOME in Belleville. Please follow the current mask and social distancing guidelines. "You Bet."
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established.
Online condolences may be given at www.bealfuneralhomes.com
Morey, Dale Paul
POYNETTE
Dale Paul Morey, age 86, passed away peacefully at his home in Dekorra Township on Sunday, March 7, 2021.
Dale was born on May 24, 1934, in Spooner, Wisconsin, the son of Dane and Frances (Schnagel) Morey. He was first employed in Shell Lake as Under Sheriff of Washburn County which was a ground-breaking experience in the field of Law enforcement that continued through his career. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Dale met the love of his life, Mary Conley, at Whispering Pines Resort near Minong, WI, where they worked together and formed a life-long bond. They were married on June 5, 1959, and were fortunate to raise five wonderful children.
He tried his hand in the newspaper business. While he was the Editor for the Turtle Lake Times, he was offered a position as the Wisconsin State Conservation Warden. In 1964, he was stationed as a Field Warden in Appleton. In 1972, Dale and the family moved to Black Earth after he was promoted to the position of State Boating Law Administrator in the Department of Natural Resources where he was employed for 18 years. He had the opportunity to be in on the ground floor of the development and advancement of the State and National Boating Safety Program.
Dale retired from the State in 1990 and launched a consulting career that was an offshoot of his State career. During retirement, Dale developed and taught boating accident investigation for 11 years in every State in the Union and was an active boat accident consultant in boating accident litigations. Dale enjoyed downhill skiing, tennis, bowling, hunting, fishing and traveling, as well as gardening, landscaping and spending time with his children, grandchildren and black labs.
He is survived by his five children, Dana (David) Sanft, Debbie (Steve) Marx, Dawn (Paul) Fassbender, Paula (James) Whitaker, Dane (Tammy) Morey; 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He is further survived by many loving nieces, nephews and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mary; two brothers, Robert and Ben Morey; and nephew, Bob Morey.
Private services will be held, with Military Honors provided by Portage Area Veterans Honor Guard.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for donations to be made in Dale’s memory.
Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Poynette is assisting the family.
Otis, Keith
OMRO
Keith Otis, age 69, passed away Saturday, November 20, 2021. He was born April 29, 1952 to the late Jack and Theresa Otis.
Keith loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing and watching wildlife outside his living room window. He went deer hunting every November and enjoyed fly fishing trips to Colorado. After graduating from UW-Stevens Point, Keith worked for the Department of Natural Resources as a Fisheries Biologist until his retirement.
Keith is survived by his sister Kathy (Dick) Sommers; nephew Michael Sommers; niece Melissa (Dustin) Teske and grand-nephews: Robin and Teddy Teske; as well as numerous friends and relatives.
A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Cotter Funeral and Cremation Care is assisting the family.
Although we appreciate the support, our family respectfully asks that you refrain from sending flowers and memorials for Keith.
Paske, Phillip A. 'Phil'
PEMBINE
Phillip Paske, age 92, of Pembine, passed away at home on Tuesday January 12, 2021. He was born in Portage, WI on October 4, 1928; son of the late Albert and Lucille (Koppe) Paske. Phil graduated from Portage High School in 1946. He honorably served his country in the Army from 1950 until 1952. Phil started working as a DNR Officer in Portage area before moving to Pembine in 1957, where he met the love of his life, the former Clara Joyce Stevens. The couple was united in marriage on December 7, 1958.
In 1970 the couple moved to Wautoma and then in 1974 to Tomahawk for the next 20 years before retiring back in Pembine. Although they never had their own children, they had many foster children that they cared for. Phil enjoyed sturgeon fishing, loved gardening, deer hunting and bee keeping. He was a charter member of the local Rescue Squad and Fire Department and was a Board member of Grace Lutheran Church and taught Sunday School as well.
Phil is survived by his loving wife of 62 years Joyce; four nephews and a niece: David (Nancy) Paske, John Paske, Julie (Edward) Collins, Jeff (Debra Melvin) Emery, and Joel (Beth Siebers) Emery; great niece, Layne (Jim) Locke; brother, Milton Paske; and special daughter, Randee (Jordan) Cottam. He was preceded in death by his sister, Jean Stovall.
Visitation for Phil will be held at Roubal Funeral Home on Monday January 18, 2021 from 10:00 am until time of his service at 11:00 am. with full Military Honors provided by Pembine American Legion Post #461. Rev. Dwaine Sutherland will officiate. Burial will be in Pembine Cemetery this spring.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace Lutheran Church in Pembine.
Roubal Funeral Home of Wausaukee is assisting Phillip’s family.
Visitation: Monday Jan 18, 2021, 10:00a.m. until 11:00a.m. at the Roubal Funeral Home
Funeral Service: Monday Jan 18, 2021, 11:00a.m. at the Roubal Funeral Home
Pryga, Chester, 'Chet'
BLACK RIVER FALLS
Chester “Chet” R. Pryga, age 78, passed away at his home on June 1, 2021. He was born March 28, 1943 to John and Regina (Szydlowski) Pryga in Wausau, WI.
Chet graduated from Mosinee High School in 1961. Having a passion for the outdoors, he relocated to Fort Collins, CO to study Forest Management at the University of Colorado. After earning his degree, he returned to Wisconsin and worked for the4 DNR for over 30 years.
Chet is survived by his wife of 56 years, Joanne; son, Mike; daughter, Stacy (Casey) Abbott; grandchildren, Brandon, Joshua, Tianna, Connor, and Carter; brother, John Jr. (Barb) Richard; sister, Laura (John) Seidschlag; brother-in-law, Wally (Jeri) Biumenstein; sister-in-law, Jean (Sherman) Marcis; and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, and his father and mother-in-law.
A mass of Christian burial will be at Guardian Angels Parish at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church (507 Main St. Black River Falls, WI 54615) Tuesday June 8, 2021. Father Emmanuel Famiyeh will be officiating. Burial will be at a later date at Mosinee Cemetery in Mosinee, WI. Friends may call on family at the visitation from 10-11 at the church. In lieu of flowers memorials will go to the Food Shelf food panty in Black River Falls.
The Buswell Funeral Home of Black River Falls is serving the family, (715) 284-2231. On-line condolences may be offered at www.buswellfh.com
Ritland, Donald M.
MADISON
Donald Ritland grew up on a farm in the Mauston/Elroy area. His family had a successful farm and honey business. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force when he was 18, and served his country at Whiteman Air Force Base. After serving his country, he graduated from the UW-Platteville, with a degree in engineering. He married Joanne Wolseth and raised four sons, Marc, Paul, Eric and Todd Ritland, in Oregon, Wis.
Donald was a classically trained accordion player, and played throughout southern Wisconsin, at churches and other gatherings.
He was also a member of the Sons of Norway in Stoughton, Wis.
He enjoyed a 35-year career with the State of Wisconsin, with the Department of Natural Resources.
He especially enjoyed spending time at Wisconsin State Parks, and passed on his love of the parks to his family.
Schram, Steven T.
WASHBURN
Stephen Thomas Schram, 70, formerly of Gladstone, Michigan, and
currently a resident of Washburn, Wisconsin, and Agate Harbor, Michigan,
passed away unexpectedly, August 2, 2021, on an adventure he was
thrilled to be part of, at Isle Royale National Park, in Michigan.
Steve, was born in Escanaba, Michigan, to Richard and Dorothy (Hill)
Schram on August 12,1950, and was a 1968 graduate of Gladstone High
School. He went on to attend Northern Michigan University where he
received a Bachelor of Science Degree, and then to Central Michigan
University where he received a Masters in Outdoor Recreation and Field
Biology. It was at CMU where he met his wife of 45 years, Ann Vivian, of
Laurium, Michigan.
Steve worked as a fisheries biologist for the Wisconsin Department of
Natural Resources for 33 years, retiring in 2009. His work in fisheries
management focused on northern Wisconsin and Lake Superior. Later in
his career he became the Lake Superior Fisheries Supervisor. A few of the
fisheries habitats he managed with his fisheries “team,” were in the Brule
River, the St. Louis Bay estuary, the Apostle Islands and Chequamegon
Bay. Steve was a former member of the Wisconsin Chapter of the
American Fisheries Society, served on the Lake Superior Technical
Committee of the Great Lakes Fisheries Commission, and mentored many
fisheries graduate students from the University of Wisconsin at Stevens
Point.
After DNR life, a former runner for over forty years, Steve became a USATF
Certified Master Official working at numerous midwestern and national
meets. He was thrilled to be chosen as a volunteer for one of the past
USA Olympic Trials, in Eugene, Oregon. He was a gifted author, creating a
trilogy for elementary school children about two fish who live in Lake
Superior and travel the Great Lakes. He was passionate about Great Lakes
preservation and wanting kids to learn what is happening underneath the
water, and why they should care. Steve’s passion lives on in his writing.
Steve will be remembered as a person who was thoughtful, adventurous,
appreciated planet earth, lived his faith, and so much more.
Steve is survived by his wife Ann (Vivian) Schram of Agate Harbor,
Michigan and Washburn, Wisconsin. His children Benjamin (Sarah) of
LaPointe, Wisconsin, and Molly (Patrick) Isaacson of Eagan, Minnesota.
His grandchildren, Winter Schram, Sawyer Schram, and Samantha
Isaacson. His sister Susan (Dale) Jamison of Rapid River, Michigan. HIs
brother Jeffrey (Mary) Schram of Rapid River, Michigan. Sister-in-law Gail
(Don) Frantti of Laurium, Michigan. Many other relatives and friends.
On September 11, 2021, Rayford Ray will officiate at a private family
celebration of Steve’s life. Relatives and friends are invited to gather for
refreshments at Memorial Park, a place Steve loved all year around, in
Washburn, Wisconsin, from 2:30 pm - 4 pm the same day.
Steve’s family would like extend their gratitude to the Isle Royale National
Park Service staff, the EMT’s, Nicole the ER Nurse, Captain John Kilpela,
those who brought Steve back to the mainland, and all others, whose
names we don’t know, who helped. Thank you to the Keweenaw County
Deputy Aaron Hainault. Ann will never forget you. We would also like to
thank Aspirus Hospital in Calumet, Dr. Saeed, Dr. Jan Heikenen, Judy
Pruner, and Joe Panijan from the Erickson, Crowley, Peterson Funeral
Home.
Per Steve’s wishes, people may donate to the CMU Biological Research
Station at Beaver Island, Michigan ( Address: Central Michigan University,
Carlin Alumni House, Attention: Morgan Hales, 524 E. Bellows, Mount
Pleasant, Michigan 48858) Or the NMU Women’s Track and Field Program
(NMU Foundation-Track and Field Memorial Gift for Stephen Schram, 1401
Presque Isle Avenue, Marquette, MI 49855).
Solheim, Stanley Robert
MADISON
Stanley Robert Solheim, beloved husband of Joey and loving dad to Heather and Dawn, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2021, at Agrace Hospice in Fitchburg, Wis., at age 82. He will be remembered for his kindness, many friendships, enthusiasm, creativity, humor, and lifelong love of the outdoors.
Born on March 17, 1939, in Madison, Wis., to Stanley Oliver Solheim and Mildred Naomi Wickham, Stanley always loved celebrating his birthday with the Irish, yet was very proud of his Norwegian-Swedish ancestry. In the 1950s, he was a bugler in the Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps under the direction of CH Beebe, traveling to Washington, D.C., to perform when the Scouts won the national title.
He joined the Merchant Marines after his junior year at Madison West, sailing to LeHavre, France, and coming home in the fall with many great tales. Stanley (then known as Bob) graduated in 1957, attended UW, and made his way west to study forestry at Montana State University and Olympic College, Wash. One of his forestry school memories was working solo as a fire spotter on a remote fire tower, walking miles to it on a deserted fire trail. His concern for environmental issues started with these outdoor experiences.
In Madison, Stanley worked at DNR in resource planning, starting a long, fulfilling career with the State of Wisconsin. Bicyclists today should be grateful for his work developing the Rails to Trails program in Wisconsin, the Elroy-Sparta bike trail, and the first Wisconsin bicycle maps. He served many years on the Governor's Bicycle Council and was a lifelong supporter of safe, accessible bike trails. Over his career with the state, he worked for Department of Development, estimating state printing and working as liaison with state printers. While working for tourism, he organized and managed state photo files, using many that he had taken while traveling around the state. Finally, Stanley was appointed Director of the Wisconsin Film Office, promoting the state as a great place for film and commercials, helping production companies find locations and access permits, and bringing the occasional famous actor to his beloved state. He loved his work, had the ability to make every job more interesting, creative, and fulfilling, and was always proud of his career accomplishments, making many friends along the way.
In 1973, Stanley bought acreage south of Madison in the Town of Dunn, building a log house from Vancouver cedar with help from his buddy, Ray Mueller. Situated on a drumlin between two huge bur oak trees, the house became his pride and joy, a work in progress for years, and ultimately a welcoming home for the rest of his life. The beautiful rural property, with farmland, woodland, and marshland, stimulated his interest in rural preservation; he was fortunate enough to be elected to the Dunn Town Board, where he spent 32 years serving local interests. Stanley was immensely proud to be on the board when they fought and won against the Libby Landfill, a huge county landfill potentially sited at the edge of Lake Kegonsa. He was also proud of his part in the board's comprehensive work for land use planning and Purchasing Development Rights programs. He also served many years on the Oregon Fire/EMS Board. He was also a longtime member of Luther Memorial Church in Madison.
Retiring in 2005, Stanley stayed active with fishing trips, traveling, hanging with his friends on Fridays at the Essen Haus, and joining the digital world to stay connected with pals via FB and email. He baked excellent bread, refining his technique for 40 years and constantly trying new varieties and methods; he was an adventurous cook and made the best crepes ever. He was an Amazon Prime shopper par excellence, loving all cool gadgets and kitchen gizmos. A natural at making friends, Stanley continued to expand his circle at Pinnacle water classes, keeping in touch with pals both old and new despite his numerous health challenges. We will all miss his generous, giving spirit and great smile!
Stanley married first wife, Mary Leibel, in 1965, having two daughters, Heather Marie Solheim (Brad Zwettler) and Dawn Louise Solheim (Merton Wall). He married Mary Josephine Reynolds in 1979, and for over 40 years they filled their home with family, friends, dogs (many of them his beloved Hungarian Vizslas), cats, and assorted farm animals. He leaves a sister, Bette Squier; nieces, Heidi Kraft (Mike) and Stephanie Squier (Chad Alberg); sister-in-law, Nancy Reynolds; and brother-in-law, Logan Hurst.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, June 25 at 2 p.m. at the TOWN OF DUNN BURYING GROUND, corner of Sandhill Road at County Highway B, Oregon, WI 53575, immediately followed by a gathering at the DUNN TOWN HALL, 4156 County Highway B, McFarland, WI 53558.
Memorials may be made in Stanley's name to Groundswell Conservancy at groundswellwisconsin.org
Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com
Spangberg, John Edman
MARENGO
John Edman Spangberg, age 71, of Marengo, WI passed away unexpectedly on March 9, 2021 while collecting maple sap at his cabin in Drummond. He was born October 25, 1949, the son of James and Marjorie (Gerjets) Spangberg. He grew up in Siren, Hayward, and Ladysmith Wisconsin. From a young age, John loved hunting, fishing, and being in the woods.
John graduated from UW-Eau Claire. He went on to spend his professional career protecting the environment. John worked for state, county, and tribal government. He worked for the Oneida Tribe for ten years during the 1980s when tribal natural resource departments were being organized. Then he joined the WI Department of Natural Resources, serving in Spooner, Cumberland, and Ashland until his retirement in 2012. He was dedicated to protecting habitat and clean water for the benefit of all people.
John was immensely proud of his son Codey James May, U.S. Air Force, currently serving in Korea, who is carrying on the family tradition of military service.
In 1996, John married the love of his life, Nancy Jean Larson, in Spooner. They shared their outdoor interests and outlook on life. While in Spooner, they were involved in the Kinship program and developed deep relationships with their Kinship kids that continue to this day. In 2003, John and Nancy moved to their farm in Marengo.
John and good friends Dennis and June Johnson, built the cozy Spangberg cabin on the family land in Drummond with their own hands, using lumber from the woods. There, John enjoyed deer season, maple syrup season, and many gatherings with family and friends around the campfire. John was very funny and entertaining with his endless puns, plays on words, and booming voice. John also helped Nancy with her horses, calling himself the “unstable boy.” John was dedicated to Nancy and the rest of the family, helping take care of his mother at her home in Ladysmith until she moved permanently to Texas in 2019. John was also an avid golfer and loved sports. John’s goal was to hunt, gather, and grow as much of the family’s food as possible. John read widely, especially about history, and he loved his dogs.
John served on the Marengo Town Board after the flood of 2016, working with FEMA and other agencies on the response.
John is survived by his loving wife Nancy Larson of Marengo; son Codey May, USAF Korea; mother Marjorie Spangberg of Dallas TX; sister Donna (Edward) Mullenix of Dallas TX; brother James (Anne Marie Crawley) Spangberg of Bradenton FL; nieces and nephews: Daryl Anderson, Matt Anderson, Amanda MacNeven, Megan DeRaleau, Ben Pearce, Zachary Pearce; and his special dog TwerpE.
John was preceded in death by his father James Spangberg, and his sister and brother-in-law Joyce and Dale Zimmer.
A celebration of life will be held this summer in Drummond. Memorials may be made to a land trust or environmental organization of your choice.
The Roberts Funeral Home in Ashland is assisting the family with arrangements.
Tvedt, Dean Ellis
MOUNT HOREB/VERONA
Dean Ellis Tvedt passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2021, at the age of 96, with his family by his side. Dean was born on a farm just west of Mount Horeb on July 13, 1924, to Melvin and Sadie (Luhman) Tvedt. When he was in his teens they moved to another farm in the township of Cross Plains.
Dean attended Mount Horeb High School where he acquired a lifelong passion for photography after signing up for a camera club. Garfoot Creek flowed through the Tvedt farm property. A joint fish-hatching project with some neighbors and the local conservation warden (Andrew Sampson - a frequent fisherman on the creek) sparked another lifelong interest: conservation. Dean took pictures, wrote articles and did copy-pasting for Commonwealth Telephone Company of Wisconsin in Madison. He was drafted and served in Japan with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers where he also did photography. Upon his return he successfully combined his two interests when he was hired by the Wisconsin Conservation Department (now DNR), where he worked in their Bureau of Information & Education, Photo Section. There he started shooting movies and moved on to television where he coproduced “Wisconsin Outdoors” with Wilbur Stites and Staber Reese. He also worked with a crew for a Walt Disney film entitled “Flash, the Teenage Otter.” Dean spent the rest of his career with the Conservation Department and the DNR, retiring in 1987. His films and especially his photos are used to this day in publications, calendars, articles and the like.
