IN MEMORIAM
Our sincere condolences go out to the loved ones of these devoted members. If you have an obituary to share please send it to office@wfda.info to be posted here.
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Lakeshore District Mourns the Loss of Fellow Director Noah Paul Nienstedt. Noah Paul Nienstedt, age 43, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Hartford, Wisconsin, Tuesday, July 16, 2024. Noah was born September 13, 1980, in Madison, WI, son of Sherry D. (nee. Marriott) and Truman Paul Nienstedt, and raised in Cottage Grove, WI. As a child, Noah will be remembered for excelling in math and playing soccer. During summers, he played outside until the streetlights came on. Noah was a 1999 graduate of Monona Grove High School. Throughout high school and after graduation, Noah had the opportunity to work on a friend’s family farm. It was there that he learned compassion for all God’s creatures and pride in a hard day's work. |
Kenneth W. Claussen, 79, Fort Atkinson / Lake Mills, died early morning on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at his home following a valiant battle with lung cancer. He was born on December 9, 1944, in Atkinson, NE, the 5th child of the late Edward and Margaret (Dierks) Claussen. In 1963 he graduated from Atkinson High School, attended Hastings Presbyterian College from 1964-1965 on an academic and basketball scholarship, attended Wayne State College from 1965-1966, and in 1967 graduated from the Wisconsin Institute of Mortuary Science where he became friends with Timothy Dunlap who introduced him to the little sister that was to become his future wife. Following graduation, he served his apprenticeships in North Platte, Nebraska for licensure for funeral director and embalmer. Read More. |
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David Paul Olson, Sr., age 84, of Berlin, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2024, at home surrounded by loved ones. He was born on the farm in Little Black, WI, on March 12, 1940, the son of Salmer and Angeline Scholz Olson. He was the sixth member of eight children. He married Diane S. Orlikowski at St. Rita Catholic Church in West Allis, WI, on October 15, 1966. He graduated from Stetsonville Grade School in 1954, attended St. Joseph’s Seminary, Peterborough, N.H. for two years and Wells Senior High in Chicago, IL where he graduated in 1958. He attended the University of IL, Navy Pier for two years. He served in the US. Army from 1963-1969, two years active and 4 years in the Reserve. When coming home from the Army, he took flying lessons and purchased his own airplane with a friend and enjoyed many hours of flying. Read More. |
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Eugene S. Voie, 83, of Iola, passed away on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at Bethany Home in Waupaca. He was born on August 3, 1940, in Iola to the late Selmer and Bernice Mildred Louise (Loberg) Voie. Eugene graduated from Iola High School in 1958. He attended Central Wisconsin College in Stevens Point and graduated from the Wisconsin Institute of Mortuary Science in 1962. Eugene was a partner in the Voie Funeral Home in Iola with his Brother, Roger and Steve for 31 years. He enjoyed golfing, woodworking, ice fishing, working on his computer and having coffee every afternoon with his buddies at the Crystal Cafe. Read More. |
John Patrick "Pat" Baines, Sr., 77, passed away Sunday, April 7, 2024, at Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights, Illinois. He was born on July 26, 1946, in Oak Park, IL to John "Norman" and Catherine (nee Hayden) Baines. While attending Arlington High School, Pat met the love of his life, Mary (nee Clough). The two were married on July 15, 1967, and would have celebrated 57 happy years together this year. Together, Pat and Mary raised four children and were blessed with four grandchildren. Being their Grandpa was his greatest joy. Pat's career as a funeral coach salesman spanned over 30 years. In 1995, he accomplished his dream of becoming a business owner by co-founding Baines Professional Vehicles with his son, John. Read More. |
Kent D. Boettcher, age 61, passed away peacefully at home, March 20th 2024, with his two loving daughters each holding his hand. He was born on June 10th, 1962, son of June (Leubke) Boettcher and the late Norman Boettcher. Kent dedicated his life to the families he served as a funeral director. His passion for funeral service was unmatched. In 1996, his dream of owning his own funeral home became a reality when he built the Boettcher Family Funeral Home in Kaukauna. He was so proud of his commitment to the community, and the 22 years at his beloved location before his retirement in 2018. During his retirement he enjoyed spending his time helping at the Heart of the Valley Food Pantry. In the summer months you’d find him at the family cabin, in Cecil Wisconsin, with an ice cold drink in one hand and a fishing pole in the other. Kent was extremely outgoing, no matter where he went, he always made a friend. Read More. |
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Robert Geving Hammer, age 94, of Grantsburg, WI, formerly of Clear Lake, WI was taken home to Heaven on February 22, 2024.
Robert was born April 14, 1929, in Gilman Township, Pierce County, Wisconsin. He was the youngest of four sons born to Arthur and Jessie (Geving) Hammer. He was baptized and confirmed in Gilman Lutheran Church near Spring Valley, WI. Robert attended the one-room Gilman Center School and the Spring Valley High School. Following graduation in 1948, he worked at the home farm, other area farms, with Bjornstad Construction, and for Ofstie Construction in Iowa.
In February of 1951, he was inducted into the US Army. He received basic and advanced training at Fort Bragg, NC. In November, his unit embarked for the Korean War, where he served on the front lines for ten months with the 623rd Field Artillery Battalion. He returned to the US in November and was honorably discharged Dec. 30, 1952. After returning home, Robert started working at Geving & Keehr Furniture and Funeral Home in Spring Valley. He also attended the WI State College at River Falls. In 1957, he graduated from the WI Institute of Mortuary Science in Milwaukee, then returned to Spring Valley to work for another year.
Scheuermann-Hammer Funeral Home and Cremation Services are handling the arrangements. Read More. |
Timothy Allen Lockwood age 66 of Lake Geneva, WI died on Thursday February 29, 2024, after a courageous battle against pancreatic cancer. He fought with all his will for the people that he loved so dearly. Tim was born on February 21, 1958; son of the late LaVerne and Joyce (Jacobs) Lockwood. Tim was a 1976 graduate of Elkhorn High School and moved right into his schooling to become a Funeral Director. He graduated from Mortuary school and became a licensed funeral director in 1980, officially kicking off his funeral service career. On May 15, 1983, Tim opened the doors to Lockwood Funeral Home in Elkhorn, WI and began building his business with the support of his cousin, Tom Jacobs. He earned the trust of each family he served and built relationships with each family he cared for. In 1995 Tim partnered and became a combined owner and operator of funeral homes in Elkhorn, Twin Lakes, and Genoa City, where the Haase and Lockwood families continue to serve today. Read More. |
Steve M. Shimon, age 70 of Hartford, Wisconsin, Entered Eternal Life Sunday, February 25, 2024. The most important thing in Steve’s life was his faith in Jesus. It was this faith that guided him to be the kind, humble, selfless and generous person he was. He dedicated his life to the service of others. Steve earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and biology from the University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire and soon after received his degree in funeral service, becoming the 3rd generation funeral director in the Shimon family. Early on in his career he worked at Harder Funeral Home in Brookfield, and in 1987 he relocated to Hartford and began working at the Matener-Schramka Funeral Home where he worked diligently until he felt God was leading him to start his own firm. Read More. |
He was born on Christmas Day, 1935, to Edward and Vera (Waegli) Lambert. After graduating with the class of 1953 from Mishicot High School, he proudly served his country during the Korean War as a member of the U.S. Army (1955-57). Upon his return he married Carol Mae Steeber at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Kellnersville. They supported each other through 58 years of marriage until her passing in 2018.
Erwin was honored to have served his community for over 30 years as the owner of Lambert Funeral Home in Mishicot, and proud to be a 50 year member of the Wisconsin Funeral Directors Association. He also served as an elected official and board member of various civic organizations. Read More. |
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Fern Rusch, age 85 of New London, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully in the presence of her loving family, on Saturday, December 9, 2023. Fern is the wife of former WFDA President Dave Rusch and the mother of former WFDA President Kent Rusch. She was born on May 16, 1938, in Nichols, Wisconsin, daughter of the late Gordon and Lorraine (Lorenz) Marcks. She grew up in the family home located in Murphy’s Stone Quarry in New London. Fern graduated from New London High School in 1956, and her splits, walkovers, acrobatic tricks, school spirit and grace, won her the title of homecoming queen. On November 30, 1957, she was united in marriage to David Rusch. Her early years of marriage were spent in Sister Bay, Wisconsin, where Dave and Fern started their family. Read More. |
Philip Raymond Schadler, 80, of Mazomanie went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on October 14. He passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on the 5th generation family farm. Phil was born September 11, 1943, in Madison, Wisconsin to Alfred and Dorothy Schadler. He was a man of great aspirations and adventure acquiring his pilot license at the age of 18. He married the love of his life, Sherry (Peterson) Schadler at 24 with whom he shared a captivating flair on the dance floor and in life. He loved his wife and 4 children deeply and constantly pointed out the importance of valuing each other. Read More. |
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Kari L. Krueger, age 67, passed away on Sunday, August 20, 2023 at Marshfield Medical Center - Marshfield with her family by her side. Kari was born on January 9, 1956 in Milwaukee. She was the first child to Earl & Marion (Alberg) Holm. On November 1, 1980 she married John Krueger in Tomahawk. Kari attended nursing school and devoted her life to taking care of people. Over the years, Kari worked as a nurse in various roles, including AODA, emergency care, memory & dementia care, geriatric care, school nurse and most recently, she was a nursing instructor for Nicolet College. She loved her nursing students like her own kids. Kari was a lifelong learner and achieved her masters of nursing degree. Read More. |
Harold M. Thompson, age 83, of Wonewoc, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 1, 2023, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on December 13, 1939, in Waupaca, WI, the son of Gordon and Belva (Machan) Thompson. Harry lived in Almond and Plainfield before his family moved to Wonewoc where they purchased the Mealy-Lindorf Funeral Home and Furniture Store in 1956, changing the name to Thompson Funeral Home and Furniture Store. Harry was a graduate of Wonewoc High School in 1958 and attended UW LaCrosse for two years before transferring and graduating from Milwaukee School of Mortuary Science. Harry came back to Wonewoc to work with his father, Gordon in the funeral home and furniture store. Gordon and Harry also ran the local ambulance service until 1971. After Gordon’s death in 1979, Harry continued to run the business with his brother, Scott, until his retirement. Read More. |
Paul A. Lendman, 87, passed away, peacefully, at Froedtert Pleasant Prairie Hospital, on Monday morning, June 19, 2023. He was born in Sterling, IL on July 12, 1935 the son of the late Alfred and Myrtle (nee: Smith) Lendman. After graduating from Mary D. Bradford High School, Paul furthered his education and graduated from Bradley University. While there, he worked at a funeral home answering phones at night. This was his introduction to funeral service, where he ultimately spent his entire career. Paul served his country with the U.S. Army. He first worked for Thomas Hansen and Son from 1957 until 1979. In 1979, he purchased Mischler’s Home for Funerals, which became Lendman-Mischler Funeral Home. Later, it became Lendman-Hansen Funeral Home. Read More. |
Sandra L. Derrick, 79, of Lake Geneva passed away on Saturday April 22nd, 2023, at Lakeland Medical Center. Sandy is the wife of long time member, Daniel Derrick, owner and operator of Derrick Funeral Home in Lake Geneva, and mother of Southeastern District President, Ryan Derrick. Sandra, or Sandy as she was known to everyone, was born on December 3rd, 1943, to the late Leroy and Grace (McCarthy) Daly in Chicago, Illinois. Sandy and her family relocated to the Lake Geneva are in 1958 when her father, Leroy, was transferred with the company he was working with. Sandy become a member of the graduating class of 1961 from Badger High School in Lake Geneva. Sandy went on to be united into marriage to Daniel T. Derrick Sr. on December 26th, 1964. Read more. |
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Richard C. “Dick” Luko, lifetime resident of Hartland, passed away Tuesday, February 28, 2023, at age 89. Dick is preceded in death by his wife, Nancy. Dick owned and operated the Luko Funeral Home in Hartland for 45 years. He was a U.S. Navy veteran, serving during the Korean war, and a proud member of the Hartland American Legion Post 294. Dick enjoyed watching Green Bay Packer games with his family, and was a devoted lifetime fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. He also enjoyed crossword puzzles, being the historian of old Hartland, and telling a good joke. Read More. |
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Neil "Fred" "Digger" Wienke, age 80, of Madison, passed away on Monday, Feb. 27, 2023. He was born on Nov. 10, 1942, in Madison, the son of Ivan and Irene (Herschleb) Wienke. Neil attended grade school in Dodgeville before moving to Marshfield where he graduated from Marshfield High School. He then attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He graduated from Wisconsin Institute of Mortuary Science in 1965. Following graduation, he worked for Frautschi Funeral Home until 1977. Neil then worked for Mastercraft Casket Company and in 1990 became co-owner of Milwaukee Casket Company, before retiring in 2013. Neil also served in the U.S. Air Force and in the Wisconsin Air National Guard for six years. Read more. |
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Arlis “Arly” Sharkey, age 86, was born May 27, 1936 to Arthur and Ida (nee Swille) Sharkey at the family farmhouse in rural Wilson, MI. He was the youngest of six- the trailer child- and the apple of his mother Ida’s eye. He grew up without benefit of running water and he could recall when the farm first got electricity. He did his chores on the farm with an eye to sneak away to go trap and play in the woods and creek bottoms like any good Yooper boy of his vintage. Arlis joined the Air Force and served from 1956 to 1960 as a radar tech. Most of his time was spent in Alaska, a place he once said that he never fully returned from. He was there when Alaska became a state and recalled it was one helluva party. |
