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The Association of Retired Conservationists was organized by a group of retirees from the Wisconsin Conservation Department in the 1960's. By the mid-1970's, the WCD had been combined with the Department of Resource Development to form the Department of Natural Resources, and the retirees group had grown significantly, met monthly for lunch and began inviting speakers to address the group on issues of interest to the members. Today, the organization has more than two hundred members.

website contact: retiredrick@wisarc.org

November 2016

Tom Mugan retired on January 15, 2016 with 38 years of service. Tom started as an LTE in 1977 in the Water Program located in the SCR in Fitchburg. He worked as an Operator Instructor until moving to the Central Office as a Wastewater Engineer in 1978. In 2008 he was promoted to the Wastewater Section Chief, a position he held until he retired. In retirement, Tom enjoys traveling, helping his children with their new home projects, bicycling and playing cards.

October 2016

Lesa Pitts retired in April 2016 with a 33 year WDNR career. She spent her whole career in GEF II working in the Bureau of Finance processing staff time reports, travels expenses and gifts to the Department. She also worked with Federal grants including grants for the Division of Forestry. Lesa developed Forestry’s Annual Nursery Report for the Boscobel, Hayward and Wisconsin Rapids sites. In retirement, she relishes the thought of 'doing whatever she wants' which includes camping and spending time at the family cabin in Harshaw.

Blabaum, Carl J.
HIGHLAND

Carl J. Blabaum, age 87 of Highland passed away on Saturday, October 8, 2016 at Bloomfield Manor Nursing Home in Dodgeville. Carl was born October 1, 1929 in Boscobel, Wisconsin, the son of Arthur H. and Gladys M. (Schwingel) Blabaum. Carl graduated from the Spring Green High School, Class of 1947.

He earned a Bachelor degree and a Master degree in Civil and Sanitary Engineering from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He was registered as a Professional Engineer and worked for several years as the Superintendant/Chemist at the City of Sheboygan Water and Filtration Plant and then spent over 30 years with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and its predecessor agencies. While there, he was part of a team effort to ensure good drinking water, effective sewage and industrial waste treatment as well as noticeable improvement in the state’s surface and groundwater quality. The Wisconsin water pollution control program was highly regarded nationally and internationally.

During the Korean Police Action, Carl served with the 8th Engineer Combat Battalion assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division and held the rank of 1st Lieutenant. Following his army service and reserve duty totaling 6 years he was commissioned for several years in the U.S. Public Health Service Reserve.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents and by his daughter, Janet Marcia Blabaum. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy. At Carl’s request, there will be no funeral. Interment will be at the Avoca Cemetery.

Kwallek, Jr. Albert Joseph
LANCASTER

Albert Joseph Kwallek Jr. passed away on June 28, 2016, in Lancaster, Wis., at the age of 89.

Al was born on Aug. 27, 1926, in New Auburn, Wis., to Albert Sr. and Freda Kwallek.

He grew up in the beautiful north woods of Wisconsin. As a boy and when not in school, he would frequently ride his bicycle 10 miles from town, out to Long Lake, one of his favorite places on earth. There, he would spend days on end fishing for the elusive musky, guiding tourists to fishing holes on the lake, and evenings sitting on the porch at the lake house with aunt Julia Campbell.

In 1944, during World War II, Al enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps and was stationed in France where he served as a teletype technician.

Following the war, he spent three years attending UW-Eau Claire pursuing a degree in history education. It was at UW-Eau Claire that a professor told Al, "He was suited to be a man of the Lord and a preacher." Al had other plans, and before he finished his degree he took the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Conservation Warden test. He passed with a near perfect score and was offered a position with the Wisconsin DNR and made his move to the driftless area in the southwest region of the state, Grant County. He never finished his degree.

In 1951, he married the sheriff's daughter, Patricia "Pat" Gillen, despite her insistence that she despised him when they first met. The couple welcomed seven children, 20 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. They were married for 66 years.

For the next 34 years, Al served the great state of Wisconsin and could be described by those who knew him as "stern but fair." During his time with the DNR, he served as a union steward, and was awarded the Haskell Noyes Award for Outstanding Conservation Warden. He taught the first hunter safety courses in the state of Wisconsin. He earned the honor of the top marksman of all law enforcement in the state and was a trainer for other servicemen. After retirement, he continued to serve on the Wisconsin Conservation Congress for 30 years. He also worked for the Hudson Bay Fur Company and the Seattle Fur Exchange in Madison.

Not only was Al a servant of the state, but he was also involved in his local community by serving many years on the Lancaster Community Parks Board, Lancaster School Board, and running for Grant County Sheriff in 1988.

Al was also a mentor and leader. For many years as an Explorer Scout leader, he escorted rambunctious groups of young men into the Boundary Waters where they experienced all that the outdoors had to offer.

He was an advocate for wildlife preservation and the great Wisconsin traditions of fishing and hunting. After retirement, he would make trips to Long Lake to fish and visit with his best friend, Hugh "Snook" Reed.

Fall in Wisconsin meant deer hunting was near. As the patriarch of a large family, Al was an avid deer hunter and he passed on his knowledge of the hunt and his love and respect of the land to his sons, daughters, grandsons and granddaughters. He enjoyed telling tall tales and was never short of constructive advice.

Al did not become a pastor, as his professor predicted, but he did become a shepherd of the land and preacher of Wisconsin's natural resources.

Al is survived by his wife, Patricia; six children, Jeffrey (Cheryl) Kwallek, Ellen (Richard) Sanson, Randal Kwallek (Jennifer Wepking), Julie (Lester) Vondra, David Kwallek (Mary Jean Drone), and Kathleen Kwallek (Virgil Schneider); grandchildren and their spouses; and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Donald; sister, Margaret; an infant son, Daniel; and daughter-in-law, Harla Kwallek.

Al's family will be holding a Celebration of his Life at one of his favorite locations, Wyalusing State Park, over-looking his beloved Wisconsin River. The celebration is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 15, 2016, at 2 p.m. at WYALUSING STATE PARK in the Peterson Shelter, with a reception to follow. Please dress accordingly as this is an open air shelter.

The family welcomes all to gather and celebrate Al's life with memories and fellowship.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to

Albert J. Kwallek Memorial
c/o Kathleen Kwallek
143 W. Linden St.
Lancaster, WI 53813

October 2016

Candy Schrank retired in August of 2016 after a 35 year career. Starting in 1981 as a project employee in Water Quality Management, in 1983 she promoted to a permanent Enviromental Scientist position within the Air Division. In 1984 she returned to Water, working in the toxic chemicals program and the Great Lakes. In 1989 she obtained a Masters degree returning to Fisheries Management in 1992, developiing fish consumption and advisory notices. Candy continues to enjoy many outdoor activites including volleyball, waterskiing, sailing, biking and European travel.

October 2016

In June of 2015, Sue Meyer retired after 37 years with the WDNR. Starting in Pyare, she worked in the mail room for 10 years before moving into Customer Service and Licensing for 27 years. Sue was known as the 'Patron Saint', because of her administering the Patron License program and Charter Boat licenses. At the peak over 80,000 patrons licenses were sold annually. Today she is very involved with the Girls Scouts and their camp near Antigo.

Inspire Young Scientists!

Madison Middle School Science Symposium: ARMS (Adult Role Models in Science) matches trained science volunteers with middle school students interested in research. The volunteer mentors meet with students at their schools each week for several months, working on a real research project.

Students present their research at a city-wide symposium on the UW-Madison campus each spring. Mentors often bring the students to their labs for a visit as well.

For details about the program, including the Mentor training presentation, contact Dolly Ledin,daledin@wisc.edu.

Training sessions (attend one of the two):

• Thursday, October 6 @ Room 110, 445 Henry Mall (UW-Madison Campus), 9-10:30 a.m.
• Tuesday, October 25 @ Room 110, 445 Henry Mall (UW-Madison Campus), 4-5:30 p.m.

Thanks,

Dolly Ledin
Adult Role Models in Science Coordinator
UW-Madison WISCIENCE
daledin@wisc.edu.

August 2016

After a 41 year career with WDNR Kathy Olson retired in March of 2016! Kathy began her employment with DNR in the Bureau of Data System that, through the years, evolved into the Bureau of Finance in 1977. She worked with all the major department systems including finance, human resources, time reporting and expense accounts. After 41 years of being 'inside', she now continues to enjoy everything 'outside', including boating and hiking.

Pyare Square Building Comes Tumbling down!!

The Pyare Building is just a memory after it's demolition in August of 2016.

See the historic 'dismantling' of the building, captured in photos, by our own Jerry Stein and read comments from those who worked in the building!

Click here to see it all!!

Miller, Steven William
SUN PRAIRIE

Steven William Miller died unexpectedly on Monday, Aug. 8, 2016, at the age of 66, due to natural causes, while visiting his daughter in Alaska.

