Richard George Flock, 63, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2014, at Rolling Hills Rehabilitation Center in Sparta. 

He was born Sept. 2, 1950, to Kenneth and Elizabeth (Steinhoff) Flock in Sparta. 

Dickie was born with special needs and lived in several group homes before returning to Sparta in 1994.  He made many friends, and he was very proud of the medals that he had won in Special Olympics.

He is survived by his mother, Betty Flock of Wilton; his siblings, Greg (Joanne) Flock of Castle Rock Lake, Wis., Jeannie (Tom) Flesch of Columbus, Ohio, Dan (Janelle) Flock of Wilton, Pat Flock of Wilton, Mary Kiel of Wilton and Nancy (Patrick) McCormick of Madison; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth Flock. 

The family would like to express a very special thank you to the staff of Rolling Hills for the excellent care and compassion given to Richie over the past 20 years.

A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Wilton.  Father David Bruener will officiate.  Burial will follow in St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in Wilton. 

Family and friends are invited for visitation Saturday, Feb. 22, from 10 a.m. until the time of service at the church.  The Torkelson Funeral Home of Tomah is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorials may be given to Brookwood Special Olympics. Online condolences are available at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com. 

View Full Notice → Richard George Flock

Joyce Elizabeth Chase, 84, of Tomah passed away Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2014, at the Morrow Memorial Home in Sparta, surrounded by members of her beloved family.

Born on May 3, 1929, in Hustler, Joyce grew up in Wilton and, in 1946, married Lorenzo “Ren” Parrish in Bensenville, Ill. The couple was blessed with nine children. She was remarried in 1968 to LaVerne E. Chase in New Lisbon, where she was bookkeeper for their salvage business in Kendall.


She is survived by her sister, Patricia Taylor of Tomah; two sisters-in-law, Carrie Doyle of Wilton and Georgene Doyle of Oregon; a brother, James “Jim” Doyle and wife Verna of Wilton; and an uncle, Clayton Hansen of Tomah.

In addition, her survivors include her children, Vikki Parrish of Madison, Gail (Walter) Spodeck of Shalimar, Fla., SueAnne Parrish, of Louisville, Ky., Wanda Elliott of Tomah, Steven Parrish of Tomah, Jan Parrish of Juneau, Alaska, Scott Parrish of Wilton, Tracy Parrish of Tomah and Elizabeth Jill Noel of Onalaska; and her stepchildren, Carl Chase of Camp Douglas and Ronald Chase of Tomah. Joyce’s close-knit and extensive family also included 22 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Freda (Hansen) and Emmet Doyle; her husbands, Lorenzo and LaVerne; two brothers, Robert and John “Jack” Doyle; and her sisters, Elizabeth “Betty” Worthington and Mary O’Gara.

A tireless and loving matriarch, Joyce never failed in support and caring devotion for her extensive family and friends. She never forgot a birthday and excelled as a homemaker. A member of the Glendale Homemakers Club, she was widely known for her cooking and baking skills, much to the delight of those who frequently gathered around her table during holidays and special occasions. All of her children cherish many memories of her kitchen and the unforgettable raisin-filled cookies and other baked treats created there. She often entertained guests with stories of her days as a high school marching band majorette, and sometimes a lucky visitor might depart with a token from her self-made crafts and ceramics collection in hand. Her indomitable spirit, sense of humor and compassionate nature will be sadly missed.

Though her family’s lives and interests were paramount, Joyce also relished occasional excursions outside her native state. An accomplished traveler, she treasured her visits to Ireland, Mexico, Costa Rica, Alabama, Florida, Alaska, Oregon, Nebraska, South Dakota, New Mexico, California, Kentucky, Chicago, New Orleans and New York City. 

Also admired as a devout and dedicated churchgoer, Joyce was a longtime member of both St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Kendall and St. John’s Catholic Church in Wilton and assisted both auxiliaries on many occasions.

Sincere appreciation is expressed on behalf of Joyce Chase’s family for the compassionate and loving treatment she received from the staff of the Morrow Home in Sparta while in hospice care there.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Kendall. Father David Bruener will officiate. Burial will be in Fowler Cemetery in the town of Plymouth (Elroy).

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the church on Friday from 4-8 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. until time of the Mass. A parish rosary will be recited at the church on Friday at 4 p.m. The Smith-Nelson Funeral Home in Kendall is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com.

View Full Notice → Joyce Elizabeth Chase

Angelina Carmella Todd, 84, formerly of Kendall, died Saturday, Feb. 22, 2014, at the Artisan Living Center in Middleton, Wis., after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease.

She was born May 15, 1929, to Frank and Anna Marie (Savino) Gangone in Brooklyn, New York. She grew up in Riverside, N.J., until she met Richard Todd. Two months later, Angie became a Navy wife when she married Dick on June 3, 1950, in Riverside. He preceded her in death July 20, 2009.

The Navy led their family to live in New Jersey, Washington D.C., Rhode Island, San Diego, Hawaii, and La Mirada, Calif., before settling Kendall in 1978. She had various factory jobs, working the longest for the Amoco Company in La Mirada for 10 years and for the Toro Company in Tomah for 15 years.