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Craig James Golbach died unexpectedly in Phoenix, Arizona on December 4, 2022 at the age of 56 years. He was born in Antigo, WI on February 4, 1966. He was the son on David and Beverly (Wheeler) Golbach. Craig was baptized as a child of God at St. Peter Lutheran Church. He graduated from Antigo High School in 1984 and went to college at UW of WI at Wausau and then graduated from MATC Mortuary School in West Allis, WI. He worked at the Joseph Sass Funeral Home before moving to San Francisco, CA where he worked for Charles Schwab Investments before transferring to their home office in Phoenix, AZ, having worked there for 20 years. Read more. |
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Thomas E. Kraemer, 90, Marco Island, Florida, formerly of Marathon City and Wausau, Wisconsin, died Tuesday November 29, 2022 in Florida. He was born August 7, 1932, in Marshfield, son of the late Anton and Ema (Altmann) Kraemer. Tom proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy. He married the love of his life, Marilyn Kundinger and sadly she passed away Monday, October 10, 2022 at their home in Marco Island after a long and well fought fight with Multiple Myeloma. Tom had served the Wausau, Marathon City, Edgar and Athens area as a Funeral Director for many years, retiring in 1999, when the business was purchased by the Peterson Funeral Home. Through the years, he had been involved in many church, civic and social organizations. Read more. |
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Marilyn R. Kraemer, 84, Marco Island, Florida, formerly of Marathon City and Wausau, Wisconsin, died Monday October 10, 2022 in Florida. She was born May 27, 1938, in Marshfield, daughter of the late George C. and Dorothy T. (Baierl) Kundinger. She married Thomas E. Kraemer and she assisted him in the operation of the funeral homes that they operated in Wausau, Marathon City, Edgar and Athens until the time of their retirement in 1999. Tom passed away on November 29, 2022, shortly after the death of his beloved Marilyn. Marilyn was an active volunteer for several causes including many years of affiliation with the Aspirus Gift Shop among other church and civic organizations. Read more. |
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Hortencia Herrera, age 95 passed away peacefully surrounded by her family Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022. She was born Oct. 18, 1927, in Corpus Christi, TX., the daughter of Antonio and Maria Morales. Loving wife of Gilberto Herrera for 73 years. Mother of Gilbert (Mimi) Herrera, Esmey (Warren) Kosier, Isabel (Tom) Jones, Henry (Richard) Herrera-Stokes, Michael (Christine) Herrera, Robert Herrera, Patti (David) Race, and WFDA member, Christina (John Hagemann) Herrera. Read more.
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Carol Ann (nee: Calkins-Presta) Draeger, 84, died on Nov. 27, 2022. She was born in Racine on January 2, 1938, to Howard and Harriet Calkins. Carol was the wife of WFDA Past President, Jerome Draeger. Carol was a graduate of St. Catherine High School, Class of ’56. She was employed by E.C. Styberg until her retirement. Carol was a member of St. Lucy Catholic Church and a former member and office of the Vittoria Colonna. |
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Doris Mae Daniels, age 93, of Burlington peacefully passed away Saturday, October 22, 2022, surrounded by her loving family, at the house that she made a home for many. Doris was the wife to Richard Daniels, owner/operator of Schuette-Daniels, McCarthy-Koenig-Daniels and Polnasek-Daniels Funeral Homes, and 50+ year member of WFDA. She made it back home to celebrate her husband's birthday on October 24th. Doris Mae was born November 10, 1928, to Hugo and Grace (nee Kerkman) Vos in Burlington. She spent her early life on the family farm in New Munster. Doris Mae attended St. Alphonsus Grade School and later graduated from St. Mary’s High School, “Class of 1948”. On April 22, 1950, Doris Mae was united in marriage to Richard Emil Daniels at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church. Following their marriage, they moved to Burlington where they have been lifelong residents and have raised their family. Read more. |
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Robert “Bob” Alwin Nickel, 88, Morrison, passed away surrounded by his family on Sunday morning, September 25, 2022. He was born November 19, 1933 to the late Alwin and Alma (Kriehn) Nickel. Bob was united in marriage to Bette Mueller on September 14, 1957 in Forestville, WI. Bob and Bette recently celebrated 65 years together. Bob was baptized and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church, Morrison, and attended grades 1 thru 8 at Zion Lutheran School. He graduated from De Pere High School, and then went on to attend and graduate from Wisconsin Institute of Mortuary Science in Milwaukee. Bob and Bette purchased the former Schwartz Funeral Home, Morrison, in 1965 and they operated Nickel Funeral Home until the establishment was sold in 2017 to Scott and Carrie Baeten. |
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Jason R. Schneider, age 45, died on September 6, 2022. Jason was the former owner of Schneider Funeral Home in Plymouth and served on numerous committees for WFDA over the years. He is the brother-in-law and brother of WFDA members Daniel and Jamie Wieting. He was born April 6, 1977, son of Ken and Debbie (Redig) Schneider. He attended Trinity Lutheran School, Rantoul, graduated Chilton High School in 1995, and graduated from Concordia University in Mequon in 1999. |
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Jack W. Moore, age 97, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2022, at Agrace HospiceCare. Jack is the father of former WFDA lobbyist, Tom Moore. He was born in Stambough, Mich., the son of Clement and Millicent (Poad) Moore. Following high school, Jack proudly served in the U.S. Navy during World War II from 1943 to 1946 as a corpsman aboard the U.S.S. Bountiful in the South Pacific. When he returned from the war, Jack focused on attending college. After graduating from UW-Stevens Point with a degree in Education, he began teaching in Southern Wisconsin. He met Dorothy Eastman while they were both teaching in Columbus and the two were married in 1959. Jack continued to teach in the Madison School District, and he and Dorothy made DeForest their home for 40 years. Jack continued his education and received a Master’s Degree from UW-Madison in Education Administration. He then served as principal for Lincoln Middle and Linbergh Elementary schools. Following his retirement, Jack spent his winters in Gilbert, Ariz. Read more |