Steve was born Sept. 1, 1949, in Lakewood, Ohio. His family then moved to Parma, Ohio, where he grew up and excelled in athletics, especially baseball and basketball. His senior year culminated with an epic Cleveland Area High School Championship basketball game. Despite living in a sprawling urban environment, he became very interested in fish and wildlife management through reading sporting magazines about duck hunting and fishing. This sold him at an early age to pursuing a career in wildlife management.

After graduating high school in 1967, Steve attended Utah State University where he graduated with a B.S. in Fish and Wildlife Management spring of 1971. He then attended Oklahoma State University and earned a Masters in Wildlife Ecology. In 1974 he was hired by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and began field training in Wisconsin Rapids, marking the beginning of what would become a remarkable 42-year career. In August of 1974 he transferred to Shawano to work as a game manager. In 1978 he successfully competed for his first wildlife supervisor position in Cumberland and subsequently won the Wildlife Manager of the Year award in 1982. He served as Area Director in Marinette from 1982 until 1984. He then, was appointed as State Director of the Wildlife Management Program at the DNR headquarters in Madison. In 1992 he was promoted to Deputy Administrator of the Resource Management Division and expanded his oversight to include the forestry, wildlife, fisheries, facilities and lands, and endangered resources programs. After five years in that position he was appointed as the Resource Management Division Administrator and served from 1997 to 2003. Beginning in 2003 and until his retirement in 2015 he held the position of Director of the Bureau Facilities and Lands, overseeing the department's engineering, property management, real estate, capital development and master planning programs.

Steve was also a national leader in conservation. He served as Wisconsin's representative to the Mississippi Flyway Council from 1985 to 1992. He also represented the Mississippi Flyway Council as a member of the North American Wetlands Conservation Council from 2002 to 2006. Steve served on the Board of Directors of the State Organization for Boating Access (SOBA) from 2007 to 2014. During his tenure with SOBA he served as Board president (2011-2012) and in 2014 he was awarded the "Outstanding Service Award" in recognition of his commitment to the organization's mission.

His accomplishments and contributions to Wisconsin's treasured conservation and land programs are numerous. Highlights include proposing and overseeing the completion of the Land Legacy Report; Establishing partnerships that enabled the formation of the Wisconsin Bird Conservation Initiative; spearheading the restoration of the Whooping Crane; leading the Alternatives Funding Report; promoting "The Future of Hunting" program; championing and guiding the evolution of the Knowles Nelson Stewardship program. In The Gamekeepers: Wisconsin Wildlife Conservation from WCD to CWD by David l. Gjeston describes his influence as "committed to bringing a new, holistic management philosophy to the program as well as making an effort to make wildlife an integral part of peoples lives." In addition to the critters and programs he affected during his lifelong career he also hired and mentored numerous employees that went on to serve careers at the DNR, shaping outdoor recreation and natural resources management across the state. He was a friend and mentor to everyone he worked with at the DNR and took great satisfaction watching new employees grow into great careers, leading them every step of the way.

In his personal life, Steve was a committed and adored father and grandfather. He enjoyed many activities, especially playing basketball, fishing, duck hunting, hiking, and traveling - often taking one of his daughters or grandchildren with him. He also was a prolific reader and enjoyed writing, always seeking to learn more and share knowledge. His four daughters learned responsibly, tenaciousness and determination from the unfailing example he set for them. Plus, he instilled in their hearts his incredible love for the outdoors. He will be lovingly remembered for his jovial nature, fierce work ethic, and unwavering integrity.

He joined the Mormon faith in his early 20's, becoming a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Saints for the rest of his life. He served in many positions including Bishop, High Council member, Young Men's leader and as a beloved Sunday School teacher. His love for our Savior Jesus Christ sustained him and shone through in every facet of his life.

Steve is survived by his four daughters, Marcela Schultz of Mount Horeb, Wis., Ginger Miller of Orem, Utah, Debbie (Rick) Loerke of Deerfield, Wis., and Kamicia Miller of Anchorage, Alaska; six grandchildren; and sister, Linda (George) Dean of Parma, Ohio. He was preceded in death by parents, William and Virginia Miller, and sister, Lucy of Parma, Ohio.

Services will be held Monday, Aug. 15, 2016, at the LDS chapel at 6651 Prairie View Drive, Sun Prairie, Wis. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and a Memorial service starting at 11 a.m. A luncheon will follow. Steve will be buried with a private ceremony in a special place overlooking the wild landscapes he loved so much and worked so hard to promote and protect for generations to come.

To honor and keep Steve's legacy alive, a permanent endowment fund has been established with the Natural Resources Foundation to support the conservation of Wisconsin's lands, waters and wildlife. In lieu of flowers or other gifts, the family respectfully requests that a donation be made to the Steven W Miller Legacy Fund online at www.wisconservation.org/donate-now. Please indicate that the gift is in memory of Steven Miller or send a check made out to the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin, Attn: Steven W Miller Legacy Fund, P.O. Box 2317, Madison, WI 53701.

Please share your memories at:

www.CressFuneralService.com

Chuck Pils contribution:

After Steve Miller's sudden passing and funeral, it occurred to me that I have a few stories to share about the man that reflected his humor and compassion........

* When my daughter Kristi was in high school, she was assigned to do a paper on the Mountain Meadow Massacre, which happened in 1857 in southern Utah when a group of Mormon militia teamed with Paiute Indians to kill and loot over 100 men, women, and children in a wagon train going west.

My wife said to me that maybe Steve would share his views of this incident as a Mormon and maybe our daughter could interview him. I at first thought this would not be a good idea, valuing the continuance of my job as one good reason not to call him. However I gave approval and Kristi called and interviewed him. Steve was on the phone for a long time with Kristi and did not get upset with her and patiently explained the Mormon's viewpoint.....I wondered how I would have reacted?

* I was with Steve on a trip to northern WI. We were driving through the WI Dells area on the Interstate when we approached a large billboard advertising one of the soft porn "Gentlemen's Clubs" in the area. I decided to pull Steve's chain and as we approached the billboard, I said, "Steve, pull in here, I want to get some reading materials " Steve quickly replied somewhat angrily, "I'll give them some explosive reading materials !" This was the closest I ever saw Steve to losing his composure.

Warren, Kathryn Irene
MONONA

MONONA - Kathryn Irene Warren, age 54, passed away unexpectedly due to medical complications on Thursday, July 21, 2016, at St. Mary's Hospital in Madison. She was born on March 15, 1962, in Elmhurst, Ill., the daughter of Jeanette (Anderson) Warren Bossingham and Keene Warren. Kathy grew up in Oregon, Wis., and graduated from Oregon High School in 1980. She then continued her education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, graduating with a degree in Sociology. Kathy worked for the UW Affirmative Action and then later for many years with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. She loved her job and working with people. Kathy loved music, reading, and the outdoors.

Kathryn is survived by her parents, Jeanette Warren Bossingham and Keene (Sue) Warren; daughter, Jennifer (Adam) Barlow; grandchildren, Bentley and Everett Barlow; brother, Kim Warren; grandma, Fern Warren; and her very special and loved soulmate of 11 years, Morris Lornitzo. She is further survived by aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Ole and Helen Anderson, Keene and Wilma Warren; and aunts, Nancy Anderson and Ann Dreger.

Kathy will be truly missed by family and friends. She was a compassionate listener who was always kind, caring, and had a heart of gold.

A memorial service will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, July 26, 2016, at the BECKER-BEAL FUNERAL HOME, 109 Greenway Cross, Belleville, Wis., with the Rev. Sara Rabe officiating. Relatives and friends may call from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, July 26, 2016, prior to the memorial service at the BECKER-BEAL FUNERAL HOME in Belleville. A memorial fund has been established.

An online memorial with guestbook is available at

www.bealfuneralhomes.com

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

www.ryanfuneralservice.com

Joyce-Ryan Funeral Home
& Cremation Services
5701 Odana Road
(608) 274-1000

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:

www.twohigfunerals.com

Twohig Funeral Home
109 W. Main St.
Campbellsport, Wisconsin 53010
Phone: (920) 533-4422

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.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit www.ryanfuneralservice.com

Joyce-Ryan Funeral Home
& Cremation Services
220 Enterprise Drive

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:

www.CressFuneralService.com

Minutes Pending

April 2016

After 29 years of state service, Cheryl Rezabek recently retired from the University as the Administrator for the Department of Botany. Prior to working at UW, she worked at WDNR for 18 years and at DOA for 8 years. At WDNR, Cheryl worked in the Division of Forestry and the Bureau of Air. She was also a Land Team Leader in the Oshkosh area. Cheryl lives 'off the grid' in rural Green county on 53 acres. Her electricity is generated by solar panels and wind generators, storing the energy in a large battery array.

