In memoriam: Those who left us in January 2017 (2024)

Lawrence “Larry” Norman Mohr

Lawrence “Larry” Norman Mohr, 70, of Montello, passed away Monday, Jan. 2, 2017, at his home.

Larry was born in Tomahawk, to Norman Mohr and Dorothy Kees (Sutherland) on Jan. 18, 1946. In April 1967, he married Arlene Baumann and they were later divorced. He worked for Drott Manufacturing and Wausau Steel in Wausau. He then married Nancy Rosemark on July 1, 1980, in Portage. He worked for H. Samuels Recycling Company in Madison for 38 years before retiring in 2008. Larry enjoyed hunting, fishing and working on projects in his garage. He raced lawnmowers as a sport in the 1980s. He also enjoyed playing pool and spending time with friends at the Cottonwood Bar & Grill. He was known by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren as “Tall Papa.”

Larry is survived by his wife, Nancy Mohr of Montello; sisters, Jean Nelson of Colorado and Nancy Dayton of West Bend; daughters, Fay Mohr of Rothschild, Sue Mohr of Oshkosh, and Crystal Mohr of Baraboo; grandchildren, Kendell Mohr of Rothschild, Stevie Kay Klump, Hailey Klump, and Alicia Klump, all of Neenah; seven great-grandchildren; his good friend, Randy Heinzel of Portage; and many friends and family members. He was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Lloyd Kees; brother, Gary (Vera) Mohr; and sister, Shirley Amond.

No services will be held but a celebration of life for family and friends will be held at a later date.

Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home (www.pmmfh.com) is assisting the family.

James R. “Jim” Cleary

James R. “Jim” Cleary, 78, of Briggsville, passed away at home Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2017, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born June 1, 1938, Jim was one of five children born to Roy and Elizabeth (Taylor) Cleary. Jim graduated from Portage High School in 1956, and was a member of the Portage High School Volleyball State Championship team and was recently inducted to the Portage High School Hall of Fame. Jim still holds numerous athletic records at Portage High School. After high school, he was recruited by and pitched in the farm system for the Milwaukee Braves. His baseball career was cut short by a shoulder and arm injury. He drove semi-truck and hobby farmed. He was united in marriage to Mariam “Mag” Moore on June 27, 1959, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Briggsville. They were blessed with four children, seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren during their 57 years of marriage. Jim was well-known in the small town of Briggsville for his infectious smile, his love of storytelling, love of baseball, and most importantly, his pride and love that he had for his family.

Jim is survived by the love of his life, Mariam “Mag” Cleary of Briggsville; children, Brenda Hinze of Briggsville, Denise (Jim) McFaul of Wisconsin Dells, Troy Cleary (Chris Kammes) of Briggsville and Paula (Robert) Buss of Briggsville. He was so very proud of his family — especially his grandkids, Stacy Hinze (Jeff Bilberry), Ryan (Travis) Bohen, Jared Hinze, Trevor McFaul (Callie Northcott), Jalen, Colyn and Braden Buss; and great-grandchildren, Taylor, Addisyn and Brenton Bilberry, and Brody and Griffin Bohen. Jim was looking forward to meeting a new great-granddaughter to be born this spring. He is further survived by a brother-in-law, Maurice Zick of Briggsville. He will be missed by his many other relatives and close friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Elizabeth Cleary; sisters, Helen “Marie” Geiger (William Geiger), Margaret Cleary and Mary Zick; as well as his brother, Joseph Cleary (Carole Cleary); a nephew, David Cleary; and niece, Debra Dreyer.

A special thank you to Cory Cardinal and Susan Eggleston Dushek, and also Joe and Janet Millard, for their friendship and continued support over the years.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at noon Saturday, Jan. 7, 2017, at St. Mary’s Help of Christians Catholic Church in Briggsville, with the Rev. Gary Krahenbuhl presiding. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Briggsville. Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at the church. Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home (www.pmmfh.com) in Portage is assisting the family.

Memorials to the family would be greatly appreciated.

The family would like to thank Father Gary, Sister Jovita and the staff at Home Health United Hospice for their care and support.

Lee Loren Heisz

Lee Loren Heisz, son of the Rev. Loren Louie and Marylou Sheridan Heisz, was born Aug. 30, 1969, in Richland Center. He departed this life Friday, Dec. 30, 2016, from injuries suffered in a car accident, near Chanute, Kansas, at the age of 47 years.

On Oct. 1, 1993, he was united in marriage to Carol Lynn Daehn, and to this union two sons were born.

His father preceded him in death.

Lee is survived by his wife, Carol, of the home; two sons, Jordan and Cameron Heisz, of the home; his mother, Marylou Heisz, Lebanon, Missouri; two brothers, Lance Heisz, and his wife, Kim, Lebanon, Missouri, and Lowell Heisz, Osage Beach, Missouri; a sister, Lisa Dedrick, and her husband, Jaret, Portage; a number of nieces and nephews; two sisters-in-law, Laura Wentz, and Susan Miller, both of Portage; an aunt, Joan Roberts, and her husband, Woodrow, Boscobel; an uncle, Mark Heisz, and his wife, Theresa, Lebanon, Missouri; as well as a host of other relatives and friends.

He was born in Wisconsin, and lived in various locations with his family, including Michigan, Illinois and Oklahoma, while his father was serving in the ministry. After he graduated from high school, he attended Calvary Bible College in Kansas City, Missouri. Most of his life he spent in Wisconsin and in Portage for over 22 years. Lee had worked as a carpenter doing building construction, but was currently employed by Tractor Supply in Portage.

Lee had established a deep, personal, quiet faith in God.

In his spare time he liked hunting and fishing and also enjoyed working on CJ Jeeps. He had an outgoing personality and never met a stranger. He was well-liked by all of his friends and enjoyed hosting cookouts and social functions. His family was most important to him and being a devoted husband and father was his highest priority. He especially enjoyed spending time with Jordan, Cameron and Carol.

Lee was a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, and was a caring neighbor and friend. We celebrate his life and know that his family and friends will treasure the wonderful memories he made for them during his lifetime.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, 2017, at Holman-Howe Funeral Home of Lebanon, Missouri. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. until service time at the funeral home.

Memorial donations to the Carol and Lee Heisz Fund may be made through Bank Mutual, 145 E. Cook St., Portage, WI 53901.

Evelyn A. “Blondie” Monthey

Evelyn A. “Blondie” Monthey, 96, formerly of the town of Marcellon, died Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017, at Columbia Health Care Center.

She was born Feb. 21, 1920, in Baraboo to Arthur and Anna (Puttkamer) Ziegler in the town of Fairfield. At the age of 12, she moved with her family to the town of Caledonia near Portage, where she graduated from Portage High School in 1937. In 1938, she moved with her family to LaValle in Sauk County where she resided until 1943 when she moved to Baraboo where she worked at Badger Ordinance on the production line making gun powder for World War II. Then in the Ration Board, the Paymaster’s Office, and the Steno-Pool there until 1946. On June 5, 1946, she was married to George “Chick” Monthey at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Baraboo. They rented George’s father’s farm in the town of Marcellon in Columbia County until 1956, when they bought an adjoining farm.

She started the Jolly Juveniles 4-H Club acting as general leader and sewing leader. She transported school children to the Forrest School one year, was a member of the St. Andrews Resurrection Choir for many years, and a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. She spent countless days on the farm helping wherever needed including working in the fields with high school age helpers and also selling during many years of their raising produce.

Besides her love for the outdoors, bird watching, learning animal tracks, identifying wild flowers, hiking, camping, fishing, boating and hunting, she enjoyed looking for beauty among the antics of birds and animals, the changing of seasons, the frost, and trees and sounds and calls of nature. She enjoyed doing many and varied things such as knitting, crocheting, embroidering, dress making, house plants, raising flowers, bowling league, horseshoe pitching, playing the organ, and many games of cards. She enjoyed the many trips she and Chick took including Alaska and Switzerland. The love of all of the people in her life filled a special place.

Survivors include eight nieces and nephews, Tony, Donna, Robert, Gary, Sherry, Mary, John and James, who brought tremendous care, love and joy to her life as well as their family members including four great-great-great-descendants and many friends.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband, George “Chick”; one brother, Martin; and one sister, Eileen.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 30, 2017, at St. Andrew Catholic Church in the town of Buffalo, with the Revs. John Hedrick and Paul Eruva co-presiding. Interment will follow at Silver Lake Cemetery in Portage. Visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017, at Grasse Funeral Home in Pardeeville, and again from 10 a.m. until the time of services Monday at the church.

“A special thank you to nephew Tony Ziegler for his kind and caring attention to Chick and me all through the years. Also to Donna, Sherry, Mary, Arvona, and Mary Schuld for a myriad of love, help and care.”

Grasse Funeral Service of Pardeeville (www.grassefs.com) is serving the family.

Susan J. (nee Smith) Armstrong

Susan J. (nee Smith) Armstrong was born in Portage on Jan. 26, 1950, to Donald R. and Marion (nee Ginther) Smith. She died Jan. 21, 2017, from complications of Huntington’s disease. She fought a great 12-year battle with determination, courage and grace. She never gave up hope and resisted its crippling effects to the very end.

Susan graduated from St. Vincent’s Academy in Savannah, Georgia. After high school, she enrolled at Clark College in Dubuque, Iowa, for a year. During the summer, she waitressed at Pheasant Inn in Briggsville and Del-Bar Supper Club in Lake Delton, before transferring to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and continued waitressing at Tony Frank’s-North. She graduated with a B.A. degree in theater and drama. She was a behind-the-curtains guru for several plays and in many Little Theater productions. Susan helped choose and paint backdrops, directed lighting, organized and procured wardrobe and furniture set designs. The use of color and efficiency were her hallmarks.

Susan married Dennis Armstrong of Baraboo in a backyard wedding at her grandmother’s gazebo. Her father walked her down the road from her aunt and uncle’s neighboring farm house. The couple moved to the Milwaukee area and later divorced.

Susan accepted work at a job fair with All State Insurance Company. She quickly rose through the ranks and became a claims adjuster. She served as a member of the nationwide relief team and was dispatched often as the first person in and the last out at disaster scenes such as Gulf Coast and Florida hurricanes and in California earthquakes. She rooted out fraudulent cases filed against the company and exposed rings of crooked individuals preying on the industry. Often opposing companies settled when they learned she was on the case. She held that position for 32 years before retiring early due to health reasons.

Susan was a family trend setter, mentoring and counseling others and excelling in outdoor activities and sports. She loved to travel. She was an active runner, entering four marathons, taking 10th place in the Lake County, Illinois, Race with a time of 3 hours 29 minutes flat. This qualified her for the Boston Marathon. She also entered many 5- and 10-K races. She chalked up many first-place finishes. She participated in the week-long bicycle ride across Iowa. This event was from west to east and she did it four times, staying with different farm families along that stretch. She was the team captain of her softball team. A natural lefty, she played first base. She was the spark plug, the cheerleader and batted cleanup! For excitement, she vacationed out west. Whitewater rafting the Colorado River in Arizona, way down deep in the Grand Canyon and the Snake River in Idaho and Washington were her favorites. They provided a challenge and she gave it her all getting wet and loving it. In later years, she was content to walk to and from the grocery store using nearby Glacier Drumlins hike-n-bike trail.

Susan was also a world traveler. Summer trips were saved for European tours including stays in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy. Spain and France were next, followed by the British Isles and Ireland. In the winter months, she took trips to the Southern Hemisphere; Australia and New Zealand ranked high on her list. A safari ride with big game and wild animals in Africa was her favorite. She said it was so real you could almost reach out and touch them. The zebras were the best.

Susan’s hobby was watching the latest Hollywood movie release, but she loved them all. She claimed she liked the romances and comedies the best, but enjoyed drama and thrillers as well. She didn’t care what time era the film was either. Academy Award winners and golden age movies did just fine as far as she was concerned. We never found out who her leading male actors were. True to her nature, she went out on her terms watching a movie with her brother and sister-in-law.

Susan is survived by her father, Donald; and two brothers, Darrell, Baraboo, and Steven (Sherry) Smith, Germantown; two nieces, Michelle Lepenski, Hartford, and grandnephew Mason and grandniece Madison, and Jennifer (Joseph) Rodriguez, and grandnephews Austin and Able. Susan was preceded in death by her mother, Marion (Ginther) Smith; grandparents; aunts and uncles; and sister-in-law, Ginny Murray Smith.

The family wishes to thank her dear friends, Arnie, Marty and especially Betty, who shared many hours watching films together. A shout-out also goes to the staff and caregivers of the second floor West Lutheran Home in Wauwatosa. Your care recently and throughout the years has been outstanding, loving and kind.

“Susan, we are going to miss your smile, courage and independence. God speed and farewell.”

The family will greet friends from 11 a.m. until the time of Mass at noon Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, N565 County Road A, Briggsville. Burial will follow at the church cemetery and a reception will follow at the church. Memorials to the Huntington’s Disease Society of America are appreciated.

Roger Lyle Milligan

Roger Lyle Milligan, 94, of Wisconsin Dells, passed away peacefully Monday, Jan. 23, 2017, at St. Clare Hospital in Baraboo, with his daughter, Roganne, the light of his life, by his side.

A celebration of life memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017, at United Presbyterian Church in Wisconsin Dells, with the Rev. Steven Keller officiating. Military rites will be provided by the Carl E. Grabman American Legion Post No. 329 of Briggsville, of which he was a member. Visitation will be from noon until the time of service at the church.

Roger was born Jan. 22, 1923, in Bayfield, the son of Albert and Alma Milligan. Roger served in the U.S. Army in the World War II European Theater and was honorably discharged. He met Helen Ann Richter in 1951, and they married June 4, 1952, sharing 61 wonderful years together. Roger enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating and camping. He took great pride in his home and his family. Roger sold automobiles for 35 years in Adams-Friendship and Wisconsin Dells, retiring in 1986. He was an honest and fair man who people trusted. Prior to selling autos he drove bus for Greyhound, which is how he met Helen.

Roger was a prominent member of the United Presbyterian Church in Wisconsin Dells, where he and Helen were the oldest living couple until her death in 2013.

Roger is survived by his only child, Roganne “Roj” Rosen, and a brother, Albert (Shirley) Milligan. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Helen; and siblings, Ken Milligan and Grace Kile.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family would be appreciated and will be appropriately distributed to Roger’s favorite charities.

Picha Funeral Home and Crematory of Wisconsin Dells assisted the family with arrangements. For online condolences and information, visit www.pichafuneralhome.com.

Philip H. Vangsnes

Philip H. Vangsnes, 90, passed away Thursday, Jan. 19, 2017, at Tivoli in Portage.

Philip was born June 13, 1926, in Greenwood, the son of George and Cora (Johnson) Vangsnes. He served his country in the United States Army during WWII in Southeast Asia. Philip graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in agronomy. He married Bette Wetmore on Nov. 7, 1953. He worked in agriculture his entire career, first for Oconomowoc Canning Company Co. and later for Rogers Bros. Seed Co. Philip was a member of the American Legion and VFW. He served his community as a fireman, and past Village President. He had attended Dekorra Lutheran Church in Poynette, and was an avid outdoorsman and birder. He enjoyed gardening and woodworking projects. He excelled at telling stories most of which you could believe.