Dean was married to Lois Jacqueline (Mueller) Tvedt for 69 loving years. They spent many wonderful summers at their second home in Sister Bay, Door County. He is survived by Lois; two sons, Richard (Kathleen McCool) of Madison and Roly of Verona; seven grandchildren, Ryan, Teighlor, Baileigh (Kiel Stampfli), Teeghan, Brigham, Eudora and Nina; and one great-granddaughter, Blakelyn. He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Sadie; and by his eldest sons, David and Randy.
The family will hold a private memorial gathering Friday, Feb. 19, 2021, at the Gunderson Camacho Funeral Home in Mount Horeb.
There will be a celebration of Dean’s life held sometime this summer at Mount Horeb United Methodist Church where he worshiped. Any cards may be sent care of Roly Tvedt: 500 S. Main St., Verona, WI 53593. Please, no gifts. Memorials may be made to the Natural Resource Foundation of Wisconsin in memory of Dean Tvedt.
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com
Vande Hei, Gerald L. "Jerry"
SUN PRAIRIE
Gerald L. "Jerry" Vande Hei, 88, of Sun Prairie, peacefully passed away at Agrace Hospice, Fitchburg, on March 10, 2021, surrounded by his children. He was born March 6, 1933, in DePere, Wis., the son of Martin and Mae (Secor) Vande Hei. Jerry's childhood was spent enjoying the outdoors and hunting with his dad, Martin, and best friend, Jim Doyle. Jerry graduated Abbot Pennings High School in 1951. He started his collegiate career at St. Norbert College, where he studied for two years before enlisting in the U.S. Army. Jerry served two years as a corporal stationed in Dongducheon, Korea. He then returned home and attended Michigan Tech University where he graduated from their School of Forestry in 1958. Jerry was also inducted into MTU's Environmental Science Alumni Honor Academy in 1995.
Jerry married Patricia A. Simonar on Oct. 11, 1958, at St John's Cathedral in Green Bay. They were blessed with four children, Todd, Ann, Tim and Nick. They lived throughout Wisconsin due to Jerry's career with the State of Wisconsin Forestry, including Gordon, Black River Falls, Shawano, and finally settling in Sun Prairie in 1973. Jerry retired in 1995 as the Chief of the Forest Management Division of the State of Wisconsin DNR.
Jerry was an avid sportsman, enjoying hunting and fishing. He loved to spend as much time as he could at his cherished cabin, "Van's Camp," up north in Phillips. He shared his love for the outdoors with his kids and grandchildren, and they created many memories together as a family. One of Jerry's proudest moments was the black bear he harvested by the cabin. Jerry also had many memorable trips fishing in Canada, as well as pheasant hunting in South Dakota.
Jerry was a member of Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary in Sun Prairie, Wis., always attending Mass with his wife, Patty.
Jerry is survived by his loving wife of over 62 years, Patricia; and his children, Todd (Laura) Vande Hei, Ann (Rob) McIntyre and Nick (Julie) Vande Hei. He is also survived by his nine grandchildren, Jenny Hembree, Steven and Olivia Vande Hei, Andrew, Molly and Abby McIntyre, Tillie, Mary and Ray Vande Hei; and great-grandsons, Levi, Jameson and Lukas Hembree. He is further survived by his sisters, Doris Scholtz and Jean Bourgeois; and many nieces and nephews.
Jerry was preceded in death by his son, Tim Vande Hei, on April 10, 2020; his parents; his brothers-in-law, Tom Schoultz and Grant Bourgeois; and his best friend, Jim Doyle.
Jerry was a loving husband, father and grandpa. He was the kind of person that offered sound advice, always encouraged and loved his family with his whole heart. He would call each of his kids every week to "check in" and make sure everyone was safe. He was centered by his strong Catholic faith and love for his country. He will be deeply missed and cherished by his family. In lieu of flowers, a memorial may be made to Agrace Hospice, agrace.org/donate or 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held at SACRED HEARTS OF JESUS AND MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH, 227 Columbus St., Sun Prairie, on Wednesday, March 17 at 11 a.m. Father Thomas Kelley will preside. Visitation will be at 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass on Wednesday at the church. Burial will be at Sacred Hearts Cemetery.
Wendler, John G.
COLEMAN
Willihnganz, Paul
WAUNAKEE/WESTPORT
The world lost a beautiful soul on July 25, 2021when Paul Willihnganz, of Waunakee, passed away at home surrounded by his family.
Paul was born on December 6,1944 in Iron Mountain, MI, to Sylvester and Beatrice Willihnganz. Paul graduated from Beaver Dam High School and attended UW Whitewater, “the Harvard of the Midwest” as he liked to call it. He married the love of his life, Terri (Cloyd) Willihnganz, in 1965. Together they raised four children, Wendy, Tim, Heidi, and Heather and they were blessed with 6 grandchildren: Kayla, Tyler, Morgan, Addison, Meg and Owen. He worked for the Department of Natural Resources in Human Resources for 35 years and retired on his 55th birthday.
Paul will be greatly missed for his sense of humor and warm & caring personality. A man of routine, Paul loved his daily reading of the paper, answering questions on his favorite show, Jeopardy, and watching the news. Paul’s other interests included cheering on the Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Badgers, refinishing furniture, mall walking, Culver’s malts, and spending time with his family which often included sharing his wealth of knowledge of history and current events.
He is survived by his four children, Wendy (Kent) Eilenfeldt, Tim Willihnganz, Heidi (Mike) Ableidinger, and Heather (Chad) Wagner; six grandchildren Kayla (Michael) Eilenfeldt, Tyler Eilenfeldt, Morgan Ableidinger, Addison Ableidinger, Meg Wagner and Owen Wagner; and his three brothers, Dave (Sally) Willihnganz, Steve (Jan) Willihnganz and Tom (Melodie) Willihnganz.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Sylvester and Beatrice Willihnganz, his wife, Terri Willihnganz, and his niece, Stephanie Willihnganz.
A memorial service will be held at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church located at 5460 Mary Lake Road Waunakee on Wednesday, August 4th at 11:00am. Msgr James Gunn will officiate. Friends may call the church from 10:00am until the time of Mass.
Memorial contributions can be gifted in Paul’s name to the Carbone Cancer Center or a charity of your choice.
Bancroft, Genevieve "Gen"
POYNETTE
Bancroft, Genevieve "Gen"
Gen Bancroft, age 89, passed away peacefully at home June 2, 2020.
Gen was born Jan. 20, 1931, to Frank and Sophia Richwalski in East Chicago, Ind. She married William J. Bancroft Feb. 9, 1954. Together they raised two daughters, Ann Bancroft and Sara Bancroft, on their farm in Dekorra.
Bill and Gen met at UW-Madison. Their first date was an early morning flight in Bill’s Stinson plane.
This was the beginning of a journey filled with wanderlust. Gen was passionate about rocks, guns and her grandkids, Dawson Bancroft Short and William Bancroft Short. She graduated from UW-Madison with a degree in geology. She was a member of the Hoofers and climbed at Devil’s Lake. Her favorite memory was climbing the Grand Teton in the early 1950’s.
Gen is survived by her daughters, Ann Bancroft-Bohling (Dan) and Sara Bancroft-Short (Paul); grandchildren, Dawson Bancroft-Short (Lily) and William Bancroft-Short; as well as many special nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, William Bancroft; her brothers, Ed Richwalski and Frank Richwalski; and her sister, Adele Richwalski.
Her family will return her to the Mountain Top, in lieu of a funeral. A celebration of life will be held for family at a later date.
Memorials may be made to the Columbia County Alzheimer Alliance Group. The family would like to thank Agrace HospiceCare for their guidance and support the last two weeks. The Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage is assisting the family.
Bannerman, Roger Trevor
MADISON
Roger Trevor Bannerman, age 75, of Madison, died Oct. 15, 2020, at Agrace Hospice in Fitchburg, Wis., after living with advanced prostate cancer for several years. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Jane; and their two children, Eric of Madison and Julie (Juan Ponce Vázquez) of Tuscaloosa; and by his grandsons, Santiago Ponce Bannerman and Alejandro Ponce Bannerman. He is also survived by his two siblings, Brian (Bonnie) and Gillian (John Martella); and sister-in-law, Cathy Tesar (George). He is further survived by other relatives and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Doreen Bannerman; and his parents-in-law, Ladislav and Katherine Krno.
Roger was born July 2, 1945, in London, England, to his father, Raymond, an American serviceman, and his mother, Doreen, a British citizen. After a childhood with frequent moves due to his father's army career, his family settled in Pacific Grove, Calif., where he graduated from high school in 1963. After receiving his bachelor's degree in chemistry from Humboldt State University, he drove across the country to begin graduate school at UW-Madison in the Water Chemistry Program. While in graduate school he met his future wife, Jane. Roger and Jane married in 1971 and settled in Madison.
Roger worked for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and retired with 40 years of state service. After retirement, he worked for the United States Geologic Survey. Roger was instrumental in developing the State of Wisconsin's storm water management program. He conducted groundbreaking storm water research that is still recognized nationally and internationally as fundamental to this science. Roger had a unique ability to build coalitions across industry and government to fund research projects that provided the data that formed the basis of many of DNR's stormwater rules. He developed a deeply personal approach to advocating for the use of science in resource management. He genuinely loved working with others, and he mentored university faculty, graduate students, fellow water quality staff, DNR administrators and the public to build understanding. Roger had a rare mixture of expertise, curiosity, generosity and compassion that was obvious to anyone who worked with him.
Roger loved walking, biking, camping, canoeing, cross country skiing, and sharing his love of the outdoors with others. He enjoyed hiking on trails in local state parks and in the UW Arboretum, where he and Jane were volunteer stewards. Roger and Jane enjoyed canoeing with family and friends on local lakes and rivers. They spent over 30 years canoe camping in the Boundary Waters and in the Sylvania Wilderness. Roger was a passionate photographer, capturing images of nature and adventures with family and friends. He loved hosting friends and spending time with his two grandsons, his boys.
Roger will be remembered as a generous friend and loving father, brother, grandfather, and husband. He will be greatly missed. A celebration of Roger's life will be held at a later date.
Please share your memories at
Blattner, Thomas
MAZOMANIE
His first job after graduation was as a research chemist for Joseph Schlitz Brewing Company. He also worked at Bordon Foods before beginning the favorite chapter of his career: UW-Madison. Tom was hired as academic staff to manage Babcock Hall dairy plant, teach, and do research. For 22 years he proudly taught the farm short course in dairy processing. By retirement in 2008 he had advanced to administration in the food science department and achieved emeritus status. He often said it was the best job he ever had, and he truly valued and appreciated his clever and considerate coworkers.
He was an active member of St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, having served on the picnic committee and parish council, and was a member of the Knight’s of Columbus and the St Vincent de Paul Society. He also volunteered at Sauk Prairie Hospital, St Vincent Food Pantry, and RSVP by bringing people to their appointments. Woodworking, hiking, astronomy, chess, classical and bluegrass music, travel and photography were some of his many interests. He was a commonsense and practical self-taught handyman for his and his children’s homes. He tried to never miss getting together with the Mazomanie ROMEOs or Madison Bike and Bowl.
It was at a party for a departing serviceman in the summer of 1965 that he met Barbara Ann Brill. Immediately they knew this also was chemistry. They were married in January 1969, and commemorated 50 years together in 2019 with a fantastic party of family and friends gathered over a lifetime.
His absolute proudest accomplishment were his children and grandchildren. He was dearly loved and will be terribly missed by Rebecca Ann (Eric) Powers, Zachary, Colby and Isaac; Jennifer Elizabeth (Thomas) Wankerl, Solomon, Scarlett, Haven, Violet, Opal and Hazel; Peter Michael Blattner and Benton; and Kathryn Therese (Benjamin) Seibel, Maxwell, Theresa, Samuel and Nora. He is survived by Margaret (Daniel) Nencka and Richard (Shari) Blattner.
He was preceded in death by siblings Mildred (Sebastian) Bea, James (Lori), John (Cathy), and Charles.
A private service was held July 18, exactly 55 years after first meeting Barbara. Interment at St Francis Xavier columbarium, Cross Plains, WI.
Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are happy. – proverb
Druckenmiller, Howard "Stan"
MADISON
Howard S. “Stan” Druckenmiller, age 75, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2020 at Agrace Hospice in Fitchburg. Stan was born in Washington DC, to Howard Druckenmiller and Sylvia (Johnston) Druckenmiller. He met his wife Jean while attending Colorado State University. They married in 1966. After graduating from CSU in 1968, Stan and Jean moved to Madison where he began his career as a Fisheries Manager for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
During his 32-year career with DNR, Stan rose through the ranks, becoming a Bureau Director, Division Administrator and Executive Assistant to the Secretary. His many accomplishments included establishment of the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program that provides major funding for acquiring land for parks, natural areas, forests, hunting, fishing and recreation. He also built partnerships with nonprofit Land Trusts and local governments to protect and manage Wisconsin’s most sensitive landscapes.
Stan was a key leader in creating the Lower Wisconsin Riverway to preserve the scenic value and ecological integrity of the wild, undeveloped 92-mile free-flowing segment of the Wisconsin River. As Director of the Bureau of Environmental Impact, Stan supervised review of numerous projects including siting of coal and nuclear power plants, routing oil/gas lines, high-voltage transmission lines, highways, airports and mining projects. Stan was always a man of principle who left a lasting legacy by bettering Wisconsin’s management and protection of its natural resources.
Stan enjoyed wood working, reading, photography, volunteering for the Friends of Wisconsin Public Television, Madison Audubon, Habitat for Humanity and spending time with family. He is survived by his wife, Jean; son, Dr. Patrick (Lisa) Druckenmiller; granddaughter Maggie and brother Vic (Nancy). He was preceded in death by his parents Howard and Sylvia Druckenmiller and his sister Patricia.
He will be profoundly missed by his family, former colleagues, and fellow volunteers. The family wishes to thank UW Health, Agrace Hospice Care and their staff who tenderly cared for Stan in his final months. Memorials may be made to Madison Audubon/Goose Pond Sanctuary, Dane County Humane Society, or PBS Wisconsin. Due to current health restrictions, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Robert “Bob” T. Dumke, age 76, a resident of Webb Lake passed away on Thursday, June 11, 2020.
Bob was born on June 17, 1943 in Minneapolis, MN to parents; Willard and Carol Dumke.
Bob was a 1961 graduate of West High in Minneapolis. He went on to the University of MN where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Management in 1966. He worked for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources as the Bureau Director for the biologist of wildlife research for over 30 years.
Ellingson, Robert O.
AMHERST JUNCTION
Robert O. Ellingson
Robert Ole Ellingson, 91, of the Town of New Hope, Amherst Junction, Wisconsin, passed away Sunday, February 16, 2020 . Bob was born in Iola, Wisconsin on May 18, 1928, a son of the late Myrtle (Roe) and Maurice J Ellingson. He married Beverly Jane Berg in 1950. She preceded him in death on March 11th, 2018.
Bob graduated from Iola High School in 1946. He graduated from UWSP in 1950 and served in the Korean War and was a Bronze Star recipient. He lived and taught high school in Marquette, Michigan for 2 years
(1954-1956), moved to Madison Wisconsin and worked for the Wisconsin Conservation Department for 34 years retiring in 1998. He served as chair for the Conservation Congress for several years. Bob & Bev moved to the family homestead in Amherst Jct. in 2001. Bob was active at the North New Hope Lutheran Church where he served as Council President and Sexton of the church cemetery. In 2007, he co-founded the annual "Drive Your Tractor To Church Sunday". His hobbies included hunting, fishing, gardening. He always looked forward to visiting with friends and spending time with his family, which was his pride and joy.
He is survived by five sons, Robert O. Ellingson Jr. and wife Pam of Lakewood, Wisconsin; Mark J. and wife Tammie of Amherst Junction, Wisconsin; Paul and wife Krissanne of Madison, Wisconsin; James and Cyndy of Blue Mounds, Wisconsin; David and wife Laura of Fitchburg, Wisconsin. 10 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Bob was also preceded in death by his siblings, John, Mary Olson, Richard and Sidney.
A Memorial Service for Bob will be held at North New Hope Lutheran Church at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 21st, with Reverend Michael Peuse officiating. Memorial Visitation will be held at the church on Friday 10:00 - 11:00 AM. Interment will be in the parish cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to North New Hope Lutheran Church Scholarship Endowment Fund and Cemetery Fund. Register Book and online condolences may be sent by visiting www.voiefuneralhome.com
Voie Funeral Home
120 S. Main St
Iola, WI. 54945
715-445-2560
Faucett, Richard 'Dick'
MARINETTE
Richard “Dick” A. Faucett, 88, entered into eternal life on Nov. 11, 2020. He was born on June 7, 1932, in Menominee, Mich., to Franklin and Edna (Messenger) Faucett.
Richard graduated from Marinette High School in 1950 and attended Texas A&M University on a ROTC and football scholarship. He later transferred to St. Norbert College in De Pere, Wis., where he earned a B.S. in chemistry. He married Carol Dufresne on June 1, 1957, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Marinette. He enjoyed a 30-year career as a forester and land agent for the Wisconsin DNR. Richard was also a proud member of the Army Reserves for 28 years and retired as a Major. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, as well as an active member of Saint Anthony Parish in Marinette, volunteering for countless fundraisers for the church over the years. He was also a generous supporter of the Catholic school system in Marinette and served on the Catholic Central (now St. Thomas Aquinas Academy) School Board.
Richard cherished the company of his friends and family and relished a good laugh, as well as a good debate. He was a remarkable storyteller and enjoyed reminiscing about his idyllic childhood days spent at his father’s logging camps and with his family at their summer retreat on their farm. He never missed an opportunity to recount the details of his many successful deer hunting endeavors with his children and fishing trips with his grandchildren on Lake Noquebay. Most central to his life, however, was his beloved wife of 63 years, Carol. He considered himself incredibly lucky to have her as his bride and often remarked that his greatest flaw was that he “loved her too much.”
Richard lived a very blessed and full life and will be dearly missed. He is survived by his wife, Carol Faucett, along with their five children and families: Franklin (Clarissa) Faucett of Marinette, Michael (Christine) Faucett of Appleton and their children: Michael (Megan), William, and John; Joseph (Sally) Faucett of Menominee and their children, Rev. Matthew, Nathan, and Joseph; Mary (Dr. James) Tandias of Marinette and their children, Ryan and Rachel Tandias; and Richard (Dawn) Faucett Jr. of Mequon, Wis., and their children, Anna and Lauren; his sister, Mary Ellen Sorensen; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, Franklin and Herbert (Bud) Faucett, and his sister, Patricia Pesare.
Richard’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Almost Family Home Health (especially Bobbi Brown, Patti Heckel and Jacki Kessel); Joanne Kirby and Lisa Knopik; Dr. Gian Daroach and Dr. Yasser Salem and their clinic staff; Bay Area Medical Center, The Harbors Retirement Community, and the Rennes Health & Rehab Centers for their outstanding care.
