Obituaries
Jensen, Dale Allen Age 80 of Elroy
On January 6, 2025, Dale Allen Jensen, of Elroy, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly after a short illness at the age of 80 at the Gundersen Lutheran Hospital in La Crosse.
Dale was born to Frank and Ruth (Taylor) Jensen on February 21, 1944 in Hillsboro.
He married Linda Miller on December 22, 1962.
Dale worked in the Operating Engineers Local 139 for Mann Brothers in Elkhorn, Wisconsin. He was also a farmer and small business owner, operated Lindale Farm Shop in Kendall. He retired in 2005, moved back to his hometown of Elroy, where he helped out Tommy Thompson with Scott and Sherry Schultz on their farms.
Dale is survived by his wife, Linda and children, Dale (Val) Jensen, Kimberly (David) Wiedmeyer and Todd (Octobra) Jensen. He also had three grandchildren, Ashley (Sean) Birch, Steven Woodliff and Devan Jensen. Dale’s surviving siblings are Marvin Jensen, Vernita Jacobson and Patty Jensen (Doug Anderson).
He was preceded in death by both his parents and siblings, Glenn, Robert, and Gerald Jensen and Joan Amerman.
Dale had a number of hobbies including working on his tractors and trucks, riding on his Kubota side-by-side (which he put on over 46,500 miles), visiting with neighbors and taking naps with his very special cat, Charlotte.
Above all, Dale loved and cared for his family and was always the first to help anyone who needed it.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, please make a donation in his memory to Reggies Rescue / Stacy Hartje at 925 West State St., Mauston, WI 53948
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, January 12, 2025 at 12 noon at the Picha Funeral Home in Elroy. Visitation will start at 11 a.m. Following there will be a celebration of Dale’s Life with a gathering and meal at the American Legion Hall in Elroy.
The Picha Funeral Home in Elroy is assisting with arrangements, for online information go to www.pichafuneralhomes.com
Jirousek, George Age 86 of Mauston
George left this earth on December 31, 2024. He was born on March 11, 1938 to Mildred and George Jirousek in Adam’s WI. He grew up in Necedah WI, where he attended school. After high school he started working in the electrical trades with his father. He was a member of the IBEW Local 388 for over 60 years. In 1962 he met his wife Mary Lynn Demaske they married on January 5, 1963 and raised 4 children.
He is survived by his wife Mary Lynn
Children: Tim, Brian (Danielle), Mike (Michelle), son in law Dave
Grandchildren: Sarah (Adrian), Miranda (Max), Brittany (Nick), Kyle, Fritz, McKenzie (Eric), Tyler, and Marisa (Ethan)
Great grandchildren: Jake,Roman, Layla, Bexlee, Charlee, and the newest addition due in April, sister Mary Lou (Ross), brother in law Jim (Karyl), and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his daughter Susan, parents, and brothers Albert (Ruth), Leonard (Marlene), and Doug.
We are sure he is still sharing his many tall tales of his hunting and fishing adventures.
Visitation will be held January 11, 2025 from 11a-1p at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Mauston, WI. Followed by a memorial service at 1pm at the church. A luncheon will follow the service.
For online condolences please go to www.crandallfuneral.com
Smith, Lyle L. Age 93 of Hillsboro
Lyle L. Smith, age 93 years, of Hillsboro, Wisconsin and formerly of the Kendall area, passed away on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at Milestone Senior Living in Hillsboro.
He was born on November 21, 1931 in Wonewoc, the son of Lester and Lena (Brockman) Smith.
Lyle served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954 during the Korean War. He was stationed in Korea and was a cook for the troops.
Lyle was united in marriage to Eleanor “Joyce” Frederick on May 23, 1959. They farmed in the Town of Clifton for many years where they raised five children, whom they are very proud of. They later divorced.
He started driving truck for Heding Truck Service in Union Center in 1972 and drove for many years until retirement. He visited all of the 50 states except for Alaska and Maine.
Lyle later married Erna “Ann” Myers in 1998 and they celebrated 25 years of marriage. She passed away on November 11, 2023. One of the things they enjoyed doing was dancing together.
Survivors include his children, Susan (Kevin) Riley, Toni Smith Jensen, Sandra (Paul) Hoppmann; ten Grandchildren; eleven Great Grandchildren and by Ann’s children, Linda Myers, Randