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Donna C. Oliver-King
Donna C. Oliver-King, 63, of Onalaska died March 25, 2003, at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center after a long fight with cancer.
She was born the seventh of eight children to Constance (Eggness) and Leslie Oliver on Dec. 6, 1939. She grew up in La Crosse, where she remained most of her life. She attended Logan High School and married Ronald King on April 21, 1955. Her early life was focused on taking care of her family. In 1989, she attended WWTC and Winona Technical College, where she received a degree as a licensed practical nurse. One of the greatest joys in her life was caring for people. She worked in care centers until she retired to take care of her ailing husband. After 43 years of marriage, Ronald passed away Nov. 24, 1999.
Donna is survived by five children, Vickie (Alan) Ganrude, Calvin King, Rhonda King, Patrick King and Allen King; three brothers, Duaine Oliver, Darrell (Joy) Oliver and Larry (Patricia) Oliver; and three sisters, Wanda (LaVern) Smiezek, Bonnie Clark and Yvonne (Don) Hole. She is also survived by eight grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Donna was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Beth King in 1977; two sisters, Audrey Wuensch and Eloda Wing; and her husband, Ronald King in 1999.
We wish to express a special thank you to all the friends and family who have been there in support of Donna through her struggle with cancer. She was a wonderful woman who will be forgotten by none.
Funeral services were held at the Dickinson Family Funeral Home Chapel on March 29.
Mildred C. Weverstad
Mildred C. Weverstad, 87, of Holmen, died March 25, 2003, at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, La Crosse.
She was born Sept. 24, 1915, in La Crosse to Carl and Agnes (Thompson) Baker. On Dec. 18, 1937, she married Leonard Weverstad at Trinity Lutheran Church in La Crosse, and he preceded her in death Jan. 26, 1999. Mildred was employed by the La Crosse Auto-Lite Co. until the time of its closing and then worked at the Holmen Canning Factory. She and her husband farmed for many years in the Holmen area, and in 1978 they retired and moved into Holmen. Mildred was a longtime active member of Halfway Creek Lutheran Church, where she was in charge of teaching Sunday school. She also was a member of the church ladies aid and the church choir.
Survivors include one son, Thomas Weverstad of Holmen; two grandchildren, Thomas Weverstad Jr. of South West Harbor, Maine, and Elaina (Timothy) Wolter of Trempealeau; four great-grandchildren, Randina Weverstad, Jamie Wolter and Jenna Wolter, all of Trempealeau, and Leaf Burnett of Bucksport, Maine; two sisters, Joyce (Leonard) Wood of Holcomb, Wis., and Muriel Eichelberger of Los Angeles; one brother, William (Abbey) Baker of Northfield, Calif.; and a sister-in-law, Jeanette Baker of Onalaska.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Melford and Chester Baker; and a sister, Evelyn Grotte.
Funeral services were held March 28 at Halfway Creek Lutheran Church, Holmen. The Rev. Lindsay Paul Jordan officiated. Burial took place in the church cemetery. Memorials may be given to Halfway Creek Lutheran Church.
Roger L. Severson
Roger L. Severson, 64, formerly of Holmen, died at his home in Tomah on March 25, 2003. He was born Nov. 11, 1938, in La Crosse County to Leonard and Edna (Thompson) Severson. He married Hilda Meyer on June 24, 1957, and they later divorced. On Oct. 25, 1991, he married Rachel Strebe.
Roger served in the Army Reserves for eight years. He worked on the Vern Dale Farms, Jewel Tea, Stoekly Van Camp and Machine Products.
During retirement, Roger spent time helping his nephews, Larry and Tim Severson, on their farm in Holmen.
Roger is survived by his wife, Rachel; three children, Debby Hirschfield of Whitewater, Wis., Danny Severson and Dawn Kirchner of Onalaska, Wis.; six grandchildren, Justin and Grant Hirshfield, Cassy Hanes, Lacy Severson, Kyle and Joel Kirchner; and two great-grandchildren, Ahlana and Daymian Hirschfield. Also four stepchildren, Lyda, Earl (Tina) Winger, Eugene Winger and April (Joe) Gunthie, 12 step-grandchildren; two sisters, Iva Mae De Young of West Salem, Wis,. and Jessie (Art) Berg of Chaseburg, Wis.; one brother, Charles (Shirley) Severson of Mindoro, Wis.; three sisters-in-law, Norma Weverstad, Marion Severson and Thelma Severson; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Glenn, La Verne and Gale; and a sister, Elaine.
Funeral services were held March 28, 2003, at the Halfway Creek Lutheran church. The Rev. Lindsay Jordan officiated, with burial with military rites provided by the Holmen American Legion took place in the church cemetery.
Vernon Christianson
Vernon Christianson, 77, of Holmen, died March 28, 2003, at Onalaska Care Center from complications of pneumonia. He was born Nov. 4, 1925, to Hobert and Helen (Engelstad) Christianson.
Vernon is survived by his sister, Esther Schuppel; and a sister-in-law, Jean (Aldin) Christianson.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Hobert and Helen; sisters, Olga Hefke and Elsie Christianson; brothers, Aldin, Selmer, Alvin, Herman, Leland, Albert and Virgil Christianson.
Funeral services were held April 1, 2003, at the Dickinson Family Funeral Home, 515 McHugh Road, Holmen. The Rev. Mark Jolivette of Lewis Valley Lutheran Church officiated, and burial took place in Lewis Valley Cemetery, Stevenstown, Wis.
Eugene R. Shepard
Eugene R. Shepard, 84, of Onalaska and formerly of La Crosse died March 26, 2003, at Onalaska Care Center where he was a resident.
He was born March 10, 1919, in La Crosse to Roland and Elizabeth Shepard. Eugene worked for the city of La Crosse Park Department for 31 years until his retirement. He never married. He was very devoted to his mother and father, and his dog, Peppy
He is survived by his special friend and care provider for several years, Ardith Lezpona of La Crosse.
Graveside services for Eugene were held April 3, at Oak Grove Cemetery, La Crosse.
Daniel H. Wason
Daniel H. Wason, 73, of Galesville and formerly of Onalaska, died April 5, 2003, at Marinuka Manor in Galesville.
He was born in Centerville, Wis., on Aug. 6, 1929, to Charles and Grace (Babbitt) Wason. He married Rachel Sacia on Oct. 16, 1948. For nearly 40 years, he owned and operated Wason's Supper Club, which he built with his brother, Bud.
He is survived by Rachel, his wife of 54 years; two daughters, Donna (Peter) Bentz of Scottsdale, Ariz., and Mary (Tom) Twesme of Las Vegas, Nev.; two sons, David (Vicki) Wason of Arlington, Texas, and John (Barbara) Wason of Glendale, Ariz.; 11 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Bud; and half-brother, Dwight.
Funeral services were held April 8, at First Presbyterian Church, Galesville. The Rev. Dr. R. Steven Krueger officiated. Burial was held in Evergreen Cemetery, Centerville, with Father Delbert Malin officiating.
Charlotte M. Pralle
Charlotte, M. (Hawkins) Pralle, 80, of Onalaska died April 6, 2003, at Franciscan Skemp Medical Center in La Crosse.
She was born Oct. 15, 1922, in Onalaska, to Raymond and Frieda (Dittman) Hawkins. She married Leonard Pralle on Dec. 12, 1942, and together they owned and operated Pralle's Vegetable Stand in the Valley View Mall area for many years. They were dedicated to this business and will be remembered by many for their efforts in this work.
She is survived by a son, Thomas Pralle of Holmen.; a daughter, Jane Endres of Sparta, Wis.; a brother, Ray (Evelyn) Hawkins of Sparta; eight grandchildren, Mark (Heather) Endres, John (Diane) Endres, Matthew Endres, Paul (Anne) Pralle, Nathan (Dena) Pralle, and Nicole, Carrie and Jason Pralle; seven great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Ella Mae Hawkins of Onalaska; and many special neighbors and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Leonard on April 6, 1995; four infant sons; three sisters; and a very dear brother, Bill.
Funeral services were held April 10, 2003, at Fossum Funeral Home in Onalaska. The Rev. William Bader officiated. Burial took place in Oak Grove Cemetery in La Crosse. Memorials may be directed to St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Onalaska or Franciscan Skemp Hospice.
Lillian E. Flury
Lillian E. Flury, 78, of Holmen died April 1, 2003, at the Onalaska Care Center. She was born July 12, 1924, in Winona, Minn., to Glenn and Ada (Northrup) Slawson. She married Norval Flury on July 23, 1944, in Rochester, Minn. He preceded her in death on April 16, 1981. Lillian was a very loving wife, mother and grandmother. Her love and care also was shown to the numerous children she provided child care for many years.
She is survived by seven children, Sharon (Larry) Schultz of Red Wing, Minn., Rick Flury of Galesville, Wis., Betty (Stan) Hagaman of Kissee Mills, Mo., Randy (Debbie) Flury of Holmen, Rock (Cindy) Flury of Holmen, Brenda (Richard) Greig of Minneapolis and Becky (Brian) Szyszka of Minneapolis; 21 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband Norval, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Susan Krieger; a granddaughter, Stacy Wood; a great-grandson, Dustin Atwood; her parents; and two brothers, Wilbur and Orrin Slawson.
Funeral services were held April 4, 2003, at the Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home of La Crescent, Minn. The Rev. Mitzi Miyamoto officiated. Burial took place in Prospect Hill Cemetery, La Crescent.
Carl Pedretti
Carl Pedretti, 77, of Onalaska died April 10, 2003, at Franciscan Skemp Health Care.
He was born on April 8, 1926, to Alois and Mae (Venner) Pedretti in Genoa, Wis. On Aug. 23, 1949, he married Helen Zeimentz. She died on Nov. 1, 1963. On April 24, 1971, he married Marge Schaller.
Carl is survived by his wife, Marge; four sons, Rich (Bette) Pedretti, Peter (Mary Lee) Pedretti, Ken (Carol) Schaller and Tom (Deb) Schaller; eight daughters, Mary Jo (Bruce) McDonald, Rose (Rolf) Tornow, Donna (Jim) Dummer, Helen (Bruce) Schwier, Betty (John) Thiel, Peg (Solon) Hanson, Pat Paul and Nancy (David) Bass; 26 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two brothers, Don (Therese) Pedretti and Patrick Pedretti; three sisters, Therese Fitzpatrick, Sister Therese Marie Pedretti and Ruth (Herb) Keifer.
Carl was preceded in death by one son, his parents, one brother, one son-in-law and three grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian burial for Carl was held April 14 at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, Holmen. Private burial service was held April 15.
Memorials may be given to St. Elizabeth Church in Holmen or St. Bede's Priory in Eau Claire, Wis.
Carol Ann Lecher
Carol Ann Lecher, 56, of Onalaska, died April 7, 2003.
She was born Nov. 15, 1946, in Stewartville, Minn., to Donald and Margaret (Shields) Henke. She graduated from Stewartville High School in 1965 and from St. Mary's licensed practical nurse program in Rochester, Minn., in 1966.
Carol was united in marriage to Bernard Lecher Jr. on Feb. 11, 1967. She had worked at Trane Co. as an LPN for 33 years.
She is survived by her husband, Bernard; a daughter, Michele (Brain) Kuesel of Baldwin, Wis.; two sons, John (Sara) Lecher of Onalaska, and Eric (Mary Jane) Lecher of La Crosse; seven grandchildren, Nolan, Kelsey and Garrett Kuesel, Kimberly and Samantha Henderson, Aliyah Atchison and Louden Lecher; a sister, Barbara (Timothy) Carr of Galena, Ohio; three brothers, Alan (Mary Lou) Henke and Brian Henke, both of Stewartville, and Richard (Kristine) Henke of Racine, Wis.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister and brother.
Funeral services were held April 12 at Dickinson Family Funeral Homes, La Crosse. Burial was in French Island Cemetery.
MaryGrace Andrew Schilling
MaryGrace Andrew Schilling, of Holmen, died April 11, 2003. Mary was born June 14, 1926, in Detroit, Mich., to Richard G. and Florence (Garvey) Andrew. She died at home after several months of complications related to Parkinson's and high blood pressure.
She is survived by her husband, Dr. George C. Schilling; a son, David A. (Carole) Schilling of Omaha, Neb.; a daughter, Avis K. (Steven) Sorenson of Stoughton, Wis.; 11 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren; two brothers, Wm. R. Andrew (Louise) of Normal, Ill. and Richard W. Andrew (Nancy) of Ocee, Fla.; and a sister, Patricia (James) Tandy of Bloomington, Ill.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents and one daughter, Leslie Anne Noelte.
MaryGrace married George C. Schilling on June 2, 1945, in Chicago, where they lived until 1971 when they moved to the La Crosse area. As an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints she contributed many hours of service while working with young people, adults and especially with the women's organization. MaryGrace loved music and was a talented musician and artist, as well as being an avid gardener who had the proverbial 'greenthumb'.
Funeral services were held April 14, 2003, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 701 Well St., Onalaska. Bishop Ron Knapmiller officiated and burial took place in the Greenmound Cemetery near Holmen.
Signe Marking Graham
Signe Marking Graham, 89, of Holmen died April 14, 2003, at Onalaska Care Center, Onalaska, Wis.
Signe was born Dec. 17, 1913, in the town of Hamilton to Simon and Gunda (Nelson) Romskog. She was baptized on Jan. 29, 1914, at La Crosse Valley Lutheran Church in West Salem, Wis. She was confirmed on July 22, 1928, at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in West Salem by Pastor O.T. Ottersen.
On June 21, 1933, Signe married Robert Marking at the parsonage of Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Pastor Ottersen officiating. They were married for 33 years and farmed on Marking Ridge at Route 2, Holmen.
The couple had eight children, raising their family during the challenging years of the Great Depression and World War II. Signe's hearty and stoic Norwegian heritage saw her through those hard times and also the joyous ones she shared with her family in her later years. She was a resourceful homemaker and wonderful cook and became well known for her homemade bread and pies.
Signe's loving husband, Robert, preceded her in death on March 16, 1966. They were longtime members of Our Savior's Lutheran Church. She later moved to Holmen and joined Holmen Lutheran Church. She was a charter member of the Senior Nutrition Program in Holmen, which she faithfully attended for many years. One of her great joys at the center was her many friends and daily card games.
On July 12, 1987, Signe married Oliver Graham of Holmen, who preceded her in death on Dec. 12, 1994. Oliver was a loving companion to Signe and a blessing to her entire family.
Signe is survived by two sons, Sylvester (Marcella) of North Branch, Minn., and Leif (Carol) of Onalaska, Wis.; five daughters, Vivian (Ronald) Sacia of Holmen, Marion (Art) Koch of Oconomowoc, Wis., Bernice (Randy) Koula of La Crosse, and Carol (Mike) Degenhardt and Doris (Glenn) Newman, both of Onalaska; 16 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.
She also is survived by three stepdaughters, Donna (Peter) Mikelson of Minneapolis, Ruth Ann (Vernon) Granum of Holmen and Carol Millis of Pennsgrove, N.J.; a stepson, John (Rosemary) Graham of Mequon, Wis.; and their children.
One brother, Gladwin (Dorothy) Romskog, and one sister-in-law, Vernetta Romskog, both of West Salem, Wis., also survive Signe.
Besides her two husbands, Signe was preceded in death by a daughter, Gertrude; four brothers, Julian, Selmer, Ansel and Floyd; four sisters, Stella, Gertrude, Clara and Helen; a stepdaughter, Barbara Graham; and a grandson, Jeremy Stolsmark.
Funeral services were held April 17, 2003, at Holmen Lutheran Church, 228 Morris St., with Pastor Glenn Borreson and Pastor Dan Henderson officiating. Burial took place in Hamilton Cemetery at West Salem. Memorials may be given to Holmen Lutheran Church.
The family wishes to give their grateful thanks and appreciation to all of her caretakers at Onalaska Care Center.
Carol Ann Lecher
Carol Ann Lecher, 56, of Onalaska, died April 7, 2003.
She was born Nov. 15, 1946, in Stewartville, Minn., to Donald and Margaret (Shields) Henke. She graduated from Stewartville High School in 1965 and from St. Mary's licensed practical nurse program in Rochester, Minn., in 1966.
Carol was united in marriage to Bernard Lecher Jr. on Feb. 11, 1967. She had worked at Trane Co. as an LPN for 33 years.
She is survived by her husband, Bernard; a daughter, Michele (Brain) Kuesel of Baldwin, Wis.; two sons, John (Sara) Lecher of Onalaska, and Eric (Mary Jane) Lecher of La Crosse; seven grandchildren, Nolan, Kelsey and Garrett Kuesel, Kimberly and Samantha Henderson, Aliyah Atchison and Louden Lecher; a sister, Barbara (Timothy) Carr of Galena, Ohio; three brothers, Alan (Mary Lou) Henke and Brian Henke, both of Stewartville, and Richard (Kristine) Henke of Racine, Wis.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister and brother.
Funeral services were held April 12 at Dickinson Family Funeral Homes, La Crosse. Burial was in French Island Cemetery.
Keith G. Huber
Keith G. Huber, 67, of Holmen passed away April 11, 2003, at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, La Crosse.
He was born March 29, 1936, in North Bend, Wis., to Glenn and Macie (Patterson) Huber. He married Janet Hendricks and they later divorced. He married Barbara Ammerman on May 3, 1980.
After graduation from Melrose, Keith joined the U.S. Navy in September 1954 and retired after 20 years of service as an aviation electrician's mate first class.
He was very active in the American Legion and 40 et 8. He was past commander of the Holmen American Legion Post No. 284. He held many offices, both state and national, including grande chef de gare in the Grand Voiture de Wisconsin and was currently grand correspondant.
He worked for Trane Co. and later transferred to Altec, where he retired after 25 years.
Keith is survived by his wife, Barbara; three daughters, Sandra (Rick) Feyen of La Crosse, Rhonda Mullen of Holmen, and Pamela (Dennis) Kaye of Ventura, Iowa; seven stepchildren, Vickie Remus of Monroe, Ga., Susan (Gene) Waldenberger, Sally (Tom) Granum, Jeff (Cindy) Ammerman, Greg (Colette) Ammerman all of Holmen, and Michael Ammerman and Paul Ammerman (Troy Eggen) of La Crosse; 23 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; a sister, Shirley (Huber) Johnson of North Bend; a sister-in-law, Arleen Huber of Holmen; a brother, Jerry (Vicki) Huber of Humbird, Wis.; a stepbrother, Tom (Sally) Marshall of Albuquerque, N.M.; a stepsister, Kathy (Dan) Kammel of Onalaska; a sister-in-law, Patti Briggs of Onalaska; an uncle, Richard (Phyllis) Patterson of North Bend; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Robert; two sisters, Nancy and Linda; and a granddaughter, Shara Granum.
Funeral services were Tuesday, April 15, at Onalaska United Methodist Church. Burial, with full military honors, was at Green Mound Cemetery in Holmen.
Ralph Warren
Ralph Warren, 83, of Onalaska passed away Easter Sunday, April 20, 2003, at Mulder Health Care Facility in West Salem, Wis. He had been a resident there for about one month.
Ralph was born Nov. 11, 1919, in La Crosse to Adolph and Clare (Zoellner) Otto. He married Virginia Garmoe Broten on June 13, 1957, in Reno, Nev. Ralph was a graduate of La Crosse Central High School in June 1937 and then attended two years of college at La Crosse State Teachers College.
Ralph enlisted in the U.S. Army on Aug. 11, 1942, and was discharged Jan. 29, 1946.
He pursued a career in television and radio and worked for many different stations around the country, including WLXR and WKBT in La Crosse. His love of classical and "big band" music was clearly evident in his life, and he was so proud of his huge record collection. Ralph was a member of First Evangelical Lutheran Church in La Crosse.
Ralph is survived by his wife, Virginia; his stepdaughter, Jan (James) Hartman of Southport, Fla., and their children, Julie, Jamie, and Alan; stepson, Laurence Pierson of Davis, Calif., and their children and grandchildren; niece, Jane (Vaughn) Heeter of La Crescent, Minn., and their children, Mark, Sarah, and Dan; nephew, John Reusch of La Crescent; numerous cousins; and a very special friend, Armin Gossfeld.
Private graveside services were held April 23 in Oak Grove Cemetery, La Crosse.
Russell A. Peterson
Russell A. Peterson, 76, died Monday, April 21, 2003, in his home. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday in Onalaska United Methodist Church. Burial with full military rites will be in Onalaska Cemetery. Friends may call from 10 a.m. until the time of services Saturday at the church.
Joyce A. Wilk
Joyce A. Wilk, 84, died in Onalaska Care Center on Tuesday, April 22, 2003. Memorial services will be 4 p.m. today (Friday) at Dickinson Family Funeral Home, Onalaska. Friends may call from 2 p.m. until the time of services today at the funeral home.
Ida C. Paulson
Ida C. Paulson, 94, died peacefully at the Onalaska Care Center on Tuesday, May 6, 2003.
Ida was born on Dec. 31, 1908, to Albert and Anna (Amundson) Nelson in Lewis Valley and was baptized and confirmed in the Lewis Valley Lutheran Church. She married Rolf Paulson on Sept. 3, 1927. He preceded her in death in 1952.
She was a member of the Holmen Lutheran Church.
Ida is survived by one son, Paul (Sandra) Paulson of Onalaska; two grandsons, Alan (Bonnie) Paulson of La Crescent, Minn., and Jeffery (Julie) Paulson of Holmen; two great-grandsons, Adam and Isaac Paulson of Holmen; one sister, Esther Polzin of Galesville, Wis.; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Agnes Stark of La Crosse; and three brothers, Clifford, Lloyd and Ansel Nelson of Holmen.
Services will be held today (Friday, May 9) at 11 a.m. at Holmen Lutheran Church, with burial in the Long Coulee Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.
Earl J. Glenn
Earl J. Glenn, 83, died at the Onalaska Care Center on Monday, April 28, 2003.
He was born Sept. 11, 1919, in Chicago, Ill., to Robert and Bernadine Rossman. Prior to his retirement, Earl had worked for the Chicago Tribune for more than 35 years. He had served with the U.S. Army during World War II and was a member of the Holmen American Legion.
He is survived by is wife, Betty; three daughters, Marleen (Skip) Pizzitola of Stone Lake, Wis., Wendy Glenn of Chicago, and Cheryl (Glen) Brittingham of Lake Orion, Mich.; two sons, Dale (Carol) Glenn of Chicago, and Richard (Karen) Glenn of Wooddale, Ill.; nine grandchildren, Thomas Davidson, Eric Brittingham, Todd Brittingham, Philip Pizzitola, Chuck Pizzitola, Brooke Glenn, Laura Pizzitola, Ashley Brittingham and Adam Glenn; two great-grandchildren, Wayne and Brian; two sisters, Bernice Hoffman and Catherine Evans; two brothers, William and Robert Glenn.
He was preceded in death by two sisters and two brothers.
Visitation was May 3 at Dickinson Family Funeral Home, Holmen. Burial, with full military rites by the Holmen American Legion, was in the Greenmound Cemetery, Holmen.
Elsie 'Ellie' Pabst
Elsie "Ellie" Pabst, 95, of Onalaska died peacefully on Tuesday, April 29, 2003, at her home.
She was born June 25, 1907, in La Crosse, to Henry and Emma (Zirke) Harder. She married Norman Pabst on June 25, 1929, in La Crosse, and he preceded her in death.
Elsie and her husband were the owners of the former Pabst Racing Boat Co. of Isle La Plume in La Crosse for many years. She was very active with the business, doing all the wood finishing of the boats. She also worked for the S.S. Kreske Store during the war, and later for the Garvalia China Shop. She was a former member of the Zonta Club and was one of the founders of the Brice Prairie Homemakers Club. She enjoyed dancing and ice skating.
She is survived by one son, Kirby (Wendy) Pabst of Onalaska; grandson, Aaron and his wife, Katie; granddaughter, Heidi and her husband, Jason; and four great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers, three sisters and her parents.
Memorial services were held May 3 at Fossum Funeral Home in Onalaska. Burial was in Woodlawn Cemetery in La Crosse.
Elsie will be remembered by all the lives she has touched. Her caring and generosity made her a second mom to many. She will be missed so very much.
Hazel G. Marco
Hazel G. Marco, 89, of Onalaska died Friday, May 2, 2003, at Onalaska Care Center.
She was born Aug. 9, 1913, in rural Bangor, Wis., to Walter and Florence (Bowen) Tritton. She married Ambrose R. Marco on June 3, 1933, in La Crosse. He died on Oct. 3, 1993. Hazel had worked at the La Crosse Rubber Mills for 31 years. She retired in 1961.
Hazel is survived by her three sons, Robert (Pat) Marco of La Crosse, Vincent (Sharon) Marco of Onalaska and Bruce (Barbara) Marco of La Crosse; nine grandchildren, Michael (Patty) Marco, Patrick (Heidi) Marco, Lisa (Jim) Roth, Jeanne Lyles, Barbara (Bill) Lanzel, Kathy (Robert) Maney, Bobbi (Jeff) Wiedman, Terri (Bob) Dearman and Tim Marco; as well as nine great-grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian burial was held May 6 at St. James the Less Catholic Church in La Crosse. Burial was in Catholic Cemetery.
Lyle Vernon Johnson
Lyle Vernon Johnson, 79, formerly of Onalaska, died Wednesday, April 9, 2003, at his home in Upper Marlboro, Md., after a long illness.
He was born in La Crosse on Oct. 3, 1923, to Holgia and Kathryn Johnson. He married Rita M. Carey on Nov. 30, 1946, in La Crosse. He was an architect for Carl Shubert Associates in La Crosse and later moved to Maryland in 1962, where he then worked for Stan Arthur Associates and later Coopart Associates. He was employed for 44 years.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years; three daughters, Darlene Soltis (Ronald), Sue Bement (Clint) and Nancy Leach (David); and a son, Michael (Serena), all of Maryland. He leaves 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He also has one brother, Eugene Johnson (Nita); a sister-in-law, Linda Carey-Jacobs (William); a brother-in-law, Richard Carey (Donna); and four nephews and four nieces.
His son, Dennis, preceded him death.
A memorial service was held April 12 at Lee Funeral Home Chapel.
Marion I. Thompson
Marion I. Thompson, 86, of Onalaska died Sunday, May 4, 2003, at Hillview Healthcare Center, La Crosse.
She was born at home in the town of Farmington, rural Mindoro, Wis., on July 24, 1916, to Robert and Agnes (Fischer) Storandt. She was baptized and confirmed at Burr Oak Lutheran Church and attended Black Oak and Burr Oak Parochial School, Mindoro High School and La Crosse State Teachers College.
She taught in country schools and the Mindoro grade school for several years. On June 15, 1940, in Mindoro, she married Archie Thompson, son of Carrie and Elmer Thompson of Melrose, Wis. Marion also was a member of St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church of Onalaska.
In addition to her husband, Archie of Onalaska, she is survived by one daughter Jacqueline (Fred) Thompson of Boston; one granddaughter, Heidi Siefkas, also of Boston; one sister, Arlene Stetzer of Trempealeau, Wis.; a niece, Maxine Bothe; and two nephews, Gary (Anita) Stetzer and Gorman (Merlyn) Pfaff. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Mildred Pfaff (Stetzer).
Funeral services were May 8 at Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home of Onalaska. Burial was in Onalaska City Cemetery.
Elmer F. Loging
Elmer F. Loging, 86, of Holmen, died Monday, May 19, 2003, at Franciscan Skemp Medical Center, La Crosse.
He was born June 8, 1916, in Barre Mills, Wis., to John and Emma (Radtke) Loging. Elmer lost his father in 1918 during the influenza epidemic. In 1921, his mother died as the result of a tragic accident. He was raised by his grandparents. On Oct. 22, 1942, Elmer married Jeanette Heuer at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Bangor, Wis.
Elmer farmed all of his life. He was a past director of the Farmer's Union of La Crosse County and also a past director of the Mindoro Farmer's Union Coop.
Elmer is survived by his wife, Jeanette; four children, John (Edith) Loging of Ettrick, Wis., Kenneth (Nancy) Loging of Onalaska, Eileen (David) Hanson of Independence, Wis., and Roger (Arlene) Loging of Holmen; 11 grandchildren, Ben and Pearl Loging of Ettrick, Crista (Travers) Hall and Tracy Loging of Onalaska, Melissa (Jason) Wendler of Menasha, Wis.,William (Amy) Hanson of Marshfield, Wis., Timothy (Rita) Hanson of Neillsville, Wis., Elizabeth (Jeremy) O'Brien of Black River Falls, Wis., and Adam, Shawn and Ashley Loging of Holmen; 10 great-grandchildren, Joey, Jalen, Kade, Topanga and Zander Hanson, Patrick and Noah O'Brien, Seth and Emma Loging and Olivia Wendler; and a sister, Emma Kelly of Onalaska.
Besides his parents, Elmer was preceded in death by two brothers, Ray and Arthur, and a granddaughter, Bobbie Loging.
Funeral services will be held today (Friday, May 23) at 1 p.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Onalaska. The Rev. Norris Baumann will officiate. Burial will be in St. John's Lutheran Cemetery, Barre Mills. Friends may call at the church from noon until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Paul's Lutheran Church or Luther High School.
The family would like to gratefully thank the special people at Franciscan Skemp Hospice Program.
Gary H. Finstuen
Gary H. Finstuen, 57, died from injuries received in a motor vehicle accident in the Twin Cities area on Saturday, May 17, 2003.
He was born Oct. 13, 1945, in Red Wing, Minn., to Herman and Alice (Stehr) Finstuen. He received his bachelors and masters degrees in education from Winona State University. He married Linda Benjamin on July 20, 1968, and they later divorced.
Gary had served in the U.S. Army during the Viet Nam War. He had taught in the Holmen School District, in the middle and high schools, for over 25 years and had served as a volunteer for the Habitat for Humanity and the Salvation Army.
He is survived by his children, Jennifer (Michael) Stoffel of Plymouth, Minn., Holly Jambois of Richmond, Va., Emily Finstuen of Minneapolis and Nathan (fiancée Kerri) Finstuen of La Crosse; a grandchild, Madison Stoffel; his mother, Alice Finstuen of Red Wing; and a sister, Carolyn Bates of Woodbury, Minn.
He was preceded in death by his father.
Funeral services were Thursday at Holmen Lutheran Church. Burial was in the Red Wing Cemetery.
Rebecca Ann Jostad
Rebecca Ann Jostad, 25, of Eau Claire and formerly of Holmen died Thursday, May 15, 2003, from injuries received in an automobile accident.
Becca was born Oct. 17, 1977, in La Crosse to Paul and Diane (Johnson) Jostad. She was a 1996 graduate of West Salem High School and in 2000 graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire with a bachelor of science degree in nursing. Since graduation, she worked as a registered nurse at Luther Hospital in Eau Claire. Becca truly enjoyed working with and helping people in her chosen profession of nursing.
Survivors include her parents, two brothers, David (fiancée Sara Appleman) and Thomas (fiancée Elizabeth Kotek); one sister, Rachael; maternal grandfather, Bernard (Myrtle) Johnson; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. Becca is also sadly missed and fondly remembered by many college friends and co-workers.
She is preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, LaVerne Johnson; and paternal grandparents, Ray and Esther Jostad.
Memorial services were held May 21 at Halfway Creek Lutheran Church, Holmen. The Rev. Lindsay Paul Jordan officiated. Burial was in the church cemetery.
Daniel R. Rogers
Daniel R. Rogers, of rural Wilton died Saturday, May 24, 2003, at his home surrounded by his family.
He was born Dec. 1, 1963, to Charles Sr. and June (Marr) Rogers in Newport Beach, Calif. He graduated with the Class of 1981 from Onalaska High School. Dan was united in marriage to Heidi Shattuck on May 28, 1999, at St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church. He worked as an engineer at Cardinal I.G. and was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. Dan was an avid bowhunter and fisherman and enjoyed spending time outdoors. He was a devoted and loving husband, son, brother and friend.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his parents, Charles and June Rogers of Onalaska; a sister, Cindy (Terry) of Delafield, Wis.; a mother-in-law, JoAnn Shattuck of Wilton; his maternal grandmother, Agnes "Ann" Marr; his paternal grandmother, Virginia Rogers; two sisters-in-law, Kimberly (John) Hollis of Holmen and Evangaline Rogers of Onalaska; nieces and nephews, Coleen (Ben) Miller, Brandon Hollis, Charles Rogers III and Amanda Rogers; and other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Charles Rogers Jr.; his father-in-law, DeWerd "Duke" Shattuck; his maternal grandfather, Logan Marr; and his paternal grandfather, Charles Rogers.
Funeral services were held May 28 at St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church. The Rev. Paul G. Heiderich officiated. Burial will be Saturday, May 31, at 11 a.m. at the Dorset Ridge Cemetery.
Clayton H. Wensel
Clayton H. Wensel, 80, formerly of La Crosse, died Wednesday, May 21, 2003, at Mulder Health Care Facility in West Salem.
He was born Dec. 4, 1922, in Sparta, Wis., to Lawrence and Elvira (Pfaff) Wensel. Clayton married Macel Wymore on July 23, 1938, in Sparta, and she preceded him in death in 1986. He served with the Army during World War II. He worked for the F. W. Means Co. as a supervisor for 24 years and then retired.
He is survived by two daughters, Joan (Kenneth) Riel of Onalaska and Janet (Charles) Craig of Phoenix, Ariz.; five grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife.
Graveside services for Clayton were held May 23 at Onalaska Cemetery. The Rev. Adolf Quast will officiated.
Elizabeth J. Bilskemper
Elizabeth J. Bilskemper, 76, died at her home Friday, May 23, 2003, surrounded by her family. She was borne on angel wings to her heavenly home after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease.
She was born Jan. 9, 1927, in La Crosse, to Lester and Katherine Hall. On Nov. 18, 1946, she married Robert H. Bilskemper at St. James the Less Catholic Church. They owned Bilskemper Landscape. Elizabeth was a homemaker whose life revolved around her family, church and community.
She was an active member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, school PTA and the Boy and Girl Scouts. Among the highlights of her life, she was named Queen for a Day in 1958 and runner-up for Mrs. Oktoberfest in 1969. She was a member of the Daily Dancers Square Dance Club for many years and president of the Catholic War Veterans Auxiliary from 1963 to 1964.
At age 51, she went back to school and graduated with honors from WWTC in the child-care development program.
She is survived by her husband, Robert; four daughters, Alice Bilskemper of La Crosse, Kathleen (Cecil) Wold of Wausau, Wis., Mary (Randy) Spangler of Holmen and Barbara Bilskemper of Onalaska; six sons, Thomas (Shirley) Bilskemper of Antioch, Calif., Joseph Bilskemper of Onalaska, David (Debbie) Bilskemper of North Liberty, Iowa, Richard Bilskemper of Onalaska, Robert (Mary Beth) Bilskemper of Onalaska and Patrick (Susanne) Bilskemper of La Crosse; 22 grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; four step-great-grandchildren; two sisters, Jane Glynn of Milwaukee and Nancy (LaVern) Nuttleman of West Salem, Wis.; and two brothers, Louis (Teresa) Hall of Holmen and Robert (Jan) Hall, Milwaukee. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Elizabeth; a son, George; a granddaughter; her parents; seven sisters; and two brothers.
Mass of Christian burial was May 27 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church. The Rev. William Matzek officiated. Burial was in the La Crescent (Minn.) Cemetery.
Joseph A. Verse
Joseph A. Verse, 57, of West Salem and formerly of Bangor, Wis., died at his home Tuesday, May 20, 2003.
He was born in La Crosse on April 6, 1946, to Joseph F. and Helen (Kabat) Verse. He served in the U.S. Army and was a member of American Legion Post 40 of Bangor. He worked as a lumber buyer and carpenter all his life.He played guitar and was lead vocalist for a local band called the Townsmen for many years.
He is survived by his four children, James K. (Tanya) Verse of Holmen, Joseph R. (Cathleen) Verse of Harker Heights, Texas, Gretchen M. Verse of La Crosse and Cory R. Verse of Onalaska; two grandchildren, Elizabeth S. and Keegan J. Verse; four sisters, Shirley (Jim) Smith of Milwaukee, Ruth Monarch and Winifred (Norm) Tadt, both of La Crosse and Rosie (Wilbur) Ramey of Onalaska; two brothers, Emil (Marilyn) Verse and Gerald (Sherry) Verse, both of La Crosse; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and two infant sisters.
Services were held May 23 at the Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home of La Crosse.
The Rev. Delbert Malin will officiated. Burial will be in the Catholic Cemetery at a later date.
Elizabeth Sherk
Elizabeth Sherk, 86, of Onalaska and formerly of Warrens, Wis., passed away Friday, May 30, 2003, at Franciscan Skemp Medical Center in La Crosse.
She was born Oct. 18, 1916, to Frank and Madge (Luster) Clark in Fairfield, Ill. She was raised in Chicago. In 1937, she was united in marriage to Lloyd Sherk in Chicago. Together they moved in 1954 from Chicago to Warrens, where he worked on his father's cranberry marsh.
Elizabeth sang in the choir and was very active in the First Baptist Church of Warrens. She loved music and had a great solo voice; she passes this on to her children and grandchildren.
She is survived by her children, Ruth Sherk of Sparta, Wis., and Jo Ann Whitsett Baumgardner (Dr. William P. Baumgardner) of Onalaska; brothers, Robert Clark of Northbrook, Ill., and Richard Clark of Chicago; grandchildren, Stephen (Amy) Whitsett of Onalaska, Kimberley (Jason) Williams of Cape Coral, Fla., and Jaclyn Whitsett of Onalaska.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd; her parents, Frank and Madge Clark; siblings, Philip Clark, Russell Clark, Frank Clark and Mildred Anderson.
Funeral services were June 2 at Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah. Pastor Curtis Miller officiated. Burial was in Warren Mills Cemetery, Warrens.
Irene D. Kendhammer
Irene D. Kendhammer, 90, of La Crosse, died Sunday, June 1, 2003, at the Onalaska Care Center.
She was born in West Salem, Wis., on Jan. 22, 1913, to Henry and Ila (Kinney) Hagen. She attended parochial school in West Salem. On Sept. 10, 1940, she married Walter Kendhammer in Waukon, Iowa. The couple then farmed in Smith Valley for more than 20 years. She worked at St. Francis Hospital from 1965 until her retirement in 1978.
After her retirement, she became very active in the Harry J. Olson Senior Citizens Center. Irene was a member of Mount Calvary Lutheran Church. She very much enjoyed making quilts and other handicrafts.
She is survived by one son, Duane "Shorty" Kendhammer of Onalaska; two grandchildren, Debra K. (Dana) Keisner and David L. Michel; three great-grandchildren, Brenda K. Rasmussen, Paula Marie Keisner and Christopher David Michel; and one great-great-grandchild, Breonno Merelee Crosser. She is further survived by one sister, Mildred Haase of Denver Colo.; one brother, Harold (Irene) Martini of Onalaska; and many other family members.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter, in 1964; her parents; one daughter-in-law, Wanda Kendhammer; one sister, Ruth Wiessenberger; and one brother, Marvin "Bud" Martini.
In accordance with Irene's wishes, her body was cremated. A memorial service will be held at 10:45 a.m. today (Friday, June 6) in the Oak Grove Cemetery Chapel, 1407 La Crosse St. The Rev. Edward Ungemach III will officiate, with burial to be in Oak Grove Cemetery, La Crosse. Friends and family may call today at the cemetery
 chapel from 10 a.m. until the time of services.
Memorials are preferred to the Harry J. Olson Senior Citizens Center, Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, or Onalaska Care Center.
Theresa 'Tess' J. Krause
Theresa "Tess" J. Krause, 89, formerly of Onalaska, died at the Queen of Angels Home in Radison, Wis., on Friday, May 30, 2003. She had been a resident of the home for the past year.
She was born Jan. 19, 1914, to Joseph and Theresa (Kreutz) Balzer Jr. She married Walter C. Krause on June 22, 1935, and he preceded her in death in 1993. Tess was a loving housewife and mother and enjoyed gardening and sewing. She was a member of the St. Thomas More Catholic Church parish from 1950s to the 1960s and the St. Patrick's Catholic Church parish from the 1960s until 2000.
She is survived by three children, Wayne (Terri) Krause of Winter, Wis., Bonnie J. Krause of Asherville, N.C., Gary (Lynn) Krause of Omaha, Neb.; five grandchildren, James, Kenneth, Gina, Laura and Daryl Krause; a great-grandchild, Megan Krause.
Mass of the Christian burial was Wednesday at St. Patrick's Catholic Church. The Rev. Ed Thome will officiated and burial was in the Catholic Cemetery in La Crosse.
Kristina L. 'Tina' Rodriguez
Kristina L. "Tina" (Steele) Rodriguez, 27, of La Crosse, died at her home on Saturday, May 31, 2003.
Tina was born in La Crosse on March 13, 1976. She married Hugo Rodriguez on Sept. 19, 2002, in La Crosse. She was baptized, along with her son, Hugo Jr., on April 2, 2003, and was a member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in West Salem.
Tina is survived by her husband, Hugo; her four children, Dylan and Alisha Steele, both of La Crosse, Alexis Collins of Holmen and Hugo Rodriquez Jr. of La Crosse; her parents, Gary and Connie Greene of Onalaska, Wis.; two brothers, Robert A. Curtiss of Onalaska, and Joshua L. Greene of Holmen; her maternal grandfather, Stanley Palubicki of Winona, Minn.; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Marjorie Palubicki.
Funeral services were held June 4 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in West Salem. The Rev. Michael Hylton officiated.
Gerald E. Hetzel
Gerald E. Hetzel, 88, of Holmen, died Tuesday, June 17, 2003.
He was born in Birnamwood, Wis., on May 26, 1915, to Fred and Persis (Griswold) Hetzel. He married Margaret (Lehrke) Parent on Feb. 1, 1940. His wife of 61 years preceded him in death March 14, 2001. Together they had nine children.
Gerald is survived by his children, Beverly (Bob) Erickson of Cashton, Wis., Yvonne Eidness of Lake Mills, Iowa, Monte Parent of Louisville, Ky., Ronald (Phyllis) Parent of Holmen, James (Mary) Hetzel of La Crosse, Gloria Knoke of Minneapolis, and Carol (John) Jostad of Galesville, Wis.; 23 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren; his brother, Armand (Shirley) Hetzel of Downing, Wis.; sisters, Lucille Miller of Wyoming, and Mavis (Emil) Hinkel of Gurney, Ill.; son-in-law, Harvey Jostad; daughter-in-law, Lois Parent. He also will be missed by a very special neighbor, Wayne Larson; and two very special caregivers, Donna P. and Kathy F. The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center.
Gerald had a wonderful sense of humor. He enjoyed watching the Cubs play baseball, and he never missed a chance to beat his family at euchre.
Gerald was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jim, Russell and Mylas; sisters, Lylas and Myrtha; his children, Lionel Parent and Annette Jostad; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Funeral services will be today (Friday, June 20) at 10 a.m. in Dickinson Family Funeral Home, 515 McHugh Road. The Rev. Dan Henderson will officiate, and burial will be in Greenmound Cemetery.
Mildred A. Smith
Mildred A. Smith, 86, of Onalaska, died Monday, June 16, 2003, at Bethany-Riverside Care Center, La Crosse, after a long illness.
Mildred was born Oct. 3, 1916, in La Farge, Wis., to Alfred and Alice (DePas) Potter. She married Don Smith on Dec. 17, 1936, in La Farge, and he preceded her in death June 9, 1972. She had worked at the Electric Auto-lite and Outers/Metallics.
Mildred is survived by three daughters, Reta Ogilvie of Port Richey, Fla., Doris (Roland) Wolfe of Onalaska, and Helen Smith of Necedah, Wis.; two sisters, Thelia (Roman) Kendhammer of La Crosse and Corretta (Obed) Graham of Florida; two grandsons, Donald (Kathy) Wolfe of Brooklyn Park, Minn., and Lonnie (Cynthia) Taylor of Spring Hill, Fla.; two great-granddaughters, Sidney Wolfe and Marissa Taylor; and a special friend, Earl Rechers.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and stepmother, Gertrude Potter.