She enjoyed watching her shows, collecting Betty Boop memorabilia, canning, sewing and cross-stitching. Angie made quilts for all of her grandchildren. She was an excellent cook, specializing in spaghetti, lasagna and cheesecake. She loved being Italian and loved to laugh and joke. She never had an unkind thing to say about anyone. Her family was most important to her; she was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She enjoyed traveling to see her family and when her family would come home to visit. Toward the end of her life, her sweet disposition held on to the last.

She is survived by four children, Richard (Julie) Todd of Van Dyne, Wis., Anna Marie Corey of Manitowoc, Wis., Frank (Karla) Todd of Montrose, Colo., and Lavonne (Daniel) Dettmers of McFarland, Wis.; a daughter-in-law, Janice Todd of New Castle, Del.; 20 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Louis (Betty Lou) Gangone of Pennsylvania and Larry (Tracy) Gangone of Florida; two sisters, Marie (Dennis) Duckworth and Lucy Ridgeway, both of Riverside, N.J.; and nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, George; an infant son, Tracy; a grandson, Luke Todd; a brother, Frank Gangone; a sister, Jenny Jones; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 1, at the Evangelical Free Church, 104 E. Hall St., Kendall. Pastor Robert Washek will officiate. Burial will be at a later date at Evergreen Cemetery in Madge, Wis.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the church from 1 p.m. until the time of the service.

The Smith-Nelson Funeral Home of Kendall is assisting the family with the arrangements. Online condolences can be sent to www.sonnburgfamilyfh.com.

View Full Notice → Angelina Carmella Todd

Thelma Maxine Seekamp, 88, of Norwalk passed away Monday, March 3, 2014, at the Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse.

Thelma was born Oct. 24, 1925, to Listen and Gladys (Dennis) Toms in Cogan, Iowa. 

On Nov. 11, 1944, Thelma married Owen Seekamp. Together they farmed in rural Ontario. In 1975, they retired from farming and moved to Norwalk, where Thelma remained until her death. Thelma was an active member in the Norwalk Lioness Club.

Thelma was a strong woman who loved her children very much. She raised a very large garden, where she canned and preserved fruits and vegetables. Thelma always enjoyed holidays; at Easter, she gave baskets full of goodies to all of her grandchildren. Giving gifts brought Thelma so much joy. 

Thelma is survived by her children, Keith of Delray Beach, Fla., Barbara (Bob) Fritz of Inverness, Fla., John (Rosmary) of Illinois, David (Judy) of Ontario, James (Karen) of La Crosse, Erwin (Edie) of Racine, Danny (Deb) of Bangor, Eugene of La Crosse, Eddy of Sparta, Roger of Shreveport, La., Gerry of Sparta, Tommy of Milwaukee, Marjorie (Lenny) Wnuk of West Bend, Wis., Nancy Ulik of Jacksonville, Fla., Ruth (Wayne) Peth of Benton, Ky., Carol (Mark Deford) Tischer of Mayville, Wis., Elaine Bender of La Crosse, Terry (Rick) Martens of Jacksonville, Fla., Sherry Herb of Louisville, Ky., and Tammy Kusak of Milwaukee; 41 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; two daughters-in-law, Verna Seekamp of Aurora, Mo., and Katherine Seekamp of Pella, Iowa; a sister, Gail Landis; her dear friend, who was like a daughter, Kay Klinkner; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and her special baby, Midget, her dog.

Thelma was preceded in death by her husband, Owen, in 1984; five sons, Robert, Pauly, Donald, Russell and Vernon; a daughter, Helen Safranek; a granddaughter, Lisa Piotrowski; a grandson, Marvin Seekamp; along with Thelma’s siblings.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, March 7, at the Norwalk Community Center. Pastor Bob Streeter will officiate. Burial will follow in Pilgrim’s Home Cemetery, rural Norwalk.

Family and friends are invited for visitation from 5-8:30 p.m. Thursday, March 6, with a prayer service at 8 p.m., at the Torkelson Page-Smith Funeral Home in Sparta. Visitation also will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of service Friday at the Norwalk Community Center.

The Torkelson Page-Smith Funeral Home of Sparta and Norwalk is assisting the family with arrangements.

Thelma’s family would like to thank Rolling Hills Rehab Center and Gundersen’s Cardiac Care Unit for the exceptional care that Thelma received. 

Online condolences may be offered at http://www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com. 

View Full Notice → Thelma Maxine Seekamp

Norbert F. Vieregge, 88, of Norwalk passed away Saturday, March 8, 2014, at the Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse.

He was born Sept. 3, 1925, in the town of Sheldon to Frederick and Esther (Foth) Vieregge. He grew up on the family farm near Norwalk and lived there until his retirement in 1991. He graduated from Norwalk High School.

On Labor Day, 1955, he met his future wife, Rosella Fiebig at the Avalon Ballroom. They became engaged on Friday, the 13th of July, a day he said was the luckiest day of his life. They were married Sept. 15, 1956, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Tomah. Together they raised four children as they worked the family farm in rural Norwalk.

In 1991, they retired from farming and moved to Norwalk. In their retirement, Norbert and Rose enjoyed traveling together, visiting family and sightseeing in Florida, Texas, Washington D.C. and many other places in between. Having met at the Avalon, they enjoyed going to dances as often as they could.

Norbert was a true farmer, nurturing and caring for the land and his animals. He was an accomplished woodworker and craftsman, and after farming for so many years, he seemed to know how to fix or make just about anything. His many furniture pieces and remodeling projects are a reminder of the love and care he put into everything he did. In retirement, he enjoyed gardening and especially sharing the zinnias he grew.

He enjoyed being active in the Norwalk community, serving on the village board and the St. Augustine’s Parish Council, and he was involved in many activities and events in Norwalk. Norbert was always up for a good game of euchre or Pfeiffer with local card-playing friends. He loved having his family near and looked forward to spending time together on any occasion with his children, grandchildren and great-grandson. Norbert had a very deep faith in God and passed that on to his family. His kindness, caring and strong yet gentle spirit will be with us always.

Norbert is survived by his four children, Kathy (Skip) Karis of Onalaska, Wis., Carol (Tom) Brekke of Duluth, Minn., Mary Kay (Bill) Nusse of Norwalk and Mike (Lisa Bradshaw) of Fort Myers, Fla.; eight grandchildren, Thomas, Kelsey and Eric Brekke, Brandon (Jamie Griffith), Brittany (Jacob) Denton, and Billy Nusse, and Robert and Ryan Vieregge; and one great-grandson, Jack Norbert Nusse.

He is further survived by sisters-in-law Marcella Deigmann and Nancy Fiebig and nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Rosella; his sister, Eileen Keip; several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; and his parents.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Friday, March 14, at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in Norwalk. The Rev. Michael Klos will officiate. Burial will be at a later date.

Family and friends are invited for visitation from 4–7 p.m. Thursday, March 13, at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in Norwalk, with a rosary to be held at 7 p.m. Family and friends may also call from 10 a.m. until the time of services at the church. The Torkelson Page-Smith Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

The family wishes to thank the staff at MaryCrest Apartments at the Morrow Home in Sparta, the sixth-floor staff and his doctors at Gundersen Health System, Bethany-Riverside Nursing Home, and Dr. Rose Wolbrink for their wonderful care and support.

View Full Notice → Norbert F. Vieregge

Norma E. Verwiebe Loveless, 99, of Tomahawk, Wis., went to her home in heaven Monday, March 3, 2014. 

She was born March 24, 1914, on the Popp family farm, which was west of Kendall, to Henry and Amanda (Hoefs) Popp.  She was baptized, confirmed and married to Herb Verwiebe in 1934 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kendall.  Their marriage was blessed with two children, Darell and  Gale. 

After Herb’s death in 1971, Norma retired in 1976 from Pleasant Acres and moved to Darell’s lake home in Boulder Junction, Wis.  She married Marvin Loveless in 1985.  After his death in 1998, Norma moved to Alice Henke Villa in Tomahawk, Wis.  She was a faithful member of Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church.  She especially enjoyed fishing, walking, sewing and quilting and family visits.

Norma is survived by one son, Gale (Anne); one daughter-in-law, Vera; and five grandchildren, Beth Davidson (Duane), Darin Verwiebe, Brooke White (Michael), Eric Verwiebe (Tara) and Laura Frink (Jeff). She is further survived by eight great-grandchildren. 

She also is survived by her brother, Norbert Popp (Elaine), and many nieces and nephews. 

Norma was preceded in death by her husbands; her son, Darell; and her sister, Roma Noth of Tomah.  We cherish our memories of Norma and strive to follow her example of faith.

A memorial service will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 29, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Kendall, with a private burial in South Ridge Lutheran Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to St John’s or Redeemer Lutheran Church in Tomahawk.

View Full Notice → Norma E. Verwiebe Loveless

Eileen D. Larkee (nee Short), 78, of Hartford, Wis., was called to her heavenly home Tuesday, March 11, 2014.

Eileen was born Feb. 1, 1936, in Ontario to Dennis and Edith (nee Arndt) Short. She was baptized Jan. 6, 1937. Eileen was raised by her aunt and uncle, Esther and Elmer Brandau. She married Thomas Owens on June 5, 1954, in Ontario, and he passed away Jan. 18, 1991. Eileen then married Jim Larkee in 2000 in Greenfield, Wis.

Eileen graduated from Wilton High School with the class of 1954 and later obtained her LPN. She was a very faithful wife and mother. She was an active member of Peace Lutheran Church, serving as a greeter and care-center attendant and providing funeral meals support. She also served on the OWLS Board of Directors and faithfully supported her husband in numerous projects. Eileen loved singing, having sung with the Lutheran Church Radio Choir and multiple church choirs. Eileen also loved gardening.

Eileen is survived by her beloved husband, Jim; her brothers, William (Betty) and Ivan (Julika); her children, Jeff, Vickie, Scott and Todd (Judy) Owens; her stepchildren, Daniel (Marisue) and Lisa (Randal) Kanitz; 10 grandchildren, Jaime (Paul), Jeremy, Tom, Tyler, Amy, Kara (Andy), Daniel (Melissa), Brenda, David (Tammy), and Daniel (Monica); 11 great-grandchildren, Micah, Ava, Audra, Allison, Alexis, Haley, Lue, Loralye, Clayton, Emma and Evan; three step-grandchildren, Sadie, Sandra and Nathaniel; one step-great-grandchild, Callen; and her 99-year-old mother-in-law, Lillian. She is further survived by other relatives and friends.

Eileen was preceded in death by her father in 1959; her uncle Elmer in 1960; her sister Margaret in 1971; her aunt Esther in 1988; and her brother Erv and her mother in 2008.

The funeral services for Eileen were Friday, March 14, at Peace Lutheran Church, 1001 Center St., Hartford, Wis., with Rev. Paul Waldschmidt officiating.

Her final resting place is in Oakwood Cemetery in Weyauwega, Wis., where her temporal body waits to join that of her husband.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Peace Lutheran Church Capital Improvement Fund are encouraged.

The Shimon Funeral Home is assisting the family.

View Full Notice → Eileen D. Larkee (nee Short)

Glen Paul Richardson, 55, of Norwalk passed away Tuesday, March 18, 2014, at the Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse.

Glen was born June 28, 1958, to Jim and Merilee (DeWitt) Richardson in Edgerton, Wis. He attended school in La Farge and Brookwood, and after obtaining a high school diploma, he attended the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, studying medical research. He also lived in the Viroqua and Sparta, spending the last couple years in Norwalk.

Glen had a tragic accident when he was 18 months old that left him with a lifetime of surgeries. He never let that get him down, though. Glen was a resilient, independent, headstrong little boy, and that determination never ended. When he was very young, his grandfather gave him the nickname “Wee-Bull”; this name held true for him until the day he died. Over time it was “Weeble.” Weebles wobble but they don’t fall down.

Glen had faith in his family. He had a great love for his aunts and uncles. His faith went beyond his family; he cherished his mother’s Bible, which he had with him. Glen was a proud Packer fan and loved to play fantasy football. He loved to go fishing and enjoyed the years he was able to ride his Harley motorcycle. He had been a boxcar collector since he was a young child and was proud to share this with his favorite young man, Dayton. Glen had many friends who appreciated his love and caring, listening ability and stern words.

Glen is survived by his aunts and uncles, Don (Donna) DeWitt of Hillsboro, Otis (Karen) DeWitt of Ontario, Glenda DeWitt of Hillsboro and Karen K. Raines of Ontario; many cousins, other relatives, and great friends, Monty Downing, Dennis Nash, Dennis Rice, Rod Christenson and many more; and a special friend and caregiver, Misty Smith.

Glen was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Merilee (DeWitt) Richardson, and his grandparents, Glen and Doris DeWitt.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, March 24, at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Ontario. Pastor Michael Gjefle will officiate. Burial will follow in Billings Creek Cemetery, Ontario. Family and friends are invited for visitation from 1–4 p.m. Sunday, March 23, at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Ontario. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.

View Full Notice → Glen Paul Richardson

Robert Ernest Braund, 61, of Kendall died Wednesday, March 26, 2014, at his home.

He was born to Don and Caroline (Siekert) Braund on April 18, 1952, in Sparta. He was baptized May 11, 1952, and confirmed May 29, 1966, at St. Matthew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church on South Ridge. He was a member of the Royall High School graduating class of 1970. He was united in marriage to Ida Beier on July 20, 1974, at St. Matthew’s.

He worked for PVC Systems for several years before starting his own business. Bob and Ida started Braund Enterprises and built many, many homes in the Kendall, Wilton, Elroy and Ontario area, along with the Country Livin’ Motel in Kendall.

He was a member of the Kendall Fire Department and served as the fire chief for 20 years. He was a member of the Kendall Area Arts and Culture Organization (KAACO) and enjoyed being involved with their dinner theaters. He was a faithful member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church and served as the Sunday school teacher.

He enjoyed golfing, hunting, especially coon hunting. Bob always enjoyed working with his hands; he was a talented carpenter and farmer. He was always willing to give anybody a chance and was always optimistic. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a loving son and brother. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his wife, Ida, of 39 years, he is survived by a daughter, Stacey Braund of Knoxville, Tenn.; a son, Cory (Megan) Braund of Kendall; his parents, Don and Caroline Braund of Kendall; a brother, Dan (Cathy) Braund of Holmen; a sister, Nancy (David) Raiten of Kendall; eight sisters-in-law, Dorothy (Dan) Stirmel, Judy Pitzer, Margaret Michalek, Barbara Stephens Garnett Burt, Patricia Beier, Debra (Darryl) Raabe and Alice (Dean) Drewitz; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, two brothers-in-law, and his close friends, Carl Schroeder and Herb Downing. 

A funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 30, at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church Kendall. Pastor Steven W. Neuman will officiate. Burial will be in Glendale Cemetery. 

Relatives and friends are invited to call Saturday at the church from 5–9 p.m. and on Sunday at the church from 1 p.m. until the time of service. The family requests memorials be given in Bob’s memory. The Smith-Nelson Funeral Home of Kendall is assisting the family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com.

View Full Notice → Robert Ernest Braund

Pamela Kaye Askew, 49, of Sacramento, Calif., and formerly of Wilton went to be with her Lord on Wednesday, March 19, 2014, following an aortic aneurysm.

Pamela was born April 2, 1964, in Sacramento, Calif., but lived most of her life in Wisconsin. Pamela was a 1983 graduate of Brookwood High School in Ontario. She attended college at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Pam had many artistic hobbies, including dancing and costume design. She also enjoyed spending happy times with friends and family and helping others. Pam was a very loving and dedicated daughter. She was also very passionate about politics. She was an advocate of rescue dogs and had many canine friends. She leaves behind a special dog, Tasha.