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Janet M. Bolger passed away peacefully on August 16, 2022, in Marshfield, WI. Jan was born June 11, 1936, in Fergus Falls MN, the only child of Reuben and Merlin (Holecek) Christenson. Janet was the wife of the late Patrick A. Bolger and mother of Michael J. Bolger (former owners of Bolger Funeral Home). Jan grew up in St. Louis Park, MN and attended the University of Minnesota. It was at the U of M that she was assigned Pat Bolger as her Chem lab partner; they were married in May 1957. While busy raising 5 children, Jan found time to be involved with many Community and Civic organizations. She also enjoyed spending time with friends and travelling. Read more. |
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Wayne Lloyd Huehns, 86 years old, of Van Treeck Trail, Sheboygan Falls, entered into the arms of his heavenly Father on Thursday, July 14, 2022 surrounded by his loving family. Wayne was born February 15, 1936 in Sheboygan, the son of the late Roy Milton Huehns and Mabel Sylvia (Steffen) Huehns. Following his graduation from Central High School in June of 1954, he entered the United States Army, serving as a Chaplain Assistant until 1956. Following his honorable discharge, Wayne attended Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, where he met his bride-to-be, Janet Marie Meyer, the daughter of the late Fred John Meyer and Ethel Marie (Corrigan) Meyer from Fond du Lac. They were united in marriage on August 16, 1958, at Immanuel Trinity Lutheran Church in Fond du Lac. Wayne and Janet would be business partners for his entire working career. Read more. |
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Alice Faye Thorson, age 84, of Viroqua, WI, passed away on Wednesday morning, March 23, 2022 at her home surrounded by family after a three-month battle with pancreatic cancer under the awesome care of Gundersen Health Hospice Staff. Alice is the wife of Thor J. Thorson, former owner of Thorson Funeral Home (now Thorson-Popp Funeral and Cremation Services). Before his retirement after 50 years of funeral service in 2021, Thorson served on the WDFA Board of Directors and was active in the Western District of WFDA. She was born on October 17, 1937 in Viroqua to Milan “Red” and Winifred (Kyser) Larson. She graduated from Viroqua High School in 1955. Alice was salutatorian and her best friend, Linda Langhus, was the valedictorian. They went to Madison General School of Nursing for the three-year program. Following graduation, she moved to Eau Claire, where she was on the faculty of Luther Hospital School of Nursing until it merged with UW-Eau Claire. She then moved to Madison, where she worked at Oak Wood Care Center. In 1979, Alice moved to Florida and married Rev. Dr. John Eckhardt, a Lutheran minister. She worked as executive director in several care facilities. Read more. |
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Leo S. “Lee” Ryczek, Jr., age 100, of Amherst, died Saturday, March 5, 2022 at Care Partners in Stevens Point under the care of Moments Hospice. Lee was born on March 28, 1921 in Milwaukee, a son of Leo and Pearl (Zjala) Ryczek. He attended Milwaukee Schools and Marquette University. While at Marquette, he was studying to become a Funeral Director, serving as an Apprentice Funeral Director. In 1942, Leo enlisted in the United States Army serving Stateside. Upon his Honorable discharge, he began his career, owning his own Funeral Home in his hometown of Milwaukee, serving families for many, many years. In May of 1969, he was united in marriage to the former Mary Megal at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Milwaukee. After retiring, Lee sold his Funeral Home and the couple moved to Amherst. Read more. |
Ruth Ann Smits, age 89 of Antigo, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday, March 8, 2022. Ruth was the mother to WFDA member, Mike Smits, Funeral Director and General Manager of Gunderson Funeral Home in Madison. Ruth was born in Chicago, IL on Dec. 11, 1932 to Norbert and Elsie Mae (Franc) Pischke. She married Robert E. Smits on July 4, 1959 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in De Pere. They moved to Antigo in 1960 where they opened up the John Canning CPA office. Ruth was an active member and volunteer of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and school for many years. She was also an active member of the community having served in the Antigo Jaycettes, Association for Mentally Handicapped Citizens, and chairperson for the Langlade County Easter Seals. Read more. |
Philip A. Lewin, age 75, of Fremont, passed away surrounded by his family on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, at ThedaCare Medical Center in Appleton. He was born on July 8, 1946 in New London, WI, the son of the late Alvin and Pearl (Siewert) Lewin. Following his graduation from Weyauwega High School in 1964, he enrolled in UW-Oshkosh to begin the preliminary coursework to pursue a degree in Mortuary Science. In 1967 Phil graduated from the Wisconsin Institute of Mortuary Science (WIMS) and joined his father, Alvin in the business in 1968. He went on to become the owner of Lewin Furniture and Funeral Home in 1972. Read more. |
Teresa Sue Edison, 54, of Independence, died Thursday, March 3, 2022 at her home. Teresa “T” Sue Edison was born February 23, 1968, in Osseo, Wis. to Clennis Keith and Nancy (Brixen) Edison. C. Keith Edison is a longtime WFDA member of Edison Funeral Home in Independence, Wisconsin. In 2008, Teresa started working at the funeral home. She completed her Wisconsin Funeral Director’s Apprentice Certification, November 10, 2018. Read more. |
James “Jim” Altstadt, passed away peacefully in his home on Sunday, February 20, 2022 at the age of 80. He is survived by his loving wife, Faye, his children Jody Hassler (Patrick), Rick (Shirley), Michelle Cannella (John), his brother, Jack (Terri), grandchildren Christine Sifandos,(Stefanos), Carrie McManus (Ryan), Tajar Altstadt, and Emily Brooks (Brandon), his great-grand children, Dylan, Brennan and Quinten McManus and Cato Brooks, and nieces and nephews. For nearly 60 years, Jim provided caring support and advice to thousands of bereaved family members in his role as a funeral director. Read more. |
Debra Ann Lazarczyk
Debra Ann Lazarczyk, 66, of New Berlin and former longtime resident of West Allis, WI passed to eternal life on Sunday, February 6, 2022 at her residence. Debbie is WFDA's President-Elect Steve Lazarczyk's mother.
Debbie was born on June 13, 1955 in Milwaukee, WI daughter to the late Robert P. and Mary Ann (nee: Maliszewski) Martin. She married Richard Lazarczyk at Mary Queen of Heaven, the now Mother of Perpetual Help, in West Allis, WI in October of 1977.
Debbie loved to travel, her and Rick saw many different landmarks, State Parks as well as National Parks. Where ever she went she took pictures. Some of those pictures found their way into different calendars and received awards. She loved being outdoors seeing all of the animals, playing with her late dog Toby and gardening. She was a long time member of Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Parish and the Milwaukee Casting & Sportsman's' Shooting club in New Berlin, WI.
John Arthur Charles Dahlke
John Arthur Charles Dahlke, age 82, of Weyauwega, went to his heavenly home on December 14, 2021 at ThedaCare Medical Center—Waupaca as a result of complications of Covid 19. He was born August 20, 1939 in Milwaukee, to Rev. J.C. and Caroline (Kansier) Dahlke. On December 3, 1966 he married Janis Neubauer and together they celebrated 55 years of marriage. God blessed them with three beautiful children: Noel, Jon and Bethany. John attended Jerusalem Lutheran Grade School in Milwaukee and St. Paul Lutheran Grade School in Tomah, and was confirmed in Tomah in 1953. He graduated from Tomah High School in 1957, where he was active in sports, band and chorus. Following his high school graduation, John enrolled at Wisconsin State University—La Crosse and played college football while a student there. After completing two years at UW-La Crosse, John enrolled in the Wisconsin Institute of Mortuary Science (WIMS) to pursue a career as a licensed funeral director. He started his professional career in 1965 when he joined the Bauer Funeral Home in Weyauwega. Two years later, John partnered with Wes Fenske and Dave Rusch to purchase the Bauer Funeral Home and form Cline-Hanson-Dahlke Funeral Home with locations in Weyauwega and Manawa. John also operated the Cline-Hanson-Dahlke Furniture Store in Manawa, and provided ambulance service to both Weyauwega and Manawa for many years.
William T. “Bill” Schneider
William T. “Bill” Schneider, age 66, unexpectedly passed away on Thursday, November 18, 2021, at home. He was born in Rice Lake, WI on April 2, 1955, the son of Neal W. and Darlene (Baumberger) Schneider. Bill graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1977, with a degree in Mortuary Science and joined the family funeral home as a Licensed Funeral Director, eventually becoming an owner of the funeral home. Bill married Barbara Newbold on October 29, 1979. He will always be known for having a loving personality. He always went above and beyond for anyone he had just met or someone he had known for years. Bill’s heart was BIG. Philanthropy was very important to Bill. He served the greater Janesville Community in a variety of facets: serving on the EMS Counsel Board of Directors from 1979 to 1981, President of the Wisconsin Funeral Directors Association, he was a member of the Knights of Columbus since 1978, a member of the Lions Club, Small Business Chairman of the American Cancer Society from 1981 to 1982, and as a member of the Serra Club, just to name a few. Read More
Delores R. Schultz
Delores R. Schultz, age 84 of the Township of Larrabee, passed away on Wednesday morning, November 17, 2021, at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center, Appleton. Delores is the mother of longtime WFDA member, Jay Schultz of Konrad-Behlman Funeral Home in Oshkosh.
Delores Ruth Schultz was born November 9, 1937 in the Township of Lebanon, Waupaca County; daughter to the late Charles & Verna (Roehl) Baird. She graduated from New London High School and was later united in marriage to Robert “Bucky” L. Schultz at Emanuel Lutheran Church, New London, on October 11, 1958. Delores was a long-time member of St. Martin Lutheran Church, Clintonville, where she was a cook for the school, served on Ladies Aid for funeral lunches, helped with seated communion, and took part in church book club. She loved watching the birds at the feeder, and all of the wildlife in the backyard. Read more.
GARY C. REDLIN
Gary C. Redlin, age 65, of Baraboo, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, July 10, 2021 at his home.
Gary, the son of James A. and Marie E. (Pfragner) Redlin, was born on April 3, 1956 in Hartford, WI. He moved to Baraboo with his family in 1959 when his father was employed by the Schieble Funeral Home.
He received his degree in Mortuary Science from MATC-Milwaukee, graduating in 1983. He worked along with father, James Redlin, until Jim passed away suddenly while vacationing in Florida. Gary then took over the business and operated it, along with his wife, Sandy, until May of 2016 when his health forced him to retire. He was dedicated to his profession and strived to continue the work ethic his father instilled in him. Read more.
TODD D. GOHEEN
Todd D. Goheen, age 60, of Oshkosh, WI, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 8, 2021.
Todd was born in Carrington, ND on May 5, 1961, the son of Jerrold Goheen. He grew up on a farm in Carrington, looking up to and admiring his dad until he passed away when Todd was 16. His love of the farm life and everything that came with it stayed with him until his last days. Todd graduated from Carrington High School, and in 1981 he married his high school sweetheart, Tamera Sharbono. After high school he became an auctioneer, starting Goheen Auction Service. Todd went on to further his education at the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service, and moved to Ripon, WI where he began working at Butzin-Marchant Funeral Home. He has owned the funeral home and served the Ripon area families for over 25 years. READ MORE
Thomas J. Rueckl
Thomas Rueckl died Wednesday, February 20, 2021, at a South Florida Hospital at 80 years old.
Tom was born on January 31, 1941, in Luxemburg to the late George and Mildred (Novak) Rueckl. On November 24, 1960 he married his high school sweetheart, Linda (Van Drisse) Rueckl, at St. Mary Church in Luxemburg. Tom attended St. Mary’s Grade School and graduated from the 8th grade in 1955. He was a 1959 graduate of Luxemburg High School, where he earned multiple letters in many sports. He was Homecoming King with his “forever” Queen, Linda (Van Drisse) Rueckl. After high school, Tom attended UWGB for 2 years, then finished his education at the Wisconsin Institute of Mortuary Science (Milwaukee) and became a licensed Funeral Director in 1963.
Kenneth "Ken" O. Mannel
Kenneth “Ken” O. Mannel, 94, of Rib Lake, passed away on Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at Rib Lake Health Services.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.Ken was born on July 28, 1926 to Erwin and Viola (Dreier) Mannel in Wilton. He graduated from Wilton High School in 1944. He entered into the Navy in 1944, during World War II, and served on a Destroyer Escort in the Pacific. He married Ruth Shaw on June 11, 1950 at the United Methodist Church in Sparta; she preceded him in death on March 5, 2020. He was recalled to the Navy during the Korean War. He then attended Mortuary School in Milwaukee.
Gregg Juleen
On Saturday, December 5, 2020, at the age of 62, Gregg Juleen passed away peacefully at Ascension Columbia St Mary’s Hospital on North Lake Drive. Gregg will be lovingly missed and remembered by his husband of 23 years, Steven Bruggink. Gregg is also survived by his sister, Lynn Penikis, brother, David (Mary) Juleen; nephews Todd (Emily) Penikis, Nicholas (Brenda) Juleen, Danny (Missy) Juleen; and cousins Peggy Check, Pam Bliss, Dawn Pisors , Leslie (John) Tianen, Alan Durant and Candy(Tom) Smolik. He is also survived by a special group of friends that were like family to him and made his life very fun. Gregg was predeceased by his parents, Milton and Dorothy (Czecholinski) Juleen, step-father Richard Sobczak, brother-in-law Ojars Penikis and niece Kristen Penikis. Read more.
Sandra "Sandy" Jean Jack
“Sandy” Jean Jack, age 77, of Onalaska, formerly of Blair, died on Sunday, December 6, 2020 in her home. Wife of WFDA Past President Denny Jack, and Sister of WFDA member Charlie Mantey, Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Homes, Portage.
Sandy was born on September 15, 1943 in Chicago, IL to Godfred and Cordelia “Corky” (Kauth) Mantey. She married Dennis “Denny” L Jack on July 18, 1964 in Wisconsin Rapids. They raised two daughters in Blair, WI.
Sandy loved spending her free time relaxing with her dog, going for long drives in her classic car, and being there for every event in her grandchildren’s lives. Sandy enjoyed hosting guests in her home and treating them to snacks, beverages, and stories about her grandchildren. She will be missed dearly for her caring, lighthearted, larger than life attitude, along with her love of doing anything she can to help those around her. She was known in the community for dressing up as the Easter Bunny or Frosty the Snowman for children’s and family events. Sandy also organized and hosted cut-throat family easter egg hunts. She enjoyed all of the time she spent with the residents and staff of both Havenwood and Springbrook senior living homes. She was known for her generosity and not taking life too seriously. She was always ready to lend an ear and laugh. Read more.
Brian D. Pickett (November 21, 2020)
Brian D. Pickett, 66, Spencer, passed away on Saturday, November 21, 2020 at Marshfield Medical Center.
A private family Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 1, 2020 at Christ the King Catholic Church, Spencer, with Rev. Barry Saylor officiating. The service will be streamed online at www.facebook.com/rembsfuneralhomes. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Rembs Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Brian was born on January 4, 1954 in Marshfield, to Jack and Sylvia (Beaver) Pickett. Brian was a 1972 graduate of Spencer High School. He then attended the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, and graduated from Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science in 1979. As a funeral director, Brian was employed at funeral homes in Spencer, Colby, La Crosse, and Bloomer. In 1993 he became owner of Community Funeral Homes in Spencer and Colby. In later years he was a CNA at The Waterford at Colby Senior Living, and also provided home care for a favorite teacher until his death. Read more.
Clifford A Crandall (October 15, 2020)
Clifford Andrew (Andy) Crandall II, passed away October 15, 2020 at Cottage Care Circle in Mauston after a brief battle with liver cancer. “Andy” was born to Bonnadean A. (Olson) and James C. Crandall on December 27, 1948. Andy attended school in Mauston and was active in the Mauston High School Band. He graduated from Mauston High School in 1967. He then graduated from St. Olaf’s College in Northfield, MN in 1971 and continued his education at the Minneapolis School of Morturary Science. Upon graduation, he joined the family business as the third-generation owner of Crandall Funeral Home, Inc. He worked with that business until health issues required his retirement. Read more.
Warren L. Wachholz (September 29, 2020)
Warren L. Wachholz, age 82, of Princeton, left his earthly life on Tuesday, September 29, 2020, at the Barrett House in Ripon, to be with his Savior in heaven. He was born in Ripon, WI, on October 29, 1937, a son of Herbert L. and Beatrice (Giese) Wachholz.
Warren grew up in Princeton and graduated from Princeton High School in 1955. After high school, he attended mortuary school in Milwaukee, graduating in 1959, as a licensed funeral director. He married Roberta Schwarze at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Wauwatosa, WI, on August 23, 1958. Warren was a third generation funeral director. In 1959, he began working full time with his father, Herbert Sr., and his brother, Herbert Wachholz Jr. at the Wachholz and Sons Funeral Home and Furniture Store in Princeton. Read more.
Patricia Mary Langendorf (September 12, 2020)
Patricia M. Langendorf, 93, passed away in her sleep, at Ridgewood Health and Rehabilitation Center, on Saturday, September 12, 2020. She was born in Burlington, WI on March 19,1927 the daughter of the late Adam “Bob” and Mary (nee: Hahn) Arnold. Surviving are son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Mary Sue Langendorf, of Racine; three grandchildren, Brian (Lissette Rivera Fuller) Langendorf, Michael and Leigh Ann Langendorf, all of Racine, Mark and Alison Langendorf, of Camp Lake; great-grandchildren, Mallory Langendorf, of Chicago, Lucy Langendorf, Andrew Langendorf, and Adam Langendorf, all of Racine. Her nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends also survive her. Read more.
James Milton Andrus (September 7, 2020)
im Andrus of Menomonee Falls was peacefully called home to his Lord on September 7, 2020 at the age of 83 years. Loving husband and best friend for 55 years of Marge (nee Lovestead) Andrus who passed away on April 8, 2015. Cherished father of Paul (Cherie), Stephen, Thomas (Jennifer), Jane (Scott) Ross, Nancy (Matthew) Rech, Jonathan and the late Phillip Andrus. Proud grandfather of Joseph, Mitchell (Chiree), Thomas, Alyssa and Madelyn Andrus and Ashley, Hallie and Nick Ross and Olivia and Alex Rech. Brother of the late Dr. Walter (Virginia) Andrus, the late Elaine (the late Vincent) Paris, Carol (the late Herbert) Kuehling and the late Lois Silverman. Brother-in-law of the late Myrtle (the late Raymond) Skubal and the late Howard (the late Marj) Lovestead. Also survived by other loving relatives and many, many friends. Read more.
Frank R. Pisarski, Sr (August 14, 2020)
Frank R. Pisarski, Sr, 88, devoted husband of Dorothy (Prais) Jakusz peacefully passed away on Friday August 14, 2020, surrounded by his family at The Lodge at Whispering Pines in Plover.
Born; July 22, 1932 in Chicago, Illinois. He was one of three sons of the late Frank and Mary Ann (Koza) Pisarski. He graduated from St. Salomea Catholic grade school and Mount Carmel Catholic high school in Chicago. While in high school he enjoyed playing the drums in a band that played throughout the Chicago area and thoroughly enjoyed music his entire life. Frank was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers, Chicago Cubs and Chicago Blackhawks and dedicated his life to serving the people of his community, which he avidly loved. Read more.
Shirley G. Haase (July 4, 2020)
The WFDA is saddened to report the loss of Shirley G. Haase, age 92, of Genoa City, WI. She passed away peacefully on Saturday morning, July 4, 2020 at the Aurora Burlington Medical Center in Burlington, WI.
Shirley married her husband David E. Haase on November 17, 1948. They lived in Madison, WI and Dubuque, IA before moving to Genoa City in 1951 and purchased the Klement Funeral Home in 1953. This is when the Haase Funeral Home was started. They were longtime WFDA members and David served as WFDA President in 1972. Shirley worked alongside David for many years to build the business to what it is today.