Philip is survived by his children, Philip Charles (Cindy) Vangsnes of Suamico, Barbara Marian (Andy Waller) Flaherty of DeForest, and Steven Douglas (Denise) Vangsnes of Greenfield; his grandchildren, Katie Melissa (Luis Mendoza) Vangsnes, Erin Nicole Vangsnes, Adrianne Miran (Matt Sheridan) Roth, Lucas Mark Roth, and Ashley Zimmerman (Dan Bruce); his great-grandchildren, Luka Octavio Mendoza, Mauro Andre Galik, Addison Jo Sheridan, Kellan Lucas Sheridan, Callahan O’Brien Bruce and Genevieve Ada-Mae Bruce; other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his wife, Bette.

Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, Jan. 28 at Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home (www.pmmfh.com) in Portage. A short memorial service will follow with the Rev. Ryan Rouse officiating. Military Honors will be conducted by the Portage Area Veterans Honor Guard. Inurnment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

UW Carbone Cancer Center

Attn. Katie Williquette

600 Highland Ave., K4/658

Madison, WI 53792-6164

uwhealth.org/donateuwccc

Friends of MacKenzie Environmental Center

W7303 County Hwy CS & Q

Poynette, WI 53955

friendsofmackenzie.org

The family would like to thank the team of caregivers and staff at Tivoli Assisted Living and all those that have supported Phil and his family.

Doris E. Hamele

Doris E. Hamele, 91, passed away Friday, Jan. 20, 2017, at Heritage House in Portage, surrounded by her loving family.

Doris was born Oct. 6, 1925, in Boscobel, the daughter of Wilbert and Lois (Krahn) Seeley. She graduated from Wauzeka High School. She married John “Jack” Hamele in 1988. Doris worked as a dietary supervisor for many years at the Methodist Hospital. She made over 150 beautiful quilts, most of which she donated to TRIAD in Portage and The Orphan Grain Train. She spent many enjoyable hours fishing, playing cards, and painting scenic pictures.

Doris is survived by her children, Lynn Olson, Larry Olson, Lynette (Norm) Barnard and Kathy (Mike) Neuhengen; sister, Peggy Rice; brother, Wilbert Seeley Jr.; five grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and close friends. Doris was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Kensel Olson; husband, Jack Hamele; brothers, Richard Seeley and John Seeley.

Doris requested to be cremated. A private Celebration of Life will be held at Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home (www.pmmfh.com) in Portage. Inurnment will be private.

The family would like to thank the staff at Heritage House and Agrace Hospice for their care and support.

Carl Justice

Mr. Carl Justice, 77, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, passed away Jan. 14, 2017.

Carl was preceded in death by his son, Mark Justice; parents, William and Fannie Justice; brother, Steve Justice; brothers-in-law, Art Blystone and Wayne Davis; and sister-in-law, Edna Justice.

Mr. Justice is survived by three daughters, Michelle Justice, Monica Justice and Marla Thomas; a brother, Paul Justice; sisters, Sue Blystone and Bonnie Davis; grandchildren, Megan Berry, Justin Justice, Nicole Mullis, Laurel Berry, Brianna Justice and Alyssa Guttilla; great-grandchildren, Luis Mark Carrillo, Elijah Timmons, Kinley Mullis, Quinn Mullis and Gabriella Justice; and two fur babies, Precious and Little Bit.

A memorial service was held Thursday, Jan. 19 at Tabernacle Baptist Church in Rockfish, North Carolina, with the Rev. Tommy Underwood officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Tabernacle Baptist Church, 3219 Lindsay Road, Raeford, NC 28376.

Shirley B. White

Shirley B. White, 91, of Rio/Poynette, passed away Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017, at Divine Savior Healthcare in Portage. The family would like to express special appreciation of the staff and for the care that Shirley received while she was at Divine Savior. Grasse Funeral Service of Rio served the family (www.grassefs.com).

Vilas John Lindert

Vilas John Lindert, 88, of Doylestown, passed away Monday, Jan. 16, 2017, at Columbia Health Care Center in Wyocena.

He was born Sept. 12, 1928, to John and Clara (Ohlman) Lindert. He was united in marriage to his first wife, Helen Bobholz, in September 1950. She preceded him in death Feb. 5, 1995. He was united in marriage to his second wife, Lori Bush on July 5, 1996. He was an over-the-road truck driver for over 50 years. He loved to hunt, fish, garden, shoot pool, play cards and was an avid sports fan.

Survivors include his wife, Lori; three sons, Glenn (Ruth), Ronn (Georgia), and Chris (Linda); two daughters, Deborah (Hugh) Shaw and Carol-Sue (David) Johnson; daughter-in-law, Noreen Lindert; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Helen; son, Tom; brothers, Raymond Lindert and Harold Lindert; and sister, Elda Moll.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 23 at Grasse Funeral Home in Pardeeville, with the Rev. James Bolda officiating. Interment will follow at Salemville Cemetery in Green Lake County. Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until the time of services. Grasse Funeral Service of Pardeeville is serving the family (www.grassefs.com).

Josephine “Jo” F. Schmitt

Josephine “Jo” F. Schmitt, 89, of Doylestown, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017.

Jo was born Oct. 8, 1927, in Doylestown. She was the fourth daughter of John F. and Viola M. (Anthony) Kirley. She was married to Henry Schmitt on May 4, 1963, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rio. She worked for the State of Wisconsin for 31 years. In 1982, they moved to Texas and lived there until they returned to Doylestown in 1998.

She is survived by a son, Robert; grandson, Dalton; step granddaughter, Ashley Rowin; sister, Agnes McCormick; many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and -nephews, great-great-nieces and -nephews and a great-great-great-niece.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Henry in 2007; sisters, Margaret Golliher and Ann Sunde; nephew, Gerald Golliher; great-great-nephew, Tyler Amundson; brothers-in-law, Harold Golliher, Limon Sunde and James McCormick.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 24 at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Doylestown, with Father Steve. Kortendick presiding. Interment will follow at St. Patrick Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until the time of services at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Jo’s memory may be made to St. Patrick Catholic Church or St. Joseph Catholic Church. Grasse Funeral Service of Rio is serving the family (www.grassefs.com).

Shirley B. White

Shirley B. White, 91, of Rio/Poynette, passed away peacefully Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017, at Divine Savior Healthcare in Portage.

She was born May 25, 1925, to Leslie and Julia (Belsky) James in Milwaukee. She was united in marriage to Donald L. White on Sept. 21, 1945, in Madison. She was blessed with two children. She was a homemaker in raising her family, watched NASCAR, attended short-track auto races, and watched old TV shows. Shirley also enjoyed wallpapering and painting in their home. She especially enjoyed spending holidays with her family.

Survivors include one daughter, Patricia Church of Poynette, and one son, Donald (Georgia) White of Poynette; two grandchildren, Amanda (Michael) Green, and Donald W. (Leah) White; seven great-grandchildren, Jon, Steve, Ashley, Nate, Ethan and Donovan Green, and Kyler White; one great-great-grandchild, Lilly Green; one brother, Arnold Jackson; and many nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald, in 1976; son-in-law, Rod Church, in 2001; and sister, Dorothy Krueger.

A private family graveside service with interment will take place at Ohio Cemetery. The family would like to extend a special thank you for the care Shirley received at the Columbia Health Care Center. Grasse Funeral Service of Rio (www.grassefs.com) is serving the family.

