Margaret "Peggy" Camp, age 102, passed away on Sunday, February 27, 2022. She was the beloved mother of Courtney Camp, Kathryn Camp, Cynthia Garvin, and Carolyn Maddox; and mother-in-law of Deborah Camp, Gene Pollock, Peter Garvin, and Michael Fearson; grandmother of Brendan, Pete, and Matt Garvin, Nolan Camp, Adam Pollock, Jesse and Jake Maddox; great grandmother of Riley, Maggie Rose, Turner, and Charlie Garvin, Miles Camp, and Chase Maddox. 

Ernest Batson Price, Jr. died on 3 April, 2025, in Redmond; he was 102. Ernie was the son of Ernest B. Price, Sr. and Florence Bentley Price. He was born on 14 February 1923 in Foochow, China, where his father was a diplomat in the United States Foreign Service. He attended the Shanghai American School in China and later public schools in Maryland and Illinois before being enrolled at Wayland Academy, a private boarding school in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin.

Ernie joined the United States Navy in April 1941, nine months before the attack on Pearl Harbor. First serving as an aircraft metalsmith and an aircraft machinist mate before becoming a flight engineer/crew chief on a Navy PBY Catalina flying boat. He served in patrol squadrons in Iceland and Wales looking for icebergs and German submarines in the North Atlantic until the war in Europe ended. He was then transferred to the Pacific Theatre, where he served in the Navy's air transportation command flying out of California, Hawaii, and Guam. He left the Navy in 1946 as a Chief Petty Officer (E-7), having advanced through all the Navy's enlisted ranks in only six years.

After leaving the Navy, Ernie went to work for the United States Forest Service as a forest guard at Flag Point Lookout on the Mount Hood National Forest. In 1950, he met and married Verna Mae Weeman, a high school biology teacher and the daughter of a Forest Service district ranger. Together they had five children, four boys and a girl. He graduated from Oregon State University's school of forestry in 1952; then returned to the Forest Service to begin his career as a professional forester. He served at ranger stations around the Pacific Northwest, including Dufur, Estacada, and Sisters. He was district ranger on the Deschutes National Forest's Metolius District from 1962 through 1965. He also had an assignment in Olympia and two tours at the Forest Service's regional headquarters in Portland. His final Forest Service job was on the Fremont National Forest in Lakeview, a position he held until his retirement in 1985. All his children graduated from high school in Lakeview while his wife was Lake County's head librarian for 17 years.

Ernie and his wife moved to Eagle Crest near Redmond in 2002. Their Eagle Crest home was located only a few blocks from their daughter and her family. This allowed the Prices to spend quality time with their daughter and her three sons. His wife, Verna, passed away in 2003, after an extended illness. In 2013, his oldest son retired from the military and settled in Eagle Crest. Father and son went to the gym together and had a weekly brunch at various restaurants around Central Oregon. Ernie also enjoyed regular family dinners with his son and daughter and their spouses. Later, his son Douglas retired and moved to Eagle Crest, but passed away early this year. Over the years, Ernie was a generous supporter of the Lake County Library, the High Desert Museum, and Oregon State University's forestry program.

Ernie is survived by three sons, David (Paula, Eagle Crest), Wayne (Jane, Vail, Arizona), and Steven (Maile, Kailua, Hawaii} and his daughter, Susan Robertson (Dick, Redmond), and six grandchildren and one great grandson. 

December 18, 1921 - April 30, 2021

Olympia, Washington - Virginia Beatrice Drake Raddatz (Ginni) was born in Beaver Dam, WI on Dec 18, 1921, the youngest of 3 children. Ginni graduated from Ottawa University in 1941, with a BA in Music. She met Eugene Raddatz one day, and although at first meeting she told her mother he was "just a kid," she married that kid on April 28, 1950 – turned out that kid was the love of her life. They had five children and moved to Lacey in 1966.

Ginni loved music and had a beautiful soprano voice. She sang professionally in English, German, and Italian, appearing in concert and on the radio. She could be quiet and reserved; however, she had a wonderful sense of humor and a youthful attitude.

Ginni is survived by 3 children (Julie, Anita, Paula), 2 grandchildren (Taryn, Jessica), and 2 great grandchildren (Cora, Gwyneth). Her husband of 60 years, 2 children (Robin, David), and a grandchild (Shane) predeceased her, as did her 2 older brothers. Ginni lived a long life and we all love and miss her very much.

GOLLWITZER, Robert A., 96, died January 29, 2021. He is survived by his wife, Betty Y.; daughter, Lynn G. (Greg) Steele; one niece, one nephew, one great-nephew, one great-niece and many cousins. He received his B.S. in Business from U of R and his Juris Doctorate from U of R School of Law. He was employed by the Commonwealth of Virginia as a tax attorney until he retired.

Barbara Bartlett left this life on March 22, 2021, 8 days shy of her 96th birthday. With the hint of a smile, she passed away peacefully surrounded by her children and grandchildren. Born on March 30th, 1925, in Chicago, Illinois, to Mildred R. and John C. Weiner, Barbara is survived by her four children, Linda B. Bahrenburg, Frederick F. Bartlett, III, Peter J. Bartlett, Timothy R. Bartlett, stepdaughter Mara J. Miller, eight grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Her beloved husband Robert L. Klein predeceased her in 2018. They resided in Naples, Fla, at Moorings Park. Barbara raised her children with their father Frederick F. Bartlett, Jr. in Bryn Mawr, Pa. and in France and Germany in the early days of the Cold War. She also resided in Chestertown, Md. with her then husband Robert 'Buck' Wilson before Naples, Fla. A cum laude graduate of Wayland Academy, she won a scholarship to the University of Chicago, followed by the University of Wisconsin. A wife, mother, pilot, pioneer and homemaker extraordinaire, she always volunteered her services; whether in hospital care, on behalf of endangered children, or for the Naples Baker Art Museum and the League of Women Voters, among many others. She always stood up when justice was not being served. Barbara was known for her infectious smile, her kindness, her adventurous spirit, her spirited demeanor, and her love of life. But most of all, for her deep love for and care of, her family and friends.

Margaret N. Caldwell was a loving, generous, and loyal wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She left this world surrounded by family on February 11, 2022 at age 97. She is survived by children David and Ellen Caldwell, Christine and Tim Keiper, Susan McCracken and grandchildren Jenna, Amy, Matthew Keiper, Leah McCracken, Kelly and Austin Hudspeth and Isaac and Lianna McCracken who are expecting Margaret’s first great grandson. She was preceded in death by her parents Vincent and Ramona, husband, Jack Caldwell, and son-in-law Kurt McCracken.

Margaret was born and grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, went to Colorado University in Boulder, CO and was a PE teacher in Denver where she met and married Jack Caldwell. They moved to Fort Morgan, CO where she loved raising her three children, opened her home to foster children, and became a successful business woman opening one of the first travel agencies in NE Colorado. After retiring, Margaret and Jack moved to Columbia, Missouri and then Las Cruces, NM.

Margaret loved politics and wrote letters to the editor for local newspapers. She often wrote under the pen name Joy Nast at the request of her husband, who was wary of repercussions with friends. She kept a notebook of published letters and delighted in going back and reading them and the passionate responses they sometimes generated. After retirement she often faxed politicians in Washington late into the night.

Margaret's favorite Bible verse was John 3:16 and she would open prayers with, "We thank thee Father for thy many blessings..." She valued a sermon rich with scripture and didn't have much good to say about one featuring quotes from Readers Digest. She highly valued her family’s Christian heritage.

With age, Margaret became ever more sweet, loving and appreciative of friends and family. As a senior citizen she often delighted others with her sense of humor and ability to laugh at herself. Recently Margaret dreamt she died and reported, “I couldn't remember my life or who I was.” When asked how that felt she replied, chuckling, “Normal! I can't remember anything anyway!” After being told by the hospice doctor that she probably had just a few short months to live she quipped, "Before I die, I need to go to the bathroom." "Please bring me some candy. That's my final request."

Margaret loved music, especially jazz and classical. She asked that Aaron Copeland’s “Fanfare for the Common Man” be played at her funeral saying, “That would open up the gates of heaven for me. ‘Knock, knock! I’m here! Ready or not!’”

A celebration of Margaret’s life, featuring “Fanfare for the Common Man,” will be held at 11:00 am on February 22, 2022 in Evans Memorial Chapel, Denver, CO. This will be followed by a lunch reception at the Brown Palace Hotel where Jack and Margaret had their wedding reception February 24, 1951, 71 years ago.

 

Sally Lou Duman, age 97, of Port Washington, WI, formerly of Fredonia passed away peacefully Saturday, September 16, 2023 at Forest Haven Assisted Living in Fredonia.

She was born on February 16, 1926 in Beaver Dam, WI; daughter of Dr. Rob Roy and Ruth Violet Zepherin Roberts.  Sally Lou graduated from Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, later attending Ripon College.  She would receive a degree in Occupational Therapy from Marquette University.  After working in that field for a short period of time, Sally Lou was a court clerk at the Ozaukee County Circuit Courts Branch 2 under Judge Warren Grady.

In the early 1960’s, Sally Lou became the first female Customer Service Representative for Wisconsin Electric, serving five townships.  As Office Manager in 1991 after over 30 years, she retired.  During this time she received a degree from the Milwaukee School of Engineering in 1981.
On January 24, 1968, Sally Lou married William L. “Hopper” Duman at her parent’s home in Mosinee, WI.  They resided in Fredonia for many years, moving to Port Washington in 1991.  He preceded her in death on December 28, 2006.

During her life, Sally was a member of the Delta Phi Sigma sorority, life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars 5373 Auxiliary, past Worthy Matron of Eastern Star Ozaukee Chapter 147 and the Port Washington Senior Center.  She and her husband enjoyed many winters in Texas and she was very proud of her Scottish heritage.

Sally Lou is survived by her children Dean (Marlene) Duman of Flower Mound, TX, Perry Duman of Port Washington and Robin Richardson of Cedarburg; grandchildren Erin (Justin) Killeen and Kimberly Richardson, two great grandchildren, her brother Rob Roy Roberts of LaCrosse, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  She is preceded in death by her husband Hopper, her sister Dorothy Jane Whitney and her husband Ralph, her brother Norman Dean Roberts and her granddaughter Jessica-Anne Duman.

We celebrate Sally Lou’s life at 1PM Friday, September 22, 2023 at Open Door Bible Church, 3420 County Road LL, Port Washington, WI.  Relatives and friends can gather from 12Noon until time of Service at 1PM.  Interment will take place at Union Cemetery in Port Washington.

Memorials to Open Door Bible Church appreciated.

Audrey Kachelski , 95, of Beaver Dam passed away peacefully on Friday, August 13, 2021 at the Beaver Dam Memory Care.  Audrey was born on October 4, 1925 the daughter of Frank and Martha (Rataczak) Kachelski in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. She was a graduate of Beaver Dam High School, Wayland Junior College, UW-Madison, Catholic University of America in Washington, DC and Case Western Reserve University. She had enjoyed her career as a nursing professor at UW of Oshkosh. She was a member of St. Katharine Drexel Parish in Beaver Dam.

Margaret went home to be with the Lord on February 5, 2021. She was born on June 9, 1927, in Beaver Dam, WI, and has lived in Tampa since 1965. She was predeceased by her parents, her sister Kathryn Huth Newton `43; husband, Joseph F. Hegerich and granddaughter Kristina Pidala. She is survived by her daughters, Barbara H. Pidala and Genna Hegerich, both of Tampa; sons, Joseph D. Hegerich of Lilburn, GA, and Dr. David J. Hegerich (Elizabeth) of Waynesville, NC. Also survived by grandson, Anthony I. Pidala, III; great-grandson Dylan Pidala, of Wesley Chapel, FL; and several nieces and nephews. 

Margaret was a very active long-time member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, having sung in the choir, served on altar guild, Martha circle, and was a Stephen Minister. She lived her life devoted to Christ and enjoying her family and friends. The family would like to thank the wonderful caregivers from Bayada Home Health Care and Seasons Hospice.

In addition to her sister Kathryn, several of Margaret’s extended family members attended Wayland including her nephew, George Newton `72; brother-in-law, George Newton, Jr. `44; and cousins, Caroline Beatty `29, Peter Brutis `33, and Gretchen Chapman `31. 

On Thursday, June 18, 2021, F. Addison Jones, loving husband, father, and grandfather passed away at the age of 92 at the Mayflower Community Health Care Center in Grinnell.

Addison was born on December 17, 1928, in Tama, IA to Fred A. (F. A.) and Alice Josephine Jones. He moved to Grinnell with his parents in the summer of 1940 which would become his lifelong home. Addison attended school in Grinnell from seventh grade through his sophomore year in high school before he attended Wayland Academy in Beaverdam, WI. As he recalled throughout his life “My folks had decided I’d go to Grinnell College and thought it would be a good experience if I had some time away at school.”

Addison graduated from Wayland Academy in 1946. As a proud Grinnellian, his Grinnell High School graduating class of ’46 always welcomed him to class reunions over the years even though his junior and senior years were spent at Wayland Academy. “Going to Wayland turned out to be very important in my life. I met my wife, friend, love…my everything to me.”

Following high school, Addison returned to Grinnell to play football at Grinnell College and was awarded as an All-Conference Center in ’48-’49. He received his Bachelor of Arts from Grinnell College in 1950.

On August 12, 1950, Addison married the love of his life, Marion Austin Jones. They raised three sons, Stephen Jones (’53), David Jones (’56), and F. Austin Jones (’64). Together they raised the boys in the house Addison built for them in 1960.

His professional career began at Ottumwa High School from ’50-’51 where Addison taught math. He then worked at a bank in Chicago from ’51-’52 before becoming a Lieutenant in the Coast Guard. During his two years in the Coast Guard, he served out of Cleveland, OH, and Grand Haven, MI.

He returned to Grinnell in 1954 to begin his nearly lifelong career at Grinnell State Bank. During his 67 years, he attended the Graduate School of Banking Madison, WI from ’55-’58, was named the Bank President in ’72, and named the CEO and Chairman of the Board in ’76. He was proud to work alongside his father, sons, and grandchildren. Addison continued to work at the bank through January 2021.

Addison had many passions including boating on the Mississippi River, fishing, and woodworking. Not only did Addison build his home but he also built two boats, Ad’s Venture and Ad’s Venture II. He enjoyed “snowbirding” to Northern Mississippi in Guttenburg, IA as well as exploring the world with Marion and friends. He enjoyed meals spent with his family, dancing with Marion, playing bridge and hearts with friends, and, of course, indulging in the occasional Manhattan.

Throughout his life, Addison was involved in Greater Grinnell Development, Kiwanis, Free Masons, Iowa Bankers Association, and the American Institute of Banking (AIB).

Addison was preceded in death by his wife (Marion), oldest son (Steve), father (Fred), mother (Josephine), and sister (Florence). He is survived by his two younger sons, Dave (Lori) and Austin (Kim), seven grandchildren, Tony, Rusty, David Aric, Hillary, Alyson, Kelsey, and Miranda as well as ten great-grandchildren, Brent, Cole, Carson, Bella, Peyton, Finn, Laney, Tessa, Jaxon, and Emilia, one great-great-grandchild, Peyton, and his sister, Esther (Jones) Bethel. 

WATERVILLE – On Monday, February 20, 2023 Laura went home to her God in heaven with her family members and friends by her side. She was born in 1928 in Chicago, and attended high school at Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, WI. After high school graduation, she went to Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansa, where she pursued a degree in music. After graduation she moved to Boston to study at the New England Conservatory of Music. She went on to New York City and studied with the acclaimed voice coach Estelle Liebling. While she was in New York City, she lived on a nickel a day.

She married Robert Kee, and they had two children Mary and Bobby. They lived in Stratford, Conn. She became the soprano soloist at the First Congregational Church in Stratford where she sang for almost 30 years. In addition to weekly services at the church she sang at Temple B’Nai Israel in Hebrew during their high holy days.

In 1967 she began working in real estate. It wasn’t long until she had her own office with two other Realtors working for her. In 1979 she was elected the first woman Director of the Fairfield County Board of Realtors. She enjoyed a long and successful career in real estate.

She moved to Maine in the late 1990s, settling in Palermo. She later lived in Augusta and then Waterville. She spent the last five years of her life living with her daughter Mary, two Maine Coon kitties named Daisy and Petunia and a gray and white kitty named Maxine. She was predeceased by her son, Bobby.

Mr. Donald E Jones Jr., age 96, of Safety Harbor, Florida passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025.

I am my sole survivor and as such I feel that I am the best qualified person to write this, my final press release. I mean if I can’t get it right, who can? So, on a sunny 4th of July in 2015 I will sum up my years for anyone who might be interested. Don’t cry for me, Safety Harbor.

I was born In Chicago, IL in 1928 but grew up in the suburban Milwaukee Village of Shorewood on the shores of Lake Michigan. My mother Helen Jackson Jones died in 1934 shortly after the family moved to Wisconsin. My father remarried Florence McCarthy in 1939. I was graduated from Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, WI and received a B.A. from Lawrence College (now Lawrence University) in Appleton, WI.

I taught English and drama at Washington H.S. New London, WI for one year before serving two years in the U.S. Army in Japan during the Korean Conflict where I was responsible for teaching the United Nations Truce Team to speak English. While stationed in Tokyo I applied and was accepted at the Yale University Drama School.

During my study at Yale I became fascinated with Lloyd Richards, who received a Pulitzer Prize for directing "A Raisin in the Sun," and who was teaching at NYU. I transferred to NYU to study with Mr. Richards only to find he had accepted an appointment to lead the Yale Drama School. I received my M.A. from NYU.

My second teaching position was at Trinity School for Boys (now coed) in Manhattan where I taught English and was in charge of the theatre programs. I moved on to become Assistant to the Headmaster and was in charge of all school publications, social events and alumni relations. During that same time, I returned to Appleton, WI in the summer to serve as artistic and managing director of The Attic Theatre of which I was a founding member in 1950. I guided The Attic Theatre successfully for nine seasons until an offer to teach theatre at Paul D. Schreiber High School in Port Washington, NY made continuing to do both tasks impossible.

My step-mother died in 1981. In order to care for my father, I and my life partner of 47 years, David Alfano, moved to Safety Harbor. I taught theatre at Northeast HS until 1989. I have served as a trustee of The Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa and on the Pinellas County Cultural Committee. For the last twenty 24 years, I have served as the voluntary Program Chair for the Florida State Thespian Conference which is held annually in Tampa in the spring and hosts 10,000 Florida high school theatre students.

My life partner, David Michael Alfano, lost his battle with leukemia in May, 2012. There are no immediate survivors other than friends, students and actors from Washington HS, New London, WI, The Attic Theatre, Appleton, WI, Trinity School for Boys, NYC, Paul D. Schreiber HS, Port Washington, NY and Northeast HS, St. Petersburg, FL. Of all my productions, I took the most pride in the 47 years I spent happily with my friend and soul mate – David – whom I met on a sunny afternoon in September at the Greenwich Village Outdoor Art Show. And now, together again – for eternity! The afterlife will resound with laughter, reminiscences, and more stepping on each other’s laugh lines.

“Remember me in light.” Henry Albertson in The Fantasticks. Actually, remember us both in light.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in our names to The David M. Alfano and Don E. Jones, Jr. fund at The Community Foundation of Tampa Bay to be used as scholarships for future arts students at the Patel Conservatory at the David A. Straz, Jr. Performing Arts Center.

Pontius, Guy Victor age 93, of Edina, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2023. Guy was preceded in death by Joan Pontius, his beloved wife of 65 years. He is survived by daughters Nancy Blessing (Dick Brundage), Betsy Anderson, Mardie (Bob) Marshall, son Steve (Leanne) Pontius, 16 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren (with 2 more on the way). Dad cherished his early years in Chicago with his parents and three siblings. He graduated from Wayland Academy, Earlham College and Harvard Business School. After serving in the US Army Guy began what turned into a 60-year career in advertising and marketing. He was an avid cyclist, sailor, and gardener. Dad valued his relationships with his growing family and his friends. He had a positive outlook and leaned into his life with tenacity and grace. Special thanks to Cindy and Megan for their assistance in maintaining Guy's independence and to the staff on the 8th floor of M Health Fairview Southdale Hospital. A celebration of Guy's life will be held on Thursday July 27, 2023 at 2 PM, St. Alban's Episcopal Church, 6716 Gleason Rd. Edina 55439. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Second Harvest Heartland.

On January 30, 2022, Judith Wymer, wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother passed away peacefully in Gainesville, Florida surrounded by her loving children at the age of 92. "Judy" was born on March 20, 1929 in Rio, Wisconsin, the youngest of 4 daughters to Otto and Ruth Johnson. In 1947, she graduated high school from Wayland Academy. A strong advocate for education, she earned a BA in Education from Beaver College (now Arcadia University) in Glendale, Pennsylvania in 1951, and a MS in Education from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois in 1955.

Judy was a dedicated educator, beginning in Long Beach, California and moving on to Panama City, Panama where she met her husband William (Bill). Together they raised five children and eventually settled in Potomac, Maryland where they lived for 50 years.

Judy taught in the Montgomery County Public School system as a reading specialist and elementary school teacher. She was an active member of the American Association of University Women, Emmanuel Lutheran Church and held multiple positions with the Rural Women's Republican Club. She and Bill traveled the world extensively covering seven continents. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill; her sisters, Rhoda Lorton, Frenda Gilbert and Ruth Louise Johnson.

She is survived by her children Dr. William E. Wymer (Amy), Frenda A. Levin, Dr. James P. Wymer (Susan), Frederick J. Wymer (Nancy) and Sarah L. Havenstein (Preston), 12 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. She will be remembered fondly for her dedication and devotion to family, faith and education.

April 3, 1929 - December 27, 2020

Hustisford, WI - Betty Ann Hackbarth went home with her Heavenly Savior at the age of 91 years on December 27, 2020. She was the daughter of Ernst H. and Cora M. (nee Seifert) Zilisch, born on April 3, 1929, in Hustisford. After attending high school, she went to Wayland Academy. On October 7, 1950, she married the love of her life, Everett R. Hackbarth. They raised 2 children, Susan and Mitchell. Betty Ann was a wife and mother first, but also worked part-time for over 30 years for the US Postal Service in Hustisford, WI.

Betty Ann enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, playing cards and socializing. She was very opinionated, feisty and most importantly she loved Jesus andattended church regularly. She especially loved her grandchildren and her great-granddaughter!! Betty Ann is survived by her daughter, Susan (George) Spang, her daughter-in-law, Pat Hackbarth, her granddaughter, Jennifer (Mitch) Torres, her grandson, Nick (Melissa) Hackbarth, and great-granddaughter, Isabella Grace Torres. Also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Betty Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Everett, in 1998, and her son, Mitchell, in 2013, her sister, Carla Minning, brother, Ernst F. Zilisch, and brother-in-law, Robert Minning.

The family wants to acknowledge the loving care and friendship that Jolene Schulz gave her the past several years. Betty Ann looked forward to seeing her every morning!! 

Maynard (Ellis) Burstein, age 92, passed away peacefully at his home in San Antonio, Texas on Saturday, April 8th, 2023. He was born September 30, 1930, to the late Nathan and Huddie (Eisenberg) Burstein in Neenah, Wisconsin. Maynard’s early childhood years were spent in Neenah with his parents and sister Barbara (Burstein) Katz. Both he and his sister attended/graduated from Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, WI. Maynard graduated from the University of Pennsylvania/Wharton School of Business in Philadelphia, PA where he met his wife to be, Leah (Behrmann).

After graduation, Maynard served in the Army in Korea as First Lieutenant. After the war he and Leah settled in Appleton, Wisconsin, where they raised two children, Laurie (David) Ahrens and Jerome “Jerry” (Trish) Burstein. Maynard partnered with his father to build and grow a successful paper and packaging products company, Badger Products Inc. in Neenah.

In 1975, Maynard and Leah moved to Canton, Ohio as Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Minerva Wax Paper, Inc. In 1980, Maynard purchased/owned one of the first Computerland Inc. franchises in San Antonio, Texas which thrived for several years and was sold to another party. From there, Maynard partnered with several contacts to provide guidance ect. in establishing and growing business startups in Texas. He also mentored and helped others through the SCORE group to develop and establish new business.

Maynard will be remembered for his wit, caring of others, his inspiration and attention to his family, friends, and others. He will be dearly missed by many, including grandchildren Andrew (Katie) Cherkasky, Rebecca (Andy Kramer) Cherkasky, and Lillie (Brad) George, as well as seven great grandchildren. A funeral service will be held at 2 pm on Sunday, April 16th at the Brettschneider Trettin-Nickel Funeral Chapel. Friends may visit at the funeral chapel on Sunday from 1 pm until the time of service. Interment will take place at Moses Montefiore Cemetery, Appleton.

Grace was born August 31, 1929 to Dr. Francis Gillette and Bernice Gillette in Madison, Wisconsin. As a young girl she lived in China and the Philippines as her father was a surgeon in the Navy stationed overseas. After leaving military service, her father moved back to Mondovi, Wisconsin and started a small hospital. In Mondovi she met her future husband James Trowbridge. Grace attended Wayland Academy, a college preparatory boarding school in Wisconsin and Monticello College. She later married James in Mondovi on August 16, 1952. During their marriage, they had three children, Hugh, David and Kristin, and moved many times following James' career to Wisconsin, Michigan, Florida, and Washington. When Jim retired, they moved to Idaho. Grace spent most of her adult years as a homemaker, and her biggest hobby most of her adult life was knitting. She made many sweaters and vests for family and friends, and in later years she knit baby blankets and socks for the poor. Babies and young children were a soft spot for her. Even in her last days, seeing them would bring a wide smile.

Grace passed away on March 17, 2022 in Enumclaw, Washington, and she is survived by her husband James, son Hugh Trowbridge, daughter-in-law Cindy, granddaughter Laura and her husband Chris and two great grandchildren Nate and Harry in Australia; son David Trowbridge and daughter-in-law Teresa in North Bend, Washington, grandson Zachary and his wife Morgan and three great-grandchildren Colt, Saige and Blair, granddaughter Kaitlyn in Cle Elum, Washington; daughter Kristin Millard and son-in-law Keith in Enumclaw, Washington, grandson Ryan and his wife Samantha and two great-grandchildren Savannah and Ryder in Fircrest, Washington and granddaughter Danielle Hata and her husband Curtis in Portland, Oregon; nephew James Trowbridge and his wife Patrice, their children Fran and Brian and their families in Wisconsin; and brother Jack Gillette in Texas.
 

If you are reading this, or if it’s being read to you, it’s because I have checked into a new place with no area codes, zip codes, computer applications, or passwords to remember.

It all began for me on August 29, 1932, when Dr. Dean Burns delivered me to James and Vergene (Glidden) Whitfield, at the old Petoskey Hospital on Lake Street. Growing up on Walloon Lake was anything but a hardship. Summers were spent building sandcastles, swimming, waterskiing, and attending Camp Daggett. Winters were equally traumatic with activities centered around sledding, tobogganing, ice-skating, and building snowmen. I went to Central Elementary School in Petoskey through the fourth grade.

When WWII started, my parents, brothers, George and Jim, and sister, Dorothy moved to Saginaw where my father worked as an engineer designing aircraft propellers at the Chevrolet Plant. The new urban environment introduced me to jacks (also known as knucklebones), hopscotch, softball, and Saturday afternoon matinees. If you don’t know what some of these are, just” google” them.

Following a family tradition, in 1945, I began attending high school at Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, WI, graduating in 1949.

While attending Central Michigan University, I met my husband, Pierce Erb, and we were married for 68 years before he passed away in 2019. We raised a wonderful daughter, Deborah, who had the good sense to marry Gary Green, the best son-in-law one could have. Their lovely daughter, Erin, also had the good sense to marry my terrific grandson-in-law, Daham Sol. Both Pierce and I always felt very fortunate to have had such a caring, supportive, fun family.

As for my working years, it all began in 1944, behind a lunch counter in Saginaw, after I received my Social Security card at the age of 12. In the ensuing years, I worked at Gattle’s Linens, Maters Boat Works, Petoskey Beverage Company, and Boyne Mountain, in bookkeeping and office management positions.

Community service was always important to me, which led to my being the Melrose Township clerk for 16 years, and later, treasurer of the Crooked Tree Library. In the late 1990s, interest developed in having a dedicated building for the library at Walloon Lake and I soon became involved with that worthwhile effort. As members of The Friends of the Library, Cynthia Hermann collaborated with me to publish Walloon Yesterdays, a pictorial history of Walloon Lake, with proceeds going towards maintaining the new library.

Retirement was another wonderful time of my life. It afforded me more time for two favorite past times, downhill skiing and traveling. Pierce and I camped and skied our way through the United States together. I was later joined by various friends on wonderful trips to New Zealand, the fjords of Norway, the Swiss Alps, and other European destinations.

With the passing of time and children in our lives, I joined several Petoskey ladies with whom I met monthly for pot-luck lunches while the kids were in school. We remained a very close-knit group for well over 50 years. There were also several ladies who played an important role in my life. Katie Littmann, whom I have known since I was eight, Cynthia Hermann, Rosemary Renwick, Penny Marshall, Sheryl Goodrich, and Rose Thelen are especially dear to me. My family and I would also like to thank Hospice of Michigan and the Comfort Keepers for the loving care they gave me.

As you probably know, it is always sad to lose someone you love, and I dearly miss those who preceded me in death, my parents; my husband, Pierce; my brother, George, and his two sons, Gary and Steve; my sister, Dorothy, her husband, Walter Ericks, and their daughter, Judy.

My survivors include my brother, Jim Whitfield; daughter, Debbie (Gary) Green; granddaughter, Erin (Daham) Sol; niece, Lynn Ardman; nephews, Mark, Scott & JC Whitfield, David and Walter Ericks, and numerous cousins.

I will end with the following, “Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and proclaiming, WOW, What a ride!!”

By the way, please consider donations in my memory to the Crooked Tree District Library (CTDL), PO Box 518, Walloon Lake, MI. 49796.

The very best to all of you…. Love, Mary.

Lakeview-Lavonne Shirley Moblo passed peacefully away on her 90th birthday, April 22, 2021. She was born in Beaver Dam, WI where she attended Wayland Academy. While Attending Western Michigan University she met Richard, the love of her life. Together they had ten children who they loved dearly, Lisa (Michael) Johnson, Diana (Gary Sr.) Jensen, Mary Sue (John) Blumberg `73, Richard (Catherine) Moblo, Christopher Moblo, Matt Moblo, Steven (Charis) Moblo, Andy Moblo and Molly (Ed) Perusse; and over 50 grandchildren and great-grandchildren who survive her.

She was preceded in death by her adored husband; son, Tony; grandson, John Blumberg Jr., her parents Earl and Elda Weber; and 2 brothers, Robert and Warren. 

Bunge, Donald Frederick age 88, of Woodbury (formerly of Shakopee and Redwood Falls) died Friday, June 4, 2021 at Walker Methodist Westwood Ridge, in West St. Paul. Don was known as a generous and giving person. He spent his days help others and trying to brightening their day. 

Faith S. Chapman, age 89, of Jensen Beach, Florida passed away on Friday, October 1, 2021. Faith was born March 24, 1932 in Milwaukee, WI.

James Bernard Esselmann 91, of Mesa, Arizona, formerly from the Town of Trenton, was called home to be with his Lord on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at his home in Mesa, Arizona.

Jim farmed the family farm until he retired. It was a proud moment when the farm was designated a Century Farm.

JB served on many boards in his lifetime. He served as a supervisor and then chairman for the Town of Trenton, he was a Washington County supervisor, AMPI Board of Directors, and the State Bank of Newburg Board of Directors.