Because of COVID-19, a private Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Family Parish - Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Marinette with military honors and burial to follow. There will be a celebration of Richard’s life for all who would like to join at a future time when it is safe to gather.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to St. Thomas Aquinas Academy of Marinette in Richard’s name.
Thielen Funeral Home is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.
Folz, Daniel J.
GREEN BAY
Daniel J. Folz, age 86, of Green Bay and formerly of Oshkosh, passed away on Saturday, November 7. 2020. Dan was the son of the late Edward and Mary (Beiler) Folz. He was born August 4, 1934, in Milwaukee.
Dan played basketball at North Division High School, in Milwaukee, where he is inducted into the school's Hall of Fame, and has his number retired.He attended UW Madison, where he played basketball.
Dan married the former Barbara Armitage on May 31, 1958 and she preceded him in death on March 4, 2015. Dan was a fish biologist for 34 years, working for the Department of Natural Resources, where he was fondly known as "Father Sturgeon". Dan enjoyed many hobbies such as fishing, camping, hunting, all other sports, and he especially enjoyed "running off to Vegas".
Dan's family meant the world to him. He is survived by his children: Becky (Rick) Schutte, Tammy (Mike) Hoes, Debbie Folz, and Susan (Michael) Heier. Surviving grandchildren; Ryan (Emily) and Jesse (Kelsey) Schutte, Travis, Zachary (Ashley), Anna and Olivia Heier; great-grandchildren: Hewitt, Ella, Hunter, Ava, Baylin, Meadow, Sailor Heier, Ezra and Zeke Schutte; his in-laws, Donna Armitage, Robert (Carolyn) Armitage, William Armitage; as well as many other family and friends.
In addition to his wife, Barb, and parents, Dan was preceded in death by his brother-in-law Jack Armitage and sister-in-law Colleen Armitage.
Dan's family would like to extend a special thank you to Ron Bruch, Ryan Koenigs, Michael Penning and Carolee Primising for their special care and friendship to Dan.
In lieu of flowers a memorial fund in Dan's name will be set up by his family.
Services will not be held at this time out of concerns for everyone's safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. A celebration of Dan's life may be planned at a later date. Online condolences can be expressed to the Folz family Cotter Funeral Home:
Freitag, Linda
MADISON
Linda Freitag, 72, passed away on Friday, Oct. 30, 2020, after a hard fought 11 year-battle with multiple cancers and a life well lived.
Linda is survived by her partner of 42 years and lifelong love, David Huntley; her son whom she was so proud of, Thomas Freitag, his wife, Bianca, and her two beloved grandsons, Ansel and Zachary, who brought so much joy to her life. She is further survived by her mother, Bernice Richert, of Reedsburg; four siblings; and many other relatives and friends.
Per her wishes, there will be no services. A special thank you to Dr. Toby Campbell at the UW Carbone Cancer Center for his kind care and friendship over Linda's many years of treatment and to the staff at Agrace HospiceCare for final care.
"l have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith." Online condolences may be made at:
Galvin, Timothy James
HORICON
June 9, 1950 - December 4, 2020
An Irishman walked into a pub... and now, he never has to leave.
Timothy James Galvin was born on June 9, 1950 in Ames, Iowa to Virginia and Joseph Galvin. From the beginning, Tim was a memorable character. He was a lover of good jokes and small world stories, and he was known as the life of every party.
Family was everything to Tim, and he was always happiest when "his girls" were happy. Tim leaves behind his wife of 46 years, Kathy Galvin, and his daughters, Erin Blank, and Brenna Galvin (Kevin Hansen). He frequently said that his daughters got their good looks from Kathy, but he kept his. We will let the people decide. Tim was the proud grandfather of Parker James Blank, Cameron Joseph Blank, and Declan Vincent Blank. He got such joy and overwhelming pride from watching the boys grow up. He loved his family without abandon and ensured they knew that every day. Tim was also honored to act as a host dad to three foreign exchange students over the years: Dagmara Finlayson, Jess Ruciack, and Nathalia Mello Sales.
Tim is survived by a large, extended family, including his mother, Virginia Galvin, and his siblings: Michael Galvin (Susan Demos), Kathy Monroe (Michael Monroe), Susan Jeffrey (Dick Jeffrey), Daniel Galvin (Suzi Galvin), and Sheila Pearman (Perry Pearman), and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Joanne May and Joseph May, and his wife's siblings: Tom May, Joe May (Tammy May), Cindy Waterford (Rick Waterford), and Pam Kerr (Jeff Kerr). He also leaves behind his nieces and nephews that he loved belly laughing with.
Tim was a proud alumni of Indiana University, where he received his undergraduate degree in Public Administration and his Master's degree in Park and Recreation Administration. He would tell you with a twinkle in his eye that he graduated "summa cuma barely."' His friends would report that he had the best time along the way. At IU, Tim was the Captain and Coach of the Rugby Team and is featured in the IU Rugby Hall of Fame.
Tim was passionate about the outdoors, and he spent many hours golfing (with irregular success) at Rock River Hills Golf Course and sailing on Lake Winnebago. He often shared stories from his youth spent along the shore of Lake Michigan, knees deep in a sand dune. Tim also loved singing off key and dancing. He had more moves than Allied Van Lines.
Tim spent his career working for the Department of Natural Resources where he met many fine friends and colleagues. Tim also cared deeply about his friends, and the community at large. He truly embodied the Rotary motto of "service above self." Tim would show up in big ways and small - from cooking a pot of chili or snow blowing a driveway to volunteering his time in service to organizations including the: Hartford Jaycees, Horicon Lions Club, Rock River Hills Golf Club Board of Directors, Friends of Dodge County Parks Board of Directors, Dodge County Humane Society Board of Directors, Horicon Board of Education, Horicon Marsh International Education Center Board of Directors, and the Horicon Rotary Club.
Due to COVID-19 and in efforts to keep everyone safe, a celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Tim's legacy by making a donation to the Friends of the Dodge County Parks and Friends of the Horicon Marsh International Education Center.
Gottwald, Paul J.
PARK FALLS
Hughes, James (Jim) Michael
MADISON
James, 68, died by suicide on Tuesday, May 19, at his home.
He was born October 11, 1951, in Fort Leonard Wood, MO, to Ed and Lorraine (Chirhart) Juza (later changed to Hughes). Jim lived most of his life in Madison, graduating from Memorial High School, Madison Area Technical College, and the University of Wisconsin School of Civil and Environmental Engineering. Jim served in the U.S. Army and was retired from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Air Management Program.
Jim loved the outdoors and was a long-time natural areas volunteer who worked to restore native oak savanna, wetlands, and prairie with the Friends of Cherokee Marsh, Dane County Parks, Madison Parks, and the Wisconsin DNR.
Jim is survived by his wife of 38 years, Jan Axelson, sister Mary Hughes (Krieg) Hoddinott, brother Kevin (Diane) Hughes, and his nephews, niece, cousins, and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his brother Kenneth and his parents.
The family will announce a gathering at a future date. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Wisconsin Public Radio or the Foundation for the Dane County Parks Endowment Fund. To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com
Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
2418 N. Sherman Avenue
608-249-8257
Johnson, Rose "Betty"
MARION
Rose E. (Betty) Johnson, 89, died August 22, 2020, under Hospice care at her long-term care residence in Bedford, Texas.
Rose was born November 22, 1930, in Middletown, Ohio to Albert and Grace Hartman. Several years later, her parents moved to Woodruff, WI where she attended High School. She married Fred S. Johnson, Jr. on January 23, 1954.
She had a great career with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources where she retired on January 6, 1996, after 34 years of service.
Rose began her career as a typist in January 1962. She was recognized for outstanding performance with multiple promotions and advancements over the years, and retired as a Financial Specialist Supervisor 5. At retirement, Rose received a commendation from the Natural Resources Board for her “outstanding career, and her knowledge and understanding of the Department’s financial systems, unsurpassed within the agency.” Rose earned the commendation “due an exemplary public employee.”
Rose was a longstanding member of the United Methodist Church of the Pines, and a member of Masonic Order 242 serving in the Eastern Star and White Shrine.
She is survived by her two sons Albert (Cara) of North Richland Hills, Texas; and Tim (Carey) of Rockwall, Texas; her daughter Chyrl (Renae) of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; four grandchildren Trace (Renee), Bailey (Jeremy), Kaylah (Josh), and Shane (Valerie); five great grandchildren; and multiple cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Fred, brother Richard, and parents.
Visitation for will be held on Monday, August 31st from 10:00 am till 11:00 am at the Nimsgern Funeral Home in Woodruff, WI with Funeral Services at 11:00 am with Rev. Erv Teichmiller officiating. Burial will be at Forest Garden Memorial Cemetery in Woodruff.
WE LOVE AND MISS YOU MOM! BUT AS MUCH AS WE WISH YOU WERE HERE, IT IS A BLESSING TO KNOW THAT AFTER 24 YEARS, YOU AND DAD ARE TOGETHER AGAIN.
Online condolences may be shared at nimsgernfuneral.com
Konkol, Violet
VERONA
Violet Konkol, 89, passed away at Ingleside Care Center in Mount Horeb, Wis., on Dec. 2, 2020.
Violet was the daughter of Steve and Anna Kupcho of Lansing, Mich. She was preceded in death by her stepsister, Amelia Wilcox; and her stepbrother,
Joseph Lustik.
Violet was a longtime member of St. Maria Goretti Parish. Her Catholic faith was very important to her. She attended Resurrection High School in Lansing.
Violet played the organ for the daily Masses. She was a talented piano player and singer as well.
While attending Resurrection High School, Violet participated on the Debate Team and was named State District Oratory Champion. She won many an argument.
Violet met the love of her life, Dennis, when she was working as the secretary receptionist to the Dean of the School of Forestry at Michigan State University and he arrived on campus to apply to the school. They married when Dennis was a sophomore in 1956 and had five children in six years – a fact that she was particularly proud of! Dennis was employed by the State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources after graduation and moved the family to Wisconsin. After her kids were in school, Violet worked as a secretary for a Madison realty company and for an area beauty school. She enjoyed polka dances and playing pinochle with family friends.
Violet was a consummate cook and enjoyed making Slovak dishes from her mother’s recipes. She kept her Betty Crocker cookbook (a bridal shower gift) and used it her entire life.
In middle age, Violet was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. It gradually robbed her of the ability to walk, and she became bedridden six years ago after breaking her leg in a fall. Her loving husband, Dennis, cared for her daily needs. In August 2017, their eldest daughter, Ann, came to help care for Violet. Violet was diagnosed with dementia in October 2018 and eventually qualified for hospice care. Agrace Hospice assisted in her
care for nearly 18 months prior to her death. Their care and attention have been greatly appreciated.
Violet is survived by her beloved husband of 64 years, Dennis; daughter, Ann Ayala of Chattanooga, Tenn.; son, Steven (Lisa) Konkol of Verona, Wis.; daughter, Karen (Gary) Larson of Kansasville, Wis.; son, Bill (Susan) Konkol of Tampa, Fla.; and son, James (Tina) Konkol of Spencer, Wis.; 10 grandchildren; four (and 3/4) great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Ryan Funeral Home in Verona is handling the arrangements. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, there will be no memorial service at the funeral home.
Violet’s funeral will be a Mass of Christian Burial at ST. MARIA GORETTI, 5313 Flad Avenue in Madison on Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2020, at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery on Regent Street.
The service will be live-streamed on the St. Maria Goretti Youtube page. No reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation in Violet’s name to Agrace Hospice at 5395 East Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711, or the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America at msaa@mymsaa.org To view and sign this guestbook, please visit www.ryanfuneralservice.com
Nelson, Glen Lee
SUN PRAIRIE
Glenn Lee Nelson, age 89, passed away on Friday, April 17, 2020, at New Perspective in Sun Prairie. He was born on Oct. 14, 1930, in Kenosha, the son of Gotfred and Oline (Curtiss) Nelson.
Glenn graduated from Wilmot High School in 1948 and Beloit College in 1954. He served in the U.S. Army from June 1955 until his honorable discharge in June 1957. He married Shirley Schmidt on Jan. 20, 1951, in Dubuque, Iowa.
Glenn worked as a personnel manager for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, retiring in 1989. He was an avid golfer, loved watching the Packers, Badgers and Cubs, and was a proud Green Bay Packers Shareholder.
Glenn is survived by his three daughters, Barbara (Chuck) Carter, Cyndy DePrimo, and Cathy (John) Jellings; son, Curtiss (Kelly) Nelson; granddaughters, Erika Carter and Pam (Jim) Chapman; grandson, Nate Nelson; great-grandchildren, Sam Chapman and Jessica Chapman; and sister, Joyce (Len) Toepper. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Shirley; brother, Keith Nelson; sister, Jean Lyons; and son-in-law, Anthony “Tony” S. DePrimo.
Burial will be held at Highland Memory Gardens. A public celebration of life will be planned for a later date. Glenn’s family would like thank Dr. Leo Schug and Agrace HospiceCare for the kind and compassionate care they gave him. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com
Riley, Julia Bledsoe,
MADISON
across Wisconsin protect the quality of their water. Julia was a devoted Girl Scout Leader, Qigong Master, and intrepid world traveler. Julia was deeply spiritual and had a strong affinity for nature and the outdoors. She especially enjoyed spending time in the Pheasant Branch Conservancy.
Julia is survived by her daughter, Hannah Riley (Aneidys) Reyes; grandson, Aramis Reyes; brother-in-law Vince Dutcher; nephew Cole Dutcher; and former husband, David Riley (Colette Sisco). She was preceded in death by her father, Lloyd Bledsoe; mother, Marjorie Bledsoe; brother, Stanley Bledsoe; sister, Linda Dutcher; and beloved dog Lettie.
An online memorial will be held on Friday, July 3, 2020, at 1 p.m. CDT via a Zoom link. Please check back on the Gunderson website to get the link. In lieu of flowers or other gifts, please consider making a donation in Julia’s memory to the Friends of Pheasant Branch Conservancy, Middleton, Wis., or an organization of your choice. Online condolences may be made at
Schmoller, Raymond M. "Mike"
MADISON
Mike passed away unexpectedly on the evening of Sunday, June 28, 2020, after returning home from a neighborhood walk. He will be missed deeply by his family, friends and colleagues. Mike was born in Waukesha on December 30, 1955, the son of Raymond and Laverne (Schultz) Schmoller.
Mike was a loving spouse and a dedicated father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Anne Biebel, Cross Plains; son, Daniel (Jenn Yee) Schmoller, Menomonee Falls; daughter, Mary Beth (Dane) Small, Aspen, Colorado; grand-daughter, Addison Schmoller, Menomonee Falls; mother Laverne “Bernie” Schmoller, Waukesha; and sister, Sandy (Bob) Gardener, Sequim, Washington.
Mike is further survived by his former wife and mother of his children, Diane Traxler Schmoller, Madison.
He was preceded in death by his father Raymond Schmoller of Waukesha in 1988.
After graduating from UW-Stevens Point and completing graduate studies at UW-Madison, Mike began work in 1982 with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. After thirty-eight years, he was planning to retire at the end of 2020 from his position as the Regional Spills Coordinator-Hydrogeologist for South Central Wisconsin. Mike was passionate about his work and deeply admired by his colleagues for his intelligence, work ethic and competence.
Mike loved all sports, excelled at them and instilled these interests in his children, Mary Beth and Daniel. Mike was the best dad ever and on the sideline for every game or sporting event. From hockey to soccer to football to horse shows to softball to karate, he provided unwavering support and encouragement. Some of the best times he shared with Daniel and Mary Beth were bluegill fishing on Lake Mendota and pheasant hunting in Iowa. Every July you could find Mike and his kids fishing for walleye on Lake Mamakwash in Ontario, Canada.
In addition to his love for the outdoors, Mike was an avid sportsman and recently enjoyed several pheasant and duck hunting trips to Iowa, South Dakota and Missouri. Mike excelled at skeet shooting and relished his visits to the gun range, an activity he enjoyed the morning of his death. Mike adored his dogs and trained them as hunting companions. He is missed by his black labs DD and Raven, with whom he shared many happy adventures.
Mike’s involvement in his community also is notable. Mike served as a Coach for the youth football program at St. Francis Xavier over many seasons, often putting together a winning team. Mike had also served as a member of the Cross Plains Village Board and was formerly a member of the Cross Plains Emergency Medical Services Rescue team. It would be hard to find a more down-to-earth, stand-up guy than Mike Schmoller.
Heartfelt thanks to those who came to help Mike in his time of need, including Lieutenant Kim Ready of the Cross Plains Police Department, the Cross Plains EMS, the Cross Plains Fire Department, the City of Middleton Paramedics and the Dane County Medical Examiner. Your care and professionalism were deeply appreciated.
Unfortunately a memorial gathering for Mike will be delayed until safer conditions prevail relative to the covid virus.
Seifert, Jack Lawrence
EAGLE RIVER
Jack Lawrence Seifert, 69, born and raised in Eagle River, Wisconsin passed away on Tuesday, July 21 at the University of Missouri Hospital with his family at his bedside. Jack currently was living in Fulton (Hams Prairie), Missouri.
Jack was born on February 23, 1951 in Rhinelander, WI to James Walter Seifert and Iris Laneen (Cook) Seifert. Jack attended Christ Lutheran School in Eagle River and graduated from Northland Pines High School. As a youth he enjoyed participating in the school art and drama programs as well as all the sports of the Northwoods - hockey, skiing, all kinds of fishing and hunting.
Jack received a B.S. degree in Resource Management with a minor in Environmental Studies and Outdoor Education from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. He was an avid outdoors man and enjoyed many years of fishing, trapping, hunting and even dog sled racing. Jack was recognized for his teamwork and leadership in fighting forest fires in Wisconsin and the western United States. For many years Jack was employed with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and enjoyed many years of work in the environment he loved most. Not only did he pass on his love and experience of the outdoors to his children and grandchildren, but he also served in many youth education programs through his early conservation work at Trees for Tomorrow Environmental Center and later with the Department of Natural Resources. After retiring from the DNR Jack went on to operate Seifert’s Field and Forest L.L.C. He conducted prescribed burns, prairie restoration and herbicide control in the Midwest.
Jack enjoyed his years living in Key Largo, Florida along the Atlantic Ocean. He loved the warm weather, ocean view and of course the fishing. During the past few years Jack lived in Missouri to be near his daughter, Brooke, and her family. Here he enjoyed deer hunting with all of them, attending ice skating shows as well as baseball, basketball and volleyball games as his health allowed, and as always, making new friends.
Jack is survived by daughter, Brooke Seifert Hewitt (Jason) and grandchildren Zachary and Hannah of Holts Summit, MO; older brothers Ken Seifert (Fran)of Carmichael, CA and Jim Seifert (Jo) of Tucson, AZ; cousins Mike, Bill and Tom Shields; Bud and John Seifert; Janine Jolin, Betty Jo Held, Margaret Walker, Kathy Cross and Susan Vogel; many second and third cousins; and a lifetime of close family friends.
He is preceded in death by his son, Nathan Seifert; infant daughter Hope Seifert; Father, Jim Seifert and Mother, Iris (Cook) Seifert; and many beloved Grandparents, Aunts and Uncles.
Jack’s family wants to acknowledge all those across the country who have become his friends. No matter where he was - Wisconsin, Florida, Missouri - he continued to make long lasting friendships that he often joined to share coffee and breakfast. Jack’s family could not be more thankful and proud for the many great lessons, learning and experiences he taught all of us.
True to Jack’s wishes, Pastor Bill Trosien will be conducting an outdoor graveside service at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at the Eagle River Cemetery.
An informal outdoor gathering for family and friends will immediately follow the service at Riverside Park in Eagle River.
Severtson, Larry
ARENA
Larry Severtson, age 73, passed away quietly on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2020, at Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg, Wis. Larry was born June 18, 1947, in Mount Horeb, Wis. He attended school there before moving on to the University of Wisconsin at Platteville, where he graduated with a degree in Biological Sciences.
Larry worked through several different positions with the Department of Natural Resources before settling in as the Forestry Technician in Spring Green in the 70s. Much of his work there focused on forest fire
management involving fire suppression, prevention and equipment management. He worked in Spring Green through his retirement in 2001. During that time, Larry was involved in his labor union, holding a variety of leadership positions. In retirement, Larry worked as manager of forest fire suppression air operations throughout the United States for US Forest Service and BIA.
Larry was a skilled and enthusiastic outdoorsman. An avid hunter and fisherman, he was a collector of guns, especially muzzle loading rifles. As in his work life, he loved to spend his leisure time outdoors, too. Larry was also very interested in early Native American culture and crafts from the 18th century. He frequently traveled to attend Rendezvous gatherings, where others of similar interests came together. Larry crafted period tools and clothing and traded and sold them through his Trapper John business. He was known to some of his friend’s children as “Uncle Larry,” and he was a great influence on them.
Larry was preceded in death by his mother, Margaret Ann Severtson. He is survived by many friends and colleagues who will miss him greatly.
Memorials in Larry’s name may be made to St. Joseph’s Indian School, 1301 N. Main Street, Chaimberlain, SD 57325 or Agrace HospiceCare, 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Spencer, Robert
MADISON
He was a very active member of the West Kiwanis Club, Treasurer for 24 years and Pancake Breakfast Chairman for many years. He was also a long time member at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church where he also delivered Meals on Wheels. He was honored to be with veterans on the Badger Honor Flight to Washington DC in May 2013.
He is survived by his daughter, Julie (Don) Teter and their children, Christopher (Megan) and Kevin (Greta); son, Jon (Karen) Spencer and their children, Zachary (Kaci), Brittany (Kevin), Avery (Jon), and Kelsey (Nate); and nine great grandchildren.
Robert was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara and son, Jeffrey
A private family service will be held at Highland Memory Gardens.
Memorials may be sent to Badger Honor Flight, Inc., PO Box 258066, Madison, WI 53725.
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“Smile because he has lived,
open your eyes and see all he’s left, and be full of the love he shared” |
Sullivan, Patricia Brown 'Pat'
MADISON
MADISON - Patricia Brown "Pat" Sullivan, age 72, passed away on Sept. 24, 2020. A longtime resident of the Madison area, Patricia Ann Brown was born on May 6, 1948, in Chicago, Ill., to Earl and Helen (Cain) Brown. In 1966 she graduated from Trinity High School in River Forest, Ill. In 1970 she attained her bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Edgewood College in Madison, Wis., and went on to receive her masters from Loyola University in Chicago, Ill., in 1974. She taught for eleven years in the Catholic school systems in Chicago, Ill., and Madison, Wis., dioceses. She was a Financial Assistance Specialist for the Department of Natural Resources, Madison, Wis., until she retired in 2011.
Swingen, Marjorie (Marge) A.
SPRINGFIELD, MO
On Aug. 1, 2020, Marjorie (Marge) A. Swingen, age 100, passed away peacefully at the Glendale Gardens in Springfield, MO.
She was born in Paducah, Ill., in 1919, daughter of Edward and Clarice Stevens.
On Dec. 1, 1945, she was married to Ellsworth (Ellz) Swingen in Fort Atkinson, WI.
After marriage they settled in Stoughton, Wis. Marge worked in Stoughton for several years before going to work for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources where she worked for 20 years.
After retirement she learned to golf, and they joined a couple’s league at the Monona Golf Course. She and Ellz enjoyed dancing, golfing, and traveling. They took numerous trips and family gatherings together over the years. Ellz died in 2010. In 2016, Marge moved to Springfield, MO to be closer to her daughter. Marge loved jazz, big band music and watching reruns of Lawrence Welk.
Marge is survived by a sister, Lois of Fond du Lac, Wis.; son, Douglas (Judi) Swingen of Bush, La.; daughter, Yvonne (Art) Sorenson from Springfield, Mo.; nine grandchildren, Sena, Sara, Jorli, Tia, Chad, Sonya, Todd, Jeni and Lindsey; eight great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Marge was preceded in death by her husband, Ellsworth; a son, James Ellsworth Swingen; a daughter-in-law, Enid Swingen; seven sisters and brothers.
Marge will be laid to rest adjacent to Ellz at a private service at the Roselawn Mausoleum in Monona, Wis.
Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made at:
Syftestad, Eric P.
MADISON
Eric P. Syftestad
On Monday, April 13, 2020, Eric P. Syftestad passed away peacefully at Agrace Hospice & Palliative Care, in Madison, Wis., at the age of 61, surrounded by the love of his family.
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Eric was predeceased by his father, Paul Syftestad, and will be sadly missed by his mother, Jean, and siblings, Karin, Kristin, Peter (Kristin) and Paul (Jill).
Nieces and nephews, Kristina, Christopher, Lezer, Emma, Claire, Olivia, Kathryn, and many other extended family and friends will remember Eric fondly.
Eric’s career spanned 34 years at Wisconsin Dept of Natural Resources (DNR) as a Waste Management Engineer. His avocations included refereeing Madison City League and High School basketball. Eric enjoyed conversation with family and friends, European travel, spectacular sunsets, the UW Campus and Memorial Union Terrace, and driving the Wisconsin countryside enjoying the charm of all the towns along the way. Eric embraced life, lived in the moment and enjoyed every day. He will be greatly missed by all of those who knew and loved him.
A private family service will be held at the Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage. Interment of Eric’s cremated remains will be held at Silver Lake Cemetery. A “gathering” in honor of Eric will be planned at a later date as we are currently observing Covid-19 guidelines.
If so desired and as your expression of sympathy, memorial donations to the UW Carbone Cancer Center or Wis. Public TV would be appreciated and may be made directly or through the
Becker, Edward Brooks
MADISON
Edward Brooks Becker passed away on April 28, 2019. He was born on Aug. 12, 1931, to Earl M. and Ethel Brooks Becker in Emporia, Kan.
He earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Emporia State College. Brooks served in the U.S. Army, and was stationed in Germany during the Korean Conflict.
After returning to the United States, he earned his Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Kansas in 1959, where he met Mary Helen Clark. They were married in June of 1959. That year, they went to France on a Fulbright scholarship.
Early in his career, Brooks was a research chemist at Pittsburgh Plate Glass in Barberton, Ohio. He then worked at American Machine and Foundry in Alexandria, Va.; and at Spencer Chemical Company in Kansas City, Mo., and later in Pittsburgh, Pa., after the company was purchased by Gulf Oil Company.
In 1970, he came to Madison to head the Department of Air Pollution Control and Solid Waste Management for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. In 1978, he co-founded and was president of RMT, Inc., an environmental engineering company, from which he retired in 1990.
A resident of Shorewood Hills, he served as village president from 1987 to 1989. He was a member of the American Chemical Society, the American Association for the Advancement of Science, Madison Downtown Rotary and the Madison Club.
Brooks enjoyed playing golf and bridge, and traveling to destinations such as Antarctica, Turkey, the Baltics, the Canary Islands, Scotland, Germany, France and Italy. His one and only painting won a place in a juried art show and was exhibited at the Nelson Gallery in Kansas City, Mo.
Brooks is survived by his wife, Mary Helen; daughter, Susan (Steve) Pschorr, of Madison; daughter, Donna Becker (Jose Hernandez), of Beltsville, Md.; son, John (Cindy) Becker of Brattleboro, Vt.; grandchildren, Alexander (Sarah) Pschorr of Madison, Maximilian Pschorr of Hartford, Conn., and Caroline Pschorr of Minneapolis, Minn., Jack and Tim Becker of Brattleboro, Vt.; great-grandson, Nathaniel Pschorr of Madison; and cousin, William (Jan) Brooks of Wichita, Kan. He was preceded in death by his parents; and infant grandson, Hamilton Brooks Becker.
A Celebration of Brooks’ Life will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., on Friday, May 17, 2019, at OLBRICH BOTANICAL GARDENS, 3330 Atwood Ave., Madison.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Brooks’ name may be made to the Madison Rotary Foundation
Chizek, James Thomas
OREGON
OREGON—James Thomas Chizek, age 88, passed away in the morning of Jan. 30, 2019, into the loving arms of our Heavenly Father. Jim was born on May 15, 1930, to James and Anna Chizek in Fifield, Price County. He grew up on the family farm with one sibling, Etta Chizek (Swanson) while a baby brother passed away during childbirth. Jim graduated from Fifield High School and was then drafted to into the U.S. Marine Corp. Jim loved being a Marine. He served as an admiral’s personal bodyguard aboard ship on an Essex Class Aircraft Carrier, the USS Oriskany, during the Korean War from in 1952 to 1953. After the war, he returned to Fifield and worked for the Soo Line Railroad.
He married Shirley Plyer on July 23, 1955, in Phillips. He then found his passion in life and trained as a conservation warden in Ladysmith, Park Falls, Shawano, Jefferson and Janesville. His first assignment was in Portage, based in Columbia County. He then accepted a position as a regional conservation warden for the State of Wisconsin based out of Park Falls in Price County. The family was happy being back in northern Wisconsin. His duty was now in the Chequamegon National Forest.
An unfortunate car accident occurred and Jim was severely injured, which then, is when a new opportunity presented itself, the family moved to Lodi. Jim continued to work in Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as a special investigator for several years.
Jim trained many law enforcement officers and recruits. Jim trained SWAT teams at Badger Ammunition for southern county law enforcement in 1970, just prior to bombing at Sterling Hall on the University of Wisconsin campus. He was a well-respected leader among the DNR Bureau of Law Enforcement based in Madison.
Jim was truly a legend in his own time. Jim loved his family, their dogs, gardening and the outdoors. Especially hunting, trapping and fishing. His favorite food was “any” pie. There were many family-fishing trips to Canada and to the families’ log cabin in northern Wisconsin.
Jim created and served as the first president of the Wisconsin Conservation Warden’s Association. He taught many safety and educational classes focused on hunting, boating, trapping, recreation and collecting natural edibles from the woodlands. The family housed numerous abandoned and injured animals throughout the years. We were taught how to respect and care for these animals who were disadvantaged. He also served on the board of directors for the MacKenzie Center located in Poynette, in efforts to preserve wildlife of Wisconsin.
In later life, Jim authored three books that were written and dedicated to protect the outdoors and historical education on the State of Wisconsin. He was a collector, inventor and holds some U.S. Patents. Jim loved telling stories about his adventures as a conservation warden.
Jim also volunteered to work on the Wolf River Sturgeon Guard Program and served as sturgeon general. Jim was part of integral teams that founded three Wisconsin Museums; MacKenzie Center Museum in Poynette, Warden’s Museum in Stevens Point and the Old Town Hall Museum in Fifield. He had a robust circle of friends that shared his passion for conservation of the outdoors and they had numerous adventures together. Jim and Shirley also enjoyed traveling the U.S. and spending winters in Gulf Shores, Ala. and Benson, Ariz. later in life.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Sr. and Anna Chizek; sister, Etta; and baby brother, Chizek. He is survived by his children, Frank, Donald, and Michelle (Greg); and grandson, James (Casey); and grandchildren, Catherine and Madeline; along with nephews, Randall (Dawn) Swanson and James (Sandi) Swanson.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2019, at 10 a.m., at the LODI FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH, 206 Pleasant St., Lodi, with a service to follow.
Please join us for lunch after the service.
Amundson, Roger F.
PESHTIGO
Roger F. Amundson died peacefully on Saturday, February 2, 2019 in Peshtigo, WI at the age of 82.
Roger is survived by wife, Pat Archambault; children, Wendy Amundson (Tony Graves), Lori Amundson, Dan Amundson (Kathy Peterson); step sons, Greg Archambault (Cindy), Chris Archambault (Kim), Ted Archambault, John Archambault (Jeff Stevens) and grandchildren, Jason Southall, Crystal Southall, Elizabeth Southall, Peter Amundson, Kristina Amundson, Anna Amundson, Ethan Archambault, Megan Archambault, Payton Archambault, Alec Archambault, Matt Archambault, and Trevor Archambault. He is preceded in death by wife, Ruth Amundson and brother, Donald Amundson.
Roger was born on September 9th, 1936 in Minneota, MN to Arlo and Charlotte Amundson. In 1959, he married Ruth Greve, his hometown sweetheart. After serving his country in Korea with the Army, he graduated from South Dakota State University in 1963 with a degree in Wildlife Management. Roger and Ruth moved to Barron, WI in 1964 where he began his 30 plus year career working for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources as a Wildlife Manager. Later, his career took him to Jackson County and then Marinette County, where he finish out his career. His children remember him as a kind, supportive, hands-on father who was always forthright in his love for them and never missed an opportunity to share his love of the outdoors.
Roger was an enthusiastic nature lover and shared his reverence for nature with anyone who cared to listen to his stories and songs or join him in full-out expeditions. A voracious reader, he was a student of life who never stopped learning, embracing subjects such as botany, entomology, history and astronomy. He also relished outdoor activities like camping, skiing, birding, berry-picking, pheasant hunting, running, golfing and scuba diving. He was a member of the Peshtigo United Methodist church where he taught Sunday school for a number of years. He loved hockey and was an active supporter and volunteer for Marinette youth hockey. He was often called upon to present his popular wildlife program to local grade schoolers, a presentation he had honed over many years.
A visitation will be held February 16, 2019, from 4 until 6 p.m. at Hansen-Onion-Martell funeral home, Marinette, WI. A memorial service is scheduled for February 17th, at 1 p.m. at Peshtigo United Methodist Church, with a reception to follow. Pastors Kevin Dembinski and Ron Helgerson will officiate at the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Roger's life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin. To plant a tree in memory of Roger Amundson, please visit our Tribute Store.
Morrissette, Douglas Wayne
FITCHBURG
Douglas Wayne Morrissette, age 84, of Fitchburg, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2019. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at GOOD SHEPHERD CATHOLIC PARISH at ST. JOSEPHS, 1905 West Beltline Highway, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2019, with Mons. Thomas Baxter presiding.
Burial will be held at Oak Hall Cemetery in Fitchburg. Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 2950 Chapel Valley Rd., Fitchburg from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m., on Monday, Oct. 21, 2019, and at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the Mass on Tuesday.
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com Gunderson Fitchburg Funeral & Cremation Care 2950 Chapel Valley Rd. (608) 442-5502
Klusendorf, Joyce Elaine
DODGEVILLE
Joyce Elaine Klusendorf, 89, passed away on Wednesday, June 26, 2019, at Bloomfield Manor. Joyce was born in Dodgeville on June 2, 1930, to Walter and Alice Mae (Peterson) Urfer. She attended first through eighth grades at Prairie View School and graduated Valedictorian of Spring Green High School’s class of 1948. She majored in Home Economics at UW-Madison until 1951, when she married TomKlusendorf, in Spring Green. While raising their children, she still found the time to complete her studies at UW-Madison, and received her BS in 1960. In 1960, they moved to Dodgeville, where they owned and operated Klusendorf Chevrolet-Buick. In 1976, Joyce moved to Madison, and she worked at Verex Insurance Company. While working full time, she started taking accounting classes at the University, and graduated in 1984, with an accounting degree. At this time, she began a career with the Department of Natural Resources, and after obtaining her CPA in 1986, worked as their accounting supervisor; she retired in 2001, as the audit supervisor for the Wisconsin DNR.
Joyce is survived by her sons Greg (Michele)Klusendorf of Dodgeville, Dave (Debbie Bogosian) of New York City, Brad (Cindy) Klusendorf of Dodgeville and Fritz (Chris Sonderegger) of Monroe; her sisters Bonnie (Bob) Ringelstetter of Prairie Du Sac and Betty (Carlton) Overland of Stoughton, sister-in-law Cynthia Urfer of Morristown, NJ, brother-in-law Cliff Donner of Merrimac; eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 6, 2019, at the GORGEN-McGINLEY & AYERS FUNERAL HOME in Dodgeville. A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 6, 2019, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Inurnment at East Side Cemetery in Dodgeville will take place at a later date.
Goeckermann, Kent
HIGHBRIDGE
Kent Goeckermann passed away at his home on May 11, 2019. He was born December 15, 1940 to Roy and Dorothy (Kent) Goeckermann in Milwaukee Wisconsin.
He graduated from Washington High School, then attended the University of WI-Milwaukee obtaining a degree in Anthropology. There he met the love of his life Judith Ann Kubnick. They have been married 54 years.
In 1964 he volunteered for the U.S. Air Force, had a tour of duty in Vietnam and served as an Air Force Captain, manning nuclear missile silos in North Dakota. Upon completing his service, Kent returned to school at the University of Minnesota graduating with a master’s degree in forestry. He was hired by the Wisconsin DNR and became the Park Manager at Copper Falls State Park, Mellen WI in 1974. He also worked in fire control and for a time managed Big Bay State Park in addition to Copper Falls.
Kent believed in community and service. He was a member of the Mellen Fire Department, an EMT, a Lions Club member and served on the Mellen School Board for several terms. After 34 years of working with wonderful park crews, Kent retired from Copper Falls and moved with Judy to Highbridge, WI. In retirement he, as always, enjoyed his family first, but also worked for the U.S. census and volunteered testing water quality in the Bad River Watershed, worked with the North Country Trail Members and relished traveling near and far. Kent was an avid reader and lover of knowledge. He was fortunate his spouse was a librarian as, for the entirety of his life, every spare minute was spent reading, especially history books. He loved his country and, until the very end, voiced his concerns, but also his optimism about the United States of America.
He is survived by wife Judy, son Kurt (Cheryl) Goeckermann of Baraboo, daughter Jill (Eric) Guttormson of Wauwatosa, grandchildren Paige, John, Lea, Claire and Tanner, Sister Holly (Richard) Worth and family of Port St. Lucie, FL, cousin Phil Dibb of Colorado Springs and the extended Kubnick Family.
Kent was preceded in death by his parents, his father and mother-in-law Herman and Myrtle Kubnick and cousin Steve Dibb (combat Vietnam).
The family would like to thank the staff at Marshfield Medical Center, Park Falls Hospital, Avanti Home Health Care, Regional Hospice, Lifestar Ambulance (Nephew Mike Krueger), Great Divide Ambulance Service and MMC emergency room. The family also cannot thank enough the numerous other families, friends and the Mellen Area Community that Kent so enjoyed who have been so caring and helpful in the last year. It is hoped that all will fondly remember his love of telling a good story. The Ranger has left the park.
Please join the family at the Copper Falls picnic area shelter on Friday, May 24 anytime between 4 and 7pm to share a moment with us and enjoy the view from the trailhead or take a short hike. The park fee has been covered.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the
Mountain Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ashland and Mellen, WI.
Gathering for Family and Friends
Friday, May 24, 2019
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Copper Falls State Park
36664 Copper Falls Rd
Mellen, WI 54546
Roark, William
MADISON
William N. Roark died peacefully on Easter morning, April 21, 2019, at Madison Heights Senior Community, where he was in hospice care. Born in Madison on April 12, 1935, he had just passed his 84th birthday. Following several brain injuries, he had suffered a gradual loss of muscle and nerve control.
Bill graduated from Madison West High in 1953 and earned his B.S. at UW-Madison in 1957. He later attended Purdue University and in 1967, earned an M.S. in sociology. He had held part-time student positions in research libraries, enjoyed them, and went on to work, for about 10 years, at the library of Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago. Being a confirmed birdwatcher and nature enthusiast, he found it especially satisfying as a reference librarian to work with biologists and other scientists. He earned an M.A. in library science at the UW in 1981, and worked in several specialized libraries in Madison, including that of the DNR.
Bill was alarmed when his contacts at the Madison Audubon Society told him of a plan to develop condos on the wooded banks of Lake Mendota between Picnic Point and Shorewood Hills. He joined a handful of activists determined to convince the Madison Plan Commission that so choice a natural area should be preserved. Bill attended every meeting of the Plan Commission and spoke up at every hearing. The group engaged leaders at the University and Dane County, as well as the city. In the end, not only did they protect most of the shoreline (today, the UW Lakeshore Preserve), but they inspired the County, in 1984, to create the Natural Heritage Land Trust, now named the Groundswell Conservancy.
In 1994, Bill took a position in records management with the Dane County Parks. He enjoyed years of association with the staff, continuing some of his work after retirement as a volunteer. He continued to keep a protective eye on lakeshore environments, including the half-mile of waterfront the Roark family owned on Lake Wisconsin. Bill and the family put this land under the easement protection of the land trust so it could never become a condo development.
Bill never missed a family gathering at the welcoming home of his brother, Gene, and sister-in-law, Jean, with her splendid holiday dinners. He shared his nature observations with family and friends, as he shared also his love of opera and classical music.
Bill is survived by his sister, Nancy Roark of Berkeley, Calif.; sister-in-law, Jean Roark; and two nephews, Michael of Madison and David (Sally) Roark of Reading, England, whose family includes sons, daughters and grandchildren.
A gathering will be held on Thursday, May 2, 2019, at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison, beginning at 11 a.m., followed by a time of sharing at 11:30 a.m.
Please share your memories at
www.cressfuneralservice.com
Starch, Vera
MADISON
Vera Starch age 72, of Madison, lost her battle with cancer on April 6, 2019, with her family by her side. She was born on Aug. 12, 1946, in Los Angeles, Calif., to Joseph and Charlotte Thies. She graduated from Madison East High School in 1964. Vera worked for the State of Wisconsin for 45-1/2 years and retired in 2011.
In her free time she was an avid quilter and enjoyed crocheting gifts for her family and friends. She also enjoyed her travels to upper Minnesota to see family and go fishing. She adored her two grandchildren and cherished the time she spent with them.
Vera is survived by her three daughters, Sue Sherman (Kevin Kohn), Arlington, Christa (Rich) Welling, Madison, and Aimee (Jon P.) Schwichtenberg, Elko New Market, Minn.; a granddaughter, Ashley (Kenneth) Zawodny, Las Vegas, Nev.; a grandson, Cody (Rachel) Schwichtenberg, Madison; a great-granddaughter, Ivy; and a great-grandson who will arrive in July; a brother, Ralph (Karyl) Theis, Colorado Springs, Colo. She is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives. She was proceeded in death by both her parents; a sister, Debra Hoff; and a brother, Donald Thies.
The family would like to thank the UW Carbone doctors and staff, along with Agrace HospiceCare team in both Dane and Rock Counties for the care and compassion they showed their mother. They would also like to thank her friends, Kathi, Barb, Chris and Bill for the friendship and support they showed to Vera.
It was Vera wish to not have a funeral or memorial service. Instead it was her desire to be cremated and have her ashes spread at her favorite lakes.
Donations can be made in honor of Vera’s memory to Agrace HospiceCare, Wis. Public Television or Dane County Humane Society.
Reddeman, Reuben “Rube” F. Jr.
DEFOREST
Reuben “Rube” F. Reddeman, Jr., age 79, passed away March 13, 2019 in Madison. He was born September 11, 1939 in Poynette to parents Reuben Reddeman Sr. and Anna (Falk) Reddeman. Rube's mother died when he was very young, and his father later married Ila (Johnson) Reddeman, who, along with his sisters' help, raised him on the family farm in Arlington Prairie. He graduated from DeForest High School in 1957, and began his 40-year career with the Department of Natural Resources. He started in the mail room, and worked his way up to boater registration, then on to property management, where he traveled the state purchasing, insuring, and selling the equipment used at all of the state parks in Wisconsin.
Rube filled his spare time managing the parking lot of the Dane County Coliseum, and volunteering for the Madison Jaycees. On December 7, 1974, he married Cheryl Ann Smithena, and moved to Cross Plains. Together they enjoyed traveling, camping, and their time spent in Florida during the winter months. Rube loved coaching the Packers and Badgers from the comfort of his couch, but always appreciated going to a game. In 2009, they moved to Parkside Village in DeForest, where they currently reside. Rube also enjoyed the outdoors: camping, fishing or boating on the local lakes. Rube was always telling jokes, and he will be remembered as a funny, easy-going guy with the ability to easily make friends and spread laughter.
He is survived by his wife, Cheryl Reddeman of DeForest; son, Todd (Pam) Reddeman of Alpharetta, GA; daughter, Tami (Mike) Strang of Prairie du Sac; granddaughter, Brianna Reddeman of New Orleans, LA; sister, Evonne (Charles) Linde of DeForest; sister-in-law, Joyce (James) Quackenbush of Middleton; numerous nieces and nephews, other loving family and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Ruby Ann (Ervin) Schmidt; and his step-sister, Katherine (Burnette) Hellickson.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Dan Jarzemsky and his entire team at the Cross Plains Clinic for their thirty years of care.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 7:00 p.m., Friday, March 22, 2019 at RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 6924 Lake Rd., DeForest. Visitation will take place from 4:00-7:00 p.m., Friday, at the funeral home.
Memorials may be made to the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin, P.O. Box 2317, Madison, WI 53701 or online at: Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin
To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com
Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
Windsor/DeForest Chapel
6924 Lake Road
(608) 846-4250
Knauer, Douglas
NEGAUNEE TOWNSHIP, MI
Douglas Knauer, age 77, of Negaunee Township, passed away Tuesday, March 5, 2019, at his home, in the loving, comforting care of his family and the caregivers of UP Home Health and Hospice.
Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family. A complete obituary will be forthcoming.
Condolences may be expressed online at:
Pyrek, Thaddeus 'Ted' J.
HORICON
Thaddeus 'Ted' J. Pyrek, age 72, of Horicon passed away on Monday, August 13, 2018 at his home with his family by his side.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, August 18, 2018 at Sacred Heart Parish in Horicon at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Fr. Justin Lopina presiding. A visitation will take place on Saturday, August 18, from 9 a.m. until the time of the Mass at 11 a.m. at the church. Burial will take place at St. Malachy Cemetery in Horicon with military honors conducted by the Horicon American Legion Post #157.
Ted was born the son of Thaddeus S. and Jessie (Zachacz) Pyrek on July 29, 1946 in Chicago. He was a 1964 graduate of Marquette University High School in Milwaukee. He then went on to the University of Montana where he received his Bachelor's degree in Forestry in 1969. He continued his education at the University of Wisconsin in Madison where he completed his Master's in Forestry in 1974.
Ted was united in marriage to Geri Lynn Martin on August 21, 1971 in Milwaukee. He was a veteran of the US Army serving his country from 1969-1971 including one tour of duty in Vietnam. Ted spent his career in natural resource management as a forester for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources from 1974 until his retirement in 2007. Ted was an active member of Sacred Heart Parish in Horicon, where he served in many capacities such as trustee, parish council, and the finance committee. He also was active at St. Malachy School where he served on the school board. Ted was a member of the Horicon Rotary Club, where he served as past president and was a Paul Harris Fellow award recipient. He was a member of the Horicon American Legion Post #157 and the Society of American Foresters.
Horicon was an important part of Ted's life and he helped serve his community as a past 3rd district alderperson, helped Horicon become a Tree City, and served on the library board. In 2017 Ted received the Horicon Community Service Award. In his spare time Ted enjoyed being outdoors, especially while he was on his bicycle, and loved the time spent with his family and grandchildren.
Ted is survived by his wife Geri of Horicon. His daughters- Holly A. (Reid) Sollberger of Eau Claire, Erin M. Pyrek of Lexington, KY., and Rebecca J. (Benjamin) Kimmet of Viroqua. His 7 grandchildren- Margaret R. Sollberger, Henry P. Sollberger, Lucille A. Sollberger, Jacob L. Kimmet, Amelia C. Kimmet, Sebastian T. Kimmet, and Isaac M. Kimmet. His siblings- Thomas R. (Mary Ellen Stolder) Pyrek of La Crosse, and Janine D. (Timothy Walsh) Pyrek of Brevard, NC. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Special thanks to the doctor's, nurses, and staff at Hillside Hospice for the care and support shown to Ted and his family, and to family and friends who remembered Ted and his family in their prayers.
Online condolences may be made at:
Evert, Carl H. Jr.
MARXVILLE
Carl H. Evert Jr., age 80, passed away peacefully at his home in Marxville surrounded by his family on Nov. 10, 2018. He was born in Madison on Nov. 28, 1937, to the late Carl H. and Dorothy (Young) Evert Sr. Carl graduated from Mazomanie High School; class of 1955. Following high school Carl attended Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, later returning home to manage the family farm. On Aug. 1, 1959, he married Jeanne L. Wieneke. While farming, Carl attended UW-Madison, he graduated in 1965 with a B,.S. in Biology.
Soon after graduating, Carl started a long career with the State of Wisconsin DNR where he would eventually be appointed director of Real Estate until his retirement in 1997. Carl enjoyed the outdoors and developed his own prairie, ponds, woods and trails throughout his 155 acre farm. He enjoyed hunting upland game birds and waterfowl, growing his own grapes for wine, tapping maple trees for syrup and cutting firewood. He was a sports fan following the Badgers, Packers and Brewers.
Carl and Jeanne enjoyed tennis together playing in leagues for many years. Aside from his interest in the outdoors and sports, Carl studied history; he served on the Berry town planning commission; boards for the Cross Plains-Berry Historical Society, the Mazomanie Historical Society and the local food pantry. Faith was very important to Carl. He was a lifelong member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Marxville, where he formerly taught religious education and was a member of the church council.
Carl is survived by his wife, Jeanne; three children, Carl “Chuck” (Barbara) Evert III of Janesville, Michael (Kathryn) Evert of Cross Plains, Valerie (Michael) Wandschneider of Kohler; seven grandchildren, Carly (Jeffrey) Davis, Austin “AJ” Evert (Sarah Kirschbaum), Robert and Audrey Evert, Madeleine, Nicholas, and Nadia Wandschneider; one great-grandchild, Hallie Jeanne Davis; and brother, William (Alyce) Evert. He is further survived by other relatives and friends.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., on Nov. 17, 2018, at ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 8748 State Hwy 19, Mazomanie. A visitation will be held from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m., on Nov. 16, 2018, at HOOVERSON FUNERAL HOME, 251 Water St., Sauk City, and one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be held in the church cemetery.
Carl’s family would like to express their sincerest gratitude to Dr. Jarzemsky and his staff at the Cross Plains Clinic, Cross Plains Pharmacy and Agrace Hospice for their care.
Vennie III, James G.
MAZOMANIE
James G. Vennie III, age 71, passed away peacefully at his home in Mazomanie on Sunday, Nov. 4, 2018. James Gilbert Vennie III was born on Oct. 9, 1947, in Portage, the son of Robert and Dorothy (Burrows) Vennie. Growing up Jim was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Portage. He was also a member of Boy Scout Troop 70; where he flourished and received the status of an Eagle Scout. James graduated from Portage High School in 1966. He served in the U.S. Air Force for four years as a Geographical Surveyor. He received his Bachelor of Science and Master’s Degree in Natural Resources and Computer Science from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point.
James worked for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources throughout his career from 1978 to 2011. He loved to cross-country ski and participated in the American Birkebeiner for over 20 years. He was a member of NALMS (North American Lake Management Society) and was an advocate for healthy lakes and clean waterways. Jim enjoyed computers, fishing, canoeing, photography, traveling, and was a loving father.
James is survived by his wife, Joan (Bauer) Vennie; two daughters, Erin Beth (Jacob) Vennie-Vollrath of Saranac Lake, N.Y., and Katelyn May Vennie of Stevensville, Mont.; sisters, Sally (Roger) Dowd of Sheboygan, Linda (Robert) Leis of Washburn; his granddaughter, Anya Jade Vennie-Vollrath and other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral services will be held at PFLANZ MANTEY MENDRALA FUNERAL HOME in Portage, on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, at 1 p.m., with Pastor Jen Johnson officiating.
Military honors will be provided by the Portage Area Veterans Honor Guard following the service. Inurnment will follow at Forest Cemetery in Stevens Point at 3:30 p.m. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Nov. 10, 2018, from 12 noon until the time of service.
Narf, Richard Philip 'Dick'
OREGON/MADISON
Richard Narf, age 79, of Oregon, passed away on Monday, Oct. 29, 2018, due to complications from an infection. He was born on April 13,1939, the son of Philip and Helen Narf. Richard led an active life filled with numerous accolades, from breeding champion Siberian Huskies at Butterfly Acres Kennels to many entomological discoveries. His research was well documented in one of his many spellbinding research papers like “Emergence Pattern of Stoneflies (Plecoptera) in Otter Creek, Wisconsin.” A stonefly, now named zealeuctra narfi, was his limnological breakthrough and the must-see bug of the year. Yes, that’s right, our legacy is that we have a bug named after us! Not everyone can say that. In fact, one of us probably sucked that thing into a jar as Dad turned over rocks for us along the creek bed.
Dad spent most of his career working for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Bureau of Research, keeping lakes alive and constantly bringing bugs home to live in our refrigerator, van, basement, garage—you know, just like anyone who brings their work home with them. He was passionate about the waterways and the ecosystem and proudly served as an executive member of the North American Benthological Society (we had to google that one too so don’t feel bad). Because he had too much time on his hands, or perhaps because he needed an escape, he was also a member of the American Entomological Society, as well as a charter member, and past president of the Wisconsin Entomological Society.
Dad, of course, could not slow down in retirement and would spend hours in his woodshop making dog sleds. He also had a thing for cut and blown glass and dabbled in fine antiques; we blame his parents for that. He rekindled his love of astronomy and especially photography, always taking things to the next level. He won many awards for his photographs of orchids, as well as birds, particularly (no surprise here) waterfowl. No matter what he did, he was always a perfectionist just like his father.
Then the grandkids moved in. He spent countless hours playing with them, reading them breathtaking best sellers like, “Birds of North America” and “For the Love of Insects” in between driving them to soccer practice, and helping them raise (of course), bugs. From stick-bugs to caterpillars he was introducing his new generation to his passion. He also played a mean game of M&M and Twizzler keep-away, by hiding stashes that will be found for years to come, if the bugs don’t get them first. Seriously, we don’t know where they are all stashed. For these and so many more reasons, Richard will be missed by many. (We, however, will not miss the bugs).
Richard is survived by his daughter, Maria Narf Spuller; son, Steven Narf, daughter-in-law, Aryka (Johnson); and his grandchildren, Kai, Adric and Clara. He is preceded in death by his wife, Patricia; and his parents.
A celebration of Richard’s life will be held at OLBRICH BOTANICAL GARDENS, 3330 Atwood Ave., Madison, on Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2018, at 7 p.m. Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until the time of the service on Wednesday.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Agrace HospiceCare. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Agrace and also the nurses and doctors at St. Mary’s Hospital.
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com
Beghin, Donald Lee
MOUNT HOREB
Our family lost a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend on Thursday, Nov. 1, 2018. Donald Beghin passed away at St. Mary’s Hospital surrounded by his family, Thursday, on Nov. 1, 2018. See obitury here. He was born on May 9, 1927, in Mauston, to Louis and Clara Beghin. Donald grew up on a farm north west of Wisconsin Dells. He graduated from Wisconsin Dells high school in 1945 and was recently inducted into the Wisconsin Dells Hall of Fame. Called to duty in World War II, he served in the U.S. Army and completed a tour in Italy, then was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant in March of 1947.
After returning home he attended UW Madison, studying animal husbandry and agriculture. During summer breaks he was a tour guide driving the Wisconsin Dells excursion boats on the river.
On Oct. 26, 1949, he was appointed Conservation Warden for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. He had a long and distinguished career with the DNR holding many positions, including field warden, boating administrator and district warden. Donald was one of the first wardens with wings, piloting the DNR’s first aircraft. He created the Wisconsin Boater, Hunter and Snowmobile Safety Programs. Don received the Governors Special Award for 33 years of service to the state of Wisconsin. His career culminated with the position of Chief Warden which he held for nine years before retiring in 1983.
Don married the love of his life, Marian Marie Parsons from Portage, on June 12, 1954. Together they raised four children. Donald enjoyed life to the fullest with his family. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting and fishing. When there was talk of a fishing trip, Don was ready to go. Fishing trips to Fitchie Lake, Canada and Ball Club Lake, Minn. with friends and family were a regular pilgrimage. He enjoyed working with wood and helped to create heirloom furniture made from the trees on the farm. Because of his roots in farming, he loved to get his hands in the dirt. In retirement, Don and Marian traveled extensively enjoying many trips abroad and crisscrossing the country in their motorhome. He enjoyed a good game of bridge and never turned down a game of cribbage. He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Mount Horeb and a proud member of the American Legion.
Left to honor his memory is his wife of 64 years, Marian; his children, Bradley (Mechelle), Randall (Terri), Patricia (Mike) and Lynn (Alan); his sister, Betty; grandson, Daniel; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Clara Beghin; and his brothers, Kenneth and Robert.
A Memorial Service will be held at MOUNT HOREB UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 9542 County Highway S, Mount Horeb, at 11 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018, with Reverend Julie Wilson presiding. Visitation will be held at the church from 9 a.m. until the start of the service on Friday.