Click here for retirement party notice

Click here to go see all the 2016 Spring Hearing information.

Well-known ornithologist and state wildlife biologist to be inducted into Wisconsin Conservation Hall of Fame

The Wisconsin Conservation Hall of Fame will honor two leaders who have contributed much to Wisconsin’s Conservation Legacy. Noel Cutright (1943-2013), a well-known Wisconsin ornithologist, and LeRoy Lintereur (1920-1995), a state wildlife biologist who specialized in wetland protection, will be inducted into the Wisconsin Conservation Hall of Fame during a ceremony April 30 in Stevens Point.

Cutright devoted his personal and professional life to bird conservation, citizen science, and ecological restoration. After receiving his master’s and doctorate degrees from Cornell University, Cutright worked for We Energies in Wisconsin for 29 years as senior terrestrial ecologist.

As president and project leader for the Wisconsin Society for Ornithology, Cutright advanced the organization’s research, science and conservation efforts. He was senior editor of the landmark Wisconsin Breeding Bird Atlas. As a long-term advisor to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, he promoted the Wisconsin Bird Conservation Initiative, the State Natural Areas Program, and Neotropical migratory bird conservation efforts.

Cutright helped to create the Bird City Wisconsin Program, now recognizing 87 communities statewide and helped the state develop management plans to restore populations of osprey, bald eagles, peregrine falcons, trumpeter swans and bluebirds. He also helped to establish State Natural Areas in Wisconsin and Neotropic Nature Reserves in Belize and Costa Rica. Lintereur was born in Two Rivers and spent much of his personal and professional life protecting the places and things he knew best -- the natural resources and wetlands of northeastern Wisconsin. After serving in the army during World War II, he graduated from UW-Madison with a degree in biology and wildlife ecology. In 1952 Lintereur began his 30-year career in Burlington as a game manager and conservation warden with the Wisconsin Conservation Department, first in Burlington and finally in Marinette.

Later in his career as area wildlife manager for the DNR in Marinette, Oconto, Shawano, Florence and Menomonie counties, Lintereur used his many skills to enforce resource laws, acquire and protect critical wildlife and plant habitat, and educate sportsman, farmers, land owners, and the public.

Lintereur received state and national recognition for his efforts, as an expert witness, to defend and objectively classify wetlands in a legal case that went to the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The outcome of this court action established precedent-setting case law for Wisconsin, and ultimately preserved many wetland areas in Wisconsin.

Lintereur shared his love of nature by leading ecological walks and tours, teaching classes at schools, colleges and The Clearing, a Door County folk school and nature center, and writing more than 700 articles for local newspapers.

The induction ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. at the Sentry Theater in Stevens Point, located at the Sentry Insurance Headquarters, 1800 North Point Drive. The ceremony will include tributes by invited speakers and the presentation of recognition plaques that will be displayed in the hall of fame gallery in Schmeeckle Reserve. A noon luncheon at the nearby Sentry World complex will conclude the day’s activities. Luncheon reservations cost $25, and can be made by calling 715-346-4992 (Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center).

The Wisconsin Conservation Hall of Fame and Visitor Center, located at UW-Stevens Point Schmeeckle Reserve, was established in 1985 to advance the conservation legacy of Wisconsin and now recognizes 86 leaders who have contributed significantly to it. The hall of fame is a cooperative venture of 20 state-wide conservation organizations. Individuals may be nominated for induction by member organizations or by the public.

Contact:
Joe Passineau
Wis. Conservation Hall of Fame president
715-677-4047 or jpassine@uwsp.edu
Wisconsin Conservation Hall of Fame

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.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service
3610 Speedway Road Madison
(608) 238-3434

March 2016

Sharon Cook worked with the Department from 1977-1983 as Special Assistant to the Department Secretary and was the Legislative Liaison. Her duties included handling correspondence for the Secretary, speech preparation, and serving as Outreach Manager for Secretary Tony Earl and Buzz Besadny. She is still involved with the UW Sea Grant Advisory Council and serves in a Mayor Barrett appointment to the Milwaukee Management Counsel. In her spare time Sharon enjoys kayaking near her cabin in Manitowish Waters.

March 2016

After 29 years of state service, Grace Cudney retire on February 18, 2016, while on a six month sabbatical to Australia! Grace spent 15 years in WDNR-Finance where she was instrumental in the roll out of the state of the art WISMART finance system. She went on to spend 3 years at the Dept. of Agriculture and 13 years at Health and Social Services. She played on the WDNR Women's Softball Team, 'The Rough Diamonds', for 27 years!