Jim had many interests. He earned his pilot’s license and completed his instrument rating. He was a member of the EAA.

He was a collector of antique tractors. James especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Those James leaves behind to cherish his memory include his 5 children, Jane of Boltonville, Jill (Steve) Enright of Boltonville, Jeff (Gail) of West Bend, Jerry (Renee) of West Bend, Joseph of West Bend; nine grandchildren, Barbara Eckes, James Landrum, Ryan (Jenni) Esselmann, Tyler Esselmann, Zachary Esselmann, Chelsea Mueller, Jonathan Enright, Brooke Enright, Joseph Esselmann; 4 great-granddaughters, Brynleigh Eckes, Leilah Eckes, Blake Esselmann and Adaline Esselmann. He is further survived by one brother-in-law, Thomas Puerling, and two sisters-in-law, Janice (Joe) Ebli and Joyce Smith.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Carol; son-in-law Stephen Landrum; grandson-in-law Jon Eckes; and two brothers-in-law Jerome Puerling and Lawrence Smith.

A celebration of remembrance for James will take place at a later date.

The family would like to thank Jeff and Gail Esselmann for their loving care of our Dad.

Thomas R. Fisher, age 93, of Sun Prairie, WI, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, July 6, 2024. He was born June 24, 1931, in Beaver Dam, WI to Kenneth and Frieda (Bohl) Fisher. He attended Beaver Dam High School, Wayland Jr. College and graduated in 1953 from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He moved to Milwaukee and was employed by First Wisconsin National Bank. In 1954, he returned to Beaver Dam and was employed at First National Bank & Trust Co. of Beaver Dam (now BMO Harris Bank). Tom married Carol A. Schwarz on June 17, 1956. He retired as president of the bank in 1991.

While in Beaver Dam, Tom served on the Beaver Dam Community Library board, Oakwood Cemetery association board, Beaver Dam Industrial Corporation board and various committees of Trinity Church-United Methodist of Beaver Dam. He and Carol enjoyed many years of international travel, cheering on the Badgers, playing bridge and spending time with family and friends.

In 2009, Tom and Carol moved to Sun Prairie, WI where they enjoyed a close-knit community of friends and neighbors. He was a member of the Sun Prairie United Methodist Church.

He is survived by his wife, daughters Ann (Steven) Sturner and Amy (Tom Lorenz) Fisher, and grandchildren Michelle and Catherine Sturner. He is also survived by a brother-in-law, James (Beverly) Schwarz, and nephews Mark Schwarz and Eric Schwarz.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother and sister-in-law Donald (Audrey) Fisher, stepmother Gertrude Fisher, nephew Steven Fisher, and niece Beth (Schwarz) Schultz.

A memorial service will be held Friday, July 12, 2024, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Sun Prairie United Methodist Church, 702 North St., Sun Prairie with pastor Brad Mather presiding.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Tom & Carol Fisher Scholarship Fund at Sun Prairie United Methodist Church. The Scholarship Fund was established in 2017 for the students attending a University of Wisconsin system school pursuing a degree in business or education.

June 18, 1930 - July 16, 2021

Clyman, WI - Aaron R. Klink, Sr., 91, of Clyman, died on Friday, July 16, 2021, with family and loved ones always with him during his final days.

Aaron was born to Vincent Paul and Isabel Katherine (Schultz) Klink on June 18, 1930, in Juneau. He grew up in the Juneau area, as his parents managed the Dodge County Hospital from 1938-66.

He graduated from Juneau High School with the Class of 1948. He also attended Wayland Academy college preparatory school in Beaver Dam.

He proudly served in the U.S. Marines from 1950-55, aboard the USS Princeton aircraft carrier (CVA-37) during the Korean War.

Aaron and Shirley Mae (Torke) Klink married at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Clyman on June 19, 1965, after they first met at "The Blew Inn." It was rumored he went there to see the beautiful new waitress, and they remained together until his death.

He graduated with a teaching degree from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. His first teaching position was with the Tripoli School District in Lincoln and Oneida counties. He moved back south during the 1960s, teaching high school biology at Oak Creek High School in Milwaukee County for almost 30 years before retiring in the early 1990s.

Many of his summers were spent Up North in Sawyer County, at the cabin on Blueberry Lake. It was there he relaxed, fished, swam, drank beer and participated in countless unforgettable moments with his family.

In fall, he was often found in front of the television when the Green Bay Packers were playing. His shouts of "Go! Go! Go!" could be heard through the house whenever the Packers were headed for the end zone.

Later in autumn, his attention always turned to deer hunting. He would leave in November for "the deer hunting shack" near Pittsville and stayed in the blind from sunup to sundown to get his buck.

When school let out for the summer each year, the trailer was packed, covered with a tarp and tied down for the 365 mile journey north. The family again was headed for another unforgettable summer at Blueberry Lake.

Aaron did whatever was necessary to keep the family together, from getting part-time jobs when times were tough to buying all the best toys he could afford for birthdays and Christmas. His family always came first, and that will always be remembered about him.

After retiring from teaching and having had his fill of life around the big cities of southern Wisconsin, he returned to his Dodge County roots. Aaron and Shirley settled back in Clyman, eventually buying a home in the small, rural village where they were married.

Aaron is survived by his wife, Shirley of Clyman and his children, Curt (Holly) of Cheyenne, Wyo., Luke of Ladysmith, Vin (Veronica) of Upper Marlboro, Md., Theresa of East Troy, Aaron Jr. of Watertown and Nick of Clyman. He is also survived by his sister, Carol (William "Bud"-deceased) Gahlman and Ken Klink, both of Juneau. He is further survived by his grandchildren, Matthew, Brandon and Joey.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Florian "Jack" and his sister, Karen (Quinn-deceased) Zingsheim. The family thanks nurses and staff who cared tremendously for Aaron at Watertown Regional Medical Center, Highland House Assisted Living in Watertown and Rainbow Hospice Care in Watertown.

Mayna Avent Nance, of Sewanee, Tennessee, passed away May 13, 2020 in Signal Mountain, Tennessee at the age of 87 from complications after a fall late last year. She led a full and eventful life and, until late last year, was living independently with her husband Walter Nance.

Her story is one that is intertwined between Tennessee and China with paths via New York and Virginia.

Mayna Rose Avent was born on June 17, 1932 in Tientsin (Tianjin) China, the daughter of Standard Vacuum Oil of China (later Mobil Oil) manager James Avent, Sr., of Nashville, Tennessee and Jeanette nee’ Nelson of Dekalb, Illinois. Apart from the interregnum of the Second World War, the Avents lived in several cities in China until 1949, including Tientsin, Tsingtao, and Shanghai. During the Second World War, Mayna lived with her family in New York and returned to Shanghai after the war, living there until 1948. In 1949 her parents returned to the town of her father’s alma mater, the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. There they purchased a grand house overlooking Lost Cove, establishing a long-term family base from that time until 2020.

It was during the China years that Mayna’s Auntie Harriet met and married a young Annapolis graduate named Dudley “Mush” Morton. Morton went on to command the famed WWII US submarine Wahoo. While the Avents were living in Tsingtao, China, in a house on the coast of the Yellow Sea, Jim Avent flew an American flag on a flagpole overlooking the ocean. In 1943, during the height of war between Japan and the US, Morton was able to clandestinely reveal Wahoo’s patrol area, which are normally secret, when he wrote in a letter home to Mayna and the Avents “I saw your flagpole today.”

Mayna’s children grew up hearing stories of China from this time ranging from military battles and epidemics to Mayna’s father meeting local leaders and facing mortal danger. Many other stories were more lighthearted. Such as how her father ended up in China in the first place in 1919, after going to the wrong personnel department at Standard Oil in New York. Or when, after the War, Mayna, her mother, sister and brother arrived back in Shanghai via ship from New York to rejoin her father, bringing a frozen turkey and an air conditioner - the latter they believed was one of the first in Shanghai. The summer heat and humidity in the city were so unbearable that Mayna, her sister, and brother would quietly sneak into the master bedroom at night where the air conditioner was located. She would brag that she paid 200,000 dollars for a hotdog in Shanghai in 1948 (hyperinflated Chinese dollars that is).

Mayna was an active artist throughout her life. Drawing inspiration from her father’s mother, noted artist Mayna Treanor Avent, Mayna Nance expressed herself in a variety of media including oil painting, drawings, pastels, ink etching, watercolors, photography, and printing of various types using wood block, linoleum, and metal etching. She attended the Parson’s School of Design in New York.

Mayna met her first husband, Daniel MacKinnon of Oshkosh, Wisconsin while attending Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. With Dan, she had three children, Michael, Andrew, and Bryan, all born in Los Angeles. They later settled in Sewanee and then in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Mayna’s second husband is Dr. Walter E. Nance. The Nance and Avent families have been friends for many years, starting from the days in China before the War. Walter was Professor and Chair (emeritus) of the Department of Human Genetics of the Virginia Commonwealth University. Walter and Mayna lived in Richmond, Virginia and finally Sewanee, and traveled the world while Walter would lecture, conduct research, and photograph anything and everything and Mayna would pursue her artistic projects. They both shared a great love of cooking and entertaining friends and family.

One of Mayna Nance’s lasting contributions was the establishment of her grandmother’s cabin-studio on the National Register of Historic Places in 1994 as the Mayna Treanor Avent Studio, also known as the Avent-Ownby Cabin. The Avent family have been visitors and explorers in the Great Smoky Mountains since the early 20th century. In 1918, her grandparents purchased an authentic pioneer mountain cabin built around 1850 that Mayna Nance’s father James converted to a summer studio for his mother Mayna Treanor Avent before the establishment of the Smoky Mountains National Park. After the Cabin was returned to the National Park in 1992, Mayna Nance led a successful drive to have the structure listed on the National Register. You are welcome to go visit, provided you can find it after a slightly strenuous hike up the side of a mountain and across a creek deep into the woods. Just remember to sweep the floor and close the doors before you leave!

As China began opening up in the 1980s, Mayna was one of the early Western travelers back to China, first as part of semi-official delegations and later jointly with her husband Walter. Both were contributors to their Alma Mater, The Shanghai American School, and were invited lecturers there.

Though Mayna’s passing was not due to COVID-19, the current global situation restricted who could be at her bedside. Nonetheless, technology greatly assisted as Mayna’s overseas and Tennessee families were able to be with her in her final hours. She was shown her artwork and photos of her family and was able to listen to a recording of her father and mother recounting life in China.

Mayna is survived by her husband Walter, her sons Michael (Carol) MacKinnon and Bryan (Chikako) MacKinnon, eight grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. She is predeceased by her parents James and Jeanette Avent, her sister and brother Jacqueline and James Avent (Jr), her first husband Daniel MacKinnon, her son Andrew MacKinnon, and her granddaughter Tiffany MacKinnon Allen.

In lieu of flowers, please send a donation in Mayna’s memory to either of

• The Jacqueline Avent Sewanee Summer Music Festival Scholarship Prize at the University of the South. Contributions can be sent c/o the Office of Advancement, 735 University Ave. Sewanee TN 37383 (http://ssmf.sewanee.edu/about-us/support-the-festival/)

• Hearth Hospice, 513 Georgia Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37403 (www.hearthhospice.com).

At 12:32 p.m. on Dec. 2, 2022, John Uphoff transitioned to the next World and is now with his beloved Lord. Born in Baraboo, WI to Mike and Marian Uphoff. Jack Uphoff, who resided in Florida with his wife of eight years, Marjorie Uphoff, was less than three weeks from his 91st birthday. He attended St. John's Military Academy and Wayland Academy, graduated from Wisconsin Dells High School in 1949. He attended the University of Wisconsin in Madison and played Center for the Wisconsin Badgers Freshman Football Team until he broke his knee, later transferring to the University of Miami and received his Bachelor's, in Economics in 1953.

Jack was a Veteran and served his country honorably in the Navy during the Korean Conflict and received a medical discharge.

On March 31, 1954, Jack married the love of most of his life, Mary Virginia Stimm, starting a life rich with family, business and travel.

Jack's career path started with delivering block ice and working Summers on the Wisconsin River as a guide and Captain for Consolidated Boat Company. He and his first wife Virginia owned and operated the Madison, Wisconsin Supper Club, The Tree and The Poodle on Capital Square.

Later he would try his hand at farming, this included operating a 75,000-turkey farm for three years, where he broke his bum knee for a third time. He then had the idea of starting up and operating Uppy's Family Restaurant in 1969 and running it until 1984. While at the same time opening and operating two additional Uppy's in Florida, In 1979 he opened the Judge's Chambers Supper Club, in Bradenton, FL and operated that until he was discovered by Tom James, CEO of Raymond James and Associates, who talked him into writing research on the Leisure Industry.

He was a Stockbroker, a Branch Manager and later in his career, an Institutional Salesman, with several NYSE firms and finally the Director of Leisure Stocks for Raymond James and Associates in St. Pete, FL, where he helped to bring public such Companies as Outback Steakhouse and Checker's, he appeared on the Today Show with Debra Norville interviewing him on his opinion of whether the Trump Taj Mahal would succeed. Later, he served as a Director of the Atlantis Casino, in Reno, NV.

Jack was a Freemason and a member in Good Standing with The Wisconsin Dells Lodge #124-F&AM, he was also a Shriner. John loved golf with his family. Jack also enjoyed traveling and went on dozens of cruises all over the world. One highlight was getting married aboard the Queen Mary II in Norway to his second wife Marjorie, his grade school sweetheart with both his surviving sons acting as best men. Jack is survived by his loving wife Marjorie; and his two sons: Steve (Linda), Richmond, VA, and Brian (Wendy), Palmetto, FL. He had seven beloved grandchildren; and 12 cherished great-grandchildren. Preceding Jack in death were his first wife, Mary Virginia Uphoff (Stimm), his first son, Phillip Uphoff, his only daughter, Helen Uphoff.

Memorial donations may be directed to: The Wisconsin Dells Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, General Fund Account, Attn: Sec. Brother Jim Timm, 815 Oak St., Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965. The Uphoff family would like to offer their appreciation to our friends and neighbors over our father's life and ask you to project a short prayer on Jack's behalf. Thank you we are grateful for your kindnesses.

Arthur Reeve Dennis passed away Thursday, July 21, 2022. He was born in Seoul, Korea on March 12, 1934 to Leslie Cecil ("Denny") and Katherine Bennighoff Dennis.

His father, a British citizen, worked for Standard Vacuum Oil Company, so Art had already been around the world by ocean liner by the age of two. He spent most of his youth living between Indiana, where his maternal grandparents lived, and Singapore, where his parents were stationed. In junior high school, he moved to Wisconsin to attend Wayland Academy for Boys, and it is there that he discovered his passion for playing the trumpet. High school took him back to Japan and his maternal roots.

After graduating from Yokohama High School in Japan in 1951, he boarded the Queen Mary in Liverpool and made his way back to the United States to attend Stanford University. There, he played trumpet in the Stanford Marching Band and was a member of Delta Chi Fraternity, earning a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. He then completed a master's degree in electrical engineering at UCLA and was one class shy of finishing his PhD.

He met the love of his life, Liz, in an elevator at Bullion and Griffith Engineering Firm where they both worked in Seattle. They married four months later and shared a great love story, celebrating 67th years of marriage in January.

Art spent his career making significant contributions to the aerospace industry, including Project Mercury, the first man-in-space program for NASA. His invention, StarFix, was the first privately developed satellite navigational positioning system and was used in the oil and gas industry to track and discover oil in the ocean. Among his clients were Exxon and Shell.

Art is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Dennis; his children, Katherine and Peter Dennis, Peter's wife, Missy Dennis; and four grandchildren, Drew, Chris, Abby, and Kate. Art spent his golden years in the state he loved the most, Florida. His favorite quote was 'With sand in my shoes'.

Peter C. Halverson, 91, of Beloit, WI, passed away on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at Cedar Crest, Janesville, WI.
He was born March 17, 1933 in Beloit, WI, the son of Harold and Helen (Cormican) Halverson. Peter attended all of his school years in Beloit Schools with the exception of his junior high year, which he attended at Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, WI. He returned to Beloit and graduated from Beloit High School. Pete was not interested in college, so he dropped out of the University of Wisconsin and Beloit College. He then went to the South Beloit Airport and obtained a private pilot's license from Russ Van Galder. He loved flying and also obtained a multi engine rating. Pete married Nancy Thorpe on February 27, 1954 in Delavan, WI.

At age 18, Pete went to work at the Beloit Foundry Company, the family-owned business since 1900. He became Vice President and later President after his father retired. Pete was very fond of his employees and remodeled a building across from the foundry as an employee lounge. There was a nice kitchen, pool table, card tables, television, a fireplace, and outside a horseshoe and basketball court. All the employees had a card that gave them access at any time. They used the building for birthday parties and many other affairs. The foundry had many benefits that no other local firms had. Harold Halverson put in health insurance before GM `Plant in Janesville had it. Pete put in dental insurance, profit sharing, more paid hours for holidays and vacations. In the last years before the foundry was sold, Pete put all his employees on salary, which gave them eight weeks off for any reason with pay. The benefit was never abused. In 1978, the foundry was sold to Beloit Corporation and one year later they shut it down after 79 successful years.

Pete was a charter member of the Turtle Township volunteer Fire Department and helped build the addition to the building on the Dougan Farm that housed the fire engine. He was a member of the Beloit Jaycees and served as president in 1957-58. In February of 1960 the Jaycees awarded Pete the second National Bank Trophy as outstanding Jaycee of the year. He was elected to the board of Beloit Memorial Hospital in 1964 and later was board president during the planning and construction of the new hospital. Pete hired the architect and the fundraiser and spent about 20 hours a week at the hospital during the construction period. In 1970, Peter was elected to the board of the First National Bank & Trust Company and served 47 years which was the longest serving director at that time.

Pete and two partners built the Hatch Cover Restaurant in Middleton, WI. The restaurant was very successful as it had a limited menu and used only the top-quality food, and had a wonderful service from the staff that was all university students, the oldest one was 22 years old. Peter and his partners sold the restaurant after three successful years.
In 1992, Pete purchased Rock River Shores the manufactured housing community on the Rock River. It took several years to get it updated and new homes installed, but after that happened it became a very successful community. He sold it in 2015 after 23 years.

Pete was a people person and always wanted to know your story. If he met a person, he would find out what they did for a living and what their interests were and then relate to them on some level. He always saw the good in people and was very generous with employees, friends and family.

Survivors include his wife of 71 years, Nancy Halverson; two sons, John Halverson of Beloit, WI, and Robert (Vicki) Halverson of Edgerton, WI; and a sister, Helen Lindquist of Florida.

James P. Keating Jr. — known to family and friends as “Jim” or “Pete” — slipped away peacefully on Sunday, October 1st. Jim has been reunited with Sally (née Eiff), his beloved wife of 64 years. He was born in Neenah on February 16th 1934, where he lived and worked until his passing. Born to James P. Keating Sr. and Katherine Keating (née Aylward), he had a strong sense of place, proud of his family's deep roots in Neenah and of his commitment to the community. 

Jim graduated from Wayland Academy at 17, and went on to earn a double degree in business and mechanical engineering from the University of Wisconsin. He liked to joke that he didn’t need to specify Madison, since there was only one UW campus when he graduated in ’57. Jim spent his career at the Neenah Foundry, where he served as the Vice President of Manufacturing, as well as President of Hartley Controls and Neenah Trucking. He was active in the foundry industry at the state, national, and international levels. He served as chairman of the Wisconsin chapter of the National Foundry Association, and worked with his colleagues in Germany and Alabama to help bring state-of-the-art molding and casting technology to Neenah. 

Jim made friends wherever he went, never forgetting a name or face, and always gave — and received — a smile, a laugh, and a handshake. He knew — and remembered — people from all walks and areas of his life. In addition to his distinguished professional career, he was an active volunteer in the community.

Jim served for many years on the board of directors at the Neenah-Menasha YMCA, helping manage at a time of extensive reorganization and the addition of a new meter pool and diving well. He had a vested interest: He was an avid swimmer, doing laps at lunchtime for most of his adult life, was the diving coach for the girls’ swim team, and organized two swimming expeditions across Lake Winnebago, from Neenah to High Cliff.

Among his proudest associations was with the Boys’ and Girls’ Brigade. Known to most as “Pete,” he served as a leader, a board member — always looking forward to weekends with the rough craftsmen at Camp Onaway — but most importantly as the founder of the canoe club. The canoe club was Pete’s brainchild. Pete began his canoeing days as a camper at Kooch-I-Ching in the 1940s — the old days of wood-and-canvas canoes — and brought that spirit of backcountry camping to The Brigade. The canoe club began with middle schoolers taking easy overnight trips on the Little Wolf River, gradually evolved to add whitewater training on the “big” Wolf, and from there trips down nearly every major whitewater river in Wisconsin. The canoe club culminated in extended 7-10 day trips to the Canadian wilderness, including the Quetico and across Ontario and Saskatchewan. Through the canoe club Pete — affectionately known as “The Bourgeois” in honor of the French fur trappers — introduced scores of teen boys and girls to true wilderness. Outside of The Brigade, Pete had a lifetime of wilderness canoeing with friends and family that extended to Manitoba, the Northwest Territories, Labrador and Alaska. He was a card-carrying patron of the untrammeled spaces, part old-time explorer and part Thoreau. There aren’t many people who have logged more miles in a canoe and shared that passion with others. 

Music was one of Jim’s great loves and favorite pastimes. He was a multi-instrumentalist and charter member of the Neenah Community Band, where he played clarinet and the occasional tenor sax. Music was one of his great gifts to his friends, and especially his family. He liked to play boogie-woogie on the piano — at the Kappa Sig house, more than a few old uprights were rolled out to the end of the dock for sing-alongs, and legend has it that some ended up in Lake Mendota. And there are many, many fond memories of music by the campfire. Backing his strong tenor with the guitar, Jim would lead the group in camp songs and the songs of his folk and blues heroes — a special treat was the vaudeville act of Jim and Sally performing “The Bum Song.” 

James is survived by his two sisters: Mary Keating Russell, Katherine Keating Wilson; six children: John (Peg) Keating, Michael Keating, James (Sachie) Keating III, Katherine Paul, Mary (John) Keating Baker, and Thomas (Heidi) Keating, and eleven grandchildren: Andrew, Peter, Kevin and Riley Keating; Anna and Klaire Keating; Salomon Paul; Johnny and Betsy Baker; and Jack and Rosie Keating.

The family would like to express special gratitude to friends and caregivers Teri Beyer, RN, and Terry Quirk, and the Valley Nursing Association. 

Please direct all expressions of kindness and donations to Jim’s son John Keating at 232 Limekiln Drive, Neenah, WI 54956. They will be directed to the memorial fund.

Matson, Louise T. Age 87 of Mpls. Died June 20, 2020.

Preceded in death by parents, Rev. Charles and Helen (Rutledge) Thorne; husband Robert McAnulty; and brother Charles Thorne, Jr. Survived by husband, William; children Helen (Steven) Emslander & Carlton (Anita) Matson; 6 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. Louise was born Sunday, May 7, 1933, in time to be announced by her father at the Presbyterian Church of Albion, IL.

She grew up where her father served as pastor: Elmwood, IL, St. Louis, MO, Beaver Dam, WI, and graduated high school in South St. Paul.

Louise attended Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, WI, Macalaster College and William Mitchell College of Law in St. Paul, MN and the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, MN.

In 1954 she went to Turkey with SPAN, the Student Project for Amity among Nations. In her younger days Louise was an avid knitter. 

Robert B. Strain, better known as Mayor Bob, died at the age of 89 on October 29, 2022, at Canyon Vista Medical Center.  Born In Galesburg, Illinois, July 15, 1933, he was the son of George Bradley Strain and Margaret Bruce Strain.  He is preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Georgia. 
 
Bob enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1954 with duty in Vietnam and retired in 1984 as a Colonel.  In 1988, Bob relocated to Sierra Vista.  After retiring from the military, Bob worked for Science Applications International Corporation, retiring in 2001.  In 2001 Bob was elected to the Sierra Vista city council, served six years, and was then elected mayor serving four years before retiring in 2011.  

During the years following Bob’s retirement from the City, Bob was actively engaged in many worthwhile community organizations and endeavors such as: President of Sierra Vista Rotary 2004-2005, Cochise College Foundation board, President Sierra Vista Economic Development Foundation, Cochise Community Foundation, Air Force Association, and Military Officers Association of America. He is a founding member of the Huachuca 50, served on the Sierra Vista Chamber of Commerce 
Military Affairs Committee, and was active in the United Veterans Council. Bob’s chairmanship of the Upper San Pedro Partnership was instrumental in organizing a diverse group of people to protect the environment and at the same time protect the future of Ft. Huachuca. 

Bob is survived by wife of twenty-three years, Jane C. Livingston-Strain, his three children: Diane Menday (Jeff), Janet Nichting (Tom), Rob Strain (Melodye); the mother of his children, Josephine Strain; and five step-children:  Ally Hadfield, David York, Julie Pexioto; and Jane’s two sons Brian Livingston, and Rob Livingston (Jen). His cousin; Ginger (Strain) Peters. Bob leaves many grandchildren:  Jeff Menday Jr (Becky), Dan Menday (Erin), Janelle Menday, Kate Nichting, Mark Nichting, Wade Strain, Carter Strain, Owen Livingston, Emily Livingston along with many dear friends as well as his beloved community.

Funeral arrangements are being coordinated by Hatfield Funeral Home.  A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 12, at 10:00 A.M. at Sierra Evangelical Lutheran Church, 101 N. Lenzner, Sierra Vista, Arizona followed by a lunch reception at Cochise Community College, Community Room, 901 N. Colombo Ave., Sierra Vista, Arizona.  Private interment at Southern Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery will be at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Cochise College Foundation, Attn: Bob and Jane Strain Scholarship, 4190 W. Hwy 80, Douglas, AZ 85607 or Nancy J. Brua Animal Care Center, 6799 E. Highway 90, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635. 

The family would like to extend special thanks to Dr. Marc Kaplan and staff, Prestige Assisted Living, Canyon Vista Medical Center and Cochise Community College.  

Don passed away on Oct. 12, 2020. After graduation, Don attended the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and worked for 46 years as an electrical engineer, working in various data processing fields (aerospace, printer union admin. support, bookstore retail sales & inventory process). During his time in the aerospace field, Don worked at NASA and was involved in all of the Apollo fights. He is survived by his wife, Faye, four children, and 6 grandchildren.

Lois-Jean (Updike) Erickson, age 88, peacefully went to sleep in Jesus' arms at Bethany Home, Waupaca, on Saturday morning, July 15, 2023.

She was born in Milwaukee on August 28, 1934, the child of Gladys and Walter Buege and given the name Virginia Orilla Ethel Buege. Sadly, her father tragically passed in a traffic accident and her mother was not allowed to continue raising her child and Virginia was placed in the Milwaukee County Children's Home. Thankfully her time in the orphanage did not last long, as the sweet little blue-eyed girl with the beautiful blond "Shirley Temple" curls caught the attention of a childless couple who happily made her a part of their little family through adoption. She was given the name Lois-Jean, by her new parents, Maud and Russell Bryan and began her new life in the city of Ripon. Soon after joining her new family, Lois-Jean, having been carefully taught by her mother and her church, realized that she needed a Savior and at the young age of six, Lois-Jean put her faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ and was baptized. Her faith was a central part of her life through all of her years and she actively participated in the work of the Lord in every church she became a part of. She enjoyed attending Bible studies, women's circle meetings, teaching Sunday school and Vacation Bible School, as well as singing in the choir. She had a beautiful soprano voice and shared her love of singing by taking her children to many old-fashioned hymn sings! Lois-Jean was a good student, a published poet, gifted in public speaking, and played clarinet in the band. She graduated from Wayland Academy and went on to study at Oshkosh Business School. Lois-Jean met her first husband, Richard Updike in 1953, and they eventually made their home in Neenah, where they raised their four children. While busy raising her children, Lois-Jean assisted with her children's activities as a Girl Scout Leader, compiling statistics for Little League, Girls Club Advisor and school lunch mom. She also became involved with her beloved Betty Rebekah Lodge #212, and served as Wisconsin State President of the Rebekah Assembly. Not long after Dick's retirement, he was stricken with cancer and passed away. Lois-Jean spent her time with her family, volunteered many hours working with children in the local AWANA Bible Club, as well as knitting thousands of hats and scarves for the needy at Northcott Neighborhood House in Milwaukee. After several years of widowhood, Lois-Jean became reacquainted with an old friend that she had met through his first wife. Leo Erickson, also widowed, became her constant companion and the two found love a second time! August 25, 2012, they tied the knot and enjoyed almost 11 years of wedded bliss. Lois-Jean leaves a legacy of her love for Jesus Christ lived out in her service to others.

Lois-Jean was preceded in death by her birth parents, Gladys & Walter Buege, and adoptive parents, Maud & Russel Bryan, her sister, Barbara Buege, her two brothers, Charles Thom and Sonny Thom, her first husband, Richard M. Updike, her daughter Catherine Marie, her grandson, William Richard, great-grandson Hunter Heiser and great-grandson Qualee Jones. She is survived by her husband Leo Erickson, Waupaca; children: Peggy (Albert) Taylor, Milwaukee; Patricia (Edward) Huber, Waupaca; and Russell (Melanie) Updike, Temecula, CA; stepchildren: Larry Erickson, Clintonville; Lonnie Erickson, Clintonville; 10 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, August 27, 2023, at Fellowship Baptist Church N3548 County Rd E, Waupaca, WI, Pastor Rick Anderson officiating. Visitation will begin at 1:00 pm with the Rebekah Memorial Service at 2:00. The Main Memorial Service will follow. A fellowship meal will be held after the service. Private family burial will be in the Oak Hill Cemetery, Neenah. The family is asking those attending to please wear blue, Lois-Jean's favorite color, or something with butterfly print. The family would like to thank Dr. Ellen Wenberg and the staff at Bethany Home of Waupaca for their excellent care of Lois-Jean. Holly Funeral Home of Waupaca is assisting the family with arrangements.

David Jon Spengler, age 90, of Madison, WI, passed away peacefully on Feb. 5, 2025, at the VA Hospital in Madison. He was born June 9, 1934, in Winnebago County, WI, the son of Silas (Chum) and Margaret (MarMar) Spengler. After graduating from Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, WI, David attended UW Madison, during which time he enlisted in the US Navy where he proudly served in Okinawa, Japan. Upon returning from his service, he earned his master's degree in economics from the UW. After graduating he enjoyed a successful career in banking and before retiring, he served for several years as the First Fundraiser for the Athletic Department for his beloved Alma Mater. He built many lifelong friendships with athletes and their families while helping recruit future Badgers to the Football Team.

David was part of many organizations throughout his lifetime, including Wayland Academy Board of Trustees, Ducks Unlimited, Chicagoland, Mendota Gridiron Club, Life Member of the UW Alumni Association, American Bankers Association and was a Founding Member of the Midwest Decoy Collectors Association (now the N.A.D.C.A.). He was a proud member of Bethel Lutheran Church in Madison.

David enjoyed hunting, fishing, crossword puzzles and all UW Sports. He enjoyed spending time with his son Erik traveling to several antique decoy and fishing shows every year. He enjoyed spending time with his daughter Heidi driving in the country enjoying nature. He cherished time with each of his 7 grandchildren and was always a source of inspiration and unwavering support.

He is survived by 3 children: Erik (Sharon) Spengler, Heidi (Mark) Kluis and Dave (Becky) Spengler; and his 7 beloved grandchildren; Emily and Jon Spengler, Kyle Kluis and Abbie (Cole) Ragsdale, David (Haley), Michael and Andrew Spengler. He is also survived by his former wife Margaret (Peggy) Spengler along with extended family. He is preceded in death by his parents, Silas L. and Margaret I. Spengler; brothers William and Silas; and sister Susan.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, February 14, 2025, at Bethel Lutheran Church, 312 Wisconsin Avenue, Madison, WI. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., with a service to follow at 11:30 a.m. Burial will be held at Lutheran East Cemetery, 200 CTY HWY N, Stoughton, WI, immediately following the service.
 

Diane Withrow Curtiss went to be with her Lord February 28, 2023 in Eagle River, WI at the age of 87. She was born in Milwaukee, WI on July 30, 1935 to Harold and Frances (Barnes) Withrow. She graduated from the University of WI with a degree in Art. Diane loved to create and was a gifted artist. In 1961 she married Thomas Allan Curtiss and had two boys, Steven Curtiss and David Curtiss. They resided in Oconomowoc, WI until 2000 when Tom and Diane moved to Eagle River, WI to live full time. Diane is preceded in death by Tom. They were married for almost 60 years. She is survived by her sons, David Curtiss of Cystal Falls, MI and Steven Curtiss of Crested Butte, CO; and Steve's family, Nel Curtiss (wife), two grandchildren, Dylan and Cameron Curtiss; and great grandson, Jack Curtiss. She is also survived by her sister, Barbara (Alan) Gustafson `58 and family in Connecticut. She loved her Lord, her family, her friends and to paint.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of James McDaniel (Tehachapi, California), who passed away on December 16, 2021, at the age of 88, leaving to mourn family and friends. 

September 20, 1934 ˜ March 9, 2021

Truman L. Sturdevant, beloved son, husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully Tuesday, March 9, 2021, at the age of 86. Truman was a loving, supportive, and caring man with an incredible work ethic, always the provider. He loved being with his family, had passion for the outdoors, bird hunting with his German Shorthaired Pointers, working in his yard, sports and traveling. Truman was born in Presho, SD, on Sept. 20, 1934, to Dorothy and Marion Sturdevant.

At the age of eight they moved to Libertyville, IL, where he often helped in his parents’ dry cleaning business. Truman also joined the Boys’ Boxing Club and spent summers on his grandparents’ farm in Draper, SD, often sharing memories of his horse and the round barn his grandfather built. Truman obtained his high school diploma from Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, WI, in 1952. Over the years, he shared what a wonderful opportunity it was and how grateful he felt for the experience. Truman also played football at Wayland Academy, a sport he loved for many years. In 1956, Truman graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Wisconsin, where he won the 1956 NCAA Collegiate Heavyweight Boxing Championship.

Truman served in the US Army Transportation Corps, as a Second Lieutenant, before spending most of his career in the paper manufacturing industry, retiring as President of Smurfit Newsprint Corporation in 1998. Truman was happily married to Marilynn (Koch) Sturdevant for 56 years until her passing in September, 2012. Together they had three children, Cindy Turry (Tom), Laurie Schiele, and Tom Sturdevant (Candace). He also leaves behind six beautiful grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, Angela Garcia (Chris), Rachel Stenach (Mike), Ryan Turry (Danielle), Nick Sturdevant, Kate Sturdevant, Travis Schiele, Zelda and Rita Turry, and Sloan Garcia. 

Sondra ("Sandy") K. Yasger passed away peacefully at Northwest Community Hospital on July 10, 2023. Sondra was born on July 16, 1935 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. She graduated from Wayland Academy, a preparatory high school in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin where she met life-long friends. In 1958, she was united in marriage to David S. Yasger. Together they moved to Green Bay, Wisconsin, started a family and became season ticket holders for the Green Bay Packers. They raised their family of 3 children in Green Bay and Arlington Heights, Illinois.

Sondra was a beautiful person and a wonderful teacher to her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren teaching them, by example or otherwise, life lessons, cooking lessons and everything in between. She also enjoyed golf, bridge, spending time with friends, vacationing in Door County, Wisconsin, the Green Bay Packers and, very selectively, some opposing NFL quarterbacks. She also adored her neighbors and neighborhood in Arlington Heights where she lived the past 50 years.

Sondra is survived by her children Elizabeth (Charles) Jones, Paul (Sheryl) Yasger and Jane (James) Burns as well as her grandchildren McKenzie, Jimmy and Sophia. She was preceded in death by her husband of almost 50 years David S. Yasger as well as her parents Lester and Lorayne (nee Senderhauf) Komers. Visitation will take place on Friday, July 14, 2023, from 9:00am until the time of the Funeral Mass at 10:00am at St. James Catholic Church 831 North Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60004. Interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. James Catholic Church in memory of Sondra. Funeral Information and condolences can be given at www.GlueckertFuneralHome.com or (847) 253-0168.

Donald Augustine, age 89, resident of Eagle River, WI died on September 5, 2024. A memorial service will be at 11am Wednesday September 11, 2024 at the Gaffney-Busha Funeral Home in Eagle River, WI. Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the service

Nancy Bubolz (nee Paul) a long-time resident of Appleton, WI passed away peacefully at home in El Paso, TX on Thursday, October 10, at the age of 88.

Born in Racine, WI, on June 7, 1936, Nancy grew up in Beaver Dam, WI, and graduated from Wayland Academy in 1954. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in English and French from Valparaiso University in Indiana in 1958.

While raising her three daughters, Nancy began a fulfilling career at Fox Valley Technical College in Appleton. She worked in graphic design and desktop publishing, served as President of the Educational Support Staff and formed lifelong friendships. Long after retirement, she and her “Tech friends” continued their tradition of gathering for birthdays and summer houseboat outings. Those became some of her favorite memories.

Nancy was a pioneer in the sport of waterskiing, serving in numerous leadership roles within the Wisconsin Water Ski Federation and the American Water Ski Association. She judged countless regional and national water ski tournaments and chaperoned the U.S. National Team at the 1972 Olympics in Germany. One of Nancy’s most significant contributions to water skiing was serving as Legislative Chairperson, where she worked to enhance the sport’s public image and lobbied to promote safety initiatives in the state. Recognizing her enduring impact on the sport, she was inducted into the Wisconsin Water Ski Hall of Fame in 1998.

Nancy cherished spending time with her family. She loved playing cribbage with her daughter Linda in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, vacationing with her daughter Brenda in Florida and the Bahamas, and in recent years, living with her daughter Kristen in El Paso. Well-known by family and friends as a voracious reader, Nancy was rarely found without a good mystery or romance novel in hand and her cup of tea nearby.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents Ewald and Myrtle Paul, brother Jerry Paul, son-in-law Tom Purdy and three infant children. She is survived by her loving daughters Linda Ashida (Naoyuki), Brenda Purdy (John Knetter), and Kristen Shaver (Rob); cherished grandchildren Michael Ashida (Katie Tribble), Sarah (Ashida) Mickelson (Quinn), Bruce Purdy, Roy Purdy, George Purdy (Lexie LeClair), Lucas Shaver and Jason Shaver; adored great-grandson Wyatt Purdy; and dear nieces and nephews.

MADISON - James Edward Burgess passed away on Monday, Dec. 20, 2021, at the UW Hospital in Madison. His death fell on the 63rd anniversary of his wedding to Catherine E. Burgess, who, together with his four children, was present to love and support him as he passed.

Jim was born in La Crosse, Wis., on April 5, 1936, to William T. and Margaret F. Burgess. He grew up in La Crosse, second of three Burgess boys. It was a youth marked by memories of lots of mischief with his lifelong friend, Dr. Jerome Gundersen. He attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison and throughout his life was a significant financial supporter of the University and a regular attendee at Badgers football and basketball games.

Professionally, Jim was a consummate journalist... until the end. He was a paperboy as a kid, worked on the UW campus newspaper, The Daily Cardinal, as a student, eventually becoming its business manager. His journalism career was briefly interrupted by four years of service in the U.S. Air Force after graduation when, stationed in Germany, he served as an aircraft controller monitoring flights over eastern Europe in the early days of the Cold War.

Upon completion of his military service, he returned to journalism and began working for Lee Enterprises, as his father and grandfather had done before him. He held senior positions at the Quad City Times in Davenport, Iowa, at the Missoulian, in Missoula, Mont., at the Independent Record, in Helena, Mont., and at the La Crosse Tribune, where he was the third generation Burgess to hold the position of publisher.

Jim might have remained at the La Crosse Tribune, but he was called to higher service as Executive Vice President of Newspapers at Lee Enterprises, the parent company of both the La Crosse Tribune and the Wisconsin State Journal. As Vice President of Newspapers, he was responsible for 19 newspapers in the Midwest and Western U.S. during a period when the company became highly successful. Then, after 13 years at the executive level, Jim left the corporate office and returned to his first love, the daily running of a great newspaper in a dynamic town, becoming publisher of the Wisconsin State Journal where he remained for the next 10 years until his retirement. "Retirement" brought new interests and involvement in the Madison community. Jim was an active and engaged board member for Edgewood College, the UW Hospitals and Clinics, and the Madison Center for the Arts, as well as a key donor for the Overture Center.

A crowning achievement of Jim's career was his work with the UW School of Journalism and Mass Communication to create the James E. Burgess Chair of Journalism Ethics. The Chair was the cornerstone of what would become the Center for Journalism Ethics, now an internationally recognized hub for reflection, education and activism in the field. Under the leadership of its current director, Kathleen Bartzen Culver, the center has come alive with events and programs that question, challenge and advance the ethical well-being of journalism and journalists.

Since boyhood, Jim devoted his free time to the outdoors. He was a bird hunter, a fisherman, and a super-putzer, who always had a tree to cut up or something to "fix." Jim followed his father's lead by building a home on Lac Courte Oreilles Lake near Hayward in northern Wisconsin. He dragged his large-ish family to that beloved place at every possible occasion: for summers, long weekends and all holidays, the old station wagon pulling a trailer for the eight-hour drive from Davenport, Iowa, overflowing with a family of six and all its gear. He worked to establish a conservancy for the land around the lake and was active in COLA, the Courte Oreilles Lake Association. He sailed, pulled water skiers, toodled around on his pontoon boat, and never failed to assist other boaters in distress.

Jim also loved "the farm," a large property he bought near Portage, in an uncommonly rich part of Wisconsin, full of creeks, ponds, trails, and trees. In other words: a source of endless outdoor projects! He built a log cabin there, bought a few tractors, revitalized ponds, put up birdhouses and mowed, over and over. Jim was father to four adult children: Kary Deuel (Jim), Peter (Karen Hostens), Sydney (Al McMillian) and Curtis (Donna Peota). He was grandfather to 11: Benjamin and Elizabeth (Kary); Åsne, Tale and Jonas (Peter); Virginia, Cullen, Tait and Rebekah (Sydney); and Quinn and Aiden (Curtis). To them he was known as Gampie. He taught them naughty words, sneaked them treats, but most of all gave each of them unconditional acceptance and love, according to each one's particular needs and situation. He is also survived by two brothers, Steve (Joan) of Naples, Fla., and Tom of Hayward, Wis.

Jim loved a good wind, a sharp chainsaw, his family, Johnny Walker Red, Good & Plenty candies, bathing in the lake, his dogs, his toys, holding forth at the dinner table, Madison journalism, his lifelong friends, and, of course, his wife, Cathie, or "Catherine!" as he frequently called her.

For those wishing to make a memorial gift at this time, we ask that you consider Jim's cherished organizations: Courte Oreilles Lakes Association (COLA), P.O. Box 702, Hayward, WI 54843, or Center of Journalism Ethics, School of Journalism and Mass Media, 5115 Vilas Hall, 821 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706.

The family also wishes to acknowledge the extraordinary professionalism and care provided by the Madison Police Department, the Madison Emergency Medical Services, the Emergency Room staff of the UW Hospital, and especially the care team in the Trauma and Life Support Center (TLC) of the UW Hospital. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

https://wnanews.com/2021/12/27/james-jim-burgess-wisconsin-state-journal-obituary/

Betsy attended Carroll College where she obtained her Associate's Degree in Journalism.

She is survived by her four children Erik (Kelly), Scott, Julie Schoenborn (Danny Bennett), Carrie Macy, her seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Betsy was preceded in death by her husband William Olson and her sister Gretchen Klotzbuecher.

Susan J. Preston fell asleep on December 3, 2021 for the last time at the age of 85 in Tacoma, Washington, after a long, adventurous, and joyful life. She had been living with and suffering from both Lewy Body dementia and vascular dementia for more than six years.

Susan was born on September 22 in Kentucky to Clarence and Florence Jordan. She grew up in many different places as a child and in her adulthood. She attended Denison University and the University of Chicago for her undergraduate studies and majored in English. An avid learner and student, she also earned a master's degree in English and multiple levels of education certificates, including special education, counseling, and administration. She retired from teaching for the Portland (Oregon) Public Schools, where she was primarily an English teacher, and also taught middle school special education. Susan was a folklorist who collected, taught, and shared her musical talents with many others. Throughout her life she enjoyed traveling, dog shows (obedience and field trials with Irish Setters), skiing, biking, competitive tennis at Mountain Park Racquet (& Fitness) Club, singing/playing guitar, camping, painting, and volunteering. She sang in the choir of the Lake Grove Presbyterian church for over 40 years and volunteered with the Lions Club International, serving as one of their District Governors.

Susan is survived by her four children Jeniphr Grant, Evan Grant, Becca Holthusen (Larry), and Rachael Allison (Lesa Valentine); her seven grandchildren Jessica Sewell (Jared), Josef Kistler, Molli Osterhout (Taurean Walls), Stefanie Cerroni (Anthony), Katie Osterhout, Olivia Witten, and Alexandria Allison; and her great-grandson, Alden Sewell. She is preceded in death by her husband Frederick W. Preston in 2017.

In memory of Susan, her children would like to honor her by asking for donations to any of the following organizations (please list Susan in the donation and contact Rachael for her address if prompted for notifications)

• Lewy Body Dementia Association
• Irish Setter Club of America
• Portland Folkmusic Society

Richard Hardin Kimberly of McLean, VA unexpectedly passed away on November 23, 2023, at the age of 88. Dick, as he was known, is survived by his wife of 64 years, Karen Lee Kimberly, his greatest joy and love. Dick was born in Neenah, WI, where he was raised by his parents, the late Elizabeth Essick and John R. Kimberly, and grew up with his sister the late Josephine Kimberly Peterson, his brother John R. Kimberly, Jr., and brother the late William E. Kimberly. Dick attended the Asheville School, Wayland Academy, and Lawrence University. He was a United States Marine, and was honorably discharged in 1956. Dick had a distinguished career with Kimberly-Clark Corporation, where he held various positions from 1957-2000 including Consumer Products and Newsprint Sales before he moved into Government Affairs at both the State and Federal levels. He retired from K-C as the Vice President of Federal Governmental Affairs and then founded Kimberly Consulting, continuing his lobbying career. Throughout his career, Dick lived in Hendersonville, NC; Atlanta, GA; and settled in McLean, VA in 1981. Dick had a distinguished and diverse philanthropic career, serving on numerous professional, educational, and civic organizations and boards. He was a longstanding member of the American League of Lobbyists, serving as President in 1992 and 1993. Dick was honored to serve as a Commissioner on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal Holiday Commission. Dick was on the Board of Trustees for Wayland Academy and Zamorano University, an agricultural school in Honduras, serving as Chairman at both. He was a board member of the National Business Aviation Association and was on the President's Council of the Experimental Aircraft Association. Dick was on the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum Board of Governors and was also the first Chairman of the American Film Institute's Washington Chapter. Dick additionally served on the Board of Directors for Kimberly-Crest, the Redlands, CA home of great grand-father John A. Kimberly, a founder of Kimberly-Clark. Dick was a faithful and devoted Episcopalian, serving several dioceses in various positions, including Senior Warden at Saint Anne's Church in Atlanta. Dick had numerous joys, especially water skiing and boating, often on the Eastern Shore of Maryland with family and friends. He was a dedicated life-long Green Bay Packers fan and shareholder. Dick is survived by his four children: Richard Hardin Kimberly, Jr.; John Holbrook Kimberly (Nancy); Scott Robbins Kimberly; Karen Kimberly Holland (T.J.); and his six grandchildren: Kimberly Nicole Chellino; John Holbrook Kimberly, Jr.; John Alfred Holland; Adelaide Essick Kimberly; Mack Charles Kimberly Holland; and Sydney Robbins Kimberly. A memorial service will be held at St. John's Episcopal Church, 6715 Georgetown Pike, McLean, VA 22101, on December 15, at 1 p.m., with a reception to follow at the church. In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to Kimberly-Crest, through the nonprofit Kimberly-Shirk Association, located at 1325 Prospect Drive, Redlands, CA 92373, or online at kimberlycrest.org/legacy-giving/.
 

Alfred Albert Laun, III, of Temple Hills, Maryland passed away from complications of COVID on January 3, 2023 at INOVA Fairfax Hospital in Fairfax, Virginia. He is survived by his brother, John (Jack) Laun, of Middleton, Wisconsin. Somporn Nirabutra Laun, his much-loved wife of 25 years, predeceased him in 2011. They had no children.

Universally known to his family and friends as Fred, he was born on December 9, 1937 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Alfred A. Laun, Jr. and Sue Burgess Laun. Fred grew up in Kiel, Wisconsin, where he attended Kiel Grade School. He attended Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, where he continued his growing fascination with radios and amateur (ham) radio in particular. Fred then enrolled in and graduated from the University of Wisconsin in Madison, Wisconsin, in 1962 with a BA in Political Science and Journalism. During his university years what would become Fred's life-long attraction to ham radio grew as he operated with and learned from students at the Engineering Department's ham radio club W9YT.

After graduation Fred became a Foreign Service Officer with the United States Information Agency. Over the next 25 years he served in the Dominican Republic, Vietnam, Thailand, Argentina, Colombia, and Nicaragua. From each country Fred received permission to operate his radio and actively participated in the local radio clubs. During Fred's service in Argentina he came to national attention in 1974 when he was kidnapped and shot by leftist guerrillas who were attracted by the large ham radio antennas behind his home. His captors administered life-saving medical care and the next day released him unconscious where he would be found. He eventually recovered and was recognized with The Secretary's Award by U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger and a letter from President Richard Nixon.

After retirement Fred played a leading role in supporting organizations of amateur radio operators in the United States and abroad and participated in numerous amateur radio competitions until he took ill in mid-December. Fred was a lifetime member of the American Radio Relay League and a member of its Maxim Society. He served as editor of the bilingual Region 2 News published by the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU) from 1990 through 1998 and served in a variety of offices in local radio clubs, including as president of both the National Capitol DX Association and the Potomac Valley Radio Club. In 1993 he was selected by his fellow radio hams to be inducted into the CQ Amateur Radio Contest Hall of Fame. Until his death Fred also served as a director of the Yasme Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation that supports scientific and educational projects related to amateur radio and the introduction and promotion of amateur radio in developing countries.

At Fred's request no services were held. He was laid to rest in the family burial plot at New Holstein City Cemetery in New Holstein, Wisconsin.

Mrs. Marguerite Louise Eisert Daily, 85, of Lake Wylie, South Carolina, passed away Sunday, February 12, 2023, at Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC.

Marge was born May 13, 1937, in White Plains, NY, to the late Henry Frank Eisert and Helen Catherine Uffendell Eisert. She is also preceded in death by her daughter, Karen Louise Daily, her sister, Eve Eisert Gefvert, and her son-in-law, John Daniel Jackson.

A teacher by profession for over 30 years, Marge graduated from Miami University in Ohio, where she met Bob and they married in 1959. Through the years she held many leadership positions ranging from Church Youth Group Leader to the President of the P.E.O., Philanthropic Organization for Women. She faithfully served in Stephen's Ministries, numerous Bible studies and helped initiate a vibrant Newcomer's Club upon her move to Lake Wylie in 1987. She and Bob enjoyed being members of the Lake Wylie Community Church Share Group and often opened up their home to host group meetings, celebrations and her favorite passion of all, bridge groups.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Robert Orris Daily, her daughters, Pamela Sue Jackson, Plainfield, IL, and Ruth Ann Majerle (Steven), Grand Rapids, MI, her sisters, Helen Jolley and Susan Gleason, and her six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Barrett Funeral Home of Cleveland announces the death of Mr. Frederick Warren "Fritz" Jedwill age 87 of Cleveland. He passed away Monday, October 28, 2024. Fritz was born in Detroit, Michigan to the late Kurt Jedwill and Thelma Marley Jedwill. Following High school, Fritz went on to attend and graduate from the Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin and later Eastern Michigan University where he received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Education. Over the next several years Fritz would serve in the school districts of Santa Rosa, CA and Brookesvile, Florida where he would retire with over 20 years service. In 1993, Fritz moved to Cleveland where he became an active part of the community. He joined the Cleveland First Methodist Church where he sang in the church choir, the hand bell choir, attended the mens adult Bible study and volunteered with Mildred's Thrift Shop. Fritz was also member of the Helen Oldtimers, White County Retired Educators and Alcoholics Anonymous.

He is preceded in death by his parents, an is survived by his brother Richard Jedwill of Arden, NC.
There will be no local services for Fritz, he will be taken to his family cemetery in Cambridge. Illinois where he will be laid to rest beside his parents.

William M. "Bill" Hoag, 85, of Beaver Dam passed away on Sunday, November 7, 2021 at Marvin's Manor in Horicon.

William was born the son of William H. and Emerene (Miller) Hoag on October 10, 1936 in Green Bay. He was a graduate of Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam and also of UW-Madison. Bill was married to Jeaniene Berent on October 3, 1959 in Madison. Bill worked with his father in the family's car dealership in Beaver Dam and later worked in insurance locally.

Bill was a member of Trinity Church – United Methodist in Beaver Dam. He served as a Stephen Minister for over a decade. He was a member of DeMolay International and volunteered as a Boy Scout Leader. Bill loved cars and knew every make and model by sight. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family and was active in their lives.

Bill is survived by his wife Jeaniene of Beaver Dam; his children: Brian (Jennifer) Hoag `78 of Fort Collins, CO, Jeana (Victor) Guardiola of Racine, and Brent Hoag of Port Washington; his sister Phyllis Knaup of Beaver Dam; seven grandchildren: William and Sean Hoag, Vincent Guardiola, Emma, Ethan, Carmen, and Wesley Hoag; two step grandchildren: Alyssa and Isaiah Ho; three great grandchildren: Atli, Ciaran, and Finnian Hoag; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Janice Jaffe. 

Frederick Charles Kapelle, Age 82, passed away on March 26th, 2020 with his loving wife by his side. He was born on May 17, 1937 in Beaver Dam, WI, the cherished, only child of Merlin Charles and Alma Henrietta (Miller) Kapelle. He grew up in Wisconsin, attending school at The Wayland Academy where he excelled in academics as well as sports. He attended college at University of Wisconsin and proudly flew his Badger flag next to his Green Bay Packer flag at home. He received his Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) from the University of Denver. It was there that he met the love of his life and wife of 59 years, Beverly Davis Kapelle. They married on April 21st, 1961, and their love story has been an inspiration to all that knew them.

Fred spent his life serving God and dedicated to making the world a better place. He began his career as a case worker supervisor in Fond du Lac, WI. In 1970, he moved his young family to Kalamazoo, MI to work as Director of Family and Children's Services. He established the first drug prevention program in Kalamazoo in the 1970's, where he implemented the first methadone program and the 24 hour HELP-line for suicide prevention and mental health support. In 1972, he began his work as Executive Director of Lakeside Children's Home, a 24 hour residential program for children, where he helped them and their families to live healthier lives. Fred and Bev were active members in the First Presbyterian Church of Kalamazoo for 25 years.

Bev and Fred retired to Kerrville, TX in 1994 and spent their next 25 years enjoying being closer to Bev's Texan family, golf, GB Packer football, some hunting (though mostly with a camera), and traveling. Fred was an accomplished potter and continued to enjoy his art and the strong friendships that came with his craft throughout his life.

Fred had two passions in life that he was dedicated to above all else; family and God. He was blessed with his wife, Beverly, and their three children who he is survived by; Leslie (Dean) Burns of Irons, MI; Amy (Dave) Spindler of Northville, MI; and David (Teresa) Kapelle of Lacey, WA; as well as his nine grandchildren; Anna, Stuart, and Samantha Burns; Haley, Reagan, and Tess Spindler; Chase Kapelle; and Crystal and Robert Becan. He was never happier than when his family was together and there was laughter in the room.

His strong faith in God helped guide his steps in spending his career helping others, and extended into his retirement where he helped to launch and lead the Stephen Ministry work at First Presbyterian Church of Kerrville, TX. He was able to use his skills and Christ-like compassion to help care receivers in need of support.

Fred lived an admirable life, where he was as cherished at its end as he was at the beginning. 

Ted, as those who know him call him, was born January 14, 1936, in Chicago Illinois to Edward and Madeline. He was enrolled in several schools growing up including in Mexico City for a time. Ted and his sister Joan, ended up finishing their high school years at Wayland Academy in Bever Dam WI. From there he went on to Kalamazoo College, then transferred to Illinois College in Jacksonville Il. With a major in chemical engineering, just short of graduating he was drafted into the army where he served until August 1965. He was finishing his college credits at University of Miami in Marine Biology. While doing underwater photography he realized his passion was for photography and design. He then enrolled at World renowned Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles CA.

After graduation Ted spent a year in Australia surveying for the Australian government. This was all done through arial photography. With that assignment completed, he moved to Denver Colorado to be close to his sister and open his own studio, Ted Tourtelot Photography. His client list included, Tish Publishing, Johns Manville, Vail Ski Association, VRC, and several architectural firms. He was doing photography as well as graphic design and logos.

His career culminated in a photographic book of the old stone churches in Ethiopia as well as depicting Ethiopian everyday life. He is survived by his wife, two children and two grandchildren.

August 31, 1929– September 7, 2021

Pat was born in Hanover, NH, and educated in New Hampshire, Ohio, Wisconsin and SUNY Albany – plus a summer fling in Oslo. How did she end up in Saugerties, NY? Pat’s answer, ‘I met Barky’.

Pat and Barky spent 31 years in the Saugerties school system. She taught high school English for all those years. Her absolute favorite of the literature she taught was Steven Vincent Benet’s poem, “John Brown’s Body.” Pat packed a lot within those years. She was the first woman to run for Town Council in 1968, before many women did that kind of thing. Their overarching commitment was to their churches, in Saugerties and Florida. For their 36 years in Sarasota, they have been hardworking members of the United Church of Christ, working as deacons, in the library, in the Women’s Fellowship and on various committees.

Pat and Barky loved their summers in their home in North Creek, NY and later at their condo in Rutland, Vermont.

It really has not been all work and no play: reading, of course, painting, cooking, concerts, plays and musicals, bridge, movies. Pat had a love of rabbits – real and stuffed – and, following an old English tradition, she said ‘Rabbit, Rabbit’ on the first day of each month – for ‘good luck’.

Pat was pre-deceased by her husband, H. Graham Barkhuff (Barky), their stepchildren Andy and Pammy. The doors in the Chapel at Plymouth Harbor were made by Barky in the woodshop and given in memory of Andy and Pammy. Within the stained-glass windows in the chapel doors are two rabbits.

She is survived by her sister-in-law Marcia Turner; nieces and nephews, Melinda Blodgett; Mac and Doug Smith; Gary, Peter, Sue, and Andy Cornell; and her cousin Virginia Stark. She was predeceased by her sisters Doris Smith and Janice Cornell; her brother, Courtney Cornell and her nephew, Tom Cornell. 

Lewis Elin passed away September 30 at home at the age of 83. His wife, Martha, and children, Jessica, Jennifer, and Greg were with him. He's missed terribly by his five grandchildren, Eve, Ben, Mollie, Sophie, and Alan. Friends and extended family will miss his quick wit, personality, and genuine interest in their lives. He will be remembered for many things including his love of being in the woods especially in winter. Donations to Chicago Voyagers (chicagovoyagers.org 630-283-0146) or Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, WI (920-356-2120) are appreciated.

Johanna Bliss Fabke nee, Karsten was born at home, in Horicon, Wisconsin on March 30, 1938, and passed away peacefully at home, with family and Kitty Baby at her side on the morning of May 2, 2025.

Her childhood in the small town of Horicon, Wisconsin set the stage for the things that would be the most important to her throughout her life. Her parents were avid gardeners, bird watchers and, in the case of her father, Dr. John Karsten, early environmentalists. Dr. Karsten was a pioneer of the land conservation movement through his efforts to establish the Horicon Marsh Wildlife Area. That work had a lifelong influence on Johanna which she passed along to her children. She also began her lifelong love of music, trains, and train travel during her childhood in Horicon.

Johanna's High School education took her to Wayland Academy, which resulted in lifelong friendships from the class of 1956. Her interest in organ music took her to Northwestern University where she graduated in 1960. On August 25th, 1962, she married John Edward Fabke and then completed her MA in music from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Johanna's love of music as a player, singer, listener and organizer provided a lifetime of good works and dear friendships. She was an active church musician as an organist and pianist for many years. Johanna was also a tireless organizer and volunteer for a variety of organizations. Some of the groups she was involved with include the Board of Directors Wayland Academy, Janesville Community Concert Association, Children's Arts Council of Janesville and the Wild Hog In The Woods Coffeehouse in Madison. She was a founding member of the Gandy Dancer Traditional Music Festival, 2007-2015, that was connected to her fundraising and organizational efforts to restore the Badger #2 Pullman "Fish Car" at the Mid Continent Railway Museum. For all the performance and organizational work that she did, her most meaningful musical, spiritual and community connections were through her more than three decades as a Sacred Harp singer. She was a stalwart singer in the local Madison sings, and she traveled throughout the Midwest and South to attend gatherings in those areas.

Following the death of her husband, Johanna returned to the workforce for several Madison area businesses, the university and for the Departments of Natural Resources and Public Instruction. Upon her retirement, she enjoyed gardening, her cats, birding, walks in nature, reading, knitting, time with family, friends, attending Sacred Harp Singing and riding trains.

Throughout her life she made deep, meaningful, connections with the people she encountered and in closing, Johanna wished for the simplest of texts for her obituary. "Just tell them that I lived to play music and plant flowers and trees."

After graduating from Wayland, Patty continued her education at Indiana’s DePauw University, where she majored in French and Spanish, with a minor in Secretarial Science.

A born philanthropist, Patty's passion was contributing to non-profit day programs that supported adults with developmental disabilities. Near and dear to her heart was Hollis Adams, an organization serving central Indiana. In addition to her work at Hollis Adams, Patty also volunteered at Noble Services of Indiana, a school for children with special needs.

Patty was preceded in death by her parents, Emory and Virginia; daughter, Angie West; brother, Richard Vaughn; and step-grandson, Nate Sabel. She is survived by her daughter, Kerry Lynn West; son, Andrew "Andy" West; stepson, Mike Gartley; stepdaughter, Kristin Sabel; and many other extended family members and beloved friends.

Shortly after Patty's death, on January 5, 2021, her husband of 32 years, Richard Gartley, passed away.

CENTENNIAL, Colo. - Jean Elizabeth Leritz (nee Elser), 82, of Centennial, Colo., passed away May 3, 2021, after a bout with Parkinson's disease.

Jean was born on Dec. 8, 1938, to Elmore and Bess Elser of Beaver Dam, Wis.

Jean grew up on a dairy farm in Beaver Dam where she gained an appreciation of all animals and their welfare. This prompted her to donate to many animal and wildlife charities later in her life.

Jean attended Jefferson Rural School for grades one through eight, Wayland Academy for four years of high school, and Valparaiso University in Indiana where she received a bachelor's degree in elementary education. A distant cousin who taught school had inspired Jean to pursue a teaching career.

Jean accepted a position in the Littleton School system in Colorado (the city name was changed to Centennial in recent years). For 13 years Jean taught second and third grade before retiring to become a stay-at-home mom. She lovingly raised her two children to ensure that they could experience all the school-age offerings in academia, as well as sports, where daughter, Liz, showed a talent for swimming and son, Chris, chose to play soccer.

Jean also volunteered at Peabody, Newton and Littleton High School when her children were older.

Jean loved to cook and was always experimenting with new ingredients and methods to improve her knowledge of culinary arts.

Jean is survived by her husband, John Leritz; daughter, Liz (husband, Ron); son, Chris of Colorado; her brother, John in Maryland; and her cousins in Wisconsin, Ellen Wheeler, Peggy Wheeler Stone, Glen Wheeler and Pearl Wheeler.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmore and Bess Elser; and other relatives and dear friends.

Tucker McNamara was endowed by his heritage, shaped by his circumstances and his choices. Tucker was born February 25, 1938, in Oshkosh, to William and Elizabeth McNamara. His grandfather Charles Williams scripted three poems about his first grandson: Tucky Mac and Quacky Quack, To Tucker on His First Birthday, and Tall Tucker. They are part and parcel of the family lexicon.

Tucker spent his early years in Peoria but summered in Oshkosh on Lake Butte des Morts at his grandparents' cottages, with his sister Meg and various cousins. Fishing, frolicking, and swimming were daily on his agenda.

Tucker attended Wayland Academy, graduating from 12th grade in 1956. He earned a bachelor's and master's degree in engineering at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, where he also joined the school of engineering faculty. He was a lifelong member of Tau Beta Pi, The Engineering Honor Society.

California and the opportunity to work in his field led to a succession of jobs in the aerospace industry. His career culminated in a consultancy to the US Navy on a highly classified project for its F18 fighter jet.

Tucker married Mary Jo Perk in 2001, after they rekindled a still flickering flame from 1963. They embarked on a great life adventure that continued to their last days together.

Tucker is survived by Mary Jo, her son Chris Willy (Daureen) and daughter Erica Jo Moroney (Matt) and five grandsons. He is also survived by his sister Margaret Gyll, his sisters-in-law Letty Perk and Kitty (Mark) Miller, many nieces and nephews, and cousins both local and far flung.

Tucker enjoyed physical pursuits that included hiking, biking, kayaking and swimming off the dock in front of his and Mary Jo's home on Lake Winnebago. His intellectual curiosity led to his lifelong love of learning about subjects outside of his chosen profession: history, astronomy, and current affairs.

Tucker has outpaced the bounds of earth. The world has lost a bright shining light. However, his aura will live on in all of us who knew him and loved him so well.

In lieu of flowers, if you wish, kindly send a donation to the Worldwide Wildlife Fund (to save elephants, Tucker's favorite animal).

Carol Lee (Carrie) was born on September 30, 1937, in South Bend Indiana as the best ever birthday present to her mother, Mattie Lee (Patsy) Ramsey Smith, who was born on the same date. Harold F. Smith was her loving father who made her eyes twinkle every time she talked about him. Carrie spent many happy summers at Diamond Lake sunning, swimming and sailing. She shared her love of the lake with her entire extended family. As a child, she took piano and voice lessons and sang like an angel. Singing in church choirs was an integral part of her life where she made many friends.

Carrie loved all aspects of education. She shared many joyous stories about her years at Wayland Academy and Mac McMurray College, both of which she was a proud alumna. The friendships she made there were so cherished that she never lost touch with her school friends. Carrie continued her formal education after 20 years away from the college setting and proudly earned her Masters in Education from Elmira College. As a dedicated educator, Carrie began her career as a Kindergarten teacher in Palatine Illinois, she shared her love of finger plays and songs as the Ellis Hollow nursery school teacher and she mastered the fine art of successful substitute teaching in the Ithaca City School District. The highlight of her career was teaching with the Boynton Beauties, the best sixth grade team of teachers who became lifelong friends.

Carrie's first marriage was to Jerry Lace, the father of their two daughters, Christine Lace McPherson, Sackets Harbor, NY and Toronto, Ontario and Julie Lace, Tampa, Florida. Of the hats Carrie wore, she often said her greatest joy came from being a mother. Her grandchildren, Caitrin and Caroline Mc Pherson, Alyssa and Andrew Crocker brought her tremendous happiness.

In 1974, Carrie married her best friend Jon W. Metzger. Together they had a beautiful life enjoying all the small moments, walking on Venice beaches, traveling, sailing and turning houses into homes. Jon was the most dedicated spouse a person could ask for as he cared for Carrie and loves her with his entire heart and soul.

Carol Lee is survived by her sister, Sarah Smith (Pam Tompkins) of Venice, Florida, her stepson , J. Todd Metzger (Nolene) and their children Taylor and Abby Metzger; her stepdaughter Lee Metzger Dudley and her children, J.J., Josh and Hallie Dudley. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her two brothers, Keith Smith and Edwin Smith.

Celebrations of life will be planned for this spring in Venice and this summer in Ithaca. Details to be provided in the coming months.

Contributions may be made to the PEO Sisterhood, Chapter EY Program for Continuing Education which provides scholarships for women. Please make checks payable to PEO Chapter EY and mail to: Carla Gabbard, 352 Marsh Creek Road, Venice, 34292. Or to Agape Flights, Mission Partners who provide resources to the Caribbean. To donate go to agapeflights.com.

Susan Engle Sydnor. Oct. 30, 1938 to June 15, 2021. Susan willed her body to Science Care. Per her request, no services or memorials.

Millicent Ferris was born September 22, 1939 in Harvard, Illinois to Henry Eugene and Marjorie (Northrup) Ferris. She passed away on Thursday, September 9, 2021 at her home in Walworth.

Milly grew up on the shores of beautiful Lake Geneva sailing, swimming, and running about with her brother Tommy. She attended Wayland Academy and graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in English and later studied in Ireland. She was a wonderful teacher of Public Speaking at Big Foot High School and still so many years after retirement held warm memories of the students she taught.

Milly had a charming sense of proper etiquette and a quick wit spiced with delightful little sayings.
She had a deep love of her family present and past, a great spiritual connection to her roots and heritage. She kept many generations alive both with ancestral stories and the family heirlooms arranged throughout her home.

In her later years you could find Milly sitting in front of her warm fireplace, enjoying a glass of wine, where treasured friends and family came to enjoy her company. She was truly a one of a kind lady, a girl for all seasons. She will be sorely missed by all who knew her.

Milly is survived by her brother Tom (Linda) Ferris; nieces Holly and Heidi; nephew Tommy; as well as many cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Ann Hoyer Fisher 1939 - 2021

Rancho Bernardo Ann Hoyer Fisher, a longtime resident of Rancho Bernardo, died peacefully on Tuesday, January 20, 2021.

Ann was born on January 21, 1939, in Beaver Dam, WI, the second of four children in the family of Charles and Lois Hoyer. Ann's father was a revered family physician adored by Ann and the community for his kindness and generosity. Ann's mother was an active Girl Scout volunteer, known for her creative and energetic spirit. These traits were easily apparent in Ann as well.

Growing up on a lake in rural Wisconsin, Ann was very active and athletic. She enjoyed water skiing and was a high school cheerleader and athlete at Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam. After graduation, Ann attended Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, and Arizona State University in Tempe. Ann met Bob Fisher at ASU and they were married in 1959.

After Bob's service in the Army, the Fisher family settled in San Diego County, where Ann's many talents emerged.

Ann was a loving and nurturing parent who also enjoyed working with young children. She opened a preschool in Rancho Bernardo and was an active volunteer, recognized for her support of the community. She served on the boards of Home Owner Associations and RB Little League.

Ann was also very creative. She enjoyed playing the piano and was a skilled, hands-on interior designer, working for individual clients as well as corporations, including Teledyne Ryan of San Diego. Ann also became certified as a massage therapist, another service she provided to reach out and help others, her most favorite pursuit. Family and friends describe Ann as selfless, generous, thoughtful, agile, resourceful and fun-loving.

Ann traveled extensively after her marriage in 2006 to David Rousseau, M.D., of Rancho Bernardo. She and Dave took many trips as a couple but also enjoyed travel and visits with sons Steve and Greg, spouses Tiffany and Amy, and grandchildren Trace, Camden, Blane, and Kelby. Cruising with Dave was a favorite activity, and locally Ann was often seen "cruising" the neighborhood in her shiny, red Alfa Romeo convertible.

Ann recognized the challenges ahead as her memory began to decline, but handled her diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease with dignity, humor and grace. Ann always treated every person, no matter what their circumstances, with love, kindness and respect. This will be her legacy.

Ann is survived by her husband, Dr. David Rousseau; her two sons and their spouses, Steven and Tiffany Fisher, and Greg and Amy Fisher; her four grandchildren, Trace, Camden, Kelby and Blane Fisher, and her siblings, John Hoyer of Riverside, CA and Jean Hoyer McPhee of San Diego. Anne is preceeded in death by her sister Karen Phillips `59.

Duane "Dewey" Moore passed away on Tuesday, March 14, 2023, in Bradenton, Florida.
He was born in Madison, Wisconsin on November 27, 1937, to the late Harley and Dorothy Moore.

Upon completing his education Dewey moved to Oshkosh where he started his business career establishing Moore Ambulance Service, Moore Funeral Livery, and Moore Camping Center. It was in Oshkosh that he met and married Marcelline Rothenbach in 1964. Together they had 3 sons. Marcelline preceded Dewey in death on September 23, 1970. Dewey continued operating his businesses and raising his young family and in 1973 married Helen Ciesielczyk. In 1975 Dewey and Helen established Accurate Security Ltd (Accu-Com) which he operated until his retirement in 2000, when he sold the business to his sons.

Dewey was involved in the community, serving as a County Supervisor, a member of the Citizens Advisory Committee for the Oshkosh Public Museum, was past president of the Oshkosh Humane Society and served as Winnebago County Coroner for many years.

Dewey was a season ticket holder for the Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers. He loved being at the football games with family and friends, cheering for his teams. He also enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren in their many sporting events and was very proud of all their accomplishments.

Dewey is survived by his wife of 49 ½ years, Helen; his children, Matthew (Elizabeth), Timothy (Pauline), and Marcus. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Dan (Molly), Sam, Abigail, Angela, T. Jackson, Ellen, Molly, Erin, Anne, Kaden, and Jacob.
 

Jay E. Brown, born in Beaver Dam, WI., age 75, of Stickney. US Vietnam Veteran. Beloved father of Pat ( Karen) Brown, Jon Brown, Matt (Kristine) Brown and the late Jeff Brown; fond grandfather of Angela, Samantha, Nicholas, Alyssa, Emma, Breanna, Ethan, Emily, Michayla, Austin and Brooklyn Brown; dear brother of Gail Cantu and the late Scott Brown; uncle of many nieces and nephews. Visitation, Thursday November 5, 2015, 3 P.M. to 8 P.M. and Friday November 6, 2015, 10:30 A.M. to Time of Service 11:30 A.M. at Hitzeman Funeral Home Ltd. 9445 W. 31st St., Brookfield, IL 60513. Interment Mt. Auburn Cemetery. Memorials appreciated to Edward Hines Jr. Veterans Hospital, 5000 S. 5th Avenue, Hines, IL 60141 or the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675. 

Harry Lewis Cody, affectionately known as “Skip”, passed away on June 19 surrounded by his family at his summer home in Green Lake, Wisconsin.

Skip was born in Evanston, Illinois and grew up in Ripon, Wisconsin. He graduated from Wayland Academy, Middlebury College, and Columbia University Graduate School of Business and served in the United States Navy. Returning to Chicago, Illinois he pursued a long career in entrepreneurial opportunities and relished the time he spent as owner of his companies and culminating with the sale of Multicolor Specialties, Inc. to Rust-oleum.

Skip served on the Board of Wayland Academy and was a longtime member of the Chicago Angler’s Club and a past member of the University Club and the Pere Marquette Club.

Skip was a vibrant man full of life and truly engaged in the world. A man of many accomplishments and talents but we will remember Skip for his love of family, friends, neighbors and the great outdoors. He embraced nature and its beauty and enjoyed fly-fishing (especially from the banks of his Montana home), and hunting and traveling the world.

Skip is survived by his wife Nancy (nee Evans); his children Lisa Scully (the late Richard), Philip Cody (Cindy), Christopher Cody, Kasi (Tony), and Leslie Cody (Tad) and by his adoring nine grandchildren. And by his brother Robert (Melanie) and stepsisters Carol Yost (Cass), Frances Aubrey, and his stepbrother Arthur Hynes and seven nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Harry A. Cody, Jr. and Nancy Cody Hynes and his stepfather, James A. Hynes.

Karen G. Kirchner Doebbert, passed away peacefully with her loving family at her side early Monday morning, June 27, 2022, at Winona Health in Winona.

Karen was born on July 13, 1940, and adopted by Willard and Gladys Kirchner, of Alma. She attended Alma grade school and in her sophomore year, attended the Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wis., where she graduated in 1958. Karen attended the Minnesota School of Business in Minneapolis, Minn., for two years and later worked at several different places as a secretary, which was her delight. She married Wayne Levine in 1961 to which one child was born. They later divorced. 

In 1971 Karen married Ervin Doebbert, to which one child was born. Together, Ervin and Karen enjoyed raising Christmas trees, traveling and spending quality time with family. She will be further remembered for her wonderful baking and cooking skills and her cross stitch and crochet creations. Ervin preceded Karen in death on March 14, 1993.

Karen is survived by her two sons, Randy (Melinda) Levine, of Owatonna, Minn., Doug (Jody) Doebbert, of Trempealeau; grandchildren, Kevin Levine, Jessica (Peter) Levine, Brandon Doebbert, Olivia and Brielle Barnes; two great-grandchildren, Tyler and Evelyn Levine; longtime companion, Floyd Engelking; also by one brother, Alan (Carol) Kirchner, of Ashville, N.C., along with many friends and relatives with whom she kept in contact with.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established.

Karen’s family would like to take this opportunity to express a sincere and heartfelt thank you to the staff at Winona Health and St. Michael’s assisted living in Fountain City, especially to Dr. Joseph Koo and nurses Megan and Margaret. Also, Doug’s wife, Jody, for the exceptional and loving care given to her over the past few years. 

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 16, 2022, at 11 a.m. at the Talbot Family Funeral Home, Alma Chapel. Inurnment will follow at Waumandee Public Cemetery. A memorial gathering will be held from 10 a.m. until the hour of the service.  

David W. “Dave” Geffert, age 81, passed away peacefully November 11, 2021, at Sonrisas Assisted Living in Verona.

He was born to Clarence and Charlotte (Hilton) Geffert on May 23, 1940, in Madison, WI, but all his childhood memories were of growing up in Beaver Dam, WI where his family moved early in his life.

Dave loved being outdoors. He was active in Boy Scouts and became an Eagle Scout. He attended Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam for high school where he met the love of his life, Karen Minton. Dave and Karen were married for close to 57 years before Karen passed away in 2015. They raised their family of four children in the Madison area, with the majority of their years together spent in the treasured home they built in Fitchburg.

Dave was a hard worker who was absolutely devoted to caring for his wife and family. He worked at a number of jobs over the years with many years spent at Wick Homes, followed by another long-term position working at Famous Fixtures. He was a valued employee, but family was always most important to him.

Dave was happiest when taking care of his home or working in the yard. He greatly enjoyed looking at and walking in and nearby Dunn’s Marsh. He also loved music of all kinds, but especially jazz. He loved electronics and spent many hours building things from kits, including the family’s first color TV. He also loved reading, especially science fiction and adventure stories by favored author Edgar Rice Burroughs.

Dave had a great sense of humor and loved joking around. Although Alzheimer’s Disease changed him from the man we knew in his younger years, he always brought joy and dancing to the lives of those who knew him in his later years.

Dave will be greatly missed by those who survive him, children Kelly Olson, Lisa Geffert, Kris (Dave) Owens, Greg (Amber) Geffert; his grandchildren Nic Schwark, Stephanie Arnold, Kyle Owens, Alec Owens, Ryan Owens, and Alexandra Geffert; his great-grandchildren Eva, Silas, and Arlo Arnold, and Thora Schwark, sister-in-law Elizabeth Geffert, brother John, brother in-law Gerald Minton, and many nieces and nephews.

Tremendous thanks to the wonderful caregivers at Sonrisas in Verona where he spent his final months. He was truly cherished and thrived there. The ability for his family to share many hours with him in a family atmosphere during his last days was priceless. Thanks also to the superb folks from Agrace HospiceCare for their assistance in his care.

Per Dave’s wishes, no services will be held. A celebration of his life will be held in spring 2022, date not yet determined.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his name to the Alzheimer’s Association or to another charity of your choosing.

“You don’t choose your family. They are God’s gift to you, as you are to them.”

Desmond Tutu

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

Don J Kay, a beloved figure in the world of motorsports broadcasting, passed away on December 11, 2024, at the age of 85. He was born on October 14, 1939, in Cook County, Illinois, and later grew up in Lombard, Illinois. Don’s passion for sports began early in life, leading him to graduate from Wayland Academy in Wisconsin. He was not only a talented speed skater but also a skilled football player, contributing to his high school team’s state championship victory in 1958.

Don’s career spanned more than three decades as the host of the Auto Sports Radio Show. Don loved the program and spent hours planning and securing interviews. Over the years he made many friends among the drivers and owners.

He is survived by his partner of 37 years, Sharon Bates; his son, Bob Kay; his daughter, Shannon Bartley; bonus daughters, Kim, Emily, Dawn, Mary and Beth. As well as his siblings, Dennis Kay and Jean Kay. Additionally, Don leaves behind a loving family that includes 14 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, who will cherish his memory.

Preceding him in death are his parents, Fred and Thelma, along with his second mom Polly; his daughter Bridget; his brother Fred Kay Jr.; and his sister Ann. Each of these individuals played a significant role in his life, and their memories will forever be intertwined with his.

Christopher Collier Leslie, age 84, of Aloha, Oregon passed away on Tuesday, August 20, 2024

David Colden Searles, 82, of Harbor Springs, and Sanibel Island, Florida, died peacefully on December 17, 2022, in Denver, Colorado.

David was born on July 11, 1940, to Charles C. Searles and Evelyn (Jacobson) Searles in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. David and his siblings were raised in Wilmette, Illinois, and he graduated from Wayland Academy in Bear Lake, Wisconsin. David attended the University of Wisconsin, Madison, on an ROTC scholarship, graduating with a degree in Business. It was there he met his future wife, Karen Kenney. Following graduation, they married and moved to Ft. Knox, Kentucky, where he served for two years in the United States Army and started a family. Eventually relocating to Birmingham, Michigan, to pursue a career in banking, David worked for Michigan National Bank for many years. He extended his career in banking and commercial lending as the President of Franklin Savings Bank. In 1996 he and his family moved to Harbor Springs full time, where he finished his career at Old Kent Bank in Petoskey.

An avid tennis and squash player, David was a member of The Little Harbor Club, the Birmingham Athletic Club, and Beachview Tennis Club. He played every day that he could. Many will smile fondly, remembering Big Dave’s antics on the court and his fond appreciation of the sport.

Upon retirement, David and Karen spent their time in their two favorite places, Roaring Brook, and Sanibel Island, where he was very involved in both communities. Serving as president of and sitting on the Board of the Roaring Brook Association for years, he was often seen on the beach, in his white bucket hat, under an umbrella, getting the inside scoop from the community he served and loved. He also enjoyed collaborating with neighbors and friends around the pond on Sanibel to work and care for the island community.

Throughout his life he was active in various philanthropic activities. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Harbor Springs, volunteered as a mediator and small business advisor, worked as a census coordinator, and even pushed the book cart around at the hospital. David was an active member of St. Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church on Sanibel Island and volunteered for decades at their charity shop, Noah’s Ark.

A memorial celebration of his life will take place this summer in Harbor Springs. The family also plans to have a service at St. Michael & All Angels on Sanibel Island when his friends can gather safely again.

David is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Karen K. Searles; children, Jennifer Thomas (David) of Brisbane, Australia, Christopher C. Searles of Harbor Springs, Michigan, and Carrie Lambert (William) of Denver, Colorado; and 8 grandchildren: Marley, Maxwell (Kristiana), Grace, Mitchell, Matilda, Isabella, Colden and Esther.

Also surviving David are his sister, Sarah Grace (Larry) of Ann Arbor, Michigan, and brothers Stephen Searles (Connie) of Boise, Idaho, and Christopher Searles (Lora) of Scottsdale, Arizona. David is predeceased by his parents and younger brother Barry Searles.

Laura Fairbank Sudler passed away on Wednesday, August 18th at her home in Chicago at the age of 82 after a long battle with cancer. Born in Chicago, Laura was the second of six children of Kellogg Fairbank, Jr., an industrial Realtor, and June Fairbank Taylor, Founder of the Lincoln Park Zoo Society. Laura grew up in Chicago's Near North Side and spent her summers at "Butternuts," the family home on the shores of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin built in 1890.

Laura felt great pride in her family's deep Chicago roots. Laura's great-grandfather, N.K. Fairbank came to Chicago in 1855, and became a successful industrialist with companies that manufactured soap as well as animal and baking products. He was the original owner of the land that comprises Streeterville in downtown Chicago and engaged in a 20-year court battle to evict the legendary squatter, "Cap" George Streeter. N.K. founded many of the city's cultural institutions including The Chicago Club and the Commercial Club of Chicago, and was an original trustee of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Laura attended Francis W. Parker School, followed by the Baldwin School, Wayland Academy, and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. But a 1959 trip to Africa to collect mountain gorillas with Marlin Perkins, Director of the Lincoln Park Zoo and star of the television program, Zoo Parade, was the catalyst for her real education. Laura's African adventure sparked a lifelong passion for learning about others, culture, and community through traveling the world.

In 1961, she married William S. Ames and had three daughters. In 1969, she married Louis C. Sudler, Jr., a retired Navy Captain and partner in Sudler & Company, one of Chicago's largest and most prestigious real estate firms at the time. Together, they had a son. Also in real estate, Laura was a top luxury broker for more than 30 years.

Laura believed that it is our civic responsibility to actively support the organizations that make Chicago great. She served as President of the board of the Chicago Academy of Sciences (now the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum), SOS Children's Villages Illinois, and ARCS (Achievement Rewards for College Scientists), and tirelessly in leadership roles for several other organizations.

After retiring from real estate, Laura, along with her husband Louis, went into the travel business. Together, they led groups to unlikely destinations on every continent including Africa, India, Iran, Syria, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Bhutan, Nagaland, Antarctica, Papua New Guinea, New Caledonia, and Spitzbergen. They traveled the world so many times that their flight paths would wrap the globe like a ball of yarn. Their goal was to explore places that were out of the way, learning about unique cultures and people. While traveling, Laura collected original textiles, many of which were donated to the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum. Most importantly, they opened doors, changing the lives of the people they met, and the perspectives of the people who traveled with them. Always ready for adventure, she was planning her next family vacation right up until she died.

Laura led her extraordinary life with bravado and candor. She was colorful, outspoken, caring, principled, generous, and full of determination. She valued her friends and cherished her family. She loved deeply, was passionate about learning, and had a boundless commit to making a difference in the world. In recent years, she enjoyed spending time at their home in Colorado.

Laura is survived by her husband, Louis, as well as her children, Jennifer Ames Lazarre (Paul), Mary Ames Kivell (Tom), Nathalie E. Ames, and Stewart Zachariah "Zack" Sudler (Violet), her stepsons, John Sudler (Karolyn) and David Sudler (Sandra), and eight grandchildren: Chase, Emily, Laura, Griffin, Holden, William "Max," Alexander, Erik and a step grandson, Nathan.

 In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to an organization that is dear to her heart, SOS Children's Villages of Illinois at www.sosillinois.org/giving/donations.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Judith Congedo, of Corinth, Texas, on January 6th, 2023.

Judy was born in Chicago on August 29, 1941 to Elenor and Robert Fisher. After graduating from Wayland Academy in Wisconsin, Judy attended the University of Colorado. It is in Boulder where she met her husband Manny Congedo. They were married for 56 years before Manny passed away in 2018.
Judy is survived by her three children, Jennifer, Jill and her spouse Rodney, and Christopher and his spouse Kim. Along with her seven grandchildren; Jerry and his spouse Lisa, Matthew, Nathaniel and his spouse Kaylee, Ashley and her spouse Ryan, Emily, Zella, Vivian, and four great grandchildren; Madison, Haley, Juniper, Magnolia.

She really loved to quilt and sew. Judy made a number of quilts that are based on the seasons and nature themes. Many of which now decorate her children's and grandchildren's homes. After giving up on sewing clothes for her kids, Judy loved to sew Halloween costumes. Each year her grandchildren would ask for a costume and she would oblige. She made multiple themed dresses and all kinds of animal costumes, from bunnies and turtles to a skunk costume that her granddaughter asked for.
Judy also enjoyed reading, gardening, trying new restaurants, playing games, and visiting with friends and family. She put her love of reading to good use when she worked in the local school library for many years. Later in life she enjoyed recommending books and recipes. Some that she made and some she thought looked good from a cooking magazine she recently read. Starting in her early 50's, Judy began to struggle with mobility and muscle strength. It slowly worsened to the point that she spent most of the last decade in a motorized wheelchair. Even with her physical limitations, Judy was a strong woman who never complained and didn't like it when her family did either. Her friends describe her as always being upbeat, friendly, and having an infectious smile. We will miss her indelible will and generosity of spirit.

She and her brother Bob, suffered from Mitochondrial Disease. A little known condition that can manifest in many different ways. 

Waupaca - Once you have tasted flight, you will walk the earth with your eyes towards the sky. January 9th, 1941, Fred was born. His life would prove to be extraordinary. He was the youngest of four children born to Russell C. Flom and Lois Trossen Flom. He was adored by his teenage siblings Dick, Betty, and Jerry. The family lived on Park Street across from Smith Park in Menasha,WI. As a young boy it was obvious that sports would be a huge part of Fred's life. His lifelong love of tennis began on the courts in Smith Park. Friendships were born that lasted a lifetime.

As time went on, it was decided Wayland Academy was in the best interest of the family. Fred spent his high school years being a reluctant student, an avid sportsman, and with an eye on the sky. He knew from a young age he had the "need for speed" and dreamt of becoming a pilot.

Summers were spent on the Chain O' Lakes as his parents had a cottage constructed on Rainbow Lake when Fred was a child. This was probably when his reputation as a Maverik began. His mischief was harmless, but no question he was a rule breaker.

College took him to Lawrence University where he lettered in four sports, but more importantly where he joined the ROTC and continued to follow his dreams. Upon graduation the U.S. Air Force beckoned and he was on his way.

He married his college sweetheart, Ginny McKee, and they were off to a life with the Air Force. He was no longer a rule breaker, but a proud Air Force fighter pilot. A beautiful little girl, Julie, came along and all was right with the world.

He was sent to Takhli Air Force Base in Thailand where he flew eighty-six combat missions before his life changed dramatically. On August 8th, 1966, his F-105 Thunder Chief was hit. He was forced to eject and was captured immediately. After Six and a half years as a POW in Vietnam, thousands of people gathered in Appleton, Wisconsin to welcome him home. Upon his return he met his adorable son Erik for the first time, who was born the month after he was shot down.

Fred never wanted this experience to define him, of course friends and acquaintances often could not comprehend how it could not. It is called being a patriot, choosing honor and duty over self. It is being given the ultimate test and passing with flying colors because you stared death in the face and walked away. The best revenge is having a wonderful life. He used to say "I've had the best life… Well, except for maybe those seven years".

To most people the sky is the limit, to those who love flying the sky is home. Fred decided a full time Air Force career was a hardship on his family so he satisfied his flying dreams through the Wisconsin Air National Guard and eventually flying his beloved F-105 and later the F-4 at Carswell Air Force Base in Texas. He had a twenty five year career as a commercial pilot with American Airlines and was able to continue flying fighters with the Air Force until he was almost 50. Life continued to challenge Fred during his early years in Texas. He lost his wife Ginny in a car accident in 1981 and his son Erik who was on a trip to Thailand in 1996.

On January 1st, 1986 he married Kay Fleck with whom he shared thirty five years of adventure. Their relationship was defined by "Don't ever let any day be ordinary". Fred was as at home in a neighborhood bar as he was on the Orient Express. He was as cool in his Pantera as he was in his twenty-two year old pick up. This Wisconsin boy developed an affinity for cowboy boots, concerts, and the Dallas Cowboys, but always kept the Green Bay Packers dear to his heart.

In August of 1997 his family grew by one when his daughter Julie married John Pereira in what Fred turned into a military dining out in all its glory. Soon afterwards, Fred welcomed in his three grandchildren, Kodiak, Maxwell, and Quinn. As his grandsons say… The coolest Grandpa was created.

In retirement his flying dreams had been fulfilled and after years of remodeling his Texas home on Manning Lane, he and Kay set out to remodel a 100 year old cottage on Round Lake in Wisconsin. He was not a trained builder, but during his time as a POW he spent countless hours building structures in his imagination. Camp Flom was born.

This man was a warrior, a patriot, a family man and a friend who embodied the best. He had been to Hell and back, but was never bitter. He had a zest for life and was always able to see past differences in search of common ground. He knew that we all need to commit to something bigger than ourselves. He never treated anyone differently because of race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. Fred hoped we would all learn from our mistakes and realize that the war we need to be fighting is the one right here in the United States… our divided nation, our dislike of those different from ourselves. "All men and women are created equally".

Fred returned with honor. He believed you do what is right, even if you are flying solo. On June 23rd, 2021 the world lost a beautiful soul. A soul that had an enormous impact. A soul that is loved and admired by many. Fred, "Everything's waiting for you".

Nancy Haimbaugh, 81, passed away peacefully at her home in Palatine, Illinois on July 1, 2022. She was surrounded by family and friends.

Nancy was born March 3, 1941 in River Forest, Illinois to Harold and Ruth Rowe. She was the youngest of three children. Nancy attended school in River Forest and Wayland Academy for high school, graduating in 1959. In 1974 she received a degree in education from Northern Illinois University.

Nancy was a dedicated mother, community volunteer, teacher, mentor and entrepreneur. As president of her own professional recruitment firm, The Search Consulting Group, Nancy cultivated life-long professional and personal friendships. She was a member of Rotary of Chicago where she held leadership positions at a time when few women rose to that level of involvement. She was instrumental in organizing many of their charity fund raising events for children with disabilities.

During her retirement years, Nancy split her time between Palatine and Sedona, Arizona. She loved the bustle of the Chicago area and spending time with her son, Ron and grandson, Nathan. She also enjoyed the peaceful solitude and vistas of the high desert of Arizona and the many friends that she made in Sedona. Her love of travel took her all over the world, but her trip to Africa was particularly meaningful and led to her passion for elephants.

Nancy is survived by her son Ron Haimbaugh, her grandson, Nathan Haimbaugh and many nieces and nephews. She was greeted in heaven by her son, Brad, her parents, her brother, Harold Rowe, Jr and sister, Lois Petre. Nancy was blessed to have an extensive network of friends all over the country that will miss her dearly.

JUNEAU — Dodge County Supervisor MaryAnn Miller of Beaver Dam, who served since 2006, died this past weekend.

Miller died Saturday morning, but no further information was made available.

Dodge County Clerk Karen Gibson said Miller was her friend.

“MaryAnn also called to talk with me quite often, not as the county clerk, but as her friend and I will miss her,” Gibson said Monday. “Her service on the county board meant a lot to her and she always served her constituents as best as she could.”

Dodge County Board Chairman Russell Kottke said Miller was a “good board member” and “served her constituents well.”

Dodge County Sheriff Dale Schmidt said Miller was a friend not only to him, but to all law enforcement. “She always had the best interest of the citizens she served in mind, and was very calculated in her decisions,” Schmidt said. “I will personally miss MaryAnn as she was not only a co-worker, but a valued and trusted friend. I am honored and blessed to have been able to be part of her life and I can honestly say that she will not soon be forgotten.”

Schmidt said he has already begun making the arrangements for an angel to be placed in Miller’s memory at the 2021 Rotary Lights Christmas light display to remind everyone she is there looking after them from heaven.

At the time of her death, Miller was serving on serval committees, including audit, commission on aging and disability services, health facilities and library planning. She also spent time on the judicial and public protection committee where she worked with Schmidt.

Mary Edith Koch Barclay of Severna Park passed away peacefully in her home on March 5, 2023. Mary was born to Carl Nelson Koch and Marjorie (nee Autrey Koch) on May 10, 1942, in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, and attended Wayland Academy. Mary spent her summers water skiing and boating at her family lake cottage in nearby Green Lake, and she worked for the local newspaper there. Good at all sports, Mary began as the catcher for her grade school baseball team. She played varsity field hockey and basketball at Wayland. In 1964, Mary graduated from Miami University of Ohio with a degree in English and French. After college, she went to Paris where she studied at The Sorbonne and travelled in Europe. Mary then lived in New York City where she taught high school French and met her husband Charles B. Barclay Jr. there. Mary and Charlie were married in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin in August, 1966. They moved to Annapolis, Maryland where their wonderful daughter, Anne, was born in May, 1968 and finally settled in Severna Park, and Mary earned her Masters Degree in Library Science at The University of Maryland. She became the research librarian in Severna Park where she delighted audiences on Saturdays with a Children's Story Hour. Mary was co-founder of Community Talent Associates that brought performing artists into the area grade schools for the students. In 1978, Mary earned her Real Estate License and, with her research capabilities and pleasant personality was very successful. Mary was a charter member of the P.E.O. Chapter R, and she enjoyed over 50 years of friendship and philanthropy with her sisters and their families in Severna Park. A member of Woods Church, she always brought Anne to the monthly music programs. Her daughter attended Severn School. Mary was very active in the school community where she built many great friendships. Well-coordinated and strong, Mary enjoyed sports and played tennis with friends here and at The Little Egg Harbor Yacht Club (LEHYC) in Beach Haven, New Jersey. Mary, Charlie and Anne have spent their summers at their family cottage in Beach Haven. Mary loved to read and was a leader in several book clubs here and at LEHYC. She was also in the Art Club there, making beautiful watercolor and oil paintings. Other hobbies included playing the piano, bridge, knitting and cooking, often gourmet, and used family recipes from her mother and Grandmother, and from Julia Child. Mary was truly good at everything she did, very bright and talented, and her family could always rely on her good judgement. Mary and Charlie enjoyed travel together with many memorable trips both here and abroad. She used her research skills to prepare for their trips. With her wonderful personality, Mary has made many good friends. She was truly a joy to everyone.

Mary is survived by her devoted husband, Charles Brunner Barclay, of 57 years; daughter, Anne Brooks Barclay Perry (Wesley Scott Perry) of Kensington MD, and two grandchildren, William and Wesley; and by her sister, Kathryn Elizabeth Koch Kremer (Michael G. Kremer) of Middleton, WI. Mary is predeceased by her brother, Thomas Autrey Koch of Chatham, NJ, and by her parents, Marjorie Louise Autrey Koch and Carl Nelson Koch. A Memorial Service will be celebrated on Saturday, April 15 at 11:30 am, Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church, Severna Park, MD 21146, with a reception to follow.

Paul John Cromheecke, 80, died peacefully in his Sawyer home with a loved one by his side, on Nov. 22, 2022.

He was born in Columbus, Wis., the second son of Catherine and Maynard Cromheecke. He grew up in Beaver Dam with his three brothers and sister who remain close today, as do the cousins and grandchildren. Coming from humble means, he attended Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam on scholarship due to his football and wrestling skills. This led him to Lawrence University in Appleton, Wis., to gain his college degree in economics and several athletic awards.

He met Barbara Egekvist at Lawrence and they married shortly after graduation. He was a career steel salesman, first in Detroit, then settling in Hinsdale, Ill., where they raised Todd and Kristie.

Upon retirement in 2007, he moved to Sawyer full time to pursue his passions of golf and football with Linda Anderson, who was with him when he passed away. His home course was Chikaming Country Club where he made many friends, specialized in banter, and won more than a few tournaments over the years.

As a former player, football season was a highlight of the year. Born, bred, reared and geared a Packer fan, he could be insufferable given the Favre/Rodgers era success vs. the Bears. He always sported hats, including the infamous straw hat with Packers logo. If not the Packers, he rooted for college teams ... Wisconsin, Michigan, Notre Dame ... based on who was having the most success.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents: Maynard and Catherine; brother, Jerome, and daughter, Kristie Comheecke Palo.

Paul is survived by his son, Todd; brothers: Richard and Wayne Cromheecke, as well as his sister, Karen Pakulski. Paul was a favorite of many nieces and nephews in the family, and was beloved by his nine grandchildren.

Carol Geisler Lehmann, 82, peacefully returned to our heavenly father October 12, 2024.

Loving wife to Joseph H. Lehmann III and mother to Joe, Dan, and Tom Lehmann, Carol was born in Washington, D.C., to Carl and Marjorie Geisler. She grew up in Neenah, Wisconsin, and later attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In Chicago, she met her husband, Joe Lehmann, and began their family.

Carol was a compassionate soul known for her unwavering support of the church, family, and community. She found joy in the outdoors/garden, tennis, golf, art, music, and spending time with loved ones. Her kindness and love for all people made the world a better place.

Carol is survived by her husband, Joseph Lehmann; her sons, Joe and Tom Lehmann; her grandchildren, Henry, Jack, James, and Mary Lehmann; and her brother, Charles Geisler.

I have thought about this for some time, it gives me peace of mind and quality time to think back on what really mattered. What mattered: The birth of my two children, Timothy James Meyer (wife, Latha and granddaughter, Hali) and Elizabeth Briand Angiuli (husband, Tony and grandchildren, Mikelle and Marcus).

I was born on Dec. 23, 1941, to “Betty” Morainville Johnson Oaks and Claude Johnson. My great-grandparents were Gertrude and Augustus Spies. I moved to Oshkosh in the late 40s where I later graduated from Wayland Academy and attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

I worked for over 60 years beginning as a camp counselor and ending as the manager of Programs and Membership at the Marinette-Menominee Area Chamber of Commerce. I LOVE (loved) Menominee and returned to my hometown in 2009 from the Seattle area.

I cannot forget my lifelong devoted friend, Kae, who is still with me in spirit. We have 70 years of friendship. I am honored to have had several other women friends that I call “sisters.” Vicki and Pat, I love you! I am so thankful for their friendship. I also have two half-sisters in the area, Claudia Schoener and Johanna Lewis. It has been heartfelt knowing them as adults. I have two half-brothers, Ken and Tom Oaks, who live out of the area.

Aristotle and Sophia — my beautiful dogs. You will be taken care of by your loving and treasured “foster parents,” Tricia and Ben. Without you, my life would have been void of white hair on everything.

I will find my final resting place in the Spies plot at the foot of my grandmother’s grave, Elizabeth Spies Morainville, next to my grandfather, Victor Morainville. And, Daddy you are not far away in the Henes plot. I wish I had more time knowing you. I have lived and loved, cried and laughed, and now I find some eternal peace. If you knew me, I hope this made you smile!

Carole Wenaas died peacefully at home with most of her family around her in Milton, GA on Wednesday, 12/14/22 just 2 days before her 81^st birthday. Carole, was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin on December 16, 1941, to Val (Nana) and Ade (Pappy) Ritter.  Carole was predeceased by her parents and brother Gene Ritter. Left to cherish her memory are her two children, Scott and his wife Susan, and their four children, David, Elizabeth, Emma and Jonathon; Mike and his wife Heidi and their two children, Ben and Ally; her sister Virginia O’block, her brother Bob Ritter, her niece Kim Arrants, other nephews and nieces, and her close brother and sister-in-law’s, Eric and Karen Wenaas, and John and Christine Wenaas.

Her family moved several times in Carole’s childhood before settling in Fond du Lac, WI where her father owned and operated the Lamartine Creamery.  Carole attended Wayland Academy, a private high school in Beaver Dam, WI.  She went on to attend Purdue University and graduated with a major in English.  She became a member of Pi Beta Phi sorority and was selected to be a rush chairman and a pledge trainer. She graduated in 1964 and accepted a teaching position as a Sophomore English teacher at Haverford High school outside of Philadelphia. She lived there with one of her close sorority sisters.

While a freshman at Purdue, she met David Wenaas, a Junior and Civil Engineering major.  Five years later upon discharge from the Army Corps of Engineers in Germany, David and Carole were married on June 26, 1965.  They moved to Middletown, Ohio and she continued teaching high school English with her best friend until their first son, Scott, was born in 1969.  Her second son, Michael was born in 1971. 

David was transferred to Boston in 1973 for a sales position, and she began playing tennis with women who became lifetime friends.  This love for the sport enabled her to teach both of her boys how to play.  Furthermore, she became an avid skier which resulted in a wonderful family activity along with tennis.  Carole provided a close family tradition of having dinners together as a family since she was an excellent cook. While living in Sudbury she lost her older brother Gene, a Pan Am copilot, in a tragic cargo plane crash at Logan Airport due to a fire caused by incorrect packaging of cargo.  She also lost her best friend and next door neighbor who had two girls the age of her boys.

In 1977 Carole, David and their boys moved again to beautiful Denver, CO. Always adventuresome, she flew out by herself to find a new home which was one under construction in Green Oaks neighborhood; she then supervised all the painting and finish work from Boston.  In addition to continued skiing and tennis, she played bridge, and was a volunteer for several charitable organizations including the Carrousel Ball fund raiser for children’s diabetes. Wherever Carole called “home,” she attracted many friends and Denver was no different. Many lifelong friends were made during their years in Colorado.

In 1995, she enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to live in Tokyo, Japan for two years to be with David in his assignment to complete a cable TV joint venture with Sumitomo cable TV; she had many interesting experiences that were not to be found in Denver.

David was fortunate to be able to take early retirement, so they decided to move to Williamsburg, VA to be close to Scott and Susan and their first two grandchildren. She had many friends and wonderful experiences in Governors Land which included the Two Rivers Golf Club and Marina. She was a member of the “Gang Plank” which was a partnership of six couples who owned a pontoon boat. They enjoyed many boating adventures on the James River.  Carole and David lived in Governor’s Land for 22 years.

In 2020, Carole was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and at the gentle insistence of Scott and Susan she moved with her beloved David to Milton, GA. in July, 2021. 

Kenneth Lowry Black, 80, of Washington, IL died on August 22, 2023 at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home under the gentle care of his family and the OSF hospice team.

He was born in Peoria in 1942 to Kenneth W. and Edith Lowry Black and lived most of his life in Washington.
At Washington Community High School he was an outstanding athlete, lettering in football, basketball, and baseball. In whatever sport he took on, he excelled, with golf becoming his primary focus after school. In addition to his athletic prowess, Ken was an avid outdoorsman with a love and respect for nature. Fishing, hunting, and working with hunting dogs became his lifelong avocations. He became a highly successful dog trainer/handler, winning dozens of national and regional shooting dog amateur championships.
Along with his active life in the outdoors, he was an enthusiastic reader, fully engaging his mind in new ideas and considerations of human nature.

Following his graduation from Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, he attended Florida State University on a basketball scholarship, then transferred to Bradley University, where he was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity. He graduated in 1966.

Knowing the military draft was on the near horizon, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. In 1968 he was deployed to Viet Nam as a Second Lieutenant and served at Khe Sanh. Despite his antipathy to that war, he never entertained "draft dodger" mentality, duty bound to honor his commitment. Unfortunately, his exposure to Agent Orange would be a causative factor in his demise. Perhaps with some atonement on the part of the USMC, he was next stationed at Camp Pendleton where he played basketball for the Marines in the California sunshine.

Upon his return to civilian life, he obtained a law degree from the University of Louisville School of Law in 1974, then joined his father in the family firm, Black and Black. He remained in law practice with his father and later two nephews, Robert W. Brown, Jr. and David A. Brown for over 45 years, with the firm becoming Black Black and Brown. Over 30 of those years included serving as the City Attorney for the City of Washington. He was admitted to practice in the Illinois Supreme Court, U.S. District Court, and U.S. Supreme Court. In 2001 the Tazewell County Bar Association honored him with their Volunteer of the Year Award for his generous pro bono work. As an attorney, Ken aspired to the highest ideals of the law and remained loyal to that intent for all his professional life. Honesty and devotion in representing his clients was a constant in his life.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Coulter, his son, Travis Black, and his best bird dog, Crow Creek Sugarbaby. Also surviving are his brother, Bruce Black (Patricia Bass), a large extended family of nephews, nieces, and cousins, his former wife, Paula Prutsman, Carolyn's step-daughter, Kris Uhler, and more friends than most people can ever dream of. His parents predeceased him as well as his sister, Barbara Brown.

MERCER, Wis. - Joan Bishop Borcherdt, 80, a longtime resident of Mercer, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Monday, Feb. 20, 2023, at Westgate Nursing Home in Ironwood, Michigan.

Joan was born in Highland Park, Illinois. She was a 1961 graduate of Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, and earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education in 1965 from the University of Arizona. She taught fifth grade for several years in Chappaqua, New York, before she met the love of her life, Douglas Pegg Borcherdt, whom she married in 1977.

She poured her heart and soul into restoring the Historic Ironwood Theatre, serving on its board for decades. Joan enjoyed travel, reading and entertaining.

Joan is survived by her husband, Doug; and beloved nieces, grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

A celebration of her life will take place at a later date.

David was born on April 6, 1943 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Vernon and Adele Erbstoeszer. His childhood was spent in Milwaukee and then various lakes in Lake Country including Oconomowoc Lake and Nashotah Lake. He graduated from Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin a boarding high school. Then he moved to Northfield, Minnesota where he attended Carleton College. He then went on to join the U.S. Navy where he was stationed in Great Lakes, Illinois and Norfolk, Virginia. During his time in the U.S. Navy he worked on electronic equipment and spent all of his time on ships in the Mediterranean Sea. After his time in the U.S. Navy, David moved to Madison, Wisconsin where he finished his studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He obtained a degree in Liberal Arts and European History. Later in life, he attended the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee where he studied Economics. David worked many years as a computer programmer at Quad Graphics by day and professor by night. His enthusiasm for teaching lead him to obtain his Masters degree in Information Systems and Management at the University of Phoenix. He then worked as a full time professor at Milwaukee Area Technical College. David also designed software for many years at various companies.

David had a love for music. During his early adult years, he would sing and play his guitar at various nightclubs in Madison. Once he was married and had children, he was very involved in his church choir. He also sang and played his guitar at two of his daughters weddings. David was also very involved with the American Legion, post 71 in Pewaukee, Wisconsin. His family has many memories of watching him march in the local parades. David had a love for boating which lead him to Pewaukee Lake where he raised his family. Once his children moved out, he and Karen moved down to the third ward in Milwaukee where they kept boats on the Milwaukee River and Mckinley Marina. He was a long time member of The South Shore Yacht Club, Milwaukee Harbor Yacht Club and Milwaukee Athletic Club. David and Karen enjoyed many boating trips exploring the Great Lakes.

David and Karen were married on September 14, 1985. David is survived by his loving wife, Karen Erbstoeszer, his children Tiffany (James) Gaumond, Kelly (Lawrence) Davis, Jessi Thomas, and David Erbstoeszer II. He is also survived by his granddaughters Abbie and Allie Thomas, Cassidy and Elayna Davis, and Olive Phetteplace. David is proceeded in death by his daughter, Lora Erbstoeszer and both of his parents, Vernon and Adele Erbstoeszer.

Robert J. “Bob” Kratz, Sr. age 79 of Fox Lake, died unexpectedly at his home on Friday, Sept. 23, 2022.

Bob was born in Fond du Lac on Feb. 1, 1943 the son of Orville F. and Helen (Kahler) Kratz. He attended Fox Lake Publics Schools and was a 1961 graduate of Fox Lake High School. He attended Milton College, did mortuary apprenticeship in Janesville; and attended the Wisconsin Institute of Mortuary Science in Milwaukee. Bob was united in marriage to MaryAnn D. Casey on Dec. 28, 1963 at St. Mary’s Church (Annunciation) in Fox Lake.

Following college, Bob moved his family to Ripon where he was employed for four years with Speed Queen working in the Personnel Department. In 1971, the family moved to Marshfield where he was employed by Rembs-Kundinger Funeral Home. Bob worked hard with long days and nights but managed to find time to be active with the local Jaycees and Jaycettes and the local Boy Scout program.

Early 1978, Bob and MaryAnn moved back to their home town when Bob took over the family business from his father Orville F. Kratz. Bob and MaryAnn continued to be active with the local Jaycees and Jaycettes and Bob with the local Boy Scouts while his sons were young. Being a people person, Bob joined and volunteered for many organizations such as Fox Lake Chamber of Commerce, City of Fox Lake Redevelopment Authority, Fox Lake Kiwanis, and Fox Lake Property Owners. Bob was united in marriage to Ellen M. Walker-White on March 18, 2000 in Jamaica.

In his later years, he became a charter member of the Fox Lake Lions Club where he loved to hold brat fry’s, do community projects and to volunteer at Wisconsin Lions Camp. Bob held various positions with the Lions Club outside the local group, including district chairman, and received the Wisconsin Birch-Strum Award, the highest award given to honor those who exemplify undying dedication and commitment to Lionism. In his free time, Bob enjoyed hunting, fishing, bowling, collecting sports memorabilia of the Packers, Badgers and NASCAR, going out to eat, hence his nickname “be right back Bob” and having a night cap at local establishments.

Many will remember him for his quick wit, a good joke but also as a caring man helping others in need. Bob will be sadly missed and mourned by his children, Lori McConochie (John Sharp) of Cambria, Robert “Rob” Kratz, Jr (Cindy Hulen) of Delafield and Steve Kratz (fiancé, Gabie Goral) of Chilton; his grandchildren, Chandra Solis (TJ Lazewski), Deidra (Jon) Pahl, Alexandra (Brad) Grage, Chandler and Mylie Kratz, Ian Diels and Karissa (Eugene) Rataczak; his great grandchildren, Brennon Engle (Isabella Hartl), Nicholas Pahl, Kyle and Brooklyn Grage, Karlee, Christopher and Cassie Jo Kratz; one great great granddaughter, Rosetta Marie Engle; one brother, Richard (Joan) Kratz of Stoughton; cousin, Marion Kratz of DePere; his ex-wiives and friends, MaryAnn D. Casey of Fox Lake and Ellen Walker-Kratz of Beaver Dam; and Ellen's daughter, Chelsea White (Camren Pearce); nieces, nephews other relatives and many dear friends. Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Rita Schram; son-in-law Nicholas J. McConochie; granddaughter in infancy, Zoey Kratz; cousin, Donald Kratz and his best friend Wayne Walker.

Nancy V. Robinson, nee Ferguson, 78, passed away September 28, 2021 at her home in Glenview with her son, Eric N. Robinson, and daughter-in-law, Jennifer L. Harder, at her side.

She was a devoted mother of Eric (Jennifer) (Sacramento, CA) and grandmother of Henry (Sacramento) and Leigh Robinson (Los Angeles). Nancy dedicated her life to rearing her son and to 32 years of public school teaching in East Main Township District 63.

Nancy grew up at 6557 N. Tahoma Avenue in the Edgebrook neighborhood on Chicago's North Side.

After graduating in 1961 from Wayland Academy high school in Beaver Dam, Wis., Nancy attended Western Michigan University, earned a B.A. in 1965 from the University of Colorado at Boulder, and later earned a Master's Degree from National College of Education in Evanston.

She married Dennis Robinson (Buffalo, NY) in 1965 and was divorced in 1975. Meanwhile, Nancy started teaching at Woodrow Wilson Elementary School in 1969 and taught fourth grade at Washington Elementary School in Glenview for most of her career, retiring in 2001.

Nancy shared her enthusiasm for life-long learning, travel, sports, and outdoor adventures with her family, students, and many beloved friends. She traveled the world, hiked and camped the Rocky Mountains, skied Sierra Nevada powder at the age of 70, played tennis and golf, biked Chicago's lakefront and the Botanical Gardens with her friends, enjoyed the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, opera, ballet, and theater productions large and small.

Nancy's zeal for life was fierce, particularly as she battled with Parkinson's disease over the last three years.

Nancy was preceded in death by her brother, James Ferguson (Sandra) (Woodstock), and by her mother and father, Margaret and Burton Ferguson (Edgebrook). She is survived by her son (Eric `85), daughter-in-law, two grandchildren, and nieces, Krista Ferguson (Tuscson) and Lori Nitzsche (Richard) (Westchester) (Rachel, Conlan, Ethan).
 

Hugh Armor Ward, a loving and gentle man, was graciously called home on Aug. 27, 2012. Born to Gilfry and Elizabeth Ward, Dec. 20, 1942 in Oakland, CA, he resided in Glencoe and Northfield, IL most of his life. He was educated at Wayland Academy, Cardigan Mountain School and Parsons College. He retired after 40 years with the Daniel Woodhead Company. He enjoyed stamp collecting, reading and writing science fiction, all kinds of puzzles, bear jokes, Chicago Cubs, golf, bowling, curling, and extensive world travel. The joy of his life was his family. He was preceded in death by his brother, Alfred G. Ward. Survived by his sister, Nancy Ward Billeter (Spokane, WA); sister-in-law Joanie Ward Chandler (Hinsdale, IL); cherished nieces and nephew; and 17 great nieces and nephews. Interment at Christ Church Chapel, Winnetka. Memorials to Alzheimer's Association or your charity of choice.

Joan Godshall Dudley, age 78, passed away on December 16, 2022 in Ferndale, WA. Joan was born in Philadelphia, PA on June 10, 1944 to parents Henry and Mary (Klopp) Godshall. She graduated from Wayland Academy in 1962 and went on to earn her bachelor's degree in Government from Cornell University and her master's degree from Columbia Teachers College.

She began her career as an educator, with an emphasis on disadvantaged youth. After graduating from Cornell, Joan taught English in Brazil and Honduras in the late 1960's. Upon returning from Latin America, Joan returned to school to complete her Master's in Education & Latin American Studies. Building upon her teaching credentials, Joan taught inner-city youth in New York City in the early 1970's.
In the mid-1970's she moved to Bellingham and began work as an Administrator at Blue Canyon Foundation - later renamed Lake Whatcom Residential & Treatment Center, where she remained until her retirement in 2004.

Joan was a prolific crafter. Weaving, quilting, spinning, knitting, and beading were among her favorite crafts, and one of the primary avenues for her many friendships. The other was her involvement in the lives and activities of her two boys; from organizing playgroups to heading up the PTA to hitting the road for soccer tournaments or track meets. She was always a friendly presence and often found or made friends in the stands with a tin full of cookies and a smile. She was always generous in her support of her kids' interests.
Joan had the good fortune to be cared for by Annetta Lee and her staff at Lee Manor Adult Family Home over the final five years of her life, as Alzheimer's disease eroded her previously formidable abilities.
Joan was preceded in death by her parents Henry and Mary Godshall and her brother, Jonathan Godshall. She is survived by her sister Jamie Godshall and brother in-law David Gerry; sister in-law Nancy Godshall; her two sons Eric and Justin Dudley along with their wives Amber Larsen and Heidi Dudley, and three grandchildren Charlotte, Landon and Tucker; and former husband Rick Dudley.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00am on Friday, January 13, at Westford Funeral Home in Bellingham, with reception following. The family invites any attendees at the service that have a piece of clothing made by Joan (scarf, hat, jewelry, beading, etc), to please wear it to her service in her honor.

David Gilbert Linville of Naples, Florida and Lake Bluff, Illinois died peacefully in his Illinois home on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, his 81st birthday.

David was born to Mary Edith Snyder and Gilbert Winston Linville on May 22, 1943 in Danville, Illinois. He was graduated from Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin and the University of Miami in Florida where he was a member of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity.

After completing Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company's Flying Squadron Executive Training Program in Akron, Ohio, David moved to Los Angeles to head the Goodyear Labor Relations Department. There were violent strikes at the time and at one point, he had to escape through a hotel window to get away.

He was hired into the oil business by Dave Gustafson and that changed the direction of his life. While at Gustafson Oil, David was involved in all aspects of the business including drilling, sales and marketing, and transportation. He started his own bunkering business in 1993, Dolphin Marine Fuels, Inc. with his office in Dana Point, California. He sold fuel to all types of ocean-going ships and had customers around the world. David enjoyed attending bunkering business gatherings, through which he made many lasting friendships.

David was an avid reader with great knowledge and interest in history as well as current events. With several notable ancestors from colonial times, membership in The National Society of the Colonial Wars in the State of Illinois was a natural fit. David really enjoyed the work of the "Warriors". He was the SCW-IL Governor of Illinois from 2010-2012 and served on numerous National Committees. David and Barbara attended events in Palm Beach, Charleston, Boston, Bermuda, Washington, D.C. and more. David enjoyed the elegance and traditions!

For nearly twenty years, David served on the Board of Directors of EurAuPair. He was on the Executive Committee and was the Secretary of the Corporation.

Golf was a passion for David and he was proud to be a member of Shoreacres in Lake Bluff, IL and Royal Poinciana Golf Club in Naples, Florida. Travels for golf took him to England, Scotland, Spain, and many noteworthy courses in the United States.

David enjoyed traveling to Europe, particularly when seeing friends. He will be remembered for his kindness and warmth, his loyalty to friends, and his devotion to his immediate and extended family.

David Linville is survived by his wife of 31 years, Barbara, and children (spouse) Kimberley Barna (Paul) of Meridian, Idaho, Kelly Tsuda of San Jose, CA, Jon Linville (Debby) of New Port Ritchie, FL and Thomas (Sunni) of Sanford, FL and stepdaughters Elizabeth Gatewood (Dan McGuire) of Oakland, CA and Catherine Gatewood of Naples, Florida. He is survived by two sisters, Julia Linville and Barbara Curtis as well as ten grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

A Memorial Service being held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 30, 2024 at the First Presbyterian Church of Lake Forest, 700 N. Sheridan Road, Lake Forest, Illinois. The service will be livestreamed at https://firstchurchlf.online.church/
Interment will be private.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Lake Forest or The Society of Colonial Wars in the State of Illinois (SCW-IL) c/o Mary Carter; 47 West Division Street, #368; Chicago, IL 60610.

Baxter, Lewis Daniel 75, of Savannah, GA, passed away peacefully February 3, 2021. Lew was born May 13, 1945 in Minneapolis, MN to John and Mary (Eaton) Baxter. After graduating from Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, he entered Macalester College, majoring in Classics, graduating in 1967. After leaving Macalester, Lew joined the Air Force and as a pilot served in Vietnam. Returning home, he continued to serve in Wichita, Kansas, and in Washington, D.C., at the Pentagon, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. In Tampa, he proudly worked for United States Central Command and Special Operations Command. He then relocated to the city of Savannah, Georgia, working for nonprofit organizations, and he retired there. Lew was a loving husband, father, brother, and friend, a generous and loyal companion. He was proud of his service to his country and loved to tell stories about his years as a pilot and budget analyst in the Pentagon. He had many hobbies and interests, including travel and history, geology, coin collections, movies, and politics. He will be interred in Arlington National Cemetery. He is survived by Candy Baxter; his son, John Thayer Baxter; and his brother, Charles Baxter. 

Victor S. Falk, Ill passed away peacefully on February 9th, 2021 after a two-year battle with cancer. Linda, Vic's wife of forty-nine years, was by his side until the very end.

To know Vic was to love him. A gentleman in the truest sense of the word, he was humbly brilliant, quietly confident, soft-spoken and incredibly sweet. He had a subtle, dry sense of humor and an unforgettable, contagious laugh.

Born on March 20, 1945, to Dr. Victor and Marjorie Falk, Vic grew up on a farm in the small town of Edgerton, Wisconsin. At age thirteen Vic studied for a year at Institut Dr. Schmidt in Lausanne, Switzerland. He attended high school at Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, and upon graduation, he matriculated at Princeton University. Vic's four years at Princeton were interrupted by a stint in the U.S. Army, being honorably discharged with the rank of ES (Sergeant). Following graduation from Princeton, Vic married Linda (Spooner) and they moved to Madison, Wisconsin where he attended the University of Wisconsin Law School. Upon receiving his law degree, Vic and Linda moved to Miami, Florida and he earned a Master's in Tax Law from the University of Miami.

Vic and Linda settled in Miami and he began his career at Wometco Enterprises, a large media company with diversified holdings. He worked in the company's legal department for many years and eventually became General Counsel. During the last eight years of his career, Vic served as Vice President of Wometco Cable Corporation and retired in 1994.

After living in Miami for twenty-four years and raising their family there, Vic and Linda moved to the Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, Florida in 1997. They are also members of Card Sound Golf Club and Key Largo Anglers Club. Vic served on the board of the Ocean Reef Rod and Gun Club for many years and received the club's Sportsman of the Year Award in 2018. Vic and Linda split their time between Ocean Reef and their beloved log cabin in Wisconsin. Vic was a lifelong sportsman with passions for skiing, waterfowl and upland bird hunting, fishing, and playing golf. In his teens he was not only a three-time Wisconsin state waterskiing champion but also a competitive tennis player. Vic's love of the outdoors took him on many adventures—marlin fishing in the Bahamas, downhill skiing in the West and in Europe, and salmon fly fishing in Canada, to name a few. In later years his favorite pastime was grouse and woodcock hunting with his English setters in the woods of Northern Wisconsin.

Vic is survived by his wife Linda, son Christian (Morgan), daughter Megan Burley, brothers Tom and Fred, and grandchildren Beckett, Finn, Thad, Dexter, Reeve, and Wallis.

Beverly, or Bev, taught at Wayland Academy for 25 years and was a parent to three Wayland alumni (Bonnie `70, Steven `73, and David `79). In her tenure at the school, she and her students won state and national awards each year for their creative talents. She was honored with a special award from the National Art Education Association, the Wisconsin Art Supervisor, and the Wisconsin Art Education Supervisor for providing a climate of exemplary support for a balanced curriculum and the arts in education. She traveled throughout the Midwest evaluating school art programs.

Bev organized the first elementary school art show and initiated a movement that resulted in the hiring of Beaver Dam’s first elementary art teacher. Appointed by the Governor of Wisconsin, she served on the board that set the foundation for the Wisconsin Arts Board. She was a founding member of the Beaver Dam Art Association Exhibit, Chair for the Seippel Center for the Arts, and lectured and demonstrated the art of creativity to numerous schools and organizations. And the list goes on.

Bev is survived by her son, David `79; son-in-law, Roland (Lorna) Moll; her grandchildren, Robert Goes, Joshua Goes, Ryan Moll, Derrick Dohmann, and MacKenzie Dohmann; and her great-grandson, Scott Goes; as well as many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Donald; son, Steven `73; daughter, Bonnie `70; and numerous other relatives.

Paul Raymond Horvath, 77, passed away on Sunday morning December 31, 2023 surrounded by family. He was born in Columbus, Wisconsin to Martha (Kleunker) and Daniel Horvath. Paul is an alumnus of Wayland Academy, Marquette University and University of Tulsa law school. He married Kerry on September 20, 1975 and has lived with his family in Appleton. Paul loved Harley Davidson and going on camping adventures with family. He was known for dropping everything for his kids and grandkids, his work ethic, his kindness to everyone he met, and his humor–he was truly the king of dad jokes. Paul will be deeply missed by family, friends, neighbors and all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife Kerry (Ashman), children; Kim (Todd) Krueger, Paul (Megan Bayrd), and Cory (Zach) Matyja; grandchildren, Payton and Ava Krueger, Madeline and Lily Horvath and Aden, Cooper, and Aspen Matyja. Paul is further survived by siblings; Diane (Dale) Ebben `60, David (Donna) `61, and Fran Carpenter `67. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Arlene `66, and brother-in-law, Bob Carpenter.