The family would like to thank St. Mary’s Hospital and the ICU staff for their excellent compassionate care.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Badger Honor Flight, a charitable cause that Don felt strongly about, or to the Wisconsin’s Endangered Resources Fund.
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com
Sperling, David Larry
MADISON
David Larry Sperling, age 66, of Madison, passed away on Friday, Oct. 19, 2018, at SSM Health-St. Mary’s Hospital. He was born in White Plains, N.Y., the son of David and Phyllis (Hadfield) Sperling.
David graduated from UW-Madison. David worked for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. He was a proud editor of Wisconsin Natural Resources Magazine for the DNR for 30+ years. David was also a leader in the community. He was a strong advocate for environmental conservation. David was a talented cook and entertainer, and loved to travel, especially with his family. Family was a primary focus of his life. He was a husband, father, son, brother, and friend, who loved and protected passionately and relentlessly and impacted everyone he met.
David is survived by his wife, Sharon; son, David J. Sperling; daughter, Sarah Sperling; sisters, Maggie, Alice and Louise; and nephews, Daniel and Gideon. He was preceded in death by his parents.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the World Wildlife Fund.
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com
Nicotera, Ron
MADISON/GOODYEAR, AZ
Ron Nicotera passed away on Oct. 2, 2018, at the age of 81. Ron was raised in Twin Lakes, attending Cottage Grade School and Wilmot High School, graduating class of 1954.
Ron graduated from UW-Madison with a degree in Biological Conservation in 1958, and served the State of Wisconsin at the Department of Natural Resources his entire career. As a conservation manager, Ron worked on the development of the Bong Air Force base, into what is now known as Bong State Recreational area in western Kenosha County. Prior to his retirement from State service in 1992, Ron led the division to protect Wisconsin's endangered species.
Ron married his high school sweetheart, Marlene Hoffman from Genoa City, in 1958, and had three children, Timothy, Seattle, Wash., Dan, Milwaukee, and Mark, Phoenix, Ariz. Ron and Marlene also have three grandchildren, Allison, Emily and Nathan.
Ron's retirement years were spent in Adams/Friendship and Bonita Springs, Fla. Ron and Marlene relocated to Arizona in 2017 while fleeing Hurricane Erma. Ron lived a full life, staying active and doing extensive traveling both here and abroad.
Ron is survived by his wife, Marlene of Phoenix; three sons; three grandchildren; a sister, Donna Unseth of Florida; a sister-in-law, Kay (Marvin) Anderson, Union Grove; nieces and nephews who loved him dearly
Pyrek, Thaddeus 'Ted' J.
HORICON
Thaddeus 'Ted' J. Pyrek, age 72, of Horicon passed away on Monday, August 13, 2018 at his home with his family by his side.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, August 18, 2018 at Sacred Heart Parish in Horicon at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Fr. Justin Lopina presiding. A visitation will take place on Saturday, August 18, from 9 a.m. until the time of the Mass at 11 a.m. at the church. Burial will take place at St. Malachy Cemetery in Horicon with military honors conducted by the Horicon American Legion Post #157.
Ted was born the son of Thaddeus S. and Jessie (Zachacz) Pyrek on July 29, 1946 in Chicago. He was a 1964 graduate of Marquette University High School in Milwaukee. He then went on to the University of Montana where he received his Bachelor's degree in Forestry in 1969. He continued his education at the University of Wisconsin in Madison where he completed his Master's in Forestry in 1974.
Ted was united in marriage to Geri Lynn Martin on August 21, 1971 in Milwaukee. He was a veteran of the US Army serving his country from 1969-1971 including one tour of duty in Vietnam. Ted spent his career in natural resource management as a forester for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources from 1974 until his retirement in 2007. Ted was an active member of Sacred Heart Parish in Horicon, where he served in many capacities such as trustee, parish council, and the finance committee. He also was active at St. Malachy School where he served on the school board. Ted was a member of the Horicon Rotary Club, where he served as past president and was a Paul Harris Fellow award recipient. He was a member of the Horicon American Legion Post #157 and the Society of American Foresters.
Horicon was an important part of Ted's life and he helped serve his community as a past 3rd district alderperson, helped Horicon become a Tree City, and served on the library board. In 2017 Ted received the Horicon Community Service Award. In his spare time Ted enjoyed being outdoors, especially while he was on his bicycle, and loved the time spent with his family and grandchildren.
Ted is survived by his wife Geri of Horicon. His daughters- Holly A. (Reid) Sollberger of Eau Claire, Erin M. Pyrek of Lexington, KY., and Rebecca J. (Benjamin) Kimmet of Viroqua. His 7 grandchildren- Margaret R. Sollberger, Henry P. Sollberger, Lucille A. Sollberger, Jacob L. Kimmet, Amelia C. Kimmet, Sebastian T. Kimmet, and Isaac M. Kimmet. His siblings- Thomas R. (Mary Ellen Stolder) Pyrek of La Crosse, and Janine D. (Timothy Walsh) Pyrek of Brevard, NC. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Special thanks to the doctor's, nurses, and staff at Hillside Hospice for the care and support shown to Ted and his family, and to family and friends who remembered Ted and his family in their prayers.
Online condolences may be made at:
Lovett, Orville, Lee"
DEFOREST
Lee Lovett, age 78, of DeForest, Wis., passed away on Monday, June 11, 2018, at Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg. He was born on Jan. 4, 1940, in Jamestown, Ohio, the son of Ralph and Bertha (Weaver) Lovett. Lee graduated from Greeneview High School in Jamestown, Ohio. He married Helen Denbow, on Aug. 26, 1961, in Wilmington, Ohio. Lee received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Wilmington College, Wilmington, Ohio in 1962, and his master’s degree in entomology from the UW-Madison in 1964.
He worked as an entomologist and later a supervisor for the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection from 1964 through 2001. Lee was a member of Bashford United Methodist Church in Madison from 1963 until his death, serving on many committees and singing in the choir. He was most committed to the annual mission trip to the Tree of Life Mission on the Rosebud Sioux Reservation in South Dakota.
Lee was an artist in wood and watercolor, completing many carvings and paintings, and for several years he carved with the DeWhittlers of DeForest. Lee was very physically active, especially in running, biking and cross-country skiing. He participated in many races, including two marathons and competed in the American Birkebeiner ski race at least 10 times. Lee especially loved all things outdoors, including birding, archery, hunting, fishing, trap shooting and sporting-clays shooting. He made annual trips west to hunt with friends and family.
Lee is survived by his wife, Helen; two sons, Brian (Jennifer) Lovett, 51, of Oshkosh, and Eric (Andrea) Lovett, 49, and their children, Robbie, 10, and Alex, 5, of Mendota Heights, Minn.; sister, Ruth Gills of Jamestown, Ohio; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Gene, Jim and Max; and sisters, Helen and Mildred.
A memorial service for Lee will be held at BASHFORD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 329 North St., Madison, at 12 Noon, on Saturday, June 16, 2018, with Dr. Amanda Stein presiding. A visitation will be held at the church, at 11 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be gifted in Orville’s name to Agrace HospiceCare or Bashford United Methodist Tree of Life Mission on the Rosebud Sioux Reservation.
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com
Polasek, Joseph P.
MONONA
Joe, age 65, passed away Saturday, June 9, 2018, at his home. He was born June 24, 1952, in Milwaukee, the son of Patricia Jane Polasek and Joseph Patrick Polasek Sr. Growing up, Joe was a straight A student, played basketball, and was Prom King at St. Francis High School. He attended the UW-Whitewater, receiving his undergraduate degree in Political Science. During his years at Whitewater, Joe was student body president, a member of the Delta Chi fraternity and was the first student ever elected to the Whitewater City Council. Joe then received his masters in Public Administration at UW-Madison.
Joe started his career with the State of Wisconsin in 1975, in the Department of Administration as a budget analyst, where he worked for nine years. He then began his life’s work in the Department of Natural Resources in 1984. During that time, he was instrumental in administering nearly every major state environmental policy. Every DNR program has Joe’s fingerprints on it. He was an avid sports fan and always the life of the party. Joe was a loving father to his son, Mike, and daughter, Lindsay. He was a second dad to many of their friends that referred to him fondly as Joe Pa. He shared 20 years of marriage and decades of a loving friendship after with Lori Jolin.
Joe is survived by his beloved kids, Mike (Christen) and Lindsay Polasek; mother, Patricia Polasek; and nephews, Steven (Tracy) and Kevin (Jodie) Polasek. He was preceded in death by his father; brother, Phillip Polasek; and sister-in-law, Barbara Polasek.
A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. on Friday, June 15, 2018.
A Celebration of Life will follow at the COME BACK IN, 508 E. Wilson St. in downtown Madison.
Gasser, Mariellen Rose
DEFOREST
Mariellen Rose Gasser, 69, of DeForest, Wis. joined her Heavenly Father on Saturday, May 26, 2018. Services will be 11 a.m. on Friday, June 1, 2018, at the WINDSOR UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST in Windsor, Wis., with Rev. Dr. Julie Overman officiating. Burial will be in the Windsor Cemetery in Windsor. Friends may call from 9 a.m. until the time of service on Friday morning at the church. The Haudenshield Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cuba City, Wis. is serving the family.
Mariellen was born on Aug. 31, 1948, to Merlin and Ellen (Waugh) Gasser in Poynette, Wis. She graduated from DeForest High School and MATC. She worked for the State of Wisconsin at the Department of Natural Resources for 33 years in the Finance Section located in GEFII. She lived her entire life in the Windsor/DeForest area. She followed the Green Bay Packers, and the Badgers and all things Olympic. During her life she became quite the U.S. and world traveler. She enjoyed reading, stamp collecting, and history related shows as well as several game shows. She moved to Parkside Assisted Living in 2015, and found many new friends there. She enjoyed the regular outings to Walmart, Olbrich Gardens, and various Christmas rides to view lights, and was always up for a trip to the Sassy Cow for some ice cream. She also was active in many of the “in-house” activities, looking forward to all the special musical entertainment brought in, chair exercises and chair volleyball, helping fill eggs for the Easter egg hunts, making of some crafts and of course her favorite acivity — BINGO. She will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her.
Mariellen is survived by three sisters, Janet (Richard) Krueger of Hazel Green, Wis., Lorraine Newlun of Windsor, Wis. and Audrey (Mitch) Weger of Madison, Wis.; along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother-in-law, Robert Newlun; and her maternal and paternal grandparents.
The family would like to thank the Rev. Dr. David McDonald and the Rev. Dr. Julie Overman for all of the visits and spiritual ministering to Mariellen through the years and especially during her final days. We would further like to thank her church family for all of their support and prayers. The family also would like to thank the staff of Agrace for their compassionate care and concern for Mariellen and helped make her final transition through this life easier. Thanks also to the amazing staff at Parkside Assisted living for all the love, care and compassion they gave during her years with them. We will miss you dearly sister, but heaven has gained a truly gentle and loving soul.
Lindberg, Richard D. 'Dick'
OREGON
Richard D. “Dick” Lindberg, age 88, of Oregon, passed away on Sunday, April 8, 2018, at St. Mary's Hospital. He was born on April 25, 1929, in Sewickley, Pa., the son of Ewald and Ella (McKinlay) Lindberg. The family moved to Michigan where he grew up and graduated from Muskegon High School. He proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.
Following the war, Dick returned to college and earned his bachelor's degree from Michigan Tech.
He was united in marriage to Patricia "Pat" Cassidy on Nov. 11, 1954. Dick worked for the DNR in northern Wisconsin for many years, then moved to Oregon in 1967, continuing to work as a Forestry Planner with the DNR, retiring in 1989. He and Pat enjoyed traveling together.
They were active members of Holy Mother of Consolation Church. Dick also enjoyed hunting, fishing and golfing, and volunteering with the AMVETS. Richard is survived by his wife, Pat; sons, Gregory (Denise) Lindberg and Paul (Cherie) Lindberg; grandchildren, Travis Lindberg, Evan (Amanda) Lindberg, Julia Lindberg, Zachary Lindberg and Noah Lindberg; and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Daniel Lindberg; and brother, Alden (Aina) Lindberg.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at HOLY MOTHER OF CONSOLATION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 651 North Main St., at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 18, 2018. Burial will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the Mass on Wednesday.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to AMVETS. Online condolences may be made at Gunderson Oregon
Gyllander, Walter W.
IRON RIVER
Walter W. Gyllander, 73, of Iron River, died Monday, January 29, 2018, at St. Luke's Hospice in Duluth after a short illness.
Walter was born on June 15, 1944, in Grand Rapids, MN the son of Reino and Edna Gyllander.
He served his country in the Army National Guard. Walter worked for the Wisconsin DNR for 33 years retiring as an Area Forestry Supervisor. He was a member of the Brule Lions Club and the Brule Volunteer Fire Department.
Walt enjoyed hunting, fishing and traveling. Most important to him was spending time with his family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and step-son, Gregory Gillespey.
Walt is survived by his wife of 21 years, Carol; sons, Grant (Janet) Gyllander and Greg (Sandy) Gyllander both of La Crosse, WI; grandchildren, Lillian, Grace, Gretta, Sara, Grady, Sully and Wiley; step-children, Tracy Gillespey of Herbster, WI and Darrin Gillespey of Superior; sister, Gail Shoemaker of Coleraine, MN; and a brother, Martin (Sandy) Gyllander of Park Rapids, MN.
A Celebration of Walt's Life will be held on Friday, February, 2, from 4-7p.m. at Downs Funeral Home, 1617 N 19th St., Superior.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Walt's name to the Brule or Iron River Volunteer Fire Departments.
To sign the online guestbook, please visit
Runyan, Dean S.
SPRING GREEN
Dean S. Runyan, age 82, of Spring Green, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2018, following an extended illness. He was born on April 5, 1935, in Spring Green, the son of Sidney and Mildred (Snyder) Runyan. He was married on Oct. 3, 1959, to the former Lorraine A. Ruhland. He was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church, and worked as a mechanic for the DNR for many years until his retirement in July of 1996, to pursue his passion of woodworking. Dean was an avid talker and self-taught himself his entire life, helping his children and grandchildren with many projects, and was always willing to give advice.
Survivors include his wife, Lorraine Runyan of Spring Green; three children, Deanna (Douglas) Louis of Lone Rock, Denise Runyan and friend, Brian Hake of Mount Horeb, and Tyran Runyan and friend, Kari Legler of Arena; five grandchildren, Dana Louis, Danielle and Dustin Roder, and Trae and Jessen Runyan; three brothers-in-law, Francis Ruhland, Charles (Sally) Ruhland and Ralph (Pat) Ruhland; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sidney and Mildred Runyan; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Kitty (Hank) Ringelstetter and Bonnie (Jack) Hickox; four brothers-in-law; and four sisters-in-law.
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A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, Feb. 2, 2018, at 11:30 a.m. at ST. JOHN’S CATHOLIC CHURCH in Spring Green. Father John Silva will officiate, with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held on Thursday, Feb. 1, 2018, at ST. JOHN’S CATHOLIC CHURCH from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and again on Friday at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of Mass.
The Richardson-Stafford Funeral Home in Spring Green is assisting the family with the arrangements. Online condolences available at
Stautz, Clayton
KEWASKUM
Clayton C. Stautz, 91, of Kewaskum, passed away on Saturday, January 20, 2018, at St. Joseph’s Hosptial.
Clayton was born on June 10, 1926, in the town of Kewaskum, the son of the late Clifford and Elsa (Bruessel) Stautz. On October 15, 1949, he was united in marriage to Aletta Quaas at St. John’s Lutheran Church in West Bend.
Clayton proudly served his country in the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II and was actively involved in the Robert G. Romaine American Legion Post 384 Kewaskum, where he served as Commander three times. He was a member of West Bend V.F.W. Post 1393, 40-ET-8, Kewaskum Lions Club, Masonic Lodge 138 F & AM West Bend. He was also recognized as Legionnaire of the Year for Washington County. Clayton was a retired member of the Kewaskum Fire Department after 32 years of service. He spent 15 years volunteering for Habitat for Humanity and was a regular American Red Cross blood donor, over time donating 154 pints of blood. Clayton was employed as a carpenter by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for 38 ½ years building many of the signs and buildings at Mauthe and Long Lake.
Those Clayton leaves behind to cherish his memory include his wife, Aletta; three children, Kevin (Laura) Stautz of Kewaskum, Stuart (Shirley) Stautz of Gurnee, Illinois, and Joanne Stautz of Kewaskum; grandchildren, Samantha Stautz, Amanda Stautz, Drew Daugherty, Alexia Stautz, Nicholas Stautz; a brother, Floyd (Ellen) Stautz of Madison; a sister-in-law, Alice Stautz of Shawno; other relatives and friends.
In addition to his parents, Clayton was preceded in death by a brother, Jerome Stautz.
A funeral service for Clayton will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, January 29, 2018, at Peace United Church of Christ, 343 First Street, in Kewaskum with Rev. Eric Kirkegaard officiating.
Clayton’s family will greet relatives and friends at the church on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.
The Myrhum Patten Miller and Kietzer Funeral Home have been entrusted with Clayton’s arrangements.
Additional information and guest book may be found at
Nigl, Rudolph M. "Rudy"
RICHLAND CENTER
Rudolph M. “Rudy” Nigl, age 84, of Richland Center, died suddenly at home on Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2017, with the chainsaw at his feet and his dog at his side.
Survivors include his wife, Jeanne Nigl of Richland Center, Wis.; four children, Rudy (Cherie) Nigl of Stoddard, Wis., Jeff (Pam) Nigl of Richland Center, Wis., Teresa (Patrick) Kash of Merrimac, Wis., and Patrick (Lora) Nigl of Beavercreek, Ohio; daughter-in-law, Mary Jo Nigl of Richland Center, Wis.; 16 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Ronald (Nancy) Nigl of Oshkosh, Wis., and Ralph (Maribeth) Nigl of Oshkosh, Wis.; special daughter, Ledys (Derek) Updike; and three special grandchildren, Kiara, Kaden, and Khyle Updike.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Michael Nigl; and grandson, Nicholas Nigl.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, Dec. 23, 2017, at 11 a.m. at ST. MARY OF THE ASSUMPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH in Richland Center. Local Military Honors Unit will provide graveside rites in the church cemetery.
Visitation will be held on Friday, Dec. 22, 2017, at the CLARY MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME in Richland Center from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. where a Rosary will be held at 2:30 p.m. and also on Saturday at church visitation from 10 a.m. until the time of service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Mary’s school. Online condolences can be made at
Reuter, Judith C. (Anderson)
NEW GLARUS
Judith C. (Anderson) Reuter, 83, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, Oct. 14, 2017. Judy was born on July 27, 1934, to Milo and Berdine (Ahrensmeyer) Anderson in Primrose Township, Dane County. Judy attended Nessa Rural School and New Glarus High School.