Joyce Warr

Joyce Warr, 70, of Portage, passed away peacefully following a lengthy illness on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017, at Divine Savior Healthcare in Portage.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, 2017, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Wisconsin Dells, with the Rev. Matt Gehrke officiating. Inurnment at Douglas Cemetery will be held at a later date. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. at the church, with a luncheon immediately following.

Joyce was born May 10, 1946, in the town of Douglas, Marquette County, the daughter of Edward and Elaine (Goodhue) Zimmerman. She was married to Frederick Warr. Joyce enjoyed riding horses, playing cards and spending time with her family including her two beloved Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs, Oden and Katie. She worked for many years at the Poynette True Value Hardware Store.

Joyce was a beautiful person who loved and cared about her family deeply. She always gave more than she received. Her passion for Jesus Christ our lord and savior was evident all her life. Although, she will be greatly missed, we will cherish our memories forever and take comfort in knowing she is home with Jesus.

Joyce is survived by a son, Terry (Mary Jo) Leege of Baraboo; grandchildren, Alicia (Joey) Rivas and their children, Tyson, Carter and Jackson, and Christian (Lyssa) Leege and their daughter, Lily; and brothers, Sheldon Zimmerman of Endeavor, and LeRoy (Marge) Zimmerman of Briggsville. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Fred; and a sister in law, Mary Zimmerman.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Tivoli Nursing Home for the loving care they showed to Joyce for so many years.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations would be appreciated.

Picha Funeral Home and Crematory of Wisconsin Dells assisted the family with arrangements. For online condolences and information, visit www.pichafuneralhome.com.

Gladys N. Port

Gladys N. Port, 96, of Portage, passed away peacefully, with her daughters at her side, on Sunday, Jan. 15, 2017, at Tivoli in Portage.

Gladys was born Oct. 1, 1920, in New Lisbon, the daughter of Arthur and Ella (Grothman) Stieg. She had owned and operated the “Bamboo Room” together with her husband, Donald. Gladys worked at Graham Drug Store and later adored her customers at Wilz Drug Store, where she was a fixture for 10 years.

Gladys loved life, her grandchildren, as well as her martinis. She spent the last year of her life at Tivoli, chatting with residents, staff, friends and family. She was a member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church.

She is survived by her two daughters, Dianne O’Connor, Woodstock, Vermont, and Barbara (Fredrick) Bronson, Madison; 11 grandchildren, Sarah, Nathan, Michelle, Amanda, Kimberly, Ann, Erin, John, Laura, Andrew and Elizabeth; 21 great-grandchildren; other close relatives and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son-in-law, Jack O’Connor; and brother, Edwin Stieg.

Memorial services will be at 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, 2017, at Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home (www.pmmfh.com) in Portage, with the Rev. Greg Hovland officiating. Inurnment will be private at Silver Lake Cemetery. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 2 p.m. until the time of service.

David Curtis Butters

At 4:32 a.m. Jan. 10, 2017, David Curtis Butters of Janesville passed away peacefully with his daughter at his bedside.

Dave was born Jan. 23, 1953, in Homewood, Illinois, to Karen and Jack Butters. He had one younger sister and a younger brother.

He grew up playing many sports, his favorite being football. He went to Homewood-Flossmoor High School, followed by Rockford College where he graduated with his bachelor degree in biology. Dave married Robin Gee and had three children, each to whom he passed on his rock-star good looks.

Dave had multiple different career positions throughout his life. He, however, dedicated the majority of his time to tissue and organ donation. He led an active lifestyle, coaching his children’s sports teams and loved barefoot skiing on Swan Lake. Music was a gift and a passion of Dave’s that he loved to share with others. In his free time, he played the guitar and sang with his friends.

Although being diagnosed with what everyone thought as terminal cancer at age 46, Dave fought a hard battle and went into remission. He continued to have health difficulties, but his spirit never wavered.

Dave is survived by his mother, Karen Lundberg; his sister, Christine Butters; his stepmother, Ingrid; brother, Phillip; his three children, David, Matthew and Taylor; his grandchild, Psybious; and ex-wife, Robin Priebe; as well as many dear friends who he considered family.

He joins his father, Jack; and his uncle, David Lundberg, in heaven. Because David dedicated his life to helping others through organ and tissue donation, his family and friends ask that in lieu of flowers, you consider visiting your local DMV to sign up as an organ donor, sign up for blood or bone marrow donation, or donate to the Red Cross or Lions Eye Bank in honor of our beloved David C. Butters. Private services will be held at a later date. All Faiths Funeral and Cremation Services of Janesville is assisting the family.

Online condolences may be made at www.866allfaiths.com.

Gladys N. Port

Gladys N. Port, 96, of Portage, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 15, 2017, at Tivoli in Portage.

Memorial services will be at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2017, at Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home (www.pmmfh.com) in Portage with the Rev. Greg Hovland officiating. Inurnment will be private at Silver Lake Cemetery. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 2 p.m. until the time of service.

A complete obituary will follow.

Lois Fellows

Lois Marie Heacox Fellows (nee Luger), 94, passed away peacefully with her daughters at her side on Jan. 13, 2017, at SSM St. Clare Meadows Care Center in Baraboo.

Lois Marie Luger was born on the Luger family farm in rural Oxford to Louis and Mary Huber Luger on May 12, 1922. She graduated from Portage High School when she was 16 years old and then continued on to Cosmetic/Beautician School. While working in Chicago she met a handsome young man who was working in the shipping department of the original Walgreens. It was 1942. He decided to enlist (with a little push from Lois) in the Army Air Corp. She married Ralph Heacox on June 22, 1942. They traveled together throughout his training period to Texas, 29 Palms in California and Pullman, Washington. He trained, she worked. Following the war they moved to Madison, where she worked to support him while he was going to pharmacy school. Following his graduation they moved to Juneau, where they purchased a pharmacy and raised their three daughters.

Mother enjoyed growing beautiful roses, sewing with her daughters and waterskiing at Big Green Lake. The family enjoyed many wonderful family vacations throughout the United States.

She married Doug Fellows in 1983 and lived in Yakima, Washington, for 25 years. Due to health reasons she moved back to Wisconsin in June 2007 and lived in Baraboo to be closer to her daughters. She lived independently and continued to drive until she had another stroke in 2014. She then moved to assisted living where she met her close friends Sandy and Sylvia.

Lois is survived by her daughters, Susan (Peter) Vrabec, Mary Jo (Mike) Herrmann and JuliAnn (Steve) Robinson; her grandchildren, Joshua (fiancée Jen Twombly), Andrew (Cheyna) Vrabec, Jodi Bodnar, Brian (fiancée Tabitha Potts) Bodnar; five great-grandchildren; her brother, Faye Luger and many nieces and nephews and their families also survive her.

Lois was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Ralph Heacox; her second husband, Doug Fellows; her sisters, DeLoras, Velma and Mathilda; her sister-in-law, Arlene Luger, and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Dr. Randy Krszjzaniek and his associates at SSM Dean Clinic, the staff of SSM St. Clare ER and 2 South, the staff of Our House Assisted Living and the staff of SSM St. Clare Meadows for their amazing care.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Baraboo Our House Assisted Living Activities Fund, the SSM St. Clare Meadows Activities Fund or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.

A private memorial service for the family will take place at Kratz Funeral Home, 302 E. Conant St. in Portage on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2017. Visitation is at 1 p.m. with a memorial service at 2 p.m. Inurnment will take place at a later date.

Evadene Purves

Evadene Purves, 88, of Poynette, passed away Friday, Jan. 13, 2017, at Haven Hills in Lodi.

Evadene was born Aug. 5, 1928, in Poynette, the daughter of Eugene and Grace (Cross) Fuller. She married Forrest “Babe” Purves Jr. on April 9, 1949, and was an active member of the Poynette United Methodist Church. She donated her time to serving Meals on Wheels, the Poynette Food Pantry and many other community organizations.

She is survived by her children, Kim (Jill Chase) Purves and Karen (Bruce) Radewan, all of Poynette; daughter-in-law, Sue Purves, Columbus; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Kiersten (Kevin Wimer) Purves and children Oren, Arden, Cade and Mariah; Seth (Amanda) Purves and son Aven; Ryan (Jenny) Radewan and daughter, Haley; Jered (Sara Boerma) Radewan and sons, Karson, Chayse and Ryder; Robyn (Matt) Ramberg and children Peyton, Parker and Zoie; Juanita (Casey) Tomlinson and children Leah, Jesse, Wyatt and Josie; Michael Bankers, Kevin Purves Jr., Kayla Purves and children, Maurice and Makaylah Johnson; other relatives and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Forrest “Babe” Purves; son, Kevin Purves; and daughter-in-law, Jodie Purves.

Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 16 at Poynette United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Diane Vielhuber officiating. Inurnment will be private at Hillside Cemetery in Poynette. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Poynette United Methodist Church.

Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home (www.pmmfh.com) is assisting the family.

Marcia A. Doucette, 80, of Pardeeville, passed away peacefully Monday, Jan. 9, 2017, surrounded by family at the Columbia Health Care Center.

She was born Sept. 25, 1936, to John and Alice (Coon) Crawford in Portage. She was employed for 30-plus years at the Columbia Health Care Center in Wyocena. She was blessed with three kids, Debra Herman, Susan Berg and John Doucette. She was an avid Badger and Green Bay Packer fan. She also loved to garden, cook, bake and bowling. She was a kind-hearted person who cared for everyone around her.

Survivors include two daughters, Debra Herman and Susan Berg; one son, John Doucette; grandchildren, Shawn Berg, Tara (A.J.) Wolff-Strawn, Terry Wolff, Sheri Berg, Justin Berg, Tammy Pazin-Berg, Ryan Heil, Cody (April) Doucette, Coleman Doucette, and Dynae (Dan) Taylor; and 14 great-grandchildren. Marcia is further survived by sisters and brothers, Margo (Dennis) Hansen, John (Sally) Crawford, Jim (Barb) Crawford, Sandy (Dave) Healy, Peter Crawford, and Paul (Lesa) Crawford; brother-in-law, Tom Crawford; and many nieces, nephews, other near relatives and many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one grandson, Travis Berg; two great-grandchildren; son-in-law, Chuck Herman; sisters, Mary Kath and Kathy Crawford; and one sister-in-law, Camilla Crawford.

Memorial services will be held at noon Monday, Jan. 16, 2017, at Grasse Funeral Home in Pardeeville, with the Rev. Chuck Walton officiating. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, 2017, at Grasse Funeral Home and again from 10 a.m. until the time of services Monday. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Marcia’s memory may be made to the Columbia Health Care Center. Per the family’s request, please wear your Wisconsin Badger or Green Bay Packer apparel to the visitation Sunday. Special thanks to the wonderful staff at the Columbia Health Care Center. Grasse Funeral Service in Pardeeville (www.grassefs.com) is serving the family.

Russell Youngs, 69, of Ellsworth, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2017, at the Brotoloc Group Home.

He was born Jan. 4, 1948, in Portage, to Harold and Myrtle (Scharf) Youngs. He was united in marriage to Barbara Theile on Oct. 5, 1969, at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Rio. He had his own siding company for many years. He also loved hunting and camping.

Russell is survived by his wife, Barbara, of Rio; son, Brian (Stacey) Youngs of Rio; two granddaughters, Brooke and Savannah Youngs of Rio; two great-grandchildren, Carson and Scarlett Youngs-Nefstead, also of Rio; one sister, Beverly (Robert) Baumler of Columbus; brother, Elden Youngs of Madison; two sisters-in-law, Joyce Youngs of Plainfield, Illinois, and Mary Youngs of Randolph; and many other nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, David Youngs, Wallace Youngs and LaVern Youngs; one sister-in-law, Kathy Youngs; and two sons, Kevin and Troy Youngs.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017, at Grasse Funeral Home in Rio, with the Rev. Ann Walsvik officiating. Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until the time of services. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family. Grasse Funeral Service of Rio (www.grassefs.com) is serving the family.

Paul Armson

Paul Armson, 86, of the town of Lewiston, Columbia County, died Dec. 24, 2016, at the Columbia Health Care Center in Wyocena after an extended stay.

Paul was born Dec. 10, 1930, at home in Big Springs to Merle and A. Neita (Learmonth) Armson. He was the youngest of six children. He married Lada Grunke on June 23, 1951, in Endeavor and had six children: Blake, Rossana, Margene, Brenda, Angela and Brent.

He was the proud owner of his own land-clearing business. Because he loved to “make the earth move” and found his calling working in the dirt, he never retired.

Paul was known for his tenor singing voice, his sense of humor, telling great stories, and for standing up for what he believed in. Paul loved to sing and sang or whistled everywhere he went. Most recently, people will remember him giving out Reese’s Peanut Butter cups to brighten people’s day.

Paul is survived by the love of his life, Lada; all of his six children; six grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Paul is also survived by his sister, Mary Lou Bacon of Branson, Missouri; brother-in-law, Steve Grunke (Jane Fullerton) of Portage; and cousin, Ralph (Alice) Armson of Wisconsin Dells.

Funeral arrangements made by the Kratz Funeral Home in Portage. See its website (kratzfuneralhome.com) for a more in-depth obituary. A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Jan. 28, 2017, at the Briggsville United Methodist Church. Visitation will be from from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the church.

Our family thanks the staff at the Columbia Health Care Center for all their service to Paul. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Paul’s name to the Briggsville United Methodist Church, Briggsville American Legion Post 329, Columbia Health Care Center (CHCC) Foundation, or Agrace Foundation (hospice).

Paul Armson

Paul Armson, 86, of the town of Lewiston, Columbia County, died Dec. 24, 2016, at the Columbia Health Care Center in Wyocena after an extended stay.

Paul was born Dec. 10, 1930, at home in Big Springs to Merle and A. Neita (Learmonth) Armson. He was the youngest of six children. He married Lada Grunke on June 23, 1951, in Endeavor and had six children: Blake, Rossana, Margene, Brenda, Angela and Brent.

He was the proud owner of his own land-clearing business. Because he loved to “make the earth move” and found his calling working in the dirt, he never retired.

Paul was known for his tenor singing voice, his sense of humor, telling great stories, and for standing up for what he believed in. Paul loved to sing and sang or whistled everywhere he went. Most recently, people will remember him giving out Reese’s Peanut Butter cups to brighten people’s day.

Paul is survived by the love of his life, Lada; all of his six children; six grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Paul is also survived by his sister, Mary Lou Bacon of Branson, Missouri; brother-in-law, Steve Grunke (Jane Fullerton) of Portage; and cousin, Ralph (Alice) Armson of Wisconsin Dells.

Funeral arrangements made by the Kratz Funeral Home in Portage. See its website (kratzfuneralhome.com) for a more in-depth obituary. A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Jan. 28, 2017, at the Briggsville United Methodist Church. Visitation will be from from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the church.

Our family thanks the staff at the Columbia Health Care Center for all their service to Paul. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Paul’s name to the Briggsville United Methodist Church, Briggsville American Legion Post 329, Columbia Health Care Center (CHCC) Foundation, or Agrace Foundation (hospice).