Grandpa-We love you. Your button is unbuttoned.

There will be no services at this time. A celebration of life will follow at a to-be-determined date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Paul's honor to the American Cancer Society.

Harry "Harold" W. Shaw Jr., 77, of West Bend, Wisconsin passed away on November 28, 2023. Born on December 20, 1945, in Easton, Pennsylvania, Harry was the beloved husband of Janice Shaw and the loving father of daughters Missy Shaw and Jill Shaw-Videnovic. He also enjoyed his time with his son-in-law, Strahinja Videnovic, and his granddog Rumor. Harry is also survived by his younger brother, Keith Shaw, who he was fortunate to see more frequently in recent years after Keith and his partner Mary Moore relocated to Menomonee Falls.

Harry was preceded in death by his parents Harold "Jake" Shaw Sr. and Nancy Shaw, and younger brother, Terry Shaw.

Harry was a personable individual with a unique view of the world, who loved to read history, fiction and stay up to date with current events. He had a great love for the outdoors and was always on the lookout for new plants to add to his garden. Harry was known for his generosity, his quick wit, love of debate, and his ability to make others laugh.

Harry attended high school at Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. While there, he met and fell in love with Janice. After dating for four years, he proposed to Janice and they were married on August 12, 1967, after which the newlyweds moved to West Bend.

After holding a position at JC Penny's, Harry joined BC Ziegler, which started his successful 25-year career in the brokerage industry. While with BC Ziegler, Harry was transferred to East Lansing, Michigan in 1977 to open a branch office. In 1979, he moved his family back to West Bend. Harry later worked for Robert W. Baird and M&I Bank. In 1996, Harry, with the confidence and backing of a few trusted investors, followed his entrepreneurial spirit and opened Blue Dog Golf and Recreation with his wife Janice. This venture allowed him to showcase his creativity, attention to detail, and love of high-quality experiences, especially celebrating children's birthdays with festive parties and pizza.

Outside of work, Harry was on the board of Big Brothers & Big Sisters of Washington County. Harry was a member of Holy Angels Parish for 46 years. In 1983, he was instrumental in helping to establish the Holy Angels School Trust Fund.

Harry enjoyed gardening and landscape design, bird watching, playing games with his friends and family, discussing politics, and enjoying expensive cigars. He also enjoyed engaging in conversations on his favorite gun forum.

Memorial services will be held on Thursday, December 7, 2023, at Holy Angels Parish in West Bend, where friends and family will gather to honor and remember Harry's life. Visitation will be from 10am to 11:15am with Mass to follow. A private family inurnment will take place at Washington County Memorial Park in the afternoon.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) Society would be greatly appreciated. Harry retired early due to debilitating CFS for the last 25 years of his life. Prior to that he had led a vigorous life enjoying golfing, gardening, hunting, boating, traveling, cooking and many other activities. Alternatively, donations to Holy Angels School Technology Fund would be appreciated.

Harry will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory be a source of comfort and strength during this difficult time.
The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Horizon Hospice for their care and compassion.

David Fredric Zoerb, 74, died suddenly on April 23, 2021 at UW Hospital following complications from heart surgery.

A beloved husband, father and grandfather, he grew up in Kiel and never lost his love for the “small town in mass society.” He graduated from Wayland Academy High School and the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. Dave and his wife Carol spent their 52 years together living in Beaver Dam, West Bend, Oostburg, Sister Bay and Waunakee. His family was the center of his life, and he supported his wife, daughters and grandchildren in all their pursuits.

Dave appreciated a good story and great storytellers. He took time to learn about everyone in his life and he remembered what was important to them. At parties he could always be found telling a story to at least one lucky listener. He was curious, well read and fiercely loyal.

Dave’s enjoyment of popular music was palpable and contagious. He frequently sang aloud to the car radio and appreciated many genres, particularly oldies and folk music.

During his career in advertising and marketing, Dave worked for Regal Ware and DCI Marketing before starting his own business which later became part of Frank Mayer and Associates.

He was passionate about education, especially higher education. Nearly everyone who met him knew he was a dedicated Badger, serving in numerous volunteer roles at UW-Madison, including as the national president of the Wisconsin Alumni Association. He loved helping young people find their path to college.

A lifelong athlete, Dave played football at Claremont Men’s College (California) before transferring to UW-Madison and playing for the Madison Mustangs. Later in life he ran several 5K races throughout the state with his family and also enjoyed golf. He believed organized sports were a fundamental aspect of being a scholar, and proudly served on the University of Wisconsin Athletic Board. He was also an avid fan of Badger sports and the Packers. He eagerly followed his grandchildren’s soccer, swimming, and diving careers.

With a deep belief in the importance of civic engagement, he was active in every community where he lived, serving as a volunteer on local park and economic development boards. Most recently, Dave volunteered with the MERLIN Entrepreneurial Mentoring Network, helping new businesses launch.

He is survived by his mother, Betty Zoerb Pope; his wife, Carol; his daughters, Heidi (Bret Payseur) and Mari Hansen (Dan); his grandchildren, Ethan and Megan Hansen; and his brothers, Hans `66 (Jan) and Erik (Laurie).

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a gift to the David Zoerb CALS QuickStart Scholarship fund at the University of Wisconsin Foundation or the Friends of Pope Farm Conservancy. Most importantly, listen to, remember, and share your stories and don’t be afraid to sing along to a great song. 

John Forrest Fisher, better known as “Fish,” swam into the great beyond on March 7, 2025, at Swedish Hospital in Denver, Colorado. Born on August 21, 1947, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Fish was the proud son of Forrest Charles Fisher and Doris Helen Fisher. 

After earning a B.A. from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas, Fish kicked off his career as a Business Manager at General Electric, later swimming upstream to become an executive at Carik Services Inc., a floral company. But let’s be real—his true passions were Rock & Roll, sports, fine wine, and exploring the globe. ”Pescado” spent half the year basking in the sun in Puerto Vallarta, where he met the love of his life, Yolanda “Yoyo” Alatorre, on the beach. Together, they made unforgettable memories. A die-hard Denver Broncos fan, Fish was equally enthusiastic about college football and basketball. He also played soccer at Trinity, proving he could kick it both on and off the field. Mischievous to the core, Fish relished good food, great friends, and an excellent glass of wine—though he had a firm policy against loud mariachi music. You could find him for hours on the beach with a cold beer in hand, usually in his favorite color orange, catching up with friends. 

He’ll be sorely missed by his crew in Denver and Puerto Vallarta. A connoisseur of hole-in-the-wall bars, tequila, and a collector of baseball hats, Fish left behind a legacy of laughter, love, and plenty of stories to tell. Cheers to you, Fish—you’ll always be the life of the party.

Robert Stuart “Stu” Greenebaum, age 74, of Hartland, found peace on Feb. 4, 2021, at Waukesha Memorial Hospital due to complications with diabetes.

He was born on April 16, 1947, to parents Louise M. Greenebaum (nee McClure) and Robert S. Adelman, and adopted at a young age by Louis J. Greenebaum.

He was preceded in death by his loving mother, biological father and adopted father.

Stu is survived by Sharon, his loving wife of 43 years; his children R. Louis, Tyler and Clinton; and daughters-in-law Callie, Theresa and Lynae. Stu’s boastful legacy lives on in his five grandchildren: Ariana, Gaborik, Xavier, Zanon and Coz.

Graduate of Wayland Academy. Globetrotter. Peace Corps member. Linguistic tactician. Vinyl audiophile. Accumulator of art and trinkets. Fair weather fan of many sports. Tank top enthusiast. One-time Disneyland actor. Volunteer popcorn colonel to Cub Scouts Pack 24. Volunteer chain gang official to the Lake Country Chiefs football team. Unapologetically himself. The life of EVERY party.

Stu’s services will be held at Evert-Luko Funeral Home in Hartland on Wednesday, Feb. 9, with the visitation starting at 11 a.m. and the funeral at 1 p.m. Burial to follow.

In lieu of flowers, send memorial donations to the American Diabetes Association.

Betty Hultquist Spiker passed away on February 8, 2019, after a valiant battle against cancer. Betty was born on July 5, 1947 in Red Wing, Minnesota, to Arleen Barker Hultquist and John Willard Hultquist. Her beloved parents and her beloved brother, John Willard Hultquist, Jr., predeceased her. She graduated from Wayland Academy in 1965, from the University of Minnesota with a BA in Humanities in 1970, and from Southern Polytechnic State University with a BS in Architectural Engineering in 1980.

Betty enjoyed her life to the fullest every moment, from a glorious childhood full of horses and adventures, to a cross-country road trip in a school-bus-turned-camper in the 70s. She settled in Atlanta and decided to pursue another college degree, this time in architectural engineering. Graduating with honors, she pursued a career consulting on commercial building products and writing technical specifications for architects. In 1993, she co-founded Spiker Baldwin Associates, Inc. with business partner and friend, Philip Baldwin. They enjoyed many years of being the "material geeks" for their faithful clients across the country. Luckily in her new career, Betty met Henry Spiker, the love of her life. She and Hank were married on August 4, 1984 (impossible to forget an 8-4-84 anniversary!), and enjoyed 34 wonderful years of marriage.

Betty and Hank raised their family in Decatur, GA and enjoyed living in and serving that wonderful community for over 40 years. Betty served on the Decatur Downtown Development Authority Board for many years. She was also an active, long-time member of the Decatur Rotary Club, where she made numerous lifetime friendships. In her spare time, one of Betty's favorite pastimes was enjoying gatherings at the family's lakeside home at Lake Lanier near Cumming, GA. Relaxing on the beach with family and friends, strolling through their flower-filled gardens, watching beautiful sunsets, and generally reconnecting with nature made the lake house her "happy place".

In addition to her beloved and deeply cherished husband, Hank, Betty is survived by her beloved and deeply cherished family: daughter Lisa Owen, her husband Jamie, and grandchildren Gillum and Jay; son James Reynolds, his wife Tracy, and grandchildren Lela and Clara; son Deryk Spiker and his wife Rachael; sister Marcy Hultquist; sister-in-law Judy Hultquist; cousins Tim and Cindy Hultquist, Steve and Judy Hultquist, Betsy and Pat Ollhoff, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Betty's memorial service will be held at Decatur Presbyterian Church on Friday, February 15th at 2 pm, with a reception to follow in the Keith Parlor. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Winship Cancer Institute/Emory Healthcare (winshipcancer.emory.edu), Decatur Cooperative Ministry (decaturcooperativeministry. org), Lifeline Animal Project (lifelineanimal.org), or the charity of your choice.

Roger Vance Swanson, 75, passed away on March 20, 2022, in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, surrounded by his loving family.

Roger was born on February 26, 1947, in Wild Rose, Wisconsin, and lived most of his life in Green Lake County. After graduating from high school at Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, he attended the US Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York, and graduated in 1970. It was during this time that he made lifelong friendships with his section mates, including best friend, the late Roark Nagler. He cherished his time at Kings Point, enjoyed attending class reunions, and reached out to the KP community whenever the opportunity arose. As a highlight of his academy life, Roger sailed around the world to many different ports during his sea year. After graduation, he returned to Wisconsin to pursue his first love, dairy farming, for many years. After selling his dairy operation, Roger continued to crop farm and simultaneously pursued a career as a marine engineer, sailing on oil tankers from Alaska to Japan and Korea and later on container ships from Los Angeles to Southeast Asia. After retiring from sailing, he continued to farm until his health declined. What Roger enjoyed most was going out for a beer and talking to friends and strangers alike. He loved learning all about everyone and regaling people with his knowledge of farming, sailing, his Kings Point days, and his plans for the future.

Roger is survived by his stepmother, Marjorie Swanson of Princeton; his friend and former spouse, Suzanne Swanson; three children, Jeffrey (Orchid Ra) Swanson of Southport, NC, Brian (Scott O’Berski) Swanson of Chicago, IL, Jeanene (Kevin Horan) Swanson of US Virgin Islands; former spouse, Judy Radomski; three stepchildren, Sarah Emmrich of Antigo, WI, Aaron Emmrich of Neenah, WI, Beth Emmrich of Oshkosh, WI; three grandchildren, Owen Verheyen, Hannah Doss, Ethan Emmrich; two sisters, Karen (Rich) Brzozowski, Lynn (Ken Werner) Swanson; sister-in-law, JoAnn Swanson of Lombard, IL; cousin, Ann George; many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his loving father, Harold V. “Whitey” Swanson; his mother, Doris (Meller) Swanson; devoted half-brother, Harold Swanson.

Paul “Peter” Frank Schmidt Jr., 74, passed away on December 12, 2022, at his home in Colorado Springs surrounded by family.

Paul was born to Paul and Katherine Schmidt and raised in Hinsdale, IL. He graduated from high school at Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin and graduated from Carroll College in Waukesha, Wisconsin. He moved to Rifle, Colorado in 1980 and met the love of his life, Shelly.

He worked for Pitman Company in the Chicagoland area for most of his career. He retired as CEO and Chairman of the Board in 2010. After retirement, they moved to Colorado Springs, CO to be close to the mountains that he loved. His hobbies were boating and off-roading. Other interests included fly fishing, target shooting, photography, and computers.

He is survived by his wife, Shelly; one son, Nathan (Kate) Schmidt of Monument, CO; two daughters, Jenny (Lori) Schmidt of Elkhorn, Wisconsin and Jessica (Ryan) Majors of Colorado Springs, CO; four grandchildren; two sisters Judy (Steve) Dotson of Carefree, Arizona and Debbie (Roberto) Casanaova of Weston, FL; one sister-in-law Margaret (Arthur) Schmidt of Ft. Myers Beach, FL; one brother-in-law Ricky (Ann) Hornung of Pettibone, ND; and many nieces and nephews. Peter was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, and a daughter.

Vaughn F. Friday, age 72, of Fitchburg, passed away on Friday, November 13, 2020, at Crossroads Care in Mayville.

He was born on Oct. 17, 1948 at Madison General Hospital, the son of John and Edythe Friday. He grew up in Madison’s Vilas Park neighborhood where he went to Longfellow grade school. He attended Central High and Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam but would graduate from Monona Grove in 1967. Vaughn worked at the family business, Andrae Automotive, where he gained his knowledge and love of cars. After high school, Vaughn attended the Wisconsin School of Electronics and achieved a 2-year degree. He would open his own HI-FI stereo company and become well-known for selling equipment that was sure to impress. He would later use his electronic mastery at WISM radio station, WI State Patrol Radio Shop and General Communications.

A severe auto accident in 1999 left him with life-threatening injuries. He was determined to survive and although he would be wheelchair bound for life, he was a living miracle. Vaughn had a strict routine that kept his mind and body alert. He started every afternoon off with a fruit plater from the Sun Prairie Diner and worked out at the Princeton Club, where he was one of the strongest handicap men they had ever seen. His strength, mental perseverance, and witty humor were admirable and an inspiration to everyone around him. Vaughn loved music, his favorites being rock, soul, and blues. His nickname was Grabber, after his favorite candy apple-red Grabber Maverick. He loved his vehicles and always made sure they had the top of the line stereo systems so he could blare Johnny Lee Hooker or Bob Marley while he swayed in his chair. Vaughn also loved NASCAR, WWE, and Westerns. He was married and became a father in 1975. Although his marriage only lasted a few years, he would gain an extended family that he would love and celebrate holidays with. He was stubborn, but a real people person who loved hard and made everyone feel welcome. Vaughn will be deeply missed by his friends and family.

He was proceeded in death by his parents John and Edythe Friday.

He is survived by his daughter Becki, 2 granddaughters: Alex and Charlee and Brother John (Ursula).

Jeanne Frink was born on February 27, 1949, in Madison, Wisconsin. She unexpectedly had a brain aneurysm burst on April 10 and died peacefully on May 10, 2023, at JA Wedum Hospice in Minneapolis. She graduated from Wayland Academy in Madison, Wisconsin, and received a bachelor's degree in fine arts from the University of Minnesota.

First and foremost, Jeanne was a talented professional artist. She brought images to life with photography, oil and watercolor painting. During the last decade, she focused on Japanese Sumi-e art. Jeanne was a member of the Sumi-e Society of America and the Minnesota Chapter Ming Chiao. Her studio, 206 Fine Art, was located in the Historic Grain Belt Bottling House in the heart of the art district in Northeast Minneapolis.

Prior to retirement, Jeanne was creative director of marketing for Land O Lakes for 15 years. Her creativity also included gardening, gourmet cooking, and home interior and exterior design. Jeanne's appearance whether at the grocery store or making a professional presentation, was classic. Jeanne was an avid golfer and world traveler.

Jeanne was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Frink, her mother and father, Rachel and Edward Enhelder, and her brother Dale and stepson David Frink. She is survived by her son Eric Rundell, step-daughters Ann Ivers (Bill), and Caron Handberg (Greg), step-son Rob Frink (Delia Rios), nieces Kate and Allie Handberg, Frances Ivers, nephews Jack Ivers, Zachary, and Nathaniel Frink.

Mark E. Saunders, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2025, in Madison, Wis., at the age of 75. Born on April 21, 1949, in Beaver Dam, Wis., Mark was a man of great spirit and gentle heart who lived a life full of adventure and joy.

Mark graduated from Wayland Academy, class of 1967, where he enjoyed playing basketball and golf, two sports he continued playing throughout his life. He furthered his education at Lawrence University before graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1972. Mark's professional journey as a Financial Investor at Harbour Investments was marked by the same integrity and dedication he applied to every aspect of his life.

An independent soul with an easygoing nature and a sharp sense of humor, Mark was a man of few words, but when he spoke, everyone listened. His presence was a comfort to many, and his ability to listen was as cherished as his insightful advice.

An avid lover of the outdoors, Mark found peace and exhilaration in biking, hiking, sailing, and playing golf. His adventurous spirit led him to sail through the Caribbean with friends, live in Mexico, and take a free-spirited path through life that he cherished every minute of. Mark's love for live music was well-known, and he could often be found soaking in the sounds of bands at local parks, music festivals, and his favorite spot, the Harmony Bar.

Mark’s commitment to his community was unwavering. He served on the board for the Willy St. Co-Op and supported the Atwood community Center, the Will-Mar Neighborhood Center, the Goodman Center and several others. Mark actively participated in the Hash House Harriers weekly “fun runs” for over 30 years! He also enjoyed riding with the Wednesday Night Bike Group and scow racing with the Mendota Yacht Club. His gentle, spirited nature made him an invaluable member of each organization.

Mark's love for his family was evident for his six siblings, Jack (Sandra) Saunders, Jane (Gary Goll) Schmidt, Karen (Dan) Fix, Tim (Pat) Saunders, Fred (Karen Flitz) Saunders and Janell Saunders. He was a beloved uncle to his six nieces and nephews and a great-uncle to his five great-nieces and a great-nephew.  Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick and Mary (Gianelli) Saunders; and his brother-in-law, William Schmidt.

A celebration of life will be held at the HARMONY BAR, 2201 Atwood Ave., Madison from 12 noon until 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 19, 2025.  

Memorials may be made by check to the Madison Parks Foundation, directed to the Mark Saunders memorial bench in Yahara Place Park, and mailed to Madison Parks Foundation, P.O. Box 259336, Madison, WI 53725. For online payment visit: (madisonparksfoundation.org/donate/benches) Please note: In the “plaque inscription” box be sure to indicate gift should be directed to Mark Saunders memorial bench.

His legacy is not just in the lives he touched but also in the laughter, wisdom, and joy he shared. Mark E. Saunders lived a life that was as rich and vibrant as the stories he leaves behind.

Gregory “Gregg” S. Meyer, 72, of Watertown, passed away Thursday, January 27, 2022, at UW Health University Hospital in Madison surrounded by his wife and children and Facetiming grandchildren and family until his passing.

Gregory was born November 15, 1949, in Madison, son of Martin Jr. and Barbara (nee Stilp) Meyer. Gregg graduated from Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam in 1968, and went to play baseball and graduate from Northwood University in Michigan with a degree in business. While attending, Gregg was drafted into the United States Army and served during Vietnam. Gregg made the most of his business degree cultivating a long and successful career in manufacturing sales. Gregg married Cheryl Cutler on October 20, 1979, in Claremont, South Dakota. Together, they raised three children. Until retirement, Gregg continued his work in national and international sales, while becoming the MHI and MHEFI President.

He was a member of St. Henry Catholic Church. In his free time, he used to play softball, would be seen fishing for the elusive muskie at his cabin up north, or was known to take a few swings out on the golf course. He also loved to escape to the warm sun of Cancun with his wife at least once a winter. Most of all, Gregg loved spending time with his children and grandchildren, and watching them learn and grow. He spent many days during his retirement being babysat by his grandchildren and preparing feasts on the grill for friends and family.

Gregg is survived by his wife, Cheryl Meyer; children, Erin (Cory) Hanson, Scott (Courtney) Meyer, and Todd Meyer; grandchildren, Olivia, Landon, Callahan, and Alia; sister, Kim (Doug) Weisenberger; sisters-in-law, Sheri Meyer, Deanna (Gary) Junso, Debra Oleson, Susan (Gerald) Corbin, brother- in-law, Timothy (Sara) Cutler as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Gregg was preceded in death by his parents (Martin J. Meyer, Jr H`81 and Barbara) and brother, Kirk Meyer. No services will be held. In lieu of gifts or flowers, donations can be made “For the Martin Meyer Jr. Memorial fund in honor of Gregg Meyer ’68” at Wayland Academy – https://www.wayland.org/support-wayland.

Robert Pedigo, Class of 1968, passed away on October 29, 2022 after a courageous battle with multiple myeloma. At the time of his passing, he was an attorney with Cooch and Taylor of Wilmington. Survivors include his sisters Beth ‘70, Meg ‘75 and Julie ‘77.

Thomas MacRae Brown passed away Wednesday evening, March 3, from leukemia five days short of his 70th birthday.

Big T, Tall Tom, T, the Pied Piper of puppies, copious contributor to canine causes, leaves behind a contingent of compatriot dog walkers.

Tom attended the Latin School, Wayland Academy and was a member of Phi Sigma Kappa fraternity at Arizona State. He had a weekly Northwestern University sports radio show and because of his vast knowledge of sports, was often a celebrity call-in guest on local radio sports shows. His mastery of sports trivia was nonpareil.

Predeceased by Rusty, Buddy and Harry, Big T was a generous contributor to many Chicago animal charities and also a loyal parishioner of St. Chrysostom's Church. He leaves his entire estate to these charities and to local supporters of these causes.

Big T was even more generous with his time, not only for his canine companions but also for those he met on the jogging and dog walking paths in Lincoln Park.

His remarkable memory for names allowed him to greet each person individually. Everyone along these routes knew Big T.

Tom also leaves behind a healthy horde of hoopsters he met at the Chicago Athletic Association. Big T played basketball in high school, his freshman year in college and continued to play at the CAA for the next twenty five years.

An avid golfer, he would hone his game at the Diversey driving range for play with the CAA golf group. If there were a more kind, generous and considerate soul, it would be news to all of us.

Drummond, Tommy of Excelsior, age 70, passed away Sunday, November 1, 2020 at Hospice of the Valley in Phoenix, AZ after a valiant fight against Glioblastoma. Tommy is preceded in death by his parents Thomas and Maurine Drummond. He is survived by the love of his life, wife, Julie, son Will Pigeon (Claire), sister Linda Dempsey (Timothy), niece Maurine Dajcs (Joseph), nephew Timothy Miller-Dempsey (Daniel), and loving pet Sydney. Tommy Drummond grew up in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and graduated from Bradley University. He worked in sales for many years before founding the infamous Tommy's Tonka Trolley in Excelsior, MN. Tommy was a true legend in the town of Excelsior and made a tremendous impact on every person he met. He gave the town a place to gather as friends and family, whether it was a birthday or Tuesday night ice cream trip. He devoted his life to making an impact on the community through sponsorships and friendships. 

Bobbie Gipson, age 73, passed away on Friday, January 17, 2025 after a short illness. Bobbie was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. She attended and graduated from Wayland Academy, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. After graduation, she met and married Steven Pate. While he served in the army they lived in Germany. Following their divorce they remained friends. She then met and married Kenneth Gipson. While he served in the Navy they lived in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, New Orleans, Louisiana and Dallas Texas. Following Ken’s death in 2005 Bobbie met John Duncan and they moved to Nixa, Missouri.

Bobbie was pre-deceased by her parents; William and Dorothy France, two sisters, Judy Thompson, Nancy O’Bradovich and her husband Kenneth Gipson.

Bobbie is survived by her brother; John and sister-in-law Penny France; her two cousins Linda Meyer and Susan (Steve) Meade; seven nieces and nephews Andrew (Anne) France, Sarah (Marcus) Mitchell, Allison and (Seth) Boomgarden, Scott (Ruth) Thompson, Leigh (Steve) Blatter, Jennifer (Louis) Lacovelli, Amy (James) Geyer, Edward O’Bradovich, Jr.

She was survived for two weeks by her fiancé, John Duncan, who passed on Friday, January 31, 2025.

Dana John Giulian, born March 19, 1951 to Waldo and Ruth Giulian in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, passed away May 9, 2010 in Houston, Texas. Dr. Giulian was preceded in death by his parents, and is survived by his beloved wife, Elaine Wendt; twin sons, David and William Giulian; brother, Gary Giulian; sister, Valory Giulian, and other family and friends. Dana was a dedicated researcher for Baylor College of Medicine, studying dementia associated with HIV and Alzheimer’s.

Steven D. Griggel, age 70, of Sheboygan, died unexpectedly on Saturday, September 4, 2021. He was born on April 17, 1951, to the late Donald and Mary Miller Griggel in Beaver Dam, WI.

Steve lived life to the fullest in his younger years. He loved hunting, fishing, trap shooting, carpentry, camping, cutting wood and anything outdoors. He was a wonderful son, brother, husband, father and grandpa. Steve was a kind and loving man and everyone who knew him, loved him. If you needed a hand with anything, Steve was your guy. After a spinal cord injury in 1996 sidelined him, he managed to find his smile again. Steve was an inspiration to his family and found many ways to remain a positive influence in our lives.

He is survived by his wife, Angie; children, Andy (Anna) Griggel, Adam (Amy) Griggel, Jennifer Griggel; grandson, Lincoln Griggel and "bonus granddaughters", Izzy and Gracie Lorentz; his sister, Cindy `72 (Dave) Delozier; sisters-in-law, Carrie Gerretson, Pam Martinek, Suze (Bob) Garrity; brothers-in-law, Marty (Jill) Weiske, Scott (Lynn) Fuller and many nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives and friends.

His parents, Don and Mitzi Griggel, in-laws, Ken and Marcie Weiske, Ralph and Betty Fuller, his first wife, Sherry Griggel and his brothers-in-law, Paul Weiske and Jim Martinek, all preceded him death.

Steve was not a fan of big funerals. Per his wishes, a cremation will take place followed by a private family service.

Kevin (Kip) Peterson died on May 8, 2024. Born to Harry and Elaine Peterson, Kip was raised in Danville, Illinois, before his educational endeavors took him from Beaver Dam, Wisconsin and Coral Gables, Florida. Throughout his professional career, he worked on projects around the globe, from Turkmenistan to Vietnam.

Kip was preceded in death by his parents, sister Pamela, and brother Derek. He is survived by his two children, Katie and Derek, two sisters, Li and Dee, and brother, Neil. A lifelong lover of the ocean and Merchant Mariner, in lieu of a traditional service, Kip’s ashes will spread in the Atlantic Ocean so he can forever sail the seas he cherished so deeply. 

Born February 15, 1951, to Catherine "Katie" Small and Rudolph "Rudy" Small in Green Bay, WI, Dave was the jocular middle child of a lively household. To surviving siblings Virginia "Ginny" Riopelle, John, Nancy Doorey, and Janet Blake, Dave is remembered for the cleverness and natural intellect that characterized his childhood. To his mother, he was a vibrant source of life in the family home - a loving son and playful brother. Tales of buttered peas stuck to the ceiling, flung from the handle of a spoon, to present the appearance of a clean dinner plate were common applications of his witty mind. In the summers, he enjoyed sailing, growing vegetables (later to be traded for desserts) and building water ski jumps at the family cottage in Shore Acres, WI.

In 1965, Dave left Green Bay to attend Wayland Academy where he excelled in soccer, tennis, and wrestling. Trips home during the school year were spent with family, while summers were spent at Paper Converting Machine Co., working with his father. After graduating high school in 1969, Dave continued on to Washington University in St. Louis, earning a B.A. in Political Science in 1974. It is during his college years he found his political voice and narrowed his focus on academics - both of which would become lifelong interests. An active opponent of the Vietnam war, he merged his propensity for math and economics with his belief in non-violent protest and set out to find how much the war was costing the average American family. Arriving at $600 per year (nearly $4,000 today), he paid to display the results on a local billboard. Finally becoming a "serious student," he would go on to earn a Ph.D. in Economics from Northwestern University in 1978.

Following graduate school, Dave returned to his home state of Wisconsin as an Assistant Professor of Economics at the University of Wisconsin - Madison. A natural teacher, he spent five years teaching graduate students topics such as Money & Banking, before moving to Washington, D.C. in 1983 to pursue a career as an economist at the Federal Reserve, where he focused on monetary affairs. Two years after arriving in Washington, D.C., Dave would embark on his life's greatest passion and challenge: raising a family.

Dave was an ever-present father to two adoring children: Diana and Mark. Attending plays, recitals, and games - camera in hand - he was a fixture in the crowd as his kids took center stage. At home, he was the consummate teacher and neighborhood Dad, assisting with homework and spending hours demonstrating the proper grip for a fastball. He coached youth soccer and basketball teams, took groups to the batting cages, and played countless games of catch. Simple moments with family and friends meant the most to Dave.

In 2003, Dave met the love of his life, Donna Hanousek. Married in 2013, Dave and Donna spent 20 years embarking on new experiences with close friends from Capitol Hill, Ohio, and Harbor Square. Friday nights were often spent at Tunnicliff's Tavern talking politics and swapping stories. Free time was spent enjoying dinners, plays, museums, parties, music venues, and the outdoors. Exciting adventures exploring Machu Picchu, running with the bulls in Pamplona, hiking the Grand Canyon, and kayaking with whales in Alaska became featured experiences. His love for history brought him to the ancient ruins of Greece, the streets of Rome, and the mosques of Istanbul. Steakhouses in Buenos Aires and bistros in Paris satisfied his love for a good meal. A cabin in Wisconsin, a beach in the Outer Banks, and a wildlife sanctuary on Assateague Island brought him rest and relaxation.

Dave lived a life of purpose and integrity. He was a loving son, devoted father, and wonderful husband. A quiet and selfless man, he worked tirelessly to make his family happy.

A Memorial Service was held on Sunday, July 30th 11am - 1pm at Arena Stage in the Molly Smith Study (1101 6th St SW, Washington, DC 20024). Donations can be made in David's name to two of the many causes he cared deeply about: 1) The National Parks Foundation where there is an option to make a tribute gift. 2) University of Wisconsin - Department of Economics - Fund 112291100. Gifts can be made in memory of Professor David Small (or mail a check to UW Foundation, U.S. Bank Lockbox, Box 78807, Milwaukee, WI 53278-0807)

Our Beloved, Betsy Clark, of Durango, passed on the evening of January 29, 2022...too soon. She bravely fought a difficult battle with cancer over the last 9 months. Betsy was surrounded with love. Her husband and soulmate, Alan Cathcart, was holding her hand until the end, and her children, Anna Pierotti, Dustin Handley and Jesse Handley spent much of her last three weeks visiting, caring for, and being with her daily.