"Kay" Katherine Ellen (Droegemueller) Saether (June 17, 2020)
“Kay” Katherine Ellen Saether, age 84 of Blanchardville & Juneau died on Wednesday evening, June 17, 2020 at the Upland Hills Nursing and Rehab Center in Dodgeville. Kay was born on April 29, 1936 in Chicago to Arthur & Katherine (Meyer) Droegemueller. Kay grew up in Winnetka, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago) where she graduated from New Trier High School in 1954. She attended Vanderbilt University in Nashville for two years and then transferred to Michigan State University in East Lansing where she earned a degree in education in 1958. Kay is survived by her two children, Heidi (Mike) Ewell of River Forest, Illinois, and longtime WFDA member Paul (Julie) Saether of Blanchardville; five grandchildren, Zachary, Alex and Grace Ewell and Sarah and Jeff Saether; and two nieces and a nephew. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Tom, and her sister Joan Wilke.
RICHARD E. DANIELS (mAY 29, 2020)
Richard Emil Daniels, 92, of Burlington, passed away Friday, May 29, 2020 at his home. Born in Brighton on October 24, 1927, he was the son of Emil and Molly (nee Ketterhagen) Daniels. His early years were spent in Brighton, where he attended St. Francis Xavier Grade School and graduated from St. Mary’s High School, Class of 1945. He is a former member of the National Guard Battery “A”, 126th Field Artillery Battalion, 32nd Division. Read more.
MARK l. jUSTEN (mARCH 29, 2020)
Mark Lenard Justen, age 66, of McHenry, died suddenly Sunday morning, March 29, 2020, at his home. Mark was alongtime out-of-state WFDA member, running Justen's Funeral Home in Illinois. He joined the family funeral business in 1975 as the fourth generation. Justen's Funeral Home is the oldest business in McHenry, Illinois still operated by members of the original family.
Ted W. Westgor (November 9, 2019)
Ted W. Westgor, of Neenah, WI and Naples, FL, peacefully passed away with his wife by his side on Saturday, November 9, 2019, in Naples, FL. . Ted joined his father and mother in the family funeral business in 1973. Ted established the family's Menasha funeral home in 1998; he retired from funeral service in 2009. Ted always received considerable satisfaction by helping families in their greatest time of need for over 36 years. Read more.
Thomas L. Skubal (October 22, 2019)
Thomas L. Skubal found Peace on Tuesday, October 22, 2019, at the age of 70 years. Beloved husband of the late Constance "Connie" (nee Makal) for 45 years. Loving father of Benjamin (Jaclynn) Skubal, Stephanie Skubal and Amy (JC) Muehlenberg. Proud grandpa of Gavin, Riley, Jake and Andrea. Brother of Sharon (James) Van Roo. Tom is also survived and will be missed by other family, friends and colleagues. He was preceded in death by his parents Margaret (nee Fries) and Albert Skubal, Jr. Read more
Patrick Jason Mayo (September 23, 2019)
Patrick Jason Mayo, a fisherman, age 46 of Stevens Point, left this world too soon on Monday, September 23, 2019, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital surrounded by family and lots of love. He was born on August 17, 1973, in Antigo, WI to Michael and Christine (Henricks) Mayo.
Pat attended St. John Catholic Grade School and Antigo High School, graduating in 1992. He completed the funeral service degree program at Milwaukee Area Technical College and received his funeral director’s license from the state of Wisconsin. While completing his apprenticeship at Schmidt and Bartelt Funeral Service in Milwaukee, Pat would meet his future wife, Amanda Zanchetti and they were married on March 18, 2000. Patrick considered Mandy one of the greatest blessings he received in his life and to him, she will always be known simply as “Pumpkin”. Pat was the key to keeping Mandy motivated and focused in the pursuit of academic and professional goals. Read more
Martin Dable (September 19, 2019)
Martin R. Dable, longtime Waukesha funeral director died on Thursday, September 19, 2019 surrounded by his family at AngelsGrace Hospice at age 83. He was born in Waukesha on June 7, 1936 the son of the late Clarence Russell and Anna Catherine (nee Schipp) Dable. Martin attended Duplainville Elementary School, a one room schoolhouse, before attending Catholic Memorial High School and graduating from Waukesha High School. He then studied at MATC before attending the Wisconsin Institute of Mortuary Science. Martin proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1955 until 1959. Martin was a dedicated funeral director working for Borgwardt Funeral Home, Molthen Bell Funeral Home and John J. Walloch Funeral Home. Read more.
Richard B. Lee (August 22, 2019)
Passed away on Thursday, August 22, 2019, age 81 years. Best friend and longtime partner of Dan Nicholson. Brother of Robert “Bob” (Marge) Lee. Dear friend of Gregg, Dennis, Daryll, John, Michael, and Jackie. Preceded in death by his parents George “Abner” Lee and Celina C. Lee(Nee Olson) and his aunts Ina and Gunheld. Also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
A visitation will be held Wednesday, September 4th, from 10-2 at Milw. Latvian Ev. Lutheran Church, 1853 N. 75th St. A Funeral Service will follow at 2PM. Private Entombment Holy Sepulcher Cemetery. Read more.
Larry J. Skogen (August 9, 2019)
Larry J Skogen, 77, passed away on Friday, August 9, 2019 at Oakridge Care Center in Union Grove. He was born in Sun Prairie, WI on February 24, 1942, the son of the late Theodore and Wanda (nee: Uphoff) Skogen. Larry was a funeral director for over 50 years.
He was a long time member of Racine Bible Church. Larry enjoyed classic cars, motorcycling, and collecting electric toy trains. He was a member of the Classic Car Club of America, Wisconsin Region for many years. Read More
Thomas E. Wiseman (June 3, 2019)
Entered into Eternal Life on June 3, 2019 at the age of 81 in The Villages, Florida. Born Oct. 3, 1937 in Wilton, WI, the son of Camillus & Edythe (Mitchell) Wiseman. Preceded in death by his young daughter Terri Jo from cancer in 1970, his brother John, and his sister-in-law and brother-in-law Barbara and Tom Likely. Survived by his beloved wife Marlene (Heilman) of 58 years, daughter Susan (Michael) Hauke, and grandchildren Matthew and Anna. Further survived by sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, other relatives. Read more...
Marjorie Gnewikow, (May 31, 2019)
Marjorie Dame “Marge” Gnewikow, age 92, passed away May 31, 2019, at Maplewood Nursing Home. She was born at home in Ontario, Wis,. on Aug. 15, 1926, the only child of the late Sidney Irl and Margaret Ruth (Tedrick) Downing. She was united in marriage to Ortwin E. Gnewikow on July 19, 1946.
They purchased the Mazomanie Funeral Home in 1952, and later purchased funeral homes in Sauk City and Prairie du Sac. They then built a new funeral home on Water St., in Sauk City in June 1974. Read more...
Harold M. Wiecki, (May 26, 2019)
Harold M. Wiecki, 91, died peacefully early Sunday morning, May 26, 2019 at his home at Patriot Place in Berlin. He had been a resident there for 10 years.