Funeral services were Thursday at the Dickinson Family Funeral Home, 401 Main St., Onalaska. The Rev. Karl Arasmith officiated, and burial was at Mormon Coulee Memorial Park.
Raymond 'Ray' Meier
Raymond "Ray" Meier, 90, formerly of Onalaska, died Friday, June 20, 2003, at the Eden House in Galesville, where he was a resident.
He was born March 11, 1913, in La Crosse to Ernest and Dora Meier. He married Dorothy Engh in La Crosse and she preceded him in death on Aug. 31, 1990.
Raymond formerly worked at the Auto Lite and later for the Trane Co. until his retirement. Raymond's father, Ernest Meier, was the owner of the Lake Onalaska Camp, and throughout the years, Ray was very active helping his father with the business.
He was an active Onalaska Senior Citizen and enjoyed his hobby of making rag rugs on a loom for the past 35 years.
The family recently gathered in March to celebrate his 90th birthday. Ray enjoyed his walks and bicycling. He was blessed with good health until December 2002, when he became a resident of Eden House in Galesville.
He is survived by two daughters, Jeanette (Ted) Reece of Scottsdale, Ariz., and Jean (Bob) Niederkorn of Galesville; a stepdaughter, Patricia (Wally) Marx of La Crosse; a brother, Richard (Rose Ann) Meier of Bloomington, Minn.; nine grandchildren, Ranee (Joseph) Urban, Daniel (Jody) Breidel, Kurt Meier, Marc (Molly) Meier, Rachel (Sam) Charchean, Wayne (Danita) Hanson, Steven (Kathy) Marx, Gregory Marx and John (Lu) Marx; and five great-grandchildren, Lorilee Hanson, Evan Breidel, Max Charchean, Mason Meier and Matthew Meier.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and a sister.
Funeral services were held June 23 at Fossum Funeral Home in Onalaska. Entombment was in the St. Francis of Assisi Mausoleum in La Crosse.
Helen Wuest
Helen Wuest, 95, died at Onalaska Care Center on Tuesday, June 17, 2003.
She was born May 30, 1908, in La Crosse. Helen was a talented seamstress and had sewn clothing for half of the North Side of La Crosse.
She is survived by her son, Rudy (Sally) Wuest of Holmen; a son-in-law, Gary Miller of Virginia; six grandchildren, Lynn (Rick) Jones, Craig (Kim) Miller, Susie (Mark) Raeder, Jamie (Darin) Ideker, and Lindsey and Shelley Wuest; six great-grandchildren, Dakota and Shane Jones, Kendall and Corrina Miller, and Jenna and Ashley Ideker.
Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Oswald "Ozzie"; a daughter, Venita Miller, a stepdaughter, a stepson, four sisters; and three brothers.
Funeral services were held June 21 in Immanuel Lutheran Church, La Crosse. Burial was in Prospect Hill Cemetery in La Crescent, Minn.
Katharine H. Brandt
Katharine H. Brandt, 97, of Onalaska, died Tuesday, June 17, 2003, at Bethany-Riverside Nursing Facility.
She was born Jan. 6, 1906, in Berlin, Germany, to Wilhelm and Pauline (Muench) Guenther. On Jan. 18, 1930, she married Martin C. Brandt in Berlin. He preceded her in death Jan. 22, 1978.
After their marriage, Katharine and Martin moved to Sheboygan, where they lived until 1940, when they moved to Milwaukee. In 1988, Katharine moved to Onalaska to be closer to her daughter.
Katharine was a member of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Onalaska. Her Lutheran faith was a very important part of her life.
Katharine is survived by a daughter, Ruth (Alvin) Jordan of Onalaska; a son, Roland (Carol) Brandt of Neenah, Wis.; three grandchildren, Brenda Jordan of Onalaska, Randolph (Annette) Jordan of Houston, Texas, and Richard Jordan of San Diego, Calif.; and two great-granddaughters, Brenda Kay (Scott) Clarke and Jody Jordan, both of Houston, Texas.
In addition to her husband Martin, Katharine was preceded in death by a brother and a sister.
Funeral services were held June 19 at Bethany-Riverside Chapel, with burial in Graceland Cemetery, Milwaukee.
Myrtle Gardner
Myrtle Gardner, 85, of Westby and formerly of Viroqua, died Sunday, June 22, 2003, at Norseland Nursing Home in Westby.
She was born in Vernon County, Wis., on Sept. 13, 1917, to Melvin and Tillie (Hanson) Olson. She married Alvin Gardner in May 1941. They farmed in rural Viroqua for many years. In 1982, they moved to rural Westby. They were members of Franklin Lutheran Church. Alvin died May 27, 1993.
Myrtle is survived by a daughter, Marilyn (Raymond) Wedwick of Viroqua; two sons, Alvin (Nancy) Gardner of Onalaska and Kelly Gardner of Viola, Wis.; seven grandhildren, Kristi (Craig) Fortun of Westby, Corey (Jana) Wedwick of Grafton, Wis., Molly Gardner of Viroqua, Jennifer Johnson of Holmen, Mia Gabrielson of Westby, Kara Gardner of Viroqua and Luke Gardner of Soldiers Grove, Wis.; and six great-grandchildren, Keegan and Brandon Wedwick, both of Viroqua, Alicia Oliver of Janesville, Wis., Andrew Wedwick of Grafton, Emily Fortun of Westby and Deven Gabrielson of Westby.
In addition to her husband, Myrtle was preceded in death by a grandson, Mark Wedwick; a sister, Ethel Olson; and two brothers, Julian Olson and Harold Olson.
Funeral services were June 25 in Franklin Lutheran Church at Folsom, with burial in Viroqua Cemetery.
Clara Hunton
Clara Hunton, 83, passed away Thursday, June 19, 2003, at Bethany Riverside Nursing Home, La Crosse, where she had been a resident for two years.
Clara was born in Hilo, Hawaii, on Sept. 17, 1919. She married Thomas O'Rell, and they later divorced. She then married Roy Hunton, and he preceded her in death. Roy and Clara lived in rural Viroqua, Wis., for many years.
Clara is survived by her daughter, Maureen (Jack) Dray of Holmen; son, Patrick (Sue) O'Rell of Lodi, Wis.; grandchildren, Zak and Adam Dray, Mary (Randy) Elsner and Michael (Autumn) O'Rell; and three great-grandchildren.
Services were held June 23 at Hamrey Funeral Home, Lodi, Wis. Burial will be held at a later date.
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