Betsy was born on April 13, 1952 in Wild Rose, Wisconsin, where she had an idyllic, small-town, mid-western childhood in a family with 4 kids. She has always enjoyed returning there in the summers to visit family and close friends and to do her annual swim across Little Silver Lake. Betsy spent most of her adult life living in Durango where she raised her 3 children. She was a very popular singer, musician and entertainer; educator; active volunteer, and the founder of the first consignment clothing store in Durango, Second Time Around.

Wherever she went, Betsy brought her positive spirit, love, and energy, which she shared so effortlessly and selflessly. She was a natural entertainer and story-teller, who livened up whatever space she was in. She has brought so much fun and joy to so many people, and that love of life kept her active until near the very end of her life. The richness of the connections she made and the seeds she planted returned to her with such an outpouring of love during her battle with cancer, and for that we are eternally grateful.

Betsy is survived by her husband, Alan Cathcart; sister, Crysti Benson and husband Dick; daughter, Anna Pierotti and husband, Chad Byler; son, Jesse Handley; son, Dustin Handley and wife, Kathy, and their children Taylor (8) and Bryce (5); numerous nieces and nephews, 3 step-children and 5 step-grand-children; The "E's" and "E-lets", and hundreds of friends near and far.

Betsy was preceded by her parents Boyd and Byrdine Clark and by her brothers, Tom and Nelson. "There is no greater work of art than a life well-lived" Betsy asked for a memorial service with a "kick-ass band", but not until we can be Covid safe.

In lieu of flowers, please donate "In Memory of Betsy Clark" to: Angel Flight West, Department 3161, Donald Douglass Loop South, Santa Monica, California 90405 Durango Adaptive Sports Association, P.O. Box 1884, Durango, CO 81302 Music in the Mountains, P.O. Box 3751, Durango, CO 81302 To see the full story, please go to https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/betsyclarkwarriorqueen

James G. "Jimmy" Cowles, 68, Suamico, passed away at home surrounded by family on January 4, 2021, following a six month journey with glioblastoma. The son of the late Robert L. and Margaret (Lindstrom) Cowles Jr. was born on July 15, 1952 in Green Bay.

Jim was the middle of the three Cowles boys, and attended grade schools in Allouez. He graduated high school from Wayland Academy, followed by a Bachelor's Degree at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point. In college, he was a founding member of the Mutated Members Trivia Team for the annual 54-hour, World's Largest Trivia Contest. The first years of participation were held at Jim's apartment, and their team continues the tradition to compete each year in Stevens Point.

Post-graduation, he traveled the country looking for Shelby Mustang parts, during these years he met some of his oldest and dearest friends, who became family. In 1977 he founded the Northwoods Shelby Club in Northeast Wisconsin with several of his Shelby friends. In 1978 he founded Shelby Parts & Restoration. After forty three years of operating his business, he was known worldwide for his skills in restoring cars and ability to acquire hard to get, original parts.

On July 13, 1995, Jim welcomed his daughter Emily LaViolette Cowles. Not many fathers take their daughter to school in a Cobra LeMans race car. He raised her to have an affinity for Door County sunsets, dogs, beautiful cars, and the Green Bay Packers.

In 1996, Jim became one of the founders of the Shelby American Collection Museum in Boulder, CO. He was instrumental in building the museum's memorabilia collection, and continuously supported the museum in procurement and fundraising capacities. Today, you can still 'visit' the historic Cobra Jim owned, model CSX2138.

On September 15, 2001, he married the love of his life, Sharon Buenger. They spent nineteen years of building wonderful memories, a home, and a life together. Their favorite place to be was on the beach with friends in Marco Island, FL or at the cottage in Door County, WI.

In 2016, Jim was appointed to be a judge for the Shelby American Collection, and SAAC Councours Chairman, travelling the country to inspect and judge with his decades-long authority on all things Shelby. He also followed his father's footsteps with a love for Road America in Elkhart Lake. He will continue to be a legend and a giant in the Cobra and Shelby world, as he was a mentor to many around the nation who will carry his legacy forward.

Jim had a wicked sense of humor and he could command a room with his wit. Despite his gentle demeanor and kind heart, many friend's kids endearingly called him, 'Mean Jim'. He was also a dedicated Jeopardy fan, when you had a trivia question, he was your guy. For sport, he enjoyed barefoot golfing and fishing at the Alpine resort - he even had his captains license to earn money taking people on a charter in his teens. Jim was dedicated to carrying on his dad and grandfather's legacy of wearing 'loud' clothing to events, no pants were too obnoxious!

With all of this, his main priority in life was taking care of 'his girls', which he did better than anyone could.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon; daughter, Emily; step-children, Jonathan and Katherine Laes; brothers, Sen. Robert L. Cowles `68 and David F. (Lisa) Cowles; nieces, nephews, other extended members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Margaret; good friend John McCoy Jr.  The family would like to thank the Nurse Navigator Program at the Vince Lombardi Cancer Clinic, specifically Lindley Mauer, as well as the doctors and nurses involved in his care, including: hospice caretaker, Holly Runquist, Hospice Nurse, Jessica Anthes; Hospice Physical Therapist, Sheona Carne; Team Assistant, Tina Kinjerski; and CNA, Mary Escota-Rolefon. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation at P.O. Box 5010, Elm Grove, WI 53122 or www.lombardifoundation.org <http://www.lombardifoundation.org>.

Jeff William “Rocco” Emanuel, age 68 of rural Fox Lake, died peacefully at home with his wife at his side on Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2021.

Rocco was born in Sheboygan, WI on May 10, 1952 the son of William Henry and Lois Ione (Tornow) Emanuel. Rocco attended several school districts, including Juneau and Cambria while his father worked as school superintendent. He graduated from Wayland Academy in 1970. Following high school he enrolled with the U.W. Madison in the Electrical Engineering Dept. Over the years, Rocco pursued a career in music and joined several bands. He had a keen ear to sound and opened a sound studio in Oregon, WI. With his talent for music and sound, his bands opened for many big artists of today and operated the sound system. In the late 1970’s through the mid 1990’s, Rocco operated his road side assistance business, Flash Transit Road Service as a diesel mechanic with a motto: “If we can’t fix it – it isn’t broke”. In his later years, he worked in maintenance at Little Amerricka Amusement Park and at apartment complexes in the area. His hobbies included remodeling his home and helping others with their maintenance or remodeling projects. He found great pleasure in teaching and helping others. Rocco met the love of his life in 1984 and started dating Michelle “Shelly” Ann Dyreson. They were united in marriage on Aug. 9, 2014 in Fox Lake.

Rocco will be sadly missed and mourned by his wife, Shelly of Fox Lake; two children, Mitchell (Heather) Hubbard of Dubuque, IA and Alysha (Scott) Klassy of New Glarus, WI; his grandchildren, Isabella and McCoy Hubbard and Degan and Avril Klassy; his best buddy, Jeff “Hippie” (Lynn Hopkins) Barrette; sister-in-law, Denise Smith-Emanuel; two uncles, Ed Emanuel of Texas and Dave (Jessie) Emanuel of CA; one aunt, Doris Peters; several other relatives and many friends.

Alan Jung of Aurora, Colorado passed away on Sunday, July 31, 2022.

Originally from Wisconsin, Alan lived a life full of adventure. He had many passions revolving around the outdoors: biking, hiking, skiing, camping, and most notably taking photos of scenery and family. He was always dedicated to his children’s interests, supporting them during all their hockey and soccer games. Alan has consistently left a memorable impression on everyone he has interacted with.

He is proceeded by his devoted wife, Lorna, his two children, Matthew and Melissa, as well as his siblings from Wisconsin, Dan Jung and Linda Jung. M

Steven Bryant Smith died surrounded by love and family on October 7th, 2024. He fought valiantly against pneumonia, and up to his last moments remained larger than life and doggedly determined to survive until his next adventure. He will always be remembered for his inimitable strength, love of family, exuberance, and generosity of spirit.

Steve and his twin Pamela `70 were born on June 25, 1952 in Medford, MA, to parents Darwin and Lois Smith. Joined soon after by sister Valerie `71, they enjoyed a childhood filled with music and outdoor activities, and their homemade drama presentations were the stuff of legends. Brother Blair `83 arrived to complete the quartet in 1983. While family life was based in Lake Winnebago, WI, Steve's education took him to Wayland Academy and then to University of Denver, where he continued his love of hiking and all things outdoor. While at DU, he also began learning carpentry, a lifelong passion and outlet for his creativity.

After DU, he completed an MBA and worked for American Hospital Supply, where he met and married Marybeth Westcott. They settled in Waco, Texas, and had daughters Alison (1981), Brittany (1982), Emily (1987) and son Stevenson (1989). Steve was passionate about supporting his children and their interests, and cared deeply about family life. Over the years, he became a sideline expert on hunter jumpers, ballet, tennis, and many of his children's other passions. He imparted his love of the outdoors on his children, with favorite memories in remote Tibet.

Steve left American Hospital Supply for Spenco Medical Corporation, where he spent the rest of his working life, rising from the role of telemarketer to CEO and eventually owning the company, making many of his closest friends in the process. While Spenco was an industry leader in several products (like Second Skin and the green insoles), he was most proud about the loyalty Spenco displayed to its employees, and vice versa. At one point during his 22+ years owning the company, more employees had 15+ years of service than not.

In 2004 Steve was blessed to find the love of his life in wife Karen Carmody Smith (and gained another daughter Lauren DeDecker- born 1990). He and Karen were first married in 2008 at La Caille, and their bond was so strong they remarried there every year. Together they achieved a peace and happiness he had never before felt, and Karen's loving family embraced Steve wholeheartedly.

Because they shared a love of adventure- especially when it meant travelling to remote places and being in the mountains with the ones he loved- he and Karen saw the world on various adventures, always trying to incorporate hiking. Some of their noteworthy hikes include the 510 mile Camino del Santiago in Spain; the Haut walk from Chamonix to Zermatt in Switzerland; and The Great Ocean Walk, Margaret River Cape to Cape walk, and part of the Bibbulmun track, all in Australia. They did every major hike in Tasmania. They also golfed extensively, making excellent friends and memories in the process.

In total, Steve visited over 60 countries. While in each country, he made lifelong friends by getting to know the name and personal story of everyone he met. He had a gift for remembering each person's name and making them feel special. He also cherished his annual hunting trips in Montana and Wisconsin.

Steve is survived by his siblings and their partners. By his children, and their partners. He was an exceptional grandfather, and is survived by his grandchildren: Elvis, Renu, Eloise, Adeline, Silvia, Celeste, and Lilla. He is additionally survived by countless people who benefited from his generosity, wisdom, and compassion. His larger than life spirit lives on in all of us, and we are blessed and thankful to have known him.
 

Gregory James Larsen, age 71, passed away February 15, 2024 surrounded by his wife and children. He was born in 1952 to Bette (Williams) Larsen and Donald Frederick Larsen, Jr. in Green Bay.

Greg attended Wayland Academy, UW Green Bay and the University of Alabama/Tuscaloosa earning a degree in business with minors in economics and marketing.

He married Mary Elizabeth Smits at Old St. Joseph Church at St. Norbert College October 25, 1980. They made their lifelong home in De Pere where they had three wonderful children, Sarah, Alex and Jenny and enjoyed 43 years of marriage together.

Greg joined the Larsen Company in 1976 working in sales and marketing. As a fourth generation Larsen, he was proud to carry on the tradition started by his great grandfather William Larsen who founded the vegetable business in 1895. He enjoyed all aspects of the business, even the carrot tasting in the quality assurance lab. His promotion to National Vice President of Canned and Frozen Brands followed by Vice President of Sales Operations reflected his dedication and leadership within the company.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Greg was deeply involved in community service.

He served as the President of On Broadway, Inc. during a transformative period, overseeing initiatives such as the establishment of the popular Wednesday Farmer's Market on Broadway and the redevelopment of the historic Larsen plant site into a vibrant social hub. He oversaw the acquisition of the 22-acre parcel at the heart of the district where the plant and offices were located, which was designated for retail, office and residential development. Because of his vision and his tireless efforts to improve the quality of life in the Broadway district, Greg was inducted into the national “Main Street” Hall of Fame.

He also served as President of the Heritage Hill Foundation and President of the St. Mary's Hospital Foundation. He and Mary were supporters of the Green Bay Symphony Orchestra, YMCA, Botanical Gardens and National Railroad Museum.

Greg's passions extended beyond career and community. He was a superb cook, an expert skier, and voracious reader. He enjoyed tennis, swimming, biking, camping and other recreational activities with his children and grandchild. His most relaxing times were boating with the family and watching the birds and the sunsets at the cottage on the Bay. Greg had a special affinity for animals and the family had many dogs over the years. All were precious to him, whether they were purebreds or rescues that the kids brought home from college. They were all pampered and spoiled and showered with affection. He cherished walks with Mary and the pups, especially in the autumn. The kids called him a “dog whisperer” and frequently teased him that he should have been a veterinarian.

Despite his battle with Alzheimer's, Greg's spirit remained strong. He faced this challenge with courage and grace, inspired by the memory of his mother Bette Larsen and beloved brother Donald III (Ric) Larsen `68 who also fought this disease. Also preceding him in death: his father Donald Larsen Jr., mother- and father-in-law Betty and Norval Smits, and beloved brother-in-law Sean Smits.

He is survived by his wife Mary, their children: Sarah, Jennifer and Alexander Larsen and precious granddaughter Skylar Elizabeth, truly the “apple of his eye.”

He is further survived by brother Eric (Kathryn) Larsen `66, sister Shelly (Kent) Preston `78, brothers-in-law Michael (Susan) Smits and Patrick Smits, and other relatives, nieces and nephews and special lifelong friend, Joseph Morgan, who was always there for him and shared many adventures.

The family wishes to thank Greg's caregivers and hospice staff for treating him during his final days with compassion, dignity and respect.

Donations in Greg's name can be made to: On Broadway, Inc. or the Alzheimer's Association. Arrangements for a memorial service and burial to be finalized at a later date. The family is being assisted by Cotter Funeral Home of De Pere.

Edgar “Ted” Sawyer Chase Meredith Jr. was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He left this world suddenly on July 26, 2023 at the age of 70, in Estero, Florida. Born and raised in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, Ted attended Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin where he first met his future wife, Denise (Fox) Meredith.

After relocating to Dallas, Texas with his parents, he enrolled at University of Dallas where he received his Bachelor’s in Philosophy. In a moment of divine providence, Ted was reunited with his high school sweetheart Denise, several years (and even more miles) after their initial courtship.

Ted was a savvy and dedicated businessman in the banking industry for over 40 years providing insight, advice, and business plans for countless projects and clients in the Dallas area and beyond. His passion for helping others fulfill their dreams of working independently is only one small facet of his character that made him beloved and respected by many.

A true Renaissance man, Ted loved to keep his brain sharp by completing the daily crossword in pen, scribbling poetry in his notebooks, basking in the sun while landscaping, and fiddling with his tools to remedy any household problems; through all this, he always found a way to save time and energy to watch his Packers and Cowboys battle their weekly foes on the field. One of his most prized possessions was his Austin Healey that he worked to restore, show, and race as a hobby with his father, Edgar Sawyer Meredith. His days of attending car shows was a highlight of his life that bonded him with his father, and he shared the joy with his children. One of his greatest joys was spending time with family and friends over a communal meal, a celebratory drink, or a scintillating conversation.

Ted could bring levity to any moment by inserting a well-timed Dad joke or pun. This trait endeared him to many, coupled with his hospitable spirit and zest for fun. He was the 'go-to-guy' for countless people, always equipped with a thoughtful answer and an eager willingness to help. His patient and calm demeanor strengthened the spirit of those around him. His absence is felt by many family members and friends, but his legacy continues through the indelible impression left on the lives he touched.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Edgar Sawyer Chase Meredith and Ruth Ann (Neff) Meredith; and his brother Michael Roy Meredith.

He is survived by his loving wife, Denise; children Robert “Bob” Pulliam and his wife Jessica of Dallas, TX; Edgar “Ted” Sawyer Chase Meredith III of Austin, TX; and Valeria “Annie” (Meredith) Hero and her husband, Samuel of Klein, TX; his siblings Catherine Neff Brady, Charlotte Chase Meredith, and Curry Chase Darlington; four grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and his much loved pup Lucy.

The family is in the process of making memorial service arrangements and will announce details soon. We invite you to make a donation in Ted’s honor to one of the following charities: Wayland Academy: General Fund or Sol Wolfe Fund, 101 North University Ave, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, 53916; Boy Scouts of America Memorial Tribute Fund: Sam Houston Area Council, 2225 N Loop W, Houston, Texas 77008; The Poetry Foundation: 61 W. Superior St., Chicago, IL 60654; Paralyzed Veterans of America: P.O. Box 758589 Topeka, KS 66675-8589.

Daniel "Dan" Warren Nordell, of Waupaca, passed away at home on February 8, 2025, at the age of 71.

Dan was born August 30, 1953, in Juneau, WI; son of the late Dr. Warren "Doc" and Patricia "Pat" (Duffy) Nordell. He grew up in the area, enjoying golf, hunting, and Boy Scouts. He attended the local schools and graduated from Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam in 1971.

Following high school, Dan went on to further his education, attending a variety of universities including University of Minnesota (1971-1976), University of Nevada - Reno, University of California - Davis, and University of Wisconsin - Madison. His passion for learning led him to attend technical and professional seminars and workshops. He studied landscape, architecture, horticulture, design, construction, and heavy equipment operations. While Dan held a diverse array of jobs, the majority of his working years were spent at golf courses around the country. He loved being a groundskeeper, maintaining the beautiful greens at courses in Minnesota, Nevada, California, and Wisconsin.

Dan not only worked outdoors, he also spent his free time there. He found great enjoyment in camping, especially at National Parks such as Yosemite National Park in the Rocky Mountains. In his later years, he found solace in visiting Lake Superior, taking in the sights of the waterfalls. He truly was a free spirit that enjoyed connecting with nature.

Dan is survived by a sister, Nancy Hackbarth; a brother-in-law, Paul Steinbach; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Doc and Pat; a sister, Jennifer Steinbach; and one brother-in-law, Mark Hackbarth.
 

After a long and courageous battle with triple-negative breast cancer, Barbara Marie Szweda passed away peacefully, hand-in-hand with her family, on February 8, 2023, at Memorial Hospital in South Bend, Indiana.

Barbara was born in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, in 1953 to John and Alice Szweda. She was the oldest of eight children. Barbara attended college at Lawrence University, graduating in 1975 with a BA in history. She went on to complete her JD at Pepperdine Law School in 1980.

Barbara began her legal career as one of only two female attorneys at a high-profile litigation firm in Los Angeles, California. She later continued her career in private practice in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she not only worked for Tulsa's two most prestigious law firms, but also gave birth to her two children, Claire and Matthew Gasperetti.

In 1990, Barbara joined the faculty at Notre Dame Law School. At Notre Dame, she taught immigration and asylum law and worked as a pro bono clinician for more than 15 years. Barbara was a dynamic attorney and passionate litigator who argued multiple appellate cases, including the landmark Seventh Circuit decision Torres v. Mukasey in 2008, which has shaped immigration law.

Barbara was devoted to helping clients from some of the most dangerous places in the world escape persecution. Her care and compassion helped guide numerous clients to peace and safety in the United States. She was a light in the darkness and helped many of her clients achieve their American Dream.

Barbara is survived by her children, her three brothers and four sisters, and the hundreds of friends, students, and clients whose lives she touched.

A remembrance for Barbara will be held at the Church of Our Lady of Loretto on February 27, 2023, at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider donating to one of Barbara's favorite charities, La Casa De Amistad. More information can be found here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/Barbara-Szweda.

William Robert Hartzell, "Bill," age 67, died peacefully Aug. 14 at United Hospital in St. Paul, Minn., after a brief and valiant battle with cancer.

Bill was born Nov. 21, 1953, to Dr. Richard Hartzell and Janet Hartzell in Boise, ID. Bill grew up in Grantsburg with his three siblings, Rick, Sharon, and Susan Hartzell.

Bill graduated from Wayland Academy, then attended the University of Wisconsin-River falls. He met many lifelong friends at these learning institutions. Bill was extremely successful in his business career with the JH Larson Company setting and exceeding sales records and goals for many years. He retired from JH Larson after 31 years to his lake home in Siren in 2017.

Bill had a lifelong love of wildlife and all things in nature. He found much joy watching the ever-changing lake views of seasons, skies, and wildlife. He was a member and donor to many conservation organizations. Bill was also an avid hunter and fisherman and often spoke of the many good times he shared with friends and family on hunting trips out west and fishing trips to Canada.

Those who knew Bill know he was a car guy from the word go, and go he did, taking many long (and sometimes very fast) drives. Bill loved checking out new vehicles to acquire, always looking for his next best ride.

Bill will be remembered as a very kind, loving, successful, intelligent, generous man. He took great interest in mentoring young people and seeing them become successful. Bill had a caring nature and was someone who could be counted on to give support and lend a helping hand to those in need.

Those who knew Bill found him a man full of life, often entertaining friends and family with stories of his many life experiences. His very recognizable laugh was unforgettable.

Bill will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

Special thanks to Bill's lifelong friend, Priscilla Bauer, Dr. Vitale and staff at Burnett Medical Center, United Hospital staff, and Good Samaritan Home Care. 

Lee Ann Sims, former “Aramco Brat”, passed away on January 19th in Portland, Oregon. Lee Ann attended Najmah School during her years in Ras Tanura, and high school at Wayland Academy, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin.

Lee Ann earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in nursing. She was employed by Legacy Good Samaritan Hospital in Portland. Recently, Lee Ann retired after 37 years as Clinical Nurse Specialist. Over the years she had many hobbies that included kayaking, birdwatching, and gardening.

Lee Ann is survived by her parents, Keith L. Sims, former Manager of Northern Area Producing Maintenance, and Coila Sims, former employee in the Najmah Housing Office, long-time partner, Chris Mack, and sister and brother-in-law Shelly & Bill Foland, as well as aunts, uncles and many cousins.

Suzan was born on May 5, 1955 in Milwaukee to the late Gerald and Luella Stern and died peacefully on March 8, 2009 at the age of 53 at Brewster Village after a valiant 2 ½ year ordeal fighting brain cancer. Suzie was always a feisty lady and proved it by fighting so hard with the diagnosis.

Suzan was survived by a son, Josh and her daughter, Sarah, her brother David (Amy) Stern and nephews Jeremy, Joseph and Nicholas and a great niece Cali Ayn Marie. She is further survived by her stepmother Marge Stern, stepbrother Dan (Bev) Remmel and stepsisters: Chris Mcdonald; Wendy Remmel; Cindy (Mike) DeWitt and Jennifer (Mike) Lambert. Suzan also had many loving aunts and uncles including Peggy (Hamb) Francois and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Special friends include: Jinx Meshnick and family, Susan's true friend forever, and someone who kept her smiling to the end. Sarah's foster parents Michelle and David Coulthurst. Michelle and David were there for Suzan throughout her batter with cancer. They opened their doors and their hearts to Suzan and Sarah and are deeply loved.

Suzan was preceded in death by her father Gerald Stern and mother Luella (Janus) Stern, grandparents Adeline and Oscar Stern, her maternal grandparents and uncle Romas Stern.

The funeral service for Suzan will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, March 13, 2009 at WICHMANN FUNERAL HOME DOWNTOWN CHAPEL with Pastor Jason Oakland officiating. A time of visitation will be held at 10:00 am until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established for Sarah.

The family would like to give a special Thank You to Suzie's stepniece Shannon Moran, who was always there for Suzie. Eternal gratitude, Shannon, your care and concern will always be appreciated.

Thanks also to the staff at Brewster Village and Heartland Hospice with an extra special Thank You to Katie, Chris and Vie for your special care and love. With all of you, Suzie had many angels to be thankful for.

'Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass,
it's about learning how to dance in the rain.'
Suzie learned to dance.

September 07, 1957 - April 21, 2021

Sarah Verstegen, an impeccably honest, clear soul, died on Earth Day, April 21st.

Sarah was born in Sioux City, Iowa, the fourth child of Richard and Faith Verstegen. After graduating from Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wis., in 1975, she attended Stanford University, graduating in 1979, and the University of San Francisco for a Master's Degree in 1990.

Sarah cofounded SeaChange Marine Conservation Society in British Columbia, which is dedicated to restoration of local waterways, and she educated school groups about marine ecology.

In January 2021 she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of lung cancer. She believed in life until the very end. She leaves behind her daughter, Perry, nine-month-old granddaughter, Mira, and her beloved spouse of 33 years, Nikki, as well as sisters Laura Kasser and Nancy Verstegen, brother Peter Verstegen, nieces Katy Kasser, Rose Diamond, nephews, Peter Kasser and Aaron Diamond. Her family in all its myriad forms was paramount to her. Sarah possessed a quiet understated confidence and an uncomplicated straightforward nature. She was a passionate, skilled mariner. Sarah was the Captain of the Pumpty Dumpty, a sewage pump-out boat she operated on the Saanich Inlet for ten years on behalf of the Saanich Inlet Protection Society. She was the Facilities Operator for 24 years for SeaChange Marine Conservation Society, realizing all the Society’s visions for a healthier Salish Sea. She possessed the unique gifts of a good mind and grounded spirit. She could build and fix almost anything, including the Teaching House in the Inlet, a 24’ barge and crane, the Collective Effort, skiffs, SCUBA diving gear and underwater cameras. She was the best dive buddy having received her SCUBA diving ticket at 15.

She leaves behind many fond memories of training summer staff to care for and to teach others about the ecological and cultural riches of the Place of Blue Grouse, known as Tod Inlet. She loved the ocean and used her academic and practical skills gained over years of experience on and under water to conserve its life within coastal communities, Many, many people had the privilege to work with her and were able to know her generous soul.

Sarah is survived by her wife Nikki Wright of Brentwood Bay, British Columbia; daughter Perry Pearson of Woodacre, Calif.; brother Peter Verstegen of Hudson, Wis.; sister Laura Verstegen Kasser of Tarpon Springs, Fla.; sister Nancy Verstegen of Portland, Ore.; her granddaughter; two nephews; and two nieces.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

A small workboat named the Sarah V. will be purchased by SeaChange Marine Conservation Society to continue Sarah’s marine conservation work. Contributions could be sent to: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/m/124 26/donation

It is with the heaviest heart that we announce the passing of Mark Cameron Hahlbeck, 65, of West Orange, formerly Maplewood, on June 26, 2024. Mark passed peacefully at home, nearly 22 years after being diagnosed with multiple myeloma.

Mark was born September 15, 1958, in New York and was the son of the late Sally Joseph Hahlbeck and Kurt J. Hahlbeck, both of Wisconsin. Mark was also the son of the late Warren Potter Vickerman Jr. of New York. He leaves his loving family: wife Amy Singer of West Orange and cherished children Max Potter Hahlbeck of Cranford and Emily Rose Hahlbeck of Bloomfield; his brothers Michael Vickerman (Pamela Wiesen) of Madison, Wisconsin, and Kurt Hahlbeck (Kathy Hahlbeck) of Appleton, Wisconsin. He also leaves a sister, Katrina (Katie) Hahlbeck Smith of Appleton; brother-law and sister-in-law, Robert Singer and Debra Dennis of Morristown; and the late Stacy Goldstein. Mark was beloved by his nieces and nephews: Daniel Mark Vickerman, Nicholas (Emily) Hahlbeck, Sydney Hahlbeck, Alex Hahlbeck, Ethan Hahlbeck, Jacob Smasal, Alec Smasal, and Michaela Smasal, Jonah Singer, Ryan Dennis, and Elliot Dennis.

Mark loved life and lived with enthusiasm, soaking up experiences and expressing his creativity through music, textiles, painting, cooking, and, most recently, sculpture. His kindness made him lasting friends: neighbors, former colleagues, college friends, sculptor friends, furry friends, including his soulmate/dog Arlo (even the wildlife he greeted daily around his house and the Reservation), QiGong friends, and his medical team (the office) friends at John Theurer Cancer Center. He savored every one of those connections. Mark was an active participant in all aspects of life, from dealing with his illness to performing stand-up comedy in front of a live audience. He was willing to take on any challenge with fearlessness and enthusiasm.

In lieu of flowers and food, please consider donating to the Myeloma Division at the John Theurer Cancer Center, Hackensack Meridian Health Foundation, Hackensack, NJ, Attention: Dr David S. Siegel.

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Joseph James Baum, III, age 64, passed away on June 23rd, 2022, at the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown, IA after a brief illness. Joe was born in February 1958 to Joseph James Baum II and Sharell Holverson in Manchester, Iowa. Joe attended local schools in Iowa City, IA. He graduated from high school at Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, WI where he was a star athlete in football as well as track and field. Joe was a member of the Air Force from 1976-1979. He lived at the Veterans Home for over 30 years and was beloved by fellow residents and staff. He felt very much at home at IVH and spoke highly of the good people living and working there who became like family to him. Joe was known by many at IVH through his role delivering mail throughout the campus.

Joe was preceded in death by his father Joseph James Baum, MD of Floyd, VA. He is survived by his mother, Sharell Holverson, of St. Augustine, FL and brother, Stephan F. Baum, MD (Sherri) of Hillsborough, NC, and half-siblings David C. Baum of Sanford, NC and Lisa Baum Betts (Tim) of Raleigh, NC, in addition to nieces and nephews Chelsey Baum, Mary J. Baum, Jarod Betts, Adam Betts, and great-nephew Ayden Nackoul.

Joe was a passionate music lover and enjoyed playing and collecting guitars. Group outings with IVH to restaurants and various activities in the community were also favorite pastimes. Until the last few years, he made annual summer trips to Virginia for family gatherings at his father’s home. As a child, he loved animals, especially his family’s German Shepherd and Irish Setter, as well as camping, fishing, and being a Boy Scout member.

In the spirit of Joe’s kind, giving nature, in lieu of flowers the family suggests donations in his honor be made to the Iowa Veteran’s Home Recreation Fund online at https://ivh.iowa.gov/cash-donation or mail donations to: Iowa Veterans Home, Attn: Financial Office, 1301 Summit St., Marshalltown, IA 50158.

Donald “Scott” McDonald, 66, of Bettendorf, Iowa passed away on July 12, 2024.

Scott was born on September 19, 1957, to Alice (von Maur) and Donald McDonald of Davenport, Iowa. He grew up on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi river. He graduated from Wayland Academy in 1976, where he made lifelong friendships and then went onto Marietta College in Marietta, OH where he met his wife, Karen McDonald. Scott is survived by daughters Meghan (Connor) Bieling of Fairfield County, CT and Madeleine McDonald of Frankfort, KY.

He took after his father, a WWII veteran, with his love of country and history. He also had a passion for music, passed down to him by his grandmother Elsie von Maur.

Scott’s active nature and sense of adventure took him around the world. He was an avid cyclist, skier, golfer, and lover of the outdoors. Scott always returned home to Iowa to be with family and friends, eventually making Pleasant Valley his permanent home. He loved nothing more than being near and overlooking the Mississippi.

His caring spirit, generosity, and sense of humor will be missed by all who knew him. He collected friends at every stage of life. He brought immense joy and laughter with his Neil Young impression, achieving a seemingly impossible falsetto. 

Additionally, Scott is survived by his sisters, Ann McDonald `72 of Denver, CO, Holly McDonald of Atlanta, GA, and Brooke (Marc) Maudhuit of London, UK and many other cousins, nieces, nephews, and members of his loving family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Camp Courageous via campcourageous.org.