March 2016

Cheryl Goodman retired in February of 2016 after a 35 year career with the Department, all with the Bureau of Fisheries in GEFII. Cheryl was the budget analyst for Fisheries and also worked with grant writing, capital development and work planning. She was instrumental in the renovation of the Wild Rose Fish Hatchery and planning and the building of a 60 foot Great Lakes Research vessel the Coregonus. Cheryl looks forward to volunteering opportunities and taking weaving classes.

March 2016

Charlie Kilian retired in 2012 with over 33 years of state service, including time spent with the Wyoming Fish & Game Dept! Here is Wisconsin, he spent many years working in Jefferson County with landowners as the private lands biologist. During his career he also spent time working out of GEF II in a posiiton that was half wetland species specialist and half disease specialist. Since retiring he spends lots of time outdoors fishing and hunting. He also enjoys spending time with his two grandchildren who live in Marshall.

March 2016

In July of 2015, Carol Nielsen retired after a 31 year career in the Division of Forestry. Starting in Hayward, she soon transferred to Dodgeville where she worked with landowners in Iowa County for 10 years. She promoted into the Managed Forest Law program in GEF II. After 13 years, she transferred to the Private Forestry program, also in GEF II. Since retiring, she is back in the field as half of the Nielsen & Nielsen Private Forestry Consulting business she owns with her husband, John. She also likes to travel, read, knit and take photos.

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.

February 2016

The Southeastern Winter Chapter of ARC met on February 23 in Estero, FL. Go to the Photos page to see all the fun!!

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

Hamre Gunderson
Funeral & Cremation Care
157 S. Main Street, Lodi
(608) 592-3201

February 2016

Tim Andryk retired in January of 2016 after completing a 29 year career. Starting in Wildlife Management, Tim worked with the Bureau's planning, budget and personnel issues. He moved to the Legal Section where he represented Fish, Wildlife, and Stewardship for 24 years. For the last 4 years he was the Chief Legal Counsel for WDNR. For the next several months he will be helping family move, will ski in his second Birkebeiner, looks forward to more hunting and fishing and already says, "State retirement is a GOOD deal"!!!

February 2016

Al Kaas retired in January of 2015 with over 32 years of service, all within the Water Division's Fisheries program. Starting at the Nevin Fish Hatchery as Assistant foreman, after 4 years he promoted to the Supervisor of the Lake Mills Hatchery. Twelve years later, he transferred to GEFII as the Fish Production Coordinator, a job he held for 10 years before promoting to the Fish Culture Section Chief. Beside tackling his 'honey do' list, Al enjoys traveling to see his children in Waukesha and California. He also like to fish, hunt and shoot.

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.

Cress Funeral Service
206 W. Prospect Street
Stoughton, WI 53589
(608) 873-9244

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.

Cress Funeral Service
206 W. Prospect Street
Stoughton, WI 53589
(608) 873-9244

January 2016

After 24 years with WDNR Mary Farmiloe retired on January 4, 2016! Staring at the Thorton Ave location her unit was eventually moved into GEFII. Mary worked in the Bureau of I&E her whole career, working with electronic media including script writing for WDNR television and radio spots. In later years she worked with YouTube and Twitter media. In her spare time Mary loves to scuba dive. Her most recent dive trip was to the Cayman Islands and she is planning a dive trip to the Maldives in July. Next on the list is a trip to Cuba!!

We’re happy to announce today a new addition to our suite of animal-themed projects: from the land of cheese, badgers, and the Green Bay Packers comes Wisconsin Wildlife Watch, a journey into the Midwestern forests of America’s Dairyland in search of deer and elk, bears and hares, and everything wild in between!

Like Snapshot Serengeti, Chicago Wildlife Watch, and WildCam Gorongosa, Wisconsin Wildlife Watch lets you explore never-before-seen camera trap photos of wild animals. Working alongside a science team from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, you’ll be taking part in valuable ecological research and helping ecologists better understand the trends, distribution, and ecosystems of these critters.

There are over 40 species to search for, and thousands upon thousands of photos to dive into. As always, anyone can participate, from kids to grandparents. Whether you love wildlife, citizen science, or just helping out, come join the Wisconsin Wildlife Watch team today and discover the hidden world of Wisconsin’s animals.

Please also come chat with the researchers on the WWW Talk, and check out the project’s blog. The team is looking forward to working with you—happy hunting!

Sincerely,

Darren and the Zooniverse team