Her involvement in 4-H began at a young age, and she excelled at showing cattle in 4-H and Holstein Friesian Association, winning numerous awards in showmanship, including the inaugural Howard Clapp Memorial Award in 1949.
As an adult, she continued her participation as general and sewing leader for New Glarus 4-H Club. Robert and Judy shared their love of dairy farming, Holsteins and 4-H with their children through years of farming and participation in 4-H.
Judy united in marriage to Robert E. Reuter on June 28, 1953, at the Primrose Lutheran Church, rural Belleville. She retired in 1997, after years of working for the Department of Natural Resources. After retirement, she began working at the Swiss Historical Museum as a tour guide and cashier. She was a member of the Swiss Historical Society Board, serving as secretary and newsletter editor. She is also well known for providing the much loved bratzelis. She was a member of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church. She was a strong and beautiful woman, and will be deeply missed by all.
Her life’s legacy is honored by her children, Robin Reuter of Monticello, Rick (Jennine) Reuter of Menomonee Falls, Rolane (Rick) Kuhnen of Pewaukee, Roxanne (Richard) Klossner of New Glarus, and Rhonda (David) Kimmel of Oak Creek; her grandchildren, Rory G. (Nicole) and Kristin M. Klossner, Robert W. (Nicole Andresen), Ross A. (Elizabeth Hall), Rhett M. (Jenna) Reuter and Matthew R. (Emily) Kuhnen; and her great-grandchildren, Samantha A. Sherman, Olivia J. and Sydney C. Klossner, and Noelle B. and Rhett Harrison Reuter; a brother, Milo Anderson of Waunakee; sisters, Joy (John) Freitag of New Glarus and Jan Silbaugh of Oregon; and sister-in-law, Ruth Anderson of Belleville.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert “Bob” Reuter; her parents, Milo and Berdine (Ahrensmeyer) Anderson; her brother, Thomas Anderson; brother-in-law, Charles Silbaugh; daughter-in-law, Belinda (Flanagan) Reuter; grandson, John R. Klossner; and granddaughter, Brittany A. Reuter.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, Oct. 19, 2017, at 11 a.m. at SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS LUTHERAN CHURCH, 506 12th Ave., New Glarus, with the Rev. Gene Talley officiating, and burial in the Swiss Church Cemetery, New Glarus, Wis. Relatives and friends may call from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2017, at the ZENTNER-BEAL FUNERAL HOME, 29 6th Ave., New Glarus, Wis.
Memorials are suggested to the Robert and Judith Reuter Memorial Scholarship Fund. An online memorial with guestbook is available at:
Besadny, Bruce"
MIDDELTON
Bruce Besadny, age 64, passed away on Tuesday, October 10, 2017.
He was born on August 19, 1953, in Madison, the son of Carroll (Dennis) “Buzz” and Barbara (Aldrich) Smith Besadny. Bruce was married to Janet (Grosse Kottka) Besadny on June 23, 1984, in Middleton.
Bruce was an Eagle Scout and a Conscientious Objector to the Vietnam War. He graduated from Memorial High School in 1971 and the UW Madison in 1975.
Bruce worked on Workers’ Compensation for the Department of Natural Resources. He had a variety of interests and was an avid reader of varied subjects including Theoretical Physics and the Shroud of Turin, and many authors including Dean Koontz, Preston & Child, and Sigurd Olson. He was a horror movie buff and a poet, loved to learn, and especially enjoyed nature and music. Bruce was at his best being a Dad, and was part of a loving family, which he treasured most of all.
Bruce is survived by his loving wife Janet (Grosse Kottka) Besadny; son Ryan (Kottka) Besadny (Jennifer Loftus Besadny); daughter Caitlin (Besadny) Carton (Josh Carton); grandson William Besadny; mother Barbara Besadny; sisters Barb Roeber (Larry Black), Sarah Besadny (Jim Meiers), and Jean Garcia (Andy Garcia). He was preceded in death by his father C.D. “Buzz” Besadny and a niece, Andrea Garcia.
A Memorial Gathering for Bruce will be held at GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL & CREMATION CARE, 7435 University Ave., Middleton from 1 PM until 2:30 PM on Sunday, October 15, 2017.
Memorials in Bruce’s name may be made to the Boys and Girls Club of Dane County, bgcdc.org. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com
Speth, Jerome J. "Jerry"
DODGEVILLE
Jerome J. “Jerry” Speth, age 81, of Dodgeville, passed away on Friday, Sept. 15, 2017, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Judi Speth; four children, Steve Speth of Tucson, Ariz., Paul (Andrea) Speth of Evansville, Wis., Stacy (Lori) Jones and Jason (Lisa) Jones, both of Dodgeville; six grandchildren, Hailey, Nicole, Courtney, Shelby, Sean Jones and Samantha Campuzano; as well as a younger brother, Joseph, in Houston, Texas; and many other family members and lifelong friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Julia Speth; a brother, Francis; and a daughter, Leanne.
Funeral services and Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 21, 2017, at the GORGEN-McGINLEY & AYERS FUNERAL HOME in Dodgeville. Rev. Jim Droste will officiate.
Burial will be held in East Side Cemetery with Military Rites accorded by the Dodgeville Area Veterans. Friends may call from 9 a.m. until time of services on Thursday at the funeral home. A lunch reception will follow at DODGE POINT COUNTRY CLUB in Mineral Point.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Jerry’s name to the Iowa County Cancer Coalition, P.O. Box 36, Cobb, WI 53526 or Upland Hills Health Foundation, 800 Compassion Way, Dodgeville, WI 53533.
Conrad, John Grey
MADISON
John Grey Konrad, age 76, died peacefully at home after a short battle with pancreatic cancer, on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017. He was born on April 9, 1941, at Madison General Hospital to Walter G. and Jane (Morrison) Konrad. On June 1, 2007, he was united in marriage to Violet M. Stensby-Lehmann.
John is survived by his wife and best friend, Violet Konrad; his children, Marnie (Chris) Zander, Brian (Kristin) Konrad, and Dan (Kathleen Parsons) Konrad; his step-children, Candace (Kim Disrud) Lehmann and Tamar (Deena Ignatowski) Lehmann; his grandchildren, Sam Zander, Sydney Zander, Hannah Zander, Coby Zander, Nicole Konrad, and Alyssa Konrad; a brother, Richard (Barb) Konrad; a sister-in-law, Carol (Al) Antonson; his brothers-in-law, Glenn (Sandy) Stensby and Steve (Joan) Stensby; a niece, Linda (Tim) Bye; his nephew, Mark (Brenda) Konrad—Finley and Brody; step-nieces and nephews, Paul Antonson, Shanna Amble, Stacy Leverenz, Sarah Frosch, Scott Stensby, Angie Lombard, Allen Huseth, Peggy Santos, Linda Huseth, Sheila Booth, Leslie Steinberg, and their families.
John graduated from La Crosse Central High School and went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. He received his master’s and doctorate degrees in Soil Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
John worked for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources in the Water Resources Research Program and for several years a joint appointment with the Soil Science Department at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He was instrumental in developing programs for evaluating and managing the effects of land use activities on water quality in Wisconsin and elsewhere in the Great Lakes Basin including Canada.
John’s joy in life included adoring all of his children, step-daughters, and grandchildren. He loved attending their sporting events, especially soccer where he spent approximately 10 years as a referee for recreational and high school teams. John also enjoyed getting together for family outings and dinners. He was active in Amateur Radio since high school.
John and Violet loved doing the crossword and cryptoquote each morning in the paper as well as playing cribbage, euchre, hoss and pepper and dining out with friends, family, or just the two of them. John enjoyed his retirement years by being able to play golf all year round. In the summer, he always played twice a week at Pleasant View with his friends, Barry, Warren and Rick. In the winter, he would play in Arizona. He loved going on cruises with Violet’s family and friends.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2017, at GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH, 7291 County Road PD, in Verona. A visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. A catered luncheon will follow the service.
Please share your memories at Cress Funeral and Cremation
Widder, James J.
DODGEVILLE
James J. Widder, age 82, of Dodgeville, died on Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2017, at Upland Hills Health in Dodgeville. He was born on Aug. 21, 1935, in Sheboygan, a son of the late Reno F. and Audrey (Kolb) Widder.
Jim is survived by his wife, Joyce E Kieslich-Widder; his children, Brian Widder (Tom Gillen), Laura Widder and Lisa Paulson; his stepchildren, Marcia Kieslich (Dave Ramminger), Jan Kieslich-Janes (Terry Janes), Jill Kieslich, Mary Beth Burke (Jim Burke), Debora Kieslich and Anne Kieslich (Chris Frame); his grandchildren, Joe, Jade and Jasmine Paulson, Sarah, Sophie and Brenna Burke, Britta and Stina Rhude, Caleb and Jonah Shuda, Macie Janes, William Frame.
Funeral services for Jim Widder will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 28, 2017, at GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH in Dodgeville. The Rev. Mark Williamson will officiate. Military Rites will be accorded by the Dodgeville Area Veterans. Friends may call from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday and from 10 a.m. until time of services on Monday at GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to Upland Hills Hospice or a charity of your choice.
Martin, Ron
LODI
LODI - Ron Martin, 68, peacefully passed away on Sunday, August 20, 2017. He had been resting at his home he helped build, nestled in the Lodi Marsh, surrounded by his loving wife, Kathy, and two sons, Andy and Dan.
In addition to Kathy, Andy (Rachael Harley), and Dan (Rachael O'Flaherty), Ron left behind his mother, Lenore Martin; all ten siblings: Gene (Jip) Martin, Dave (Shuleen) Martin, Rose Martin, Paul (Anne) Martin, Therese (Mike) Thompson, Carol Martin, Sheila (Larry) Durbin, Tom (Diane) Martin, John (Terri) Martin, and Maria (Joe) Coel; his mother-in-law, Rosalie Kiehnau; six siblings-in-law: Keith (Karla) Kiehnau, Wayne Kiehnau, Debra (Mike) Rudzik, John (Linda) Kiehnau, Renee (Ron) Heimerl, and Linda Kiehnau (Larry Yavorsky); a clan of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews; and more wonderful friends than one could ever hope for. Ron was preceded in death by his father, Hiram Martin.
Ron, the oldest of a big, happy family of 11 children, was born in Marshfield.
After a brief time there and in Madison, the growing Martin family moved to a small farm in Loyal where Ron had ample space to run around and cause a bit of mischief. Ron was lucky enough to marry the love of his life in 1979. Together, Ron and Kathy raised their two sons in a loving and peaceful family, contributed to their community, and explored the world. After two years at UW-Stevens Point, Ron transferred to UW-Madison to complete his degree in Biology.
He dedicated his professional life to advocating for water quality at the WI Department of Natural Resources. He led the State's efforts in controlling the spread and ill effects of aquatic invasive species. Ron's passion for protecting the environment continued after his retirement from the State as he continued to work with Dane County and the Friends of the Lodi Scenic Valley to ensure water quality for his fellow citizens.
A true conservationist, Ron spent most of his waking hours enjoying the outdoors. His love of nature was infectious, as was his love overall. He passionately enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, picking berries, running, hiking, skiing, and many other outdoor activities. It was through these activities, that Ron cultivated some of his closest relationships. And we can't forget the card game, Sheepshead, that he so loved to play with family and friends.
Smart as a whip, Ron was rumored to be the best player around. Ron is one of those special people who left the world much better off. Through his meditation, spirituality, and loving relationships, he found a truly peaceful place in this world where he exhibited humility, respect, and a passion for adventure and life. He helped create sustainable peace in his family, his community, and his environment. He was an amazing man who will be dearly missed by many.
A Celebration of Ron's life will be held at HOLY WISDOM MONASTERY, 4200 Hwy M, Middleton at 11 AM on Saturday, August 26, 2017, where a luncheon will follow the service. Visitation will be held at GUNDERSON LODI FUNERAL & CREMATION CARE, 157 S. Main Street, Lodi from 4 PM until 7 PM on Friday, August 25, 2017 and also on Saturday at HOLY WISDOM MONASTERY from 10 AM until the time of the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Lodi Area Community Endowment (LACE), P.O. Box 5010, Madison, Wis. 53705-0010. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. The purest form of honor you can bestow upon this amazing man, is to be kind to others and our environment, with responsible and sustainable enjoyment of this amazing world.
Holmes, John P.
PORTAGE
John P. Holmes, age 77, passed away on June 3, 2017, at Divine Savior Healthcare ICU in Portage.
John was born on November 26, 1939, in Adams, Wisconsin, the son of Frank and Helen (Bischoff) Holmes. John proudly served his country in the U.S. Army following the Korean Conflict. He married Sharon Lee Rice on March 11, 1962. He worked for the Grant County Traffic Police, the Boscobel Police Department, and as a Conservation Warden from 1968 to 1988, when he retired.
He is survived by his children, Christine Stanko of Nekoosa, David (Tammy) Holmes of Pardeeville; brother, David (Gloria) Holmes of Platteville; grandchildren, Brock Holmes, Cale Holmes, Kyle (Caitlyn) Stanko, Ryne Stanko; and special friend, Pat Halasz of Portage. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Helen; and his wife, Sharon.
Memorial services will be held at Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage at 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, June 8, 2017, with Jeff Nania officiating. Private inurnment will be in Boscobel at a later date. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Thursday, June 8, 2017, from 4:00 p.m. until the time of service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Portage Center for the Arts, 301 E Cook St, Portage, WI 53901 or the Aldo Leopold Foundation, E13701 Levee Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913.
The family would like to thank the staff at Divine Savior Healthcare for their care and support.
Zaug, Dale Allen
MARION
Dale Allen Zaug, of rural Marion, age 76, passed away at home on Jan. 18, 2017, from Glioblastoma, Stage 4 Brain Tumor, which was first diagnosed in June of 2015.
Dale was born Jan. 3, 1941, on the family farm in the Town of Wyoming, Waupaca County, Wis., to Marshall and Evelyn (Block) Zaug and was the youngest of two children. Dale attended Big Falls grade school and graduated from Marion High School. After graduation he obtained an associate degree in Forestry from Fox Valley Technical College in Oshkosh. Dale married Lola Knaack on Sept. 8, 1962, and Dale then attended Michigan Technological University obtaining his Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry.
Dale worked for the State of Wisconsin for 38 years, first as a forester then moving into technology as a systems analyst and data administrator. Dale and Lola lived in the Madison area for 35 years, raising their two children, Michael and Kristine in Waunakee, Wis. He retired to the Big Falls area in 2004 and started Zaug's Forest Enterprise.
Dale was active in many volunteer and environmental organizations including the National and Wisconsin Woodlands Owners Associations, Wisconsin Wildlife Federation, The Big Falls Lions, St. Peter's and Mount Olive Lutheran Churches, Toastmasters, Local Planning Commissions and Boy Scouts of America. Dale enjoyed being outdoors, hiking, fishing and hunting, puzzles and cribbage, reading, playing cards, watching the Packers and Little Falls Baseball, playing with his grandsons and a good, strong cup of coffee. Dale traveled extensively with Lola and friends creating lasting memories visiting Alaska, Egypt, Germany/Austria/Switzerland, Korea, national forests and parks, and throughout the United States and Canada.
Dale is survived by his wife, Lola; his son, Michael (Kelly) of Forest Hills, N.Y.; and daughter, Kristine of Downers Grove, Ill.; sister, Sally Tschurwald; mother-in-law, Sadie Knaack; five grandsons, Quinton, Bronson, Cooper, Duncan and Colin; sisters-in-law, Anita (Ron) Kutella and Carolyn Knaack; as well as nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his father-in-law, Wilbert Knaack; two brothers-in-law, Ron Tschurwald and Dennis Knaack; and nephew, Scott Tschurwald.
The family is grateful to his amazing surgeon, Dr. Azam Ahmed, his gifted neurooncologist, Dr. Ian Robins, the doctors, nurses and aides at the UW Hospital and Hospice through Theda At-Home Care; family, friends and Pastor Janice Kuder who called and visited, as well as those that were so helpful during Dale's treatment in Madison.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, at 12 noon at ST. PETER'S LUTHERAN CHURCH - BIG FALLS, N10685 Petersen Road, Marion, Wis., with visitation beginning at 11 a.m. The Rev. Janice Kuder will officiate and inurnment will be at Big Falls Cemetery in the spring. The Beil-Didier Funeral Home, Marion, is assisting the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Dale's name to UW Carbone Cancer Center, National Brain Tumor Society, or St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Marion.
Kroehn, Thomas A.
MIDDLETON
Blabaum, Carl J.
HIGHLAND
Kwallek, Jr. Albert Joseph
LANCASTER
Miller, Steven William
SUN PRAIRIE
Chuck Pils contribution:
Warren, Kathryn Irene
MONONA
Perttunen, Russel T.
MADISON
MADISON - Russel T. Perttunen, age 78, passed away peacefully at home, on Wednesday, July 13, 2016, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born Nov. 8, 1937. He was the beloved husband of Joan (Pire), dear father of Theodore (Melanie) Perttunen and Eric Perttunen, and brother of Rudy (Vickie) Perttunen. He was preceded in death by his father, August Perttunen; mother, Elma (Kaurala) Perttunen; brother, William Perttunen; and sister-in-law, Marion Perttunen. He is further survived by grandchildren, Lyssa Perttunen, Justin Perttunen, Ashley Perttunen, and Cory Perttunen; great-granddaughter, Myrra Marsh; nieces; nephew; other relatives and many friends.
He graduated from Mass High School in Mass City, Mich., in 1956, and Spencerian College in Milwaukee, Wis., in June 1960, with a Bachelor's of Business Administration. He worked for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for 31 years as an accountant, before retiring in January 1995. He enjoyed gardening, hunting, camping and fishing at the cabin, ice fishing, watching both the Brewers and Packers, and being involved in the making of maple syrup back in Mass City, Mich., where he grew up. Russel was extremely proud of his Finnish heritage. He was a good Yooper!
A Memorial Service will be held at GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH, 1 S. Rosa Road, Madison, with Pastor Cory Hahnkee officiating, on Sunday, July 31, 2016. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. Service will be at 2 p.m., with a light reception and visitation to follow until 5 p.m.
The Perttunen family wishes to thank Agrace HospiceCare for their help and support. In lieu of flowers, we are asking you to donate to your favorite charity in Russel's name.
To view and sign this guestbook, please visit
Adams, Walter J.
CAMPBELLSPORT
Walter J. Adams, 81, of Campbellsport, passed away Thursday, June 30, 2016, at the Hospice Home of Hope, Fond du Lac. Walter was born in West De Pere on August 6, 1934, the son of John and Mary (Jones) Adams. He attended schools in East De Pere, graduating from East De Pere High School in June, 1953.
In 1954, Walter enlisted in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. After basic training at Great Lakes, IL and airman school in Norman, OK, he was assigned to VF-124 Fighter Squadron at Miramar Naval Air Station, San Diego, CA. He completed a Far Eastern tour on the aircraft carrier the USS Hancock with a stopover at Atsugi Naval Airstation, Japan. Following his discharge in 1956, he attended the University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh and in 1958 he enrolled as a forestry student at Michigan State University. Walter received a B.S. degree in Forestry in 1961 and M.S. degree in Park and Recreation Resources in 1969.