Lawrence ("Larry") Lithgow Smith, Jr. passed away peacefully on September 28th in the presence of his loving wife and son.

Larry was born on September 24, 1959 in Louisville, Kentucky.

He was an All American athlete at Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, where he won a State Championship. He went on to achieve national recognition as a collegiate All American wrestler at Ripon College and Ball State University.

Early in his professional career, Larry moved to Washington DC to work for Brooks Brothers and Cuffs. It was there he met Nicole Atkinson, his future wife and the love of his life. Larry and Nicole married in 1985 at St. John's Church, Lafayette Square in Washington DC.

Larry and Nicole moved to Columbus, Indiana where he joined the family business, Rodes Clothing, as the general manager of the company's Columbus store.

In the spring of 1989, Larry and Nicole moved to Louisville where he assumed the role of men's clothing buyer and merchandise manager for Rodes. Later that summer, the couple welcomed the birth of their son, Lawrence ("Trey") Lithgow Smith, III.

In the mid 1990's, the family moved to Washington, DC to support Nicole's dream of becoming an attorney. In 1997, Nicole graduated from Georgetown University Law Center with Larry and Trey proudly by her side.

The family settled down in the D.C. area where Larry continued to be a pillar of support to Nicole as her law career started and blossomed. Nicole never hesitates to credit Larry's selflessness and dedication to her and Trey as the reason she was able to pursue and realize her professional dreams.

Larry went on to coach for the Capital Area Wrestling League where he cultivated several champions including his son, Trey, and Olympic Gold Medalist Helen Maroulis.

He was a member of Ducks Unlimited, an avid hunter, and especially enjoyed training his beloved Chesapeake Bay Retrievers.

Larry loved being known in the neighborhood as the house that handed out full sized candy bars on Halloween, a fourteen thousand bulb Christmas light display, and fireworks for every occasion.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents Jane Ulferts Smith, and Lawrence Lithgow Smith, Sr., and his grandparents, Mary and Ray Ulferts, and Hanford and Elizabeth Smith.

In addition to his wife and son, Larry is survived by his sister, Susan Vogt, brother-in-law, Howard Vogt, and their son Howie Vogt, as well as beloved cousins, aunts, uncles and family and friends across the country.

Noted sailor and marine professional Kurt Hoehne, 63, unexpectedly passed away in Seattle, WA. After collapsing on July 31, 2024 at home from a sudden and massive brain hemorrhage, he died on August 1 after becoming an organ donor. As he wished, parts of Kurt will live on with some very grateful recipients.

Kurt’s love for sailing was ingrained in him from the very beginning. His father, a passionate sailor, sailed his mother across Lake Mendota on a 17-foot Silhouette to the hospital in Madison, Wisconsin, where Kurt was born. A couple of days later, the three of them sailed back across the lake, marking the start of Kurt’s lifelong journey with the sea.

His early sailing days involved racing and cruising on the Great Lakes, including competing in the Chicago-Mackinac races. These were always followed by a family cruise on Lake Huron. This activity gave the family invaluable uninterrupted family time, which he considered one of the greatest benefits of sailing.

Over the years, he became involved in more serious big-boat racing programs. When the lakes in Wisconsin became ice-covered, he did what so many sailors in the Midwest do: He went south to compete in the SORC. He also started racing Lasers, which is something he continued to do in addition to racing an RS Aero.

While in Wisconsin, he also became an assistant editor for Sailing Magazine, which allowed him to meet and write about several of his heroes while learning about boats and publishing. At that point, an opportunity arose that allowed Kurt to move to the Pacific Northwest, where he got a job working in the marketing department of Alaska Diesel for several years. Later, he became a popular columnist for the largest boating magazine on the West Coast, Northwest Yachting. It wasn’t long before he set up their web program and became the Editor.

During this time, Kurt had the good fortune to meet the love of his life, Abby, with whom he built a family that included sons Ian and Gabe. They followed the family tradition of spending time together on their C&C 36, cruising and racing around the Pacific Northwest.

In the Pacific Northwest, he had the good fortune to sail with Swiftsure Yachts partners Brad Baker and Ryan Helling on several competitive, well-managed racers. Events included all the major and minor races in the Pacific Northwest, which gave him a perspective that we all appreciated because of his ability to put the experience into words. If you ever stood a watch with Kurt, there was never a lack of great stories or conversation, all while focusing on getting around the course.

In 2016, he established the website Sailish.com, which covered regional racing, weather, and environmental concerns for sailors. With support from the local sailing community and industry, it continued to satisfy his desire to write about sailing and keep him integrated into the community he loved.

Kurt was a tireless fighter for the sailing community, and his involvement with the Corinthian Yacht Club, Sail Sand Point, and the Northwest Marine Trade Association reflected this. He also never met a person with whom he couldn’t have a pleasant conversation, and any conversation with Kurt was full of little treasures that you tend never to forget. His quick wit, sarcasm, and intellect were always appreciated.

Kurt, enjoy Fiddlers Green. Your family, your dogs, and your friends will miss you very much. We salute you for a life lived well, and a watch well stood.

Benjamin Grant Baltes, age 63, of Madison, passed away on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, at his home. He was born on September 30, 1961, in Madison, Wis., the son of David and Dorothy (Schultz) Baltes.

Benjamin graduated from Wayland Academy High School in Beaver Dam in 1979. He went on to serve in the U.S. Coast Guard. On May 29, 1993, he married Jennifer McClure Baltes at Olbrich Gardens in Madison. His first career was in marketing and sales. Later he found his true calling in teaching. He earned his undergraduate and master’s degrees in education from Western Governors University. He taught in the Sun Prairie School District at Horizon Elementary School. Benjamin then traveled with his family to Dubai to teach elementary school and 8th grade social studies. He also taught drama at the International School of Islamabad, Pakistan.

Benjamin enjoyed being involved in musical theater since childhood. He was an actor and musical director in community theater and a director of school productions. He was also in the Festival Choir of Madison. He enjoyed traveling all over the world with family, and had been to five continents. He especially enjoyed Disney Cruises. One of his passions was working with Centro Hispano, where he helped set up a naturalization ceremony in Madison; he delivered the welcome speech and registered new citizens to vote. He was also a proud shareholder of the Green Bay Packers and never missed a kickoff. More than anything else, family is very important to him - especially his daughter, Lily. As Ben always said - to share a life lesson: "Don't forget to push in your chair.”

Benjamin is survived by wife, Jennifer; daughter, Lily Baltes; sister, Beth Dibbert (Dan); nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Mark David Baltes and Stephen Bates-Baltes.

George Jeffery Cobb, 62, of Fairbanks, Alaska, passed away on March 24, 2023 after a
prolonged illness with cancer.

George moved to Fairbanks to follow his dreams of camping, fishing, and "living off the grid." In
1989 after graduating from UW-Madison, George, and his partner Allison Zusi, drove their truck
loaded with two dogs and all their belongings to Alaska to start a new life. He worked at Alaskan
Biological Research (ABR), Lifewater Engineering, and The Carlson Center, was a stay-at-home
dad, taxi driver, and a self-employed jack of all trades. He loved life in Alaska: being outdoors,
days spent with his daughters, fishing, hunting, gardening, beekeeping, his chickens, and
cooking for family and friends. In the 1990s George and a group of like minded musicians
started a band named STOV which brought good music, dancing, and laughter to many across
Alaska. George had a twinkle in his eye and a gift for making people feel welcome.

He is survived by his children, Shawna Zusi-Cobb & Jenna Zusi-Cobb; his former wife, Allison
Zusi; his parents, Sharon N. Cobb & George S. Cobb; his sister Jennifer C. Cobb & brother in
law Jon Cushman; their sons, Franklin & William; his beloved Aunt Claudia & cousins, Armando
& Alejandro; his loving Uncle Dick & cousin Shanna Johnson, Kimberly Murphy, and countless
other good friends, too many to name here. George's constant companions across the years
were his dogs. He had many and each of them held a place in his heart.

Like many others George wrestled with substance abuse. The family wants to encourage others
who struggle with this illness to seek help and find peace.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to charities of your choice keeping in mind his love
of animals and the natural world.

Everett James Branch Gibson, age 36, film and stage artist, died on Aug. 20 of lung failure in Chicago, son of the Late Reverend Eugene Gibson and Funeral Director Christine Gibson Everett.

Somers – Wilbur Alvin Nimmer Jr., age 61, passed away at home on Tuesday, April 30, 2024.

Will was born in Racine on July 2, 1962 to the late Dr. Wilbur A. Nimmer Sr. and Rose Marie (nee: Camera) Nimmer. He was a graduate of Wayland Academy, class of 1980, in Beaver Dam. Will was a devoted commercial & residential real estate agent and broker for several agencies in Southeastern Wisconsin. Among his interests, Will enjoyed cooking, golfing, motorcycles – especially riding the open roads with friends, and was a faithful, welcoming friend of many.

Will loved spending time in nature, especially with his faithful companion, his beloved dog, Beau.

Surviving are his brothers, Alan Nimmer, James (Christa) Nimmer and Pierre Nimmer; nieces, Aidan (Dr. Tim) Kao and Loran Nimmer; nephews, Sawyer & Asher Nimmer; great-nieces and nephews, Milo, Adelyn & Ella Kao; Roman & Kamani Nimmer; special cousin, Pat Demos; and many other relatives and extensive circle of friends – too numerous to mention all by name.

In addition to his parents, Will was preceded in death by his brothers, David W. Nimmer and Steven W. Nimmer.

Services celebrating Will’s life will be held on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at 6:00 pm in Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home with Deacon Terry Maack officiating. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Wednesday, May 22^nd, from 4:00 – 6:00 pm. In memory of Will, memorials may be made to Wayland Academy and Hawthorn Hollow Nature Sanctuary & Arboretum.

Jeffrey "Jeff" Steven Caldwell, departed this earthy life on January 16, 2024. He was born in Rockford, IL; the son of Betti (Hardnett) Caldwell and Clyde Caldwell on November 6, 1964. He received his education in the Rockford Private and Public school systems; Wayland Academy, beaver Dam Wisconsin and Jefferson High School class of 1981; while in high school, Jeff participated in football, poetry club and the school choir.

Following graduation from high school, Jeff attended Rock Valley College before enlisting in the United States Air Force on the Delayed Entry Program. He held a variety of assignments in air and ground communications as a Senior Airman/ Information Systems Oporator, during his military services. Jeff traveled extensively abroad with his favorite destinations being Cypress, Germany and Paris France. He made many friends in distant places and added them to his stateside childhood and adulthood friends.

After military service, Jeff attended Judson College and Rockford Business College. He also participated in numerous short term training programs. His love of learning, music, reading, writing, poetry and volunteering in the community was notable. Jeff's easygoing, humble and quiet demeanor were endearing to family, friends and associated. At the time of his passing, he had been employed at the United Parcel Service (UPS). He attended Faith Center Church.

Jeff leaves to cherish many loving memories, his parents, Betti (Hardnett) Caldwell and Clyde Caldwell; his siblings, Erik (Andrea), Erin (Eddie) Altro of San Deigo, CA; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Jeff had a special place in his heart for cousin, Leah (Caldwell) Williams and brother/friend, Rodney Moore.
Jeff was predeceased by his maternal and paternal grandparents, as well as numerous aunts, uncles and other relatives.

Memorial services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 2, 2024 at Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave. Doors will be open from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Lane Seaholm, age 59, of Tacoma, WA, passed away surrounded by family and friends on March 26 th , 2023, after a 2 year assault of esophageal cancer. Husband of Emily; Father to Elena, Olivia, Landon, and Liam; son, brother, cousin, friend and beloved colleague of many. 

Lane was born in Moline, Illinois on March 5th , 1964. He grew up in Horicon, Wisconsin and graduated from Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin in 1982. He attended your US Air Force Academy graduating in 1986 and later earned his masters degree in international relations. He completed pilot training in 1987 at Laughlin AFB, Texas and was then awarded his first choice of assignment to the C-141 at Charleston AFB, South Carolina.

Lane volunteered for a UN tour in Western Sahara and participated in numerous operations: JUST CAUSE, DESERT SHIELD and DESERT STORM. His next assignment, and what he referred to as the best job he ever had, was to the C- 20A Gulfstream-III at Ramstein, Germany from 1993-1997. Flying around the world, playing soccer with his local German team, skiing and travelling throughout

Europe gave him something to talk about for the rest of his life. He returned to the States as the Government Flight Representative to Boeing Aerospace, Long Beach, California where he flew functional and acceptance flights for C-17’s as they came out of production. 

While stationed there, he met and married Emily Dahl in September of 1999. Lane separated from active duty in 2001 and transitioned to the Reserve, joining the 728th Airlift Squadron at McChord Air Force Base, WA. After the events of Sept 11th, he volunteered for missions supporting INFINITE JUSTICE and ENDURING FREEDOM, and was mobilized from 2003-2005 supporting operations ENDURING FREEDOM and IRAQI FREEDOM.

Lane joined Alaska Airlines as a First Officer in 2005 and culminated his military service in 2011 following a promotion to Colonel and selection as 446th Airlift Wing Vice Commander. He continued with Alaska Airlines until his retirement as Captain in 2022. Throughout his career he flew a variety of aircraft including the T-41, T-37B, T-38A, C-141B, C-20A, C-17A, MD-80 and B-737, his favorite being the C-17.

Lane had said that being in the Air Force was who he was, how he defined himself. He was a patriot and felt purpose and pride in serving his country. He was also witty, loving and wicked smart - with an endless bank of knowledge that his kids knew held the answer to any question they posed. He was selfless and generous, seizing every opportunity to help others achieve even when it was at his own expense. It was his highest priority and greatest honor to take care of those he loved. He could always be counted on to incite laughter and was often reduced to tears by it as well. His favorite things were vanilla malts, reading, the outdoors, jeopardy, history, and the Green Bay Packers. He loved supporting his kids; especially on the soccer field where his encouragement could be heard in English and German. He whole heartedly supported his family’s passions and projects, embracing the chaos and celebrating the final results.

He is survived by his wife, Emily; his children, Elena, Olivia, Landon, and Liam; his parents, Raphael and Virginia Seaholm - Tacoma, WA, and his sister, LeeAnn Seaholm (Lisa Desimon) also Tacoma, WA.

Lane’s disease took him by surprise, and true to his nature, he did all he could to help those he knew avoid the same experience. If you have any pain or trouble swallowing, he would have encouraged you to seek out an endoscopy. 

All who knew and loved Lane are invited to attend his service which will be held at the Chambers Creek Chapel at New Tacoma Funeral Home, 9212 Chambers Creek Rd W, University Place, WA, 98467 on Sunday, April 16 th at 11 am. Visitation will begin at 10 am.  

Memorial will be directed to things Lane cared deeply for; his children’s education and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

David Christopher Street - father, grandfather, great-grandfather, father-in-law, husband, partner, brother, son, and friend - returned home on April 7th, 2023.

David was born November 30th, 1964, in Hopedale, Illinois, to Mack and Merci Street. He was the second of four children who grew up together in Peoria, Illinois. After graduating from high school, David went to college where he continued his wrestling career. Shortly after, he followed his dream of serving his country and enlisted and honorably served in the Marine Corps from 1988 until 1996. Later, he re-enlisted into the Army where he served and continued his combat assignments, including Operation Desert Storm/Desert Shield (1991), Operation Enduring Freedom (2007), and Operation Iraqi Freedom (2010). Earning the title of Sergeant First Class, he retired in 2021 with honors from the United States Army with over 20 years of combined service and earning hundreds of coins, letters of recognition, decorations, and awards. He led as a Squad Leader, Team Leader, Platoon Sergeant, Operations Sergeant, and Enlisted Trainer and Coach. He was a natural leader and liked by many soldiers through all of the states and countries in which he traveled and worked.

He will always be remembered as the "Jack of all Trades." From his own handyman business to his fond stories of working as a Brinks armed security operator, he truly made the most of everything he did. He enjoyed many hobbies including NASCAR, refereeing soccer, winning at scrabble and backgammon, attending MLB games (Go Cubs!), watching classic films, and playing Jedi mind tricks in a variety of settings. He enjoyed baking and was well-known as a pie extraordinaire.

During his retirement, he planned on traveling America, visiting and revisiting museums, car shows, national parks, national monuments, and historical sights. David was most proud of being a father and lived by the phrase "Family First." Fatherhood, he described, was meant for him. He was blessed with six children; five daughters; Brandis, Jennifer, Katherine (Harli), Logan (Jamal), Meagan, and his only son; Nikolas, along with his seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was always very involved in each and every one of their various academic and career successes and accomplishments.

David was a friend to many and a stranger to none. He is survived by his children; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; "Big Brother", Raymond (Donna); and his sister, "Sissy" Maxine. He will also be extremely missed and remembered by his family members, friends, and anyone who got the chance to talk with him. He was welcomed into the afterlife by his parents.

In true David fashion, a memorial celebration will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, we ask you to share a story or memory in David's honor.

Roger James VanHaren, age 80, died peacefully in his sleep on October 25, 2019 in Beaver Dam, WI. Roger was born on January 24, 1939 to Chet and Gladys (née Thompson) VanHaren in Oconto Falls, WI. He graduated from Oconto Falls High School in 1957 and earned a B.A. in English in 1961 from Oshkosh State University and an M.A. in English in 1969 from UW Madison. He was united in marriage to Marilyn A. Schroeder on July 1, 1961 in Oshkosh and moved to Beaver Dam, where both Roger and Marilyn taught in the Beaver Dam School District and at Wayland Academy.

Roger found his calling as an English teacher, first at Beaver Dam Middle School for 13 years and then Wayland Academy for 24 years. He was a devoted member of and lector at St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church, and before that at St. Patrick's Catholic Church where he sang tenor in the choir. He was also an eager volunteer, serving as city alderman, trustee of Wayland Academy, and for decades as Secretary of the Lions Club.

Roger loved attending and participating in theater; he was a founding member of the Beaver Dam Area Community Theatre, and was well known for enacting readings of "Casey at the Bat" and his traveling one-man Mark Twain show. He wrote about theater (and life in general) in a popular newspaper column he authored for many decades. He sang in the Green Lake Chambre Choir, with whom he enjoyed traveling extensively. Roger also loved the outdoors and sports; he enjoyed hiking the Ice Age Trail with friends and was a fixture on local softball mounds and golf courses. His smile, zest for life, and positivity were his hallmarks and matched his mantra: "I always do my best."

Roger is survived by his wife Marilyn VanHaren, as well as his sister Joyce VanHaren, both of Beaver Dam. He is further survived by four sons, TJ (Kim Morioka) VanHaren, Mike (Jessi) VanHaren, Chris (Carla Fermann) VanHaren, Mark (Nerissa) Wong-VanHaren, and ten grandchildren: Tyler, Ella, Melanie, Zoë, Nolan, Carter, Trevor, Stephanie, Cameron, and Sloane. Other survivors include relatives-in-law Mike (Carol) Schroeder and Nancy Schroeder, cousins, a niece and nephew, other relatives, and friends.

Roger is preceded in death by his daughter Jill Marie VanHaren Bornor and son-in-law John Bornor, his parents Chet and Gladys (Thompson) VanHaren, and his grandparents John and Christine (Van Lieshout) VanHaren, and Clyde and Susie (Crane) Thompson.

A memorial gathering for Roger will be held on Friday, November 1, at Cornerstone Funeral & Cremation Services, 135 Keller Blvd., Beaver Dam from 3:00 p.m. until 6:30 p.m.

A memorial gathering will also be held on Saturday, November 2, at Wayland Academy Kimberly Chapel, 101 N. University Ave., from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the memorial service at 11:30 a.m. with Fr. Michael Erwin officiating. Private family inurnment will take place at St. Patrick's Catholic Cemetery in Beaver Dam.

If desired, memorials may be directed in Roger's name to Beaver Dam Area Community Theatre, St. Katharine Drexel Parish, or Wayland Academy.

Tanya George ' 91, of Mexico City, died on October 10, 2018 in Wayanad, India while in search of a cure for her very aggressive cancer.

Tanya completed her BS at UNM in Spanish and Fine Art and her MBA at Anderson School of Business. She worked many positions post graduation. She worked for the US Chamber of Commerce in Mexico City, was executive director of Princeton Review of Mexico, and up until her death she was working as a stock analyst for OTR for South American companies.

Tanya loved to travel and picked up languages easily. She was fluent in Spanish and Portuguese and understood many others. Her passports confirm that she visited half of the countries on the planet and she looked forward to exploring the rest. She had close friends everywhere. She valued Wayland for developing her interest in the world and her skills in research.

Tanya George is sadly missed by her parents, her brother, her adored niece and nephew, and a world full of good and interesting friends.

Ellyn lost her life to COVID-19 after a nine-day hard-fought battle. Ellyn was reared in Menasha, Wisconsin, the much-loved daughter of former Wayland trustee Cheryl and Peter Humleker. She graduated from Wayland Academy in 1994 and then attended Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin.

She was intelligent and curious; she loved to read and remembered everything she ever read. She was a good friend to many and cared deeply for the less fortunate among us. She met the challenges of her life as best she could and never gave up.

She is survived by her mother, Cheryl, her life companion Roy Rosenberger (Appleton), and her sister, Katie Humleker Knicely `96 of Sterling, VA. She was preceded in death by her father, Peter, in May 1998.

Her family expresses deep appreciation for the skillful and loving care she received at Aurora Medical Center – ICU in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, during the last nine days of her illness. They lovingly recognize those who cared for her: Tom W., Jen F., Liz, Kate, George, Dr. Dona Konda, and Dr. Michael Flately.

Ellyn would ask that you do a good deed without recognition, pass on your blessings, and WEAR A MASK!

Kierstan Jeanne Rickey, age 45, of Madison, passed away on Monday, June 5, 2023, after suffering from MS for several years. She was born on Dec. 13, 1977, in Madison, the daughter of Alan and Susan (Hable) Rickey.

Kierstan graduated from Beaver Dam Wayland Academy in 1996. After graduating from UW Madison with a degree in Sociology. Kierstan worked as a Disability Specialist for State of Wisconsin. She was a very intelligent and sensitive woman with a deep love for her family and animals. Kierstan enjoyed decorating her home and conversing about politics.

Kierstan is survived by her father, Alan Rickey; grandmother, Carol Rickey; four uncles, Steve (Susan) Hable, Michael (Bobbi) Rickey, John Rickey and Robert Hable; two aunts, Barbara (T.J.) Harkness and Ellen Rickey; and many cousins, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by mother, Susan J. Rickey; aunt, Patty (John Jordan) Rickey; maternal grandparents, Larry and Ruth Hable; and paternal grandfather, Vilas Rickey.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be gifted in Kierstan's name to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. 

Bridget (35) passed away peacefully on July 20, 2021, in Sioux Falls, SD after a courageous battle with Wilson’s Disease. Although cut short, she lived a fulfilling life as a loving mother to her children Sophia (7), Nessa (6), and their family dog, Grimm. She will be greatly missed. Memorial donations may be made to Wayland Academy.

Joshua David Block, age 30, of St. Petersburg, FL, formerly of Chicago, IL and Milwaukee, WI. Josh was a graduate of The University of Wisconsin in Milwaukee and went on to graduate Summa Cum Laude from John Marshall Law School in 2018, where he found his passion and love of the law. Josh was very artistic, creative and talented. He loved all forms of art. He created witty comics, award winning photography and beautiful drawings without any formal training. He also loved the Bears, the Brewers, bowling and sci fi. He was the devoted son of Robin (nee Resnick) and the late Spencer Block; loving brother of Alexis (Samuel Bitter) Block-Bitter; adored grandson of Nina and the late Michael Resnick and the late Marion and the late Arnold Block; cherished nephew of Pam and Mike Bukowski, Elise and Steve Foster, Gloria Block Secler and Harold Secler, and Nancy Block; dear great nephew of Shellie Yaseen and Tedd Rosenfeld; special cousin and friend to many. Finally, Josh was an incredibly kind, caring, compassionate and empathetic individual who people were drawn to. He deeply loved animals, his friends, his family and life. Graveside service Thursday, 3:00 p.m. CT at Westlawn Cemetery, Section Memorial, 7801 W. Montrose Avenue, Norridge. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in memory of Joshua Block to support the Spencer J. Block, MD, Neurosurgery Education and Research Fund at the University of Chicago Medicine. 

Nikos Paul Frank, born in Madison, WI on October 29, 1991 passed away at the age of 30 in his hometown of Fond du Lac, WI on November 24, 2021. He is survived by his son Dimitri, father Paul Frank, mother Catherine Reinke, sister Cassy Dempsey and husband Richard, sister Miranda Reinke, sister Elizabeth Hompertz, and niece Grace.

Growing up in Fond du Lac, Nikos spent many years playing center position in hockey. As quarterback, Nikos led the Wildcats to their first 8-0 season. He attended Wayland Academy, Georgetown Preparatory School, and Mercersburg Academy. From a young age, Nikos sought to learn with friends and family through meaningful conversation.

Nikos earned a Bachelor of Arts in 2016 from St. John’s College in Annapolis, MD, where he received the Alumni Blazer Award for outstanding service to the athletic department and was captain of the Hustlers intramural team.

Nikos was an avid reader who enjoyed the great classics, physics, and metaphysics—especially Heidegger’s Being and Time, Plato’s Republic, and the books of the Bible. He spent as much time as possible in nature with plants and animals, as well as with his beloved German Shepherd, Leo. They went hiking and camping often, soaking in the silence and wonder of the night skies. Classical music was a staple in his daily life, Beethoven’s Ode to Joy being one of his favorites.

Nikos enjoyed woodworking, tending to his collection of plants and wheatgrass, playing chess, writing stories and poetry, and infusing love into his traditional Greek recipes passed down from his Papou and Yaya, especially Greek Dolmades. He dreamt of starting a wellness center to create a community of people who shared a common endeavor to live well and be well.

Nikos was baptized Eastern Greek Orthodox. At age eight, Nikos was given the family’s traditional Greek Ichthys necklace, which he wore until his last day. The necklace symbolizes Jesus Christ Son of God Savior. He had a clear understanding of Saint Francis of Assisi, patron of animals and nature, who gave up his life of wealth. 

In remembrance of Nikos, here is a prayer from Saint Francis of Assisi:

Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, pardon;
Where there is doubt, faith;
Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light;
Where there is sadness, joy.  

O Divine Master,Grant that I may not so much seek
To be consoled as to console,
To be understood as to understand,
To be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.  

Nikos, you will be sorely missed, and the Earth is a bit darker without your light.  

On June 7, 2023, we lost our beautiful son, Russell Little, to suicide. Everyone that knew Russell remembers him as one of the most kind, bright, creative, enthusiastic people ever. Always an engineer at heart, he loved building anything from software programs to his own furniture for his house in Madison, WI.

He loved baking bread and growing things and making pickles. He loved playing with his dog, Tara, and camping and hiking with his lovely girlfriend Anna. He was appreciated and respected by his engineering team at TDS. He loved playing board games with his friends, and traveled the country to enjoy being with his grandparents and cousins. He brought joy to all who knew him.

We are all struggling to understand how this wonderful, beloved person, who had so much going for him, could have taken his own life. As his mother, even though I knew Russell had suffered times of devastating depression, I naively believed that he was able to manage, and that the life he was building would sustain him. I now believe that he suffered from bipolar swings, as his sister does, and that after a long period of intense happiness, the latent depression hit him hard and robbed him of his own connection to himself and those he loved.

During his last two weeks we could tell he was lost, and he agreed to be hospitalized at UW Health in Madison. He started a treatment program there, but on the night of his release from the hospital his illness took him from us.

Russell was loved and respected by many people spanning from his dear childhood friends in Novi, MI, to friends from St. Stephen School in Horicon, to his friends at Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam (graduated 2011) and UW-Madison (graduated 2016.)

He is survived by his parents: Beth and Doug Plier and Doug Little and Jerry Abb; his sister and her husband, Barbara Little and Sam Dickey; his step-brothers: Grant and Keith Lowe; his girlfriend, Anna Schenk and the whole Schenk family; his grandparents: Chuck Shipman, Keith Raney and Christine Nielsen; and too many wonderful aunts, uncles, cousins and friends to list here. He will be deeply missed by all; including his dog, Tara; and his cat, Qat.

A Russell Little Memorial Fund is being set up through Church Health Services to support Mental Health in the Schools for children who otherwise couldn't access the services they need. This community based health service program provides mental health services for children attending Wayland Academy, Waupun Area Schools, Horicon Schools and Beaver Dam Schools, all of which have special meaning to Russell and his family.

Contributions can be sent directly to CHS, 115 N. Center Street, Beaver Dam, WI 53916. Please indicate that your gift is for the Russell Little Memorial Fund.

A public celebration of Russell's life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, July 14, 2023 at the Kimberly Chapel on the campus of Wayland Academy, 101 North University Avenue, Beaver Dam, WI 53916. Virtual attendance through Zoom will be available and is encouraged if you are not in the area. Please contact Beth Plier for the Zoom link at bplier@waupun.k12.wi.us.

A private memorial will be held at a later date at our family cottage near Crivitz, WI.

The world has lost someone beautiful, someone good, someone who brought joy to all he met. On Tuesday, March 28th, 2023, our beloved son, Owen, peacefully departed this earth. While his time with us was too short, his journey has just begun. As we mourn our loss, it is with great faith and courage to know that with Jesus by his side, Owen is now on his path to the Kingdom of Heaven.

Owen was born in Carbondale, IL to proud parents, Bill and Sara. A gift from God, he was absolutely loved and welcomed. He lived his early years in southern Illinois and then in Tennessee before eventually moving to Rockford, IL. Recently, he found work and friends and moved to Minneapolis, MN.

Owen was fortunate to travel and see many places. He loved the city of Chicago and swimming in Lake Michigan. He got excited for trips with his "Nanu" going to such places as the Grand Canyon, Bermuda, Alaska, beaches in Florida, and to China. He loved being at home with family as well. Whether it be "family pizza parties" or the annual Cherry Valley Fourth of July bike parade, Owen loved spending time with Grandma and Grandpa. Every summer, he would spend as much time as he could in their pool and in Grandma's garden.

Owen had a zest for life, a natural curiosity for the world around him. He loved to hike the Forest Preserves and the many trails near his grandparent's house. He loved to kayak and tube down the Kishwaukee River and explore the flora and wildlife that was all around. He had an instinct and ability to find snakes, birds, beaver, and all sorts of animals on his hikes. He was especially proud of his "own" creek that ran through his Nanu's yard. He would spend all day down there with his dog, Peanut.

Owen loved writing, poetry, good food, and music. He was gentle and caring. He loved being there for friends when they were going through difficult times. When he faced his own hard times, he never complained or asked "why me?". Owen was becoming more wise and confident and had an enthusiasm for what lay ahead.

Owen is survived by his parents, Bill Osborne and Sara Osborne; grandparents, Bill and Daina Osborne, Jan Fromm; uncles Ian Fromm, Mike Heaslip, Jason Osborne, Brandon Correa; aunts, Robin Dailey, Kristi Correa, Lisa Osborne; cousins, Ethan Fromm, Sebastian Heaslip, Emmi and Ben Correa, Alex, Emmett, and Stella Osborne; numerous second cousins and great aunts and uncles whom Owen loved dearly. A special mention to Katy Metzler and Suzy Osborne whom Owen looked up to and adored when he was young.

Owen is predeceased by his grandfather, Michael Fromm; great-grandparents, Bill and Rose Osborne, Jonas and Emma Bielskis; great-uncles, Steve Osborne, Larry Osborne, Mark Turley.

A very heart-felt recognition of gratitude to the staff at Hennepin County Medical Center for all their care and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, we ask you to donate to any of the many organizations supporting mental health and addiction.