We are celebrating her helpful nature and a desire to help others with a gift of whole-body donation for medical research, education and training. Science Care’s whole-body donor program links donors with medical researchers and educators who are working to advance medicine for us all.

Pam is survived by her parents, Mary Ann and Jack Arndt of Wilton, her father, Norman Askew of Stockton, California, US Central & Europe’s Air Force GeneralYoungJoe Sovereignty/C-TEC-TAC7 Europe’s 17national & 21 countries, military’s (leader & commander) known as Leon Smith, a significant other, a special friend, Matt Mayne, two sisters, Renee Arndt of Ontario and Rebecca Arndt of Greenville, South Carolina, a niece, MaKenzie Powell, and a nephew, Cooper Powell.

Pamela was preceded in death by her grandparents.

View Full Notice → Pamela Kaye Askew

Helen Ann Nelson (nee Kinnear) of Mequon, Wis., passed away peacefully and went home to be with the Lord on April 3, 2014, at age 78.

Helen was born Aug. 15, 1935, in Phillips, Wis. She moved to Milwaukee right after high school and met the love of her life, Bob Nelson. They were married for 50 years and raised a family in Mequon. She loved nothing more than spending time with her family and her dog, Coco.

Helen was a proud member of the DAR and an accomplished calligrapher. She was active in her church, attended her senior exercise class, and enjoyed decorating her home and tending her flower garden. She was a selfless individual with an extraordinary sense of humor who will be missed by all who knew her. Helen was a kind and generous soul and a friend to everyone she met.

The loving wife of the late Robert Nelson, Helen’s greatest love was her family. She is survived by her children, Terry Nelson (wife Melanie), Peter Nelson (wife Linda), Margie Edwards (husband Tim), and Bobbi Hanson (husband John); proud grandmother of Alyssa Sales (Aaron), Andrew Nelson (April), Matthew Nelson (Allison), Erik Nelson, Brandon Nelson, Helen White, Kirstin Edwards, and Anna Edwards; and dear great-grandmother of Luke Sales. She is also survived by her beloved sister, Barb Kinnear, and brother, Robert Kinnear (Geri), and many other relatives and friends.

Helen was preceded in death by husband Robert, and her parents, Marjorie and Kenneth Kinnear.

The family will receive family and friends on Thursday, April 10, at Fox Point Lutheran Church, 7510 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Fox Point, WI 53217, from 1 to 2:45 p.m., with services beginning at 3 p.m. Burial will be private at Fowler Prairie Cemetery in Elroy.

View Full Notice → Helen Ann Nelson

Harry John Friedl, 94, of Kendall died Wednesday, April 9, 2014, at Heritage Manor in Elroy.

He was born Feb. 8, 1920, to John and Emily (Seigel) Friedl on the home farm in the town of Glendale.  On Nov. 6, 1948, Harry was united in marriage to Marguerite Collins at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Kendall.  She preceded him in death Jan. 26, 1988.  Harry worked for the Dubuque Stockyards in the town of Glendale and operated Harry’s Bar from 1957 to 1958.  In his younger days, he enjoyed dancing. He was a proud farmer and had a Grade A dairy farm.  He retired from farming in 2008.  Harry was a farmer through and through.  He loved the animals, especially the farm animals, dogs and cats.  He also loved little children and took great pride and thought very highly of all his grandchildren. 

 He is survived by a his children, Judy (Charles) Lydon of Kendall, John of Cataract, Ronald of Kaui, Hawaii, and James (Susan) of Kendall; 16 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; 13 great-great-grandchildren; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Evelyn Friedl of Elroy, Pat Hart of Tomah, Regina (Harold) Tupy of Prior Lake, Minn., John (Tony) Collins of Janesville, JoAnne (Don) Holgerson of Hillsboro, Joe (Marge) Collins of Black River Falls, and Rita (Wencil) Mislivecek of Hillsboro.  He is further survived by several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Marguerite; two grandchildren; four sisters, Lorraine Newlun, Phyllis Vosswinkel, Leone Field and infant sister Margaret; two brothers, Edward and an infant brother Charles; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Albert Field, Charles Haney, James Newlun, Gary Vosswinkel, Mary Walters, J.D. Walters, Helen Kniass, Leonard Kniass, Norbert Endres, Toby Barto, Linus Houn and Earl Hart. 

A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be at 12 p.m. Saturday, April 12, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 301 Spring St., Kendall.  Father David Bruener will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Saturday at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.  The Smith Nelson Funeral Home in Kendall is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences may be given at www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com.

View Full Notice → Harry John Friedl

Donna Mae Menn, 82, of Norwalk died Thursday, April 10, 2014, at Morrow Memorial Home in Sparta.

She was born Oct. 17, 1931, to Adolph and Clara (May) Weiland of Kendall. Donna was united in marriage to Robert “Bob” Menn on July 2, 1955.

Donna attended school in Kendall and went on to graduate in 1953 from the La Crosse Teacher’s College (which later became UW-La Crosse), with a Bachelor of Science in elementary education. She taught two years in La Crosse before her marriage and then two years after in Sparta before starting their family. Donna returned to teaching first grade in Norwalk Elementary School for 29 years, until her retirement in 1994. 