Richard J. Stracke

Richard J. Stracke, 67, of the town of Marcellon, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2016. Funeral arrangements are pending. A full obituary will appear in a future edition. Grasse Funeral service of Pardeeville is serving the family (www.grassefs.com).

Linda L. (Lester) Walker

Linda L. (Lester) Walker, 69, of Hartland, passed away at Froedert Hospital in Milwaukee of complications from a lung infection on Thursday Dec. 22, 2016.

Linda, the daughter of William and Beverly Lester was born in Portage on June 29, 1947.

On Sept. 22, 1973, she was married to Steven Walker. Linda was a loving mother and grandmother to their three sons and eight grandchildren.

Linda became a hair dresser after high school and worked in that field for several years. She worked at Elmbrook Memorial Hospital in Brookfield for 32 years in the sterile processing department as the lead tech until she retired in 2013.

Linda was an avid Green Bay Packer fan and an excellent cook. She loved her many pets over the years, and her pets thought they were living in heaven having her as their mom.

She is survived by her husband, Steve of Hartland; her three sons, Todd Taylor (Kate) of Oconomowoc, Timothy Taylor (Julie) of Oconomowoc, and Sean Walker (Stephanie) of Frederick, Maryland; her brother, William Lester (Carol) of Plover; sister, Sue Eddy (Mark) of Hanco*ck; sister-in-law, Pat Walker of Portage; brother-in-law, Bob Walker (Sherry) of Portage; sister-in-law, Barb Chappell of Brookfield; her eight grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

A private service will be held at a later date.

Bruce A. Budde

Bruce A. Budde, 94, of Portage, passed away Thursday, Jan. 5, 2017, at Tivoli in Portage, surrounded by his loving family.

Bruce was born Oct. 16, 1922, in Portage, the son of Emil and Anna (Kopplemeyer) Budde. He married Ruth M. Abegglen on Jan. 3, 1947, at First Methodist Church in Portage. Bruce lived in Portage all his life. He was a member of the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corp., at Devil’s Lake) from 1939 to 1940. He worked at Badger Ordnance and then Weyenberg Shoe Factory for 35 years, and lastly at Portage Schools before retiring in 1984. When Bruce was young, he spent many hours fishing and woodcarving, making many trips to South Dakota, Denver, Wyoming, Florida, North Carolina and Switzerland.

He is survived by his children, Nancy Ann Johnson of Greely, Colorado, and Larry (Marcia) Budde of Portage; grandchildren, Juli Marie (Don) Beason of Highland Ranch, Colorado, Jennifer Sue Kayartz (Josh Burns) and Timothy Johnson, all of Greely, Colorado, Jacob L. Budde (Jena LaVigne) of Poynette, Dione Schumann (Gino Reimann) of Portage; great-grandchildren, Brody Beason of Highland Ranch, Colorado, Coltan Myers of Portage, Kimee Johnson of Greely, Colorado; sister, Joan Kleist of Tomahawk; sister-in-law, Joann Budde of Neenah; other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, aunts and uncles; brothers, William Budde and Dean Budde; brothers-in-laws, John Kleist, Emil Abegglen, William Abegglen; sisters-in-law, Adeline Hume and Ida Janisch.

Memorial services will be held at noon Saturday, Jan. 21, 2017, at Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home (www.pmmfh.com) in Portage. Inurnment will be private. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.

The family would like to thank the staff at Tivoli for their care and support.

Arlowayne (Blada) Wegner

Arlowayne (Blada) Wegner, 91, of Montello, was called to heaven on Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2017, at home with her family by her side.

She was born March 24, 1925, in the town of Buffalo, Marquette County, a daughter of Walter and Elba (Owens) Blada. Arlowayne attended Russell Grade School and was a 1942 graduate of Montello High School. She then furthered her education at Green Lake County Normal School, graduating with a teaching degree. She began her teaching career at Green Lake Center and taught for seven years. Arlowayne married Wilbert Wegner on June 5, 1948, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Montello, having a double wedding ceremony with her sister, Marion and Edmund Zuehls.

She was a proud farm wife, working side by side with Wilbert, and raising her family. Arlowayne also enjoyed serving her community on the Montello School Board and serving as the clerk for the town of Mecan for many years. Arlowayne and Wilbert were members of Emmanuel Lutheran Church (Big Mecan) of Montello.

Arlowayne is survived by her children, Greg (Betty) Wegner of Princeton, Gary Wegner of Pensacola, Florida, Cheryl Wegner of Princeton, and John (Nancy) Wegner of Montello; daughter-in-law, Marvis Wegner of Montello; brothers, Ronald (Evelyn) Blada of Montello, Walter (June) Blada of Neshkoro, and Donald (Judy) Blada of Coloma; four grandchildren, Aaron (Alicia) Wegner, Jacob (Jennifer) Wegner, James (Sarah) Wegner, all of Princeton, and Heather (Kurt) Schwochert of Montello; nine great-grandchildren, Travis, Tanya, Trenton, Kyle, Tori, Taylor and Carson Wegner, and Dillan and Joshua Schwochert; nieces, nephews, many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Wilbert Wegner; her parents, Walter and Elba Blada; son, Dennis and his first wife, Gloria (Priebe) Wegner; infant granddaughter, Sarah Wegner; special sister, Marion Zuehls, and sister, Delores Wartgow; brothers, Wesley Blada, Stanley Blada, and Richard Blada; and her casino chauffeur and cohort, Paul Nikolai.

A visitation for Arlowayne Wegner will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017, at Wachholz and Sons Funeral Home, 303 Harvard St., Princeton. A funeral service for Arlowayne will take place at 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 9, 2017, with a one-hour visitation prior to the service, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church (Big Mecan), W1568 Evergreen Ave., Montello. The Rev. Peter Zietlow will conduct the service. Arlowayne will be laid to rest following the service at Emmanuel Lutheran Cemetery. Please visit www.wachholzandsons.com to send condolences to the family.

Patricia “Pat” Ann Gavinski

Patricia “Pat” Ann Gavinski, 66, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2017, at Divine Savior Healthcare in Portage, surrounded by her loving family.

Pat was born Aug. 13, 1950, in Portage, the daughter of Kenneth and Lillian (Weishoff) Schehr. She married Albert Gavinski on April 19, 1969, in Portage. Pat was a devoted wife, mother and grandma. She loved spending time with her family and her grandchildren were the light of her life. Pat enjoyed waitressing and meeting new people at Dino’s Restaurant in Portage. She was also an avid Green Bay Packers fan.

She is survived by her husband, Al, of Portage; son, Benjamin (Jessie) Gavinski of Potosi; sister, Barbara Schehr of Wausau; grandchildren, Jared, Brianna and Mason Gavinski of Potosi; canine companion, Jazzy; in-laws, other relatives and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and daughter, Kimberly.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017, at Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage, with the Rev. Gary Krahenbuhl presiding. Inurnment will be private. Visitation will be from noon until the time of service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.

The family would like to thank the staff at Divine Savior Healthcare and St. Mary’s Hospital for their care and support.

Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home (www.pmmfh.com) is assisting the family.

Clarice E. Miller

Clarice E. Miller, 89, of Fall River, passed away at Hillside Manor in Beaver Dam on Monday, Jan. 30, 2017, after a long illness.

She was born April 21, 1927, in Columbus, the daughter of Ernest and Emma (Schenck) Gaumitz. She graduated from Fall River High School in 1945, and the Methodist Hospital School of Nursing, Madison, in 1948. She was a registered nurse at St. Mary’s Hospital in Columbus, and for 25 years was the industrial nurse at the Fall River Foundry. She was united in marriage to Bernard Miller on Aug. 6, 1949, and he preceded her in death on Aug. 25, 2005.