Harold was a graduate of Berlin High School with the class of 1944. He served in the U.S. Navy from April 1945 - July 1946. Harold became a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer graduating from The Wisconsin Institute of Mortuary Science (WIMS} OF Milwaukee and worked at and later owned the Wiecki Funeral home (established by his father John R. Wiecki in 1919). Read more...
John Ritchay, Sr. (May 19, 2019)
John A. Ritchay Sr, age 89, of Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, passed away on Sunday, May 19, 2019 at the Marshfield Medical Center. John was born on June 29, 1929 in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin to the late Aaron and Ethel (O'Brien) Ritchay. He graduated from Saints Peter and Paul Elementary School, Lincoln High School- Class of 1947 and St. Norbert College in 1951. During high school and college, John excelled in athletics. He served in the U.S. Army from 1951 - 1953 during the Korean War where he served overseas for 14 months. John married Mary A. Weix on October 29, 1955 in Merrill. She died April 28, 2014. Following his military service, John attended the Wisconsin Institute of Mortuary Science in Milwaukee. He purchased the Krohn and Berard Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids in 1957 and the Feldner Funeral Home in Nekoosa in 1981. He was a funeral director in the Wisconsin Rapids area for over 50 years. Read more...
Harvey Dean Anderson (April 28, 2019)
Harvey Dean Anderson, 68, New Franken, died early Sunday evening, April 28, 2019, at Aurora BayCare Medical Center, Green Bay. He was the husband to Kathey Anderson, Funeral Home Director of McMahon Funeral Home, Luxemburg. He was born in Iron River, MI, February 25, 1951 to the late, Carl Rudolph “Rudy” and Stella Marie (Kisiel) Anderson. On May 20, 2000, he married Kathleen Mary Lea Peters at St. Kilian Church, New Franken. Harvey owned and operated Anderson Building and Remodeling, leaving his legacy of handywork in several states. He worked hard and played hard, giving of his talents to many people his entire life, including serving as The Town of Scott, Town Constable from 2011 to 2014. He loved to be social, and enjoyed a “sociable” with friends at his home or the cottage. He loved being outdoors, early morning coffee, reading newspapers, watching Western movies, car trips and spoiling his little great niece, Carli (which he truly adored!). He ran the business until he was given the news of bone cancer, stage IV. He fought hard and as he stated, the cancer was not going to win, however an infection did. Harvey is the real winner, now witnessing eternal life. Read more...
Richard "Dick" Peterson (April 29, 2019)
Richard Eugene "Dick" Peterson, age 86, of Monona, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 29, 2019. He was born on Sept. 22, 1932, in Viroqua, the son of Arthur and Julia (Jackson) Peterson. Richard graduated from Viroqua High School in 1950 and Madison Business College in 1952. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, spending 18 months at the 7th Army Headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany. Following his military service, Richard graduated with a BBA Degree from University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1958. He married Nancy M. Ryan on Sept. 12, 1959, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Monona. Richard graduated from the Wisconsin Institute of Mortuary Science in Milwaukee in July of 1962, and became a licensed funeral director on Jan. 1, 1963. He spent the last 22 years of his full-time employment at Gunderson Funeral Home, retiring in 1998, so he could spend more time as a caregiver to his wife, Nancy. Read more...
Coriann Martin (January 30, 2019)
Coriann M. (nee: Alonge) Martin of Mt. Pleasant, died on Jan. 30, 2019, at the age of 44. Born in Milwaukee on July 23, 1974, she was the daughter of Joseph and Patricia (Schwarten) Alonge. Coriann was a 1992 graduate of Hamilton High School in Milwaukee and attended M.A.T.C./Milwaukee Area Technical College, where she received her degree in Mortuary Science. For eighteen years, Coriann dedicated her time and knowledge to funeral service at the Piasecki-Althaus Funeral Home. She leaves behind a gracious legacy of service and dedication to the Kenosha community. Read More.
Edward (Bucky) Hanson (April 8, 2019)
Edward (Bucky) Hanson, 88, formerly of Racine, passed away at Lake Forest Hospital in Lake Forest, IL on Monday April 8, 2019. Bucky was born on July 21, 1930 in Racine to Steven and Katherine (Jensen) Hanson. He was united in marriage to Nancy (Sorenson) Hanson at the home of her parents (Harry and Emma Sorenson) on July 22, 1950. Bucky was a 1948 graduate of Washington Park High School. He remained a member of Holy Communion Lutheran Church even after having moved to Minnesota with Nancy beginning in May of 2013 and living outside of Racine until his passing. Bucky served the Racine community as a Funeral Director and owner of the Hanson Funeral Home for over 45 years. Read More.
Carla Hamre Thoftne (March 10, 2019)
Carla Hamre Thoftne, age 62, passed away on Sunday, March 10,2019 surrounded by her loving family and friends. She was born December 17, 1956, the daughter of the late Alice (Gray) and Edward Hamre. Carla was a lifelong Lodi resident and was the owner and operator of the Hamre Funeral Home until her retirement in 2011.
Carla is survived by her husband, Tory Thoftne; daughter, Amy Thoftne; daughter and son-in-law, Ali and Shawn Reinen; two brothers, Howard and Doreen Hamre and Bill and…Read More
Thomas O'Connell (March 2, 2019)
Thomas P. O’Connell, affectionately known as Tucker, age 91 of Hudson, died peacefully Saturday March 2, 2019 at the Christian Community Home in Hudson. Tom was born January 7th, 1928 in Hudson, Wisconsin to Richard Joseph & Margaret (Grace) O’Connell. He grew up in Hudson and attended college at UW-River Falls as well as the University of Minnesota where he earned his degree in Mortuary Science. Following high school, he enlisted in the Wisconsin National Guards where he developed many lasting friendships. Always being an entrepreneur, Tom was a small business owner, as well as a successful paper goods and pharmaceutical sales rep. On Aug. 25, 1951, he was united in marriage to Janet Marie Smisek at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Hudson. This union would be blessed with four children; Thomas, Kathleen, Daniel, and Michael.
Barbara Forbes (January 19, 2019)
Barbara Ann Forbes, 82, of Sturgeon Bay, passed away on Sunday morning, Jan. 13, 2019. She was born May 24, 1936, in Sturgeon Bay to Martin and Ella (Schultz) Kust. In 1954, she graduated from Sturgeon Bay High School as salutatorian. After graduation, she worked for several years at the Door County Court House. On February 10, 1962, she married Harold R. Forbes at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church. Together they raised three sons.
As a young mom, Barb kept very busy raising her three boys and attending all their activities. In addition to the full-time task of mothering, she also volunteered as a Vacation Bible School teacher, served as a den mother for cub scouts, and helped to run the concession stand at the little league fields. She always tried to make every birthday and holiday a memorable occasion for her boys.