In 1959 he married Lyn Shimek who passed away in June of 1968 . Walter married Dolores "Lori" Hohenstein on June 15, 1970.
Walter began his employment with the Department of Natural Resources in 1962 as a forester at Griffith State Nursery. Following several assignments with the DNR, he was appointed Superintendent of the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit in 1971 and served in that position until his retirement in 1995.
Walter enjoyed cooking, reading, and nature, especially the scenery in Kettle Moraine. He was a member of St. Matthew Catholic Church, Campbellsport and Friends of the Kettle Moraine. He enjoyed travelling to visit the parks in Michigan, Kentucky but especially enjoyed visiting his granddaughters in California.
Survivors include his wife Dolores "Lori", daughters Susan (Matt) Bett of Santa Clarita, CA and Kristi Adams of Toluca Lake, CA, his granddaughters, Jasmine, Ashlyn, Isabelle & Sophia Bett, brothers and sisters, Bette Anderson of Green Bay, WI, Janette Platt, CA, Ruth (Patrick) Kernan, IL, nieces, nephews, co-workers and other relatives and friends.
Walter was preceded in death by his parents John and Mary Adams, his first wife Lyn, infant daughter Karen Michelle and his siblings, Peter Adams, Tom Adams, LuAnn Phillips, Robert Kendall and John Adams.
A
private family Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, July 7th at 1:00 PM at Holy Trinity Church, 510 Church Ave., Casco, WI, with family visitation an hour prior. Rev. Milton Suess will officiate with burial at Holy Trinity Cemetery.
Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Walter's life on Saturday, July 9, 2016, at the Kettle Moraine Zillmer Shelter, W833 County Rd SS Campbellsport from 1-3 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials will go toward enhancements at the Kettle Moraine Forest.
The family appreciates and thanks the many doctors and nurses who attended to Walter during these past 3 months and especially those who cared for him during the past 6 weeks of his life.
To view and sign this guestbook, please visit:
Harrington, Jeanice W.
VERONA
Jeanice W. Harrington, age 90, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 27, 2016. She was born on July 26, 1925, in Madison, the daughter of Floyd and Gladys (Hawley) Wilson. She graduated from Mazomanie High School in 1943. Jeanice married Edward F. Harrington on June 13, 1948. She worked at the State of Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources for many years.
Jeanice loved knitting, and was active in her knitting club, and especially enjoyed teaching young people to knit. She volunteered her time at Luke House in Madison, Meals on Wheels, the Verona Senior Center, and various endeavors. She enjoyed traveling with her sister, Nancy, throughout the United States and abroad. She loved her Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers.
Jeanice is survived by her son, James (Deborah) and their children, Kyle and Tyler, and great-grandchild, Jayden; son, David (Elizabeth), and their children, Jaime, Brian, Kevin and Colin; sister, Nancy Aeschlimann and her two daughters, Joan (Jon) Clark and Carol (Peter) Wakeman; sister-in-law, Joyce Hoffman, and her children, Susan, Cindy, Sarah, Mark (Jo) and Sandra; and her aunt, Audrey Badeau.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward; daughter, Jane; son, Timothy; and parents, Floyd and Gladys Wilson.
A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 2, 2016, at BETHANY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 3910 Mineral Point Road, Madison, with Pastor Brad Mather presiding. A visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of service.
A special thank you to Agrace HospiceCare for their kindness, care and support. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Agrace HospiceCare, 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Fitchburg, WI 53711 or to Bethany United Methodist Church.
Genin, Marian
MADISON
Marian Kathryn Genin, age 91, of Madison, died on Wednesday, May 18, 2016, at Agrace HospiceCare. Marian's family celebrates her victory over the constraints of her physical decline, knowing she was welcomed into heaven by a loving Savior.
Born on May 20, 1924, in Madison, Marian was raised in Mazomanie, where she excelled in school and graduated from High School in 1942. Her grandmother, Kate Royston Hawley had a loving and large impact on her life. On Feb. 12, 1949, Marian married Raymond G. Genin in Madison. During their 67 years of marriage they welcomed four children into their family and experienced many memorable events. The memories their children love to reminisce most are the annual summer vacations, where they traveled by automobile throughout the United States visiting as many states and their respective capitals as possible. Marian worked as the section chief of the Expenses and Reconciliation Functions, in the Bureau of Finance, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
Marian is survived by her husband, Raymond; her children, Kathryn (Timothy) Zweifel, Patricia Conrad and Timothy (Kim) Genin; her seven grandchildren, Brian Zweifel, Jeremiah (Suzie) Genin, Andrew (Olivia) Genin, Christopher Genin, Jessica Conrad, Jeffrey (Gretchen) Conrad and Kristin (Will) Rawley; seven great-grandchildren, Zachary and Darian Zweifel, Micah, Samantha and Isaac Genin, Isabella Genin and Lila Rawley; sister, Margaret LaBrosse; half-brother, Michael Royston; and half-sister, Anne Royston Murtha. Marian was preceded in death by her son, Thomas Jeffrey Genin.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be on Monday, May 23, 2016, at 11 a.m. at ST. THOMAS AQUINAS CATHOLIC CHURCH, 602 Everglade Drive, Madison, WI 53717 with Father Bart Timmerman presiding. Visitation will be at the church on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of the Mass. A luncheon at the church will follow the Mass, and her burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery on Speedway Road, Madison.
Please share memories at:
Lewis, Steve
MADISON
Steve Lewis, who grew up playing on the Yahara River, Cherokee Marsh, and Lake Mendota, died February 28, 2016 at home in Madison. He was 72 and a lifetime Madisonian.
Steve's love of the water led to his career at the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, where for more than 25 years, he worked as a landscape architect/park planner, construction representative, and project manager. His professional reach was international, serving as President of the States Organization for Boating Access (SOBA) and as a member of the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) Boating Facilities Committee.
Steve was born on Madison's east side on February 3, 1944, the son of Hugh and Gladys Lewis. After graduating from Madison West High School in 1962, he attended UW-Madison, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in landscape architecture. As a proud member of the UW Marching Band, he played his cornet at the 1963 Rose Bowl, one of the "greatest bowl games of all time."
Steve gave back to his community and cherished his family and friends around the world. He was a member of the Wisconsin Air National Guard, president of the Hill Farm Swim Club, and Commodore of the Mendota Yacht Club. He enjoyed sailing, bicycle riding, photography, traveling (especially to Door County), and spending time with his family and Labrador Retrievers. He considered himself lucky to own two, Major Decision and Vigilant Ranger Boy--truly his best friends. Just like Steve, they were active, friendly, and outgoing.
Steve fully embraced life. He loved feeling the wind on his face as he sailed and cruised around Lake Mendota, traversed area bike trails, and drove his beloved red convertible through the countryside. With his signature laughter and wry humor, he never lost his childlike sense of wonder at the world around him. One could picture him thinking, "It doesn't get any better than this. I'm a lucky man."
He is survived by Ellen (Gorman) Lewis, his wife of 46 years; his two children, Amy (Jeff) Levy of Eden Prairie, MN and Andrew Lewis of Madison; and his brother Robert Lewis of Middleton. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 12 at 11 a.m. at First Congregational Church, 1609 University Avenue in Madison.
Special thanks to Dr. David Hei, Nurse Sandy, Eldonna Hazen, Agrace HospiceCare, and Steve's wonderful family of friends for their care, generosity, love, and support. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gathering Waters gatheringwaters.org or the Dane County Humane Society giveshelter.org.
Please share your memories of Steve.
Lukins, Darlene
POYNETTE
Darlene Lukins, age 85, died peacefully in her sleep on Thursday, February 25, 2016.
Darlene was born on August 21, 1930, in Bemidji, Minnesota, the daughter of Clarence and Lucile Peters. She had been a member of the Methodist Church, the Red Hat Society, the Gold Star Wives, the American Legion Auxiliary, Ducks Unlimited, the Friends of Mackenzie, the Columbia County Sportsman’s League, and the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary. Darlene had worked for the Department of Natural Resources at the Mackenzie Environmental Center until her retirement in 1989. She had a green thumb and her plants flourished inside and outside. She enjoyed feeding the birds and was a Master of crocheting doilies and bedspreads. She was a very loving mother and grandmother.
She is survived by her long-time companion, Roger Dorman; her children, Dwaine (Diane) Lukins, Diane Wallock and Dorina (Kevin Griffin) Lukins; two grandsons, Brian (Tammy) Lukins and Christopher Lukins; and one great-granddaughter, Courtney Lukins, who were all very special to her; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Dale Lukins; and a sister, Lavonne Henderson.
Visitation will be held on March 4, 2016, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with a Sharing of Memories at 6:30 p.m. at Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Poynette. Inurnment will take place at a later date at Hillside Cemetery.
Rubesch, Joseph M.
LODI
Joseph M. Rubesch, age 92, of Lodi, passed away on Friday, Feb. 5, 2016. He was born on Oct. 13, 1923, in Rice Lake, Wis., to Olga and Joseph H. Rubesch. Joe attended St. Joseph and public school in Rice Lake, and graduated in 1941.
He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and received his basic training at the Farragut Naval Training Station. Upon graduation, he was assigned to the USS Guadalcanal and attended the Point Loma Radar Training School in San Diego, Calif. The USS Guadalcanal was engaged in anti-submarine patrol in the Battle of the Atlantic. It was the only vessel in modern times to capture an enemy man-of-war, the German U-boat 505, off the East coast of Africa. Today the U-boat 505 is on display at the Museum of Industry and Science in Chicago. The Task Force was awarded The Presidential Unit Citation. After serving two years at sea, he was assigned to shore duty as Petty Officer in charge of the Naval Radar Base at Beavertail Point, R.I.
He was discharged from the Navy on Feb. 17, 1946.
Joe was employed by the Wisconsin Conservation Department at Spooner, and in September of 1946 was assigned as a Conservation Warden serving at Hurley, Green Bay and Dodgeville. On June 1, 1958, he was promoted as a Special Investigator with the Bureau of Law Enforcement in Madison. On April 24, 1968, he was promoted to Chief of the Special Investigation Section, supervising operations directed at habitual and commercial violation in the state, and coordinating investigative efforts to curtail national illegal resource activities. He retired on Dec. 31, 1978, after serving more than 32 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Wisconsin.
Joe married Kathleen Russell on April 23, 1960, at St. Joseph's Church in Dodgeville. Joe was a charter member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Dodgeville, life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Brandt-Pache Post in Poynette and a member of the American Legion Post No. 0216 in Lodi. Joe was an honorary life member of St. Patrick's Knights of Columbus Counsel in Lodi and a 4th degree Life Member of the Holy Trinity Knights of Columbus Assembly of Waunakee. Other organizations with whom he was active are the Association of Retired Conservationists, Wisconsin Voyagers Chapter of the Family Motor Coach Association, National Rifle Association, USS Guadalcanal Task Group Association, Wisconsin Conservation Warden's Association and the United States Naval Memorial.
Joe enjoyed hunting and fishing in the Western States and Canada, traveling in the motorhome, woodworking and time spent at the cabin on the Flambeau River. Joe also participated in being part of the honor flight for World War II Veterans in 2013.
He is survived by his wife, Kathleen; a sister, Dorothy (LeRoy) Moore of Milwaukee; and numerous nieces and nephews. Joe was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Elaine Podoll of Milwaukee; and a brother, Francis (Joyce) of Spooner. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at BLESSED TRINITY CATHOLIC PARISH AT ST. PATRICK'S CHURCH, 521 Fair St., Lodi, at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 11, 2016, with the Rev. Father Chad Droessler presiding. Burial will be at Northern Wisconsin Veteran's Memorial Cemetery.
Visitation will be at HAMRE GUNDERSON FUNERAL HOME, 157 S. Main St., Lodi, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2016, with a Rosary recited at 3:30 p.m. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com
Trow, Karen M.
STOUGHTON
Karen M. Trow, age 66, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 1, 2016. She was born in Stoughton on April 21, 1949, the daughter of Morris and Elizabeth Trow.
Karen graduated from Stoughton High School in 1967. She worked for the State of WI, DNR, for over 40 years until her retirement in January 2013. Karen enjoyed spending time with her family. She is survived by two sons, Bryant (Jennifer) Hofmeister, and Wes (Sarah) Gill; four grandchildren, Breezy, Brynn, Bentley, and Balen; father, Morris; two sisters, Diane Kelly and Julie (Kent) Belville; numerous nieces and nephews; many extended relatives; and friends. Karen was preceded in death by her mother; and brother, James Trow.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, February 4, 2016 at Christ Lutheran Church, 700 County Road B, Stoughton, with Rev. Paula Geister-Jones officiating. Friends may greet the family from 10:00 AM until the time of services Thursday.
Please share your memories of Karen.
Fix, Steve
MADISON
Steven M. Fix, age 69, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016. He was born Jan. 11, 1947, in Madison, the son of Phillip and Eileen (Runey) Fix. He graduated from Central High School in 1965 and from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 1969 majoring in History with minors in Geography and Secondary Education. He earned a Masters of Science in Cartography from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1976.
Steve taught history classes at Tomah High School from 1969 to 1974. While at Tomah, Steve met Mary Fonstad. They were married on April 1, 1972. Steve taught geography at Southern Connecticut State College in New Haven Connecticut from 1976 and 1977 and worked for the Department of Defense in St. Louis, Mo., from 1977 to 1978.
Steve began a 30 year career with the State of Wisconsin in 1979 working on environmental issues with the Department of Natural Resources, Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection and the Public Service Commission. He continued to be active in the environmental arena after retirement working on a water resource management plan, a lake restoration project, and rain gardens. He was a citizen member of three City of Madison committees: the Board of Public Works, Long Range Transportation Planning Committee, and was Chair of the City's Committee on the Environment.
Steve had lifelong interests in Russian history, maps of all kinds, water resources, traveling back roads, visiting major and minor league baseball parks, birding, hiking in the woods, singing in the symphony and opera choruses and getting to wear great hats in opera productions, being kind to cats and dogs, playing sheepshead and bridge and chocolate desserts (without peanut butter, please).
Steve is survived by his wife of 43 years, Mary; children, Peter Fix and Ann (Fix) Taillon; grandchildren, Kyria and Liam Taillon; mother, Eileen Fix; brother, Stanley Fix; and sister, Linda (Fix) Guerin. He was preceded in death by his father, Phillip Fix.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2016, at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison. A visitation will be from 1 p.m. until the time of the service on Saturday at the funeral home. The family invites you for dessert and coffee immediately following the service at the funeral home.
Those wishing to express their sympathy with a memorial may wish to consider contributing to Opera for the Young, Madison Community Foundation, Foundation for Madison Public Schools, Madison Urban Ministry or Second Harvest.
Schlimgen, Stephen Martin "Steve"
POYNETTE
Stephen Martin "Steve" Schlimgen, age 65, of Poynette, passed away on Monday, Sept. 7, 2015, in Poynette. He was born on May 1, 1950, in Madison, the son of Maurice and Mary Schlimgen.
Steve met the love of his life, Carol Caucutt, at the age of 15, and they married on Sept. 4, 1976, in Madison. He graduated from UW-Madison with a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resources. Steve was an exceptional DNR Warden, working for the State of Wisconsin from Jan. 3, 1984, to Feb. 27, 2004. He was a true steward of the resources of the State of Wisconsin and took great pride in his role in protecting the fish and game for future generations to enjoy, especially his grandsons and granddaughters, with whom he served as a tremendous role model and mentor. Steve was president of the Wisconsin Conservation Warden Association, led many youth programs, and was an instructor for ATV, boating, hunting, snowmobiling and trapping. He truly loved nature and the outdoors, including fishing and hunting. Steve also loved traveling and deep sea fishing trips.
He was loved by all who knew him, and had a unique way of "calming" any situation by bringing humor into it. At any party, you knew that Steve may bring out his inner "Frank Sinatra". He had a heart of gold and was known for putting everyone else first, before himself. He will forever be known for his sense of humor and smile.
Steve is survived by his wife, Carol; daughter, Laura Lin; son, Jason (Kristine); grandchildren, Ethan and Euan Lin, and Kylie, Kyndal and Ryan Schlimgen; sister, Kari Schlimgen (Dan Piorier); brother, Chuck (Donna); sister-in-law, Kathy; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, David Schlimgen.
A Celebration of Steve's Life will be held at EAST SIDE CLUB, 3735 Monona Drive, Madison, from 5 p.m. to midnight on Friday, Sept. 11, 2015, with a time of sharing at 7 p.m.
Steve, you will be missed tremendously. We love you always.
Palmer, Patricia "Pat" Ann (Chrisler)
LODI
Patricia Ann "Pat" (Chrisler) Palmer passed away on Saturday September 5, 2015. She was born on March 10, 1930, the daughter of Winifred and Herbert Palmer. Her Great Grandfather Isaac Palmer was the first settler in the City of Lodi. Pat lived in the Palmer home at the time of her death. She was a graduate of Madison College and worked for the Department of Natural Resources.
In 1955, Pat married L. Dudley Mehltretter and they had three children. In 1980, she married Norman Chrisler, who preceded her in death in 1988. Pat was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Lodi and had served as an Elder. She was also a member of the Lodi Valley Historical Society. Pat loved her children and grandchildren dearly.
Pat is survived by her children, Louis Dudley Mehltretter II, Bradley Palmer Mehltretter, and Nancy Mae (Dennis) Stocks; Granddaughters Mae Ann Stocks and Summer Isabella Stocks. She was preceded in death by her parents, her aunt Alice, and her beloved dog Tara.
Funeral services will be held at FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 258 Lodi St, Lodi, WI at 2:00 pm on Thursday Sept 10, 2015 with the Reverend Jessica Scholten presiding. Burial will be held at Mount Pleasant Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 12:30pm until the time of service at the church. Memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church.
The family would like to send a special thank you to the staffs at St. Mary's Hospital and Agrace HospiceCare for their special care of Pat.
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| Jim Barrone | Fire Control-Tomahawk |
| Leo Baur | Forestry |
| Herb Behnke | Natural Resources Board |
| Joanne Christensen | Program Assistant-Fitchburg |
| Bob Deer | Tribal Council |
| Gail Fry | Community Assistance-Madison |
| Norbert (Nubbs) Galecke | Forestry |
| Richard Hunt | Wildlife Management |
| Lil Kraemer | Woodruff |
| Benjamin Kregel | Tomahawk |
| Eric Mahringer | Forestry-Marshfield |
| Paul Peeters | Fisheries-Sturgeon Bay |
| Dan Ryan | Fisheries-Duluth |
| Ted Schwobert | Oshkosh |
| Harry Welke | Forestry-Tomahawk |
| Howard Wenzel | Fisheries-WCD |
| Ruth Williamson | Law Enforcement-Madison |