Survivors include two daughters, Ann (Charles) Berg of Fall River and Sue (Tom) Bengsch of Sun Prairie; three sons, John of Fall River, Joel (Luanne) of Columbus and Jeffrey (Diane) of Fall River; 11 grandchildren, Jeffrey (Ashley Fischer) and Douglas (Morgan Agnew) Berg, Lindsey (Justin Hoffman), Melissa, Megan, Micaela (Seth Knapp), Dustin and Trevor Miller, Amanda (Jared) Meyer, Korey (Nicci Hess) and Kathryn Bengsch; four great-grandchildren, Anna Jean and Abby Jo Miller, and Joe and Grace Meyer; one sister-in-law, Doris Miller of Fall River; and a special niece, Romona (Robert) Walker of Marshall. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; seven brothers and two sisters; many brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

Besides having a great love for her family and the family farm, later years were spent traveling with her husband, which she truly enjoyed. She was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Doylestown.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Doylestown. The Rev. Steve Kortendick will officiate. Interment will follow at St. Patrick’s Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. at Jensen Funeral and Cremation in Columbus, and from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the church. Memorials can be made to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Hillside Manor Activities Department or a charity of your choice.

Jensen Funeral and Cremation, Columbus (jensenfuneralandcremation.com)

Eugene W. Gray

Eugene W. Gray, 75, of Ripon, passed away Jan. 25, 2017, at Fountain View Care Center in Ripon.

Eugene was born at home in the town of Lowville, on Aug. 15, 1941, the son of Joseph and Beatrice (Lafler) Gray. His first marriage was to Hazel (Rowley) Gray. His second marriage was to Linda (Reichenberger) Gray in 1973. He worked at Badger Lumber and Guernsey Dairy in Oshkosh, and later at Ripon Good Cookies where he retired.

Eugene is survived by his children, Pamela Ubrig and Phillip Gray, both of Oshkosh, and Wanda Marie Britt of Chesapeake, Virginia; his adopted daughters, Michelle Gray of Green Bay and Lisa (Roy) Ferrel of Ripon; five grandchildren, Mitchell (Alyssa) Ubrig, Aron (Jen) Gray, Kiley and Justin Gray, Amanda Mink, and Lucas Ferrel; three great-grandchildren, Landon and Peyton Ubrig and Amedus Gray; two brothers, Joseph Gray of Portage and Richard (Phyllis) Gray of Oshkosh; three sisters, Rosetta Gray of Portage, Joanne Wruck of Pardeeville and Barbara Shaw of Sun Prairie; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends, including Kim Pinch of Ripon. He is preceded in death by his wife, Linda; both parents; and a brother, Cecil Gray.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017, at Reeds Corners Bethel Cemetery, town of Metomen.

Please visit www.butzinmarchant.com to send online condolences.

James Michael O’Hara

James Michael O’Hara, of Portage, died Jan. 27, 2017, after a brave 17-month battle with lymphoma.

He was born Oct. 13, 1982, in Watseka, Illinois, the son of Kate and Kevin O’Hara. The O’Hara family moved to the Portage area in 1984, and James attended Portage Schools. After graduating from high school in 2001, Jamie lived in Baraboo, Stevens Point, Portage and Hawaii. He worked for Ad Lit, Grande Cheese, Jaeckle Distributors, Norwegian Cruise Lines and Dungarvan.

James found his true calling when he began his training as a U.S. Merchant Marine in 2011. He attended the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education and attained the highest unlicensed deck credential in the U.S. Merchant Marine, able bodied seaman unlimited. He sailed the Great Lakes and the deep sea, and spent six months working on the Indian Ocean.

James was, to put it mildly, a sports fanatic. Despite relentless harassment from his Wisconsin friends and neighbors, he proudly cheered on his Cubs (go Cubs go!), Bears, Blackhawks and Bulls. He also cheered on the Badgers. James enjoyed hunting, walking in the woods, and building bonfires on the beach at Fair Wind Farm. He especially loved laughing with friends at Riley’s in Portage, blowing off fireworks at epic Fourth of July parties, lazing down the Apple River, and conspiring to win rounds of Mafia.

James touched countless lives during his short time here on earth. He was an incredibly kind man who was beloved by countless friends and a huge number of family members. He lit up rooms with his easy smile and generous spirit. He faced every challenge that was thrown his way with an indomitable spirit that will continue to hold up those who knew him long after his passing. Those who loved him will never fill the Jamie-sized hole left in their hearts, but they are among the lucky humans who were able to say they knew his love. He was one of the good ones. The world will not be the same with his passing.

James is survived by his parents, Kate and Kevin O’Hara; his sister, Phyllis (O’Hara) Ryan and brother-in-law, Jason Ryan; niece, Grace Ryan, and nephews, Landon and Jack Ryan; his dog, Winston; many aunts, uncles, cousins and countless friends.

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017, at Grasse Funeral Home in Pardeeville. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of services. The family requests that whoever attends should sport their favorite Wisconsin Badger, Chicago Bear or Chicago Cubs attire. Grasse Funeral Service of Pardeeville (www.grassefs.com) is serving the family.

Timothy H. Myers, 66, passed away Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, at his home in Marshall, surrounded by his loving family.

Timothy was born May 29, 1950, in Portage, the son of Arlen and Wilma (Mills) Myers. He graduated from Portage High School in 1968, and then proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. He married Susan Borchardt on Aug. 25, 2001. Timothy retired from Capital Newspapers after 20 years, but was in the industry for over 40 years. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing and camping. Tim appreciated life and always took things “one day at a time.” He was greatly loved and will be sadly missed by many.

He is survived by his wife, Susan Myers of Marshall; father, Arlen (Mary) Myers of Oxford; mother-in-law, Patricia Borchardt of Hartland; children, Kevin (Carin) Myers of Poynette, Billie Myers of Poynette, and Aaron Myers of Portage; stepchildren, Benjamin Breidenbach of Marshall and Emily (Wilton) McGhee of Milton; brother, Mike (Jody) Myers of Montello; sister, Kim (Robert) McFarlane of McHenry, Illinois; grandchildren, Adam Myers and Maxwell Blackard, both of Portage; other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Wilma “Billie” Bernhardt; stepfather, Walter Bernhardt; brothers, Rick Myers and Terry Myers; and father-in-law, James Borchardt.

A memorial visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6, 2017, at Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage. Military honors will be provided by the Portage Area Veterans Honor Guard at 4 p.m. Inurnment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Timothy’s name to the UW Carbone Cancer Research Center, Attn: Katie Williquette, 600 Highland Ave., K4/658, Madison, WI 53792-6164.

Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home (www.pmmfh.com) is assisting the family.

Dorothy Ann (Cauley) Bortz, 82, of Portage, passed away Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, at St. Clare Meadows Care Center in Baraboo, surrounded by her loving family.

Dorothy was born Nov. 10, 1934, the daughter of Edward and Katherine (Sweeney) Cauley. She married Kenneth R. Bortz Sr. on May 5, 1956, at Lyndon Station. She worked at AMPI, DellFarm Grocery Store, Schultz Brothers Department Store and The Candy Factory in Wisconsin Dells until her retirement. Dorothy enjoyed lunches and coffee with her many dear friends, gambling (bus trips), and spending time with her family.

She is survived by her husband, Kenneth R. Bortz Sr.; children, Kenneth Jr. (Vickie) Bortz, Kelly (David) Mael, and Kevin (Lisa) Bortz; grandchildren, Lindsay (Jordan) Parker, Emily Bortz, Amber, Daniel, Nathan (Krista) Mael, Mitchell, Matthew and Samuel Bortz; great-grandchildren, Parkar, Hudson and Eden; brothers-in-law, Anthony Bortz, Jim Roderick, and George Grimsrud; former brother-in-law, Ronald Knutson; sisters-in-law, Anna (George) Schepp, Betty (Robert) Lester, and Paulene Bortz; nieces, nephews, other close relatives and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Katherine Cauley; siblings, Mary (William) Mooney, Francis (Delores) Cauley, John Cauley, James Cauley, and Gerald Cauley; in-laws, Henry and Emma (Graack) Bortz, Frederick (Helen) Bortz, Arthur (Lou Ann) Bortz, Kathleen (LeRoy) Kohler, Howard Bortz, Carol (Howard) Lang, Rose Roderick, Lillian Grimsrud and Kathleen (Mick) Bortz.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 3, 2017, at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, with the Rev. Gary Krahenbuhl presiding. Burial will follow the service. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m.Thursday, Feb. 2, 2017, at Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portageand from 10 a.m. until the time of service Friday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials may be made to St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church in Portage.

The family would like to thank the entire staff at St. Clare Meadows for their care and support.

Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home (www.pmmfh.com) is assisting the family.

Harry A. Porter, 87, of Mauston, passed away Monday, Jan. 23, 2017, due to health issues.

Harry was born the son of Harry and Edna Porter on Aug. 12, 1929, in Rogers Mills, Oklahoma.

In 1963, he married the love of his life, Bonnie M. York, his beloved wife of 53 years. They raised five children in Sauk Prairie, where he worked as a cement mason in Madison until his retirement in 1983. They moved to Mauston in their later years. Anyone who knew Harry knew of his wonderful way of joking and that million-dollar smile. Harry loved to travel in his younger years with his wife, and later on enjoyed their trips to the casino boat in Iowa.

Harry was deeply committed to his family. He was always willing to help no matter what the cause. He was extremely close to his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and will be deeply missed by all. Harry is survived by four children, Ken York of Mauston, Earl (Cindy) York of Baraboo, Harry (Vickie) Porter of Mauston and Missy (Gary) Paulson of Endeavor; 15 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Harry was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie Porter; son, Richard Porter; his parents, Harry Porter and Edna Rife; three sisters, Betty Hach, Virginia Cavins and Juanita Baker; and a brother, Eddie Porter.

There will be a celebration of life at a later date. Crandall Funeral Home in Mauston is assisting with the family.

Dorothy A. Bortz

Dorothy Ann (Cauley) Bortz, 82, of Portage, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, at St. Clare Meadows Care Center in Baraboo surrounded by her loving family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 3, 2017, at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with the Rev.. Gary Krahenbuhl presiding. Burial will follow the service at St. Mary Cemetery in Portage. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 2, 2017, at Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage and from 10 a.m. until the time of service Friday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church in Portage.

A full obituary will follow.

Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home (www.pmmfh.com) is assisting the family.

Michael R. Damm

Michael Reuben Damm, 68, of Columbus, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2017, with his family and friends at his side.

He was born Dec. 28, 1948, to Reuben and Olive (Derr) Damm at Columbus Hospital. He married the love of his life, Claire (Grebe) on April 12, 1969, at St. Jerome’s Catholic Church in Columbus.

Mike is survived by his wife, Claire; his son, Matthew (Cindy) Damm of Columbus; and his two daughters, Kaye (Darren) Dosemagen of Pardeeville, and Charlotte (Jason) Doro of Portage. He had seven wonderful grandchildren who were the apple of his eye: Rachel, Colin, Molly, Jamie, Joe, Olivia and Abby. He is also survived by his sister, Dorothy (Robert) Jorgensen of Virginia; his brother, Eugene (Phyllis) Damm of Columbus; brother-in-law, James Dieringer of Tennessee; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Mary Dieringer; and his infant brother, Joseph.

Mike would like to be remembered for his love of family, friends, dogs and his farm. When he and Claire first married he worked as a diesel mechanic for King-Miller Implement of Columbus, but soon found his way back to the family dairy farm where he farmed with his dad and brother for many years. In 2003, he changed careers and struck out on his own as an over-the-road semi driver and owner of Damm Rite Trucking. Due to health concerns, Mike retired the truck in 2016 and traveled the United States with his beautiful bride and his two faithful canine companions. He was a proud grandfather, always bragging about his grandchildren’s accomplishments. His hard-working callused farmer hands were always tender with his grandbabies. Mike was a faithful friend to many, always ready with a smile, a story, and a handshake. He could often be seen wearing his green polka dot hat having coffee at Burger King with his buddies in the morning discussing the latest farm prices and the news around Columbus. He was an avid patron of Jodie-O’s tavern and his claim to fame was the invention of a culinary classic — Wiener-n-Kraut soup. He will be missed by many, especially his two Humane Society-rescued puppies, Rags and Tess. Mike was a frequent visitor to the Humane Society of Columbia County — always checking to see what little gem needed a home.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2017, at Jensen Funeral & Cremation in Columbus and from 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, East Bristol. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017, at the church. The Rev. Chahm Gahng will officiate. Interment will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, East Bristol. A celebration of Mike’s life will be held at the Club 60 Supper Club on Highway 60 west of Columbus following services. All who knew Mike are invited to help us celebrate his life. As a request of Mike, NO suits and ties allowed.

In lieu of flowers, Mike’s wishes were that memorials be made to Columbia County Humane Society, Columbus FFA, or St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in East Bristol.

The family would like to express a sincere thank you and gratitude to Home Health United Hospice service, especially Denise and Alecia. We will always remember your kindness and compassion.

Jensen Funeral & Cremation (jensenfuneralandcremation.com) of Columbus is serving the family.

Karen M. DeGroot

Karen Marie DeGroot passed away Thursday morning, Jan. 26, 2017, at Hillside Manor in Beaver Dam.

She was born July 18, 1944, at home near Chatfield, Minnesota, to Robert Bornfleth and Ida Crowson (Bornfleth-Stremcha). She married John Sidney DeGroot in the town of Garden Valley on Nov. 6, 1964, and lived in Madison, Windsor, Rio and Fall River. She worked for General Telephone. She owned and operated Karen’s Kafe in Rio for many years. After selling Karen’s Kafe she went to work at the Famous Footwear distribution center in Sun Prairie. She was an avid Packers fan and attended several games. She and John enjoyed traveling the country in their two RVs, especially the Smoky Mountain area.

She is survived by her husband; mother; sons, Terry (Wendy), Cannon Falls Minnesota, Craig (Ellen), Stem, North Carolina, and Stacy, Columbus; sisters, Deanne (Tom) Booth, Reeseville, Virginia (Joe) Hanilf, Waynesboro, Virginia, Mary (Tom) Knoebel, Madison, Kathy Stremcha, Mauston, and Sharon (Ron) Stockfleth, Rochester Minnesota; brother, Wendell Stremcha, Rockingham, North Carolina; grandchildren, Mikaela Ritzman (Karl), Cole, Seth, Eric, Heather, Colet, Bryte. Loved by many nieces, nephews, and a large extended family.

She was preceded in death by her father, Robert L. Bornfleth; stepmother, Anne Rupkalvis (Bornfleth); and her precious brother, Robert D. Bornfleth, who passed six days before her.

Memorial services will be at noon Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017, at Grasse Funeral Home, 401 Angel Way in Rio. Lunch and time of fellowship will follow the service. Memorials in Karen’s memory may be made to the family. Grasse Funeral Service of Rio (www.grassefs.com) is serving the family.