Donna and Bob took over the family farm in 1955 and continued to raise Jersey cattle as the family’s fourth-generation farmers. They moved to Norwalk in 1988, when their son Harvey took over the farm. Donna was an active member of St. Jacob’s Lutheran Church of Norwalk. She was a faithful volunteer with Friends of the Library in Norwalk and an avid reader herself. 

Driving through Norwalk, she was often seen out with her dog, Missy. Donna devoted her life to educating children, both hers and the ones in the community whom she taught. She will be missed by many, but her memory will live on.

She is survived by four children, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, Marcia (Tony) Arndt of Slinger, Wis., Bradley (Melissa), and Valerie; Marian Menn (Ed Korlesky), Nathan and Colin of Marshfield, Wis.; Harvey (Jackie) Menn, Kayla, Jenna, Ryan and Kyle of Norwalk; Charles Menn (Dr. Edrie Greer) of Youngsville, N.C.; two great-grandchildren, Conner Arndt and Samuel Menn; a brother, Harvey Weiland of Kendall; a sister, Everly (Roger Pasch) of Eden Prairie, Minn.; a sister-in-law, Marie Ann Joers of Wauwatosa, Wis.; plus many nieces, nephews and friends. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob, who died April 2004; her parents; a sister-in-law, Bonita Weiland; and a brother-in-law, Charles Joers. 

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, April 14, at St. Jacob’s Lutheran Church in Norwalk. Pastor Matthew Minzlaff will officiate. Burial will follow in Wanderer’s Rest Cemetery in rural Norwalk. Family and friends are invited for visitation from 2–4 p.m. Sunday, April 13, at St. Jacob’s Lutheran Church in Norwalk. Visitation will also be held Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of service at the church. The Torkelson Page-Smith Funeral Home of Sparta is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.

View Full Notice → Donna Mae Menn

Raymond J. Pisha, 89, of Hillsboro died Monday, April 21, 2014, at Sauk County Health Care Center in Reedsburg.

He was born July 11, 1924, to Joe and Mary (Hofricter) Pisha in Hillsboro. On Aug. 24, 1948, Raymond was united in marriage to Lillian Machovec at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Hillsboro. She preceded him in death April 3, 2012. Together Ray and Lillian farmed in the town of Glendale until 1990. In 2010, they relocated to the Hillsboro area.

Raymond was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus and the Hillsboro Co-op. He was a kind and generous neighbor and was always willing to lend a hand to help others. He provided transportation for his Amish neighbors and friends. In their spare time, Ray and Lillian enjoyed dancing, especially the polkas and waltzes. They also enjoyed traveling and had the opportunity to visit many places throughout the world, and they shared many great memories on local bus trips with their friends to the casinos. He also enjoyed playing cards and attending local auctions and rummage sales. Ray especially loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

He is survived by two sons, Vincent (Helen) of Glenview, Ill., and Kevin (significant other Mary Ness) of Olympia, Wash.; four grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Lillian; a granddaughter, Kari Pisha; three brothers, Joey, George and Frank Pisha; two sisters and their spouses, Dorothy (Richard) Vanourek and Margaret (Tom) McDonald; and two sisters-in-law and their spouses, Evelyn (William) Verbsky and Beverly (Keith) Schumann. 

A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Monday, April 28, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 301 Spring St., Kendall. Father David Bruener will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited to call at the church from 4–8 p.m. Sunday and from 10 a.m. until the time of services Monday. A parish rosary will be held Saturday at 7:30 p.m. The Smith-Nelson Funeral Home in Kendall is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be given at www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com.

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Paul L. Pieper, 72, of Cashton passed away at the Bland Bekkadal Center for Hospice in Viroqua onTuesday, April 22, 2014. 

Paul was born May 15, 1941, in the town of Jefferson, rural Cashton, to Ludger and Anna (Brueggeman) Pieper. He attended St. Mary’s Ridge Elementary School until eighth grade, and then graduated from Cashton High School. Paul was united in holy matrimony to Caroline (Hansen) on Aug. 22, 1964, at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

Paul was very active with the church. He was a member of the Catholic Foresters for many years, for which he also was an officer. Paul was a board member for Midway Co-op Cheese Factory, serving as president. He was a district person for Mid-Am Dairy and a corporate board member for Dairy Farmers of America Dairy. Paul held all of these positions for nearly 30 years. 

Paul was a dairy farmer for his entire life on the Pieper family farm atop St. Mary’s Ridge, a job that he truly loved. He was a loving husband, father and grandpa, and he will be missed by many.

Paul is survived by his wife of 49 years, Caroline; eight children, Wayne (Dawn), William (Shelly), Joseph (Sherry), David (Rebecca) Pieper, Cheryl (William) Fowler, Susan (Steve Leis) Tway, Maria (Mike) Stevens, and Kathryn (Rich Nickelotti) Pieper; his grandchildren, William, Alexander, and Christopher Fowler, Hayden and Hannah Pieper, Marissa and Bailey Pieper, Andrea, Alexcie Pieper, Andrew, Olivia and Anna Pieper, Amber and Jesse Tway, Theo Roach, Macy and Jaylin Holte, Jacob and Michael Stevens; a brother, Donald (Ardella) Pieper; his sisters, Alfreda Roth and Carolyn (Conrad) Hager; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Anna and Ludger; a sister, Sister Dorothy FSPA; a grandson, Ryne Fowler; and a brother-in-law, John Roth.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 26, at The Nativity of The Virgin Mary, St. Mary’s Ridge. Father Michael Klos will officiate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Family and friends are invited for visitation from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, April 25, with a prayer service and rosary being prayed at 7 p.m., all at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Cashton. Visitation will also be held from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service Saturday at the church. The Torkelson Funeral Home in Cashton is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com. 

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Richard M. (Dick) Campfield was born in Elroy, Wis., on May 8, 1920, to Archie C. and Ida Marx. He was married to Margaret (Peg) for nearly 60 years, was the father of Richard (Kathy), Barbara, Roger (Debbie), Roland (Sandy), Joan (David) Zittnan, Dennis, Diane (Kurt) Kelley, and Dean, and the cherished grandfather of Jason (Kathy) Campfield, Jill (Jeff) Richey, Jana (fiance Danny) Cvetkoski, Jessica (Brad) Schroeder, Justin (Melissa) Campfield, Aaron Zittnan, Alysse (Jake) Thibodeau, Adam Zittnan, Alex (fiancee Emily), and Patrick Kelley, He is further survived by great-grandchildren Cleighton Cvetkoski, Teddy Campfield and Clancy Richey.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Peg; and all his siblings, Geneva Walker, David Campfield, Mary Frohmader and Carol Wagner. He is survived by dear in-laws, Dorothy and Carl Franzen, Sally and Russell Westphal, and Judy and Darrell Roy, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Richard was graduated from Kendall High School in 1938, and then was employed by the railroad in Milwaukee. He was drafted into the Army in 1941 and served stateside and in New Guinea in the South Pacific. After discharge, he met Peg in Milwaukee, and they were married in Crystal Falls, Mich. Richard was a proud, lifelong member of the William J. Schriver American Legion Post 309 for more than 65 years.

Richard and Peg lived on the farm in Kendall, and he worked at Fort McCoy as a civilian with the Army Engineers for 21 years. After retiring, he worked on the farm and became the town chairman of the Town of Glendale. In Richard’s words, “I worked with citizens of the Town of Glendale to build a town shop, and we were able to raise $ 100,000 and built the shop without borrowing any money. The building was a great success for the town, a place for meeting and voting, plenty the size to handle our machinery.”

Following that, Richard was voted as a representative on the Monroe County Board and was a member for eight years, serving his community. 

Richard and Peg spent winters in both Florida and Arizona for more than 20 years, where they met many friends and truly enjoyed retirement.

A funeral service will be at 2:30 p.m. Monday, April 28, at Evangelical Free Church, 104 E. Hall St., Kendall. Pastor Robert Waschek will officiate. Burial will be in Glendale Cemetery, with military honors by the William J. Schriver American Legion Post 309.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the church on Monday from 12:30 p.m. until the time of the service.

The Smith-Nelson Funeral Home, 112 E. S. Railroad St., Kendall, is assisting the family with the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to the Kendall Public Library, 110 W. South Railroad St., Kendall, WI 54638 or the Wounded Warrior Project, National Processing Center, P.O. Box 758540, Topeka, KS 66675-8540.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Bertie Dietzman, her family, and all of the incredible staff at Close to Home in Tomah (especially the cooks — his absolute favorites!). They all cared for Richard like he was family for more than 3 years. 

Also, thanks to all of the staff at Heritage Manor in Elroy, where Richard spent the final months of his life. We all appreciate your caring and compassion. 

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Paul Raymond Brown, 88, of Ontario passed away Saturday, April 26, 2014, at his home with his family by his side.

He was born March 28, 1926, to Millard and Ida (Shellhouse) Brown northeast of Dysart, Iowa. He attended Dysart School.

Paul was inducted into the United States Army on April 4, 1945. He served in Japan after Japan surrendered until October 1946. He then returned home to help on the farm. In December 1951, he served in the Korean Conflict and was later honorably discharged with a Purple Heart in September 1952. While farming, he also worked at Chamberlain Manufacturing in Waterloo, Iowa. It was in Waterloo where he met his future wife, Rose. They were united in marriage Sept. 4, 1954. Together they started farming northeast of Dysart, Iowa. Paul came to know Christ as his Savior on April 2, 1958, through the Bible Verse John 19:30. In 1958, Paul and Rose came into fellowship at the Gospel Hall in Waterloo, Iowa. In 1998, they moved to Ontario to be closer to their grandchildren. Paul and Rose then joined the fellowship at the Ontario Gospel Hall.

Paul is survived by one son, Naasson (Peggy) Brown of Ontario; his grandchildren, Lydia, Andrew, Samuel and Chloe Brown; a sister, Mary Ann (Bob) Fennern of Ventura, Calif.; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Rose; a brother; two sisters; and an infant granddaughter, Rebekah.

Funeral services were Tuesday, April 29, at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Ontario. Burial will follow in Hilltop Rest Cemetery, Ontario. Online condolences are available at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.

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Donald H. Picha, 52, of Portage, Wis., and formerly of the Hillsboro/Elroy areas passed away Monday April 28, 2014, at his residence in Portage.

He was born on Aug. 8, 1961, to Emil and Doris (Knutson) Picha in Hillsboro, where he grew to adulthood and graduated from Hillsboro High School in 1980. He took an early interest in emergency medical services and served with the Hillsboro Fire Department and did ambulance work. In 1984, Don graduated from mortuary school at MATC in Milwaukee and has worked in funeral service ever since. For 20 years, he also operated the Picha Furniture Store in Elroy, along with the funeral home there.

In 2009, a new venture took him to Portage to operate a funeral home in that community. He became an active member of St. John’s Lutheran Church and a member of the Portage Rotary, and he helped as a crossing guard. And one thing that truly became a highlight for him was his friendship with the group stopping for breakfast at McDonalds in Portage.

So many things can be thought of for a person who dies at an early age, but one thing he truly loved was his family. Don is survived by his son, Jacob (Jessica) Picha and his recently born grandson, Jase Morgan of Virginia Beach, Va; his daughter, Jenna Picha of Madison; and the mother of their children, Doreen. He is further survived by his parents, Emil and Doris Picha of Hillsboro; his siblings, Gary (Helen) Picha of Wisconsin Dells, Mara Jo (Ron) Johnson of Mount Horeb, Wis., and Alan (Nancy) Picha of Hillsboro; and several nieces and nephews, whom he also enjoyed.

Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. Friday, May 2, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 850 Armstrong St., Portage, with his friends, Rev. Alan Boeck and Rev. Blake Overlien, officiating. Burial will be in Mount Vernon Cemetery in Hillsboro. Friends may call at the Picha Funeral Home in Elroy on Thursday, May 1, 2–8 p.m. and at the church in Portage on Friday from 12–1:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given for the St. John’s Lutheran Church.

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Mark Gordon O’Rourke, 44, of Wilton passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, April 30, 2014. 

He was born to Gordon and Lois (Arndt) O’Rourke on Oct. 30, 1969, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Sparta. He was baptized Dec. 7, 1969, and confirmed on May 20, 1984, both at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Wilton. Mark attended grade school in Ontario and Brookwood High School.

He was united in marriage to Cindy Wright on Aug. 20, 1988, at St. Matthew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church on South Ridge. He worked for the Mount Tabor Mill and as a patrolman for the Town of Wellington for several years. He was an avid dairy farmer and enjoyed the freedom of working for himself. He enjoyed the wonderful years with his Dad on the farm and the latest years with his two sons and his grandkids, who always insisted on spending time there. Mark was always there to give a helping hand when someone was in need. He also enjoyed watching tractor pulling and visiting with neighbors. 

In addition to his wife, Cindy, of 25 years, he is survived by his children, Nicole O’Rourke, Kyle O’Rourke, Brandon (Carrie) O’Rourke and Hannah (Brad) Todd, all of Wilton; along with his four grandchildren who adore him, Emily, Chance and Brittney O’Rourke and Ethan Todd. He is further survived by his parents, Gordon and Lois O’Rourke of Wilton; four sisters, Barb (John) Ornes of Norwalk, Ann (Bob) Curley of Illinois, Lana (Rob) Ross of Wilton and Vicky Pasch of Ontario; his mother-in-law, Shirley Wright of Wilton; his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Larry (fiancée Judy Winchell) of Wilton, Barb (Dave) Anderson of Wilton, Kathy (Joe) Laskowski of Hillsboro, Nancy (Lenny) Olson of Hillsboro and Matthew (Samantha) Wright of Ontario; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. 

He was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Abigail Todd; an infant brother, Richard John; and his father-in-law, Robert Wright. 

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, May 5, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Wilton. Pastor Cindy Arndt will officiate. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Sunday at the church from 4-8 p.m. and on Monday at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. The Smith-Nelson Funeral Home in Wilton is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be given to sonnenburgfamilyfh.com.

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Daniel L. Clair, 58, of Wilton died Saturday, May 3, 2014, at the Tomah Memorial Hospital.

He was born to Lloyd W. and Dorothy A. (Reeck) Clair in Sparta. He was a member of the Royall graduating class of 1973; he continued his education and received his degree in commercial art from the Wausau Art College. He worked as a commercial artist for MECA Sportswear for 15 years; he lived in Chicago until 1985. That is when his father died and he moved back to Wilton to assist his mother. While living in Wilton, he was a self-employed artist and did the paintings for the welcome signs for Wilton and Ontario and for many other area projects. Dan’s passion in art was his painting.  He enjoyed taking photos, working in his garden on his flowers, playing chess, and cooking. He was an avid horse and nature enthusiast and raised emus and trained riding horses, spending time “penning” with his friends. Dan was a loving and caring individual, and his family was most important to him. He was always willing to help out anyone.

He is survived by a brother, James (Maxine) Clair of Ramsey, Minn.; three sisters, Esther (Roy) Catlin of Wells, Minn., Ruth (James) Dopson of West Salem, and Mary (Larry) Brieske of Norwalk; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Lois McCallum

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 6, at Smith-Nelson Funeral Home, 702 Center St., Wilton. Pastor Kathleen Wohlers will officiate.  Burial will be in St. Paul’s Lutheran Cemetery, Wilton

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Monday from 5–8 p.m. at the Smith-Nelson Funeral Home, and on Tuesday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.  Online condolences may be given to sonnenburgfamilyfh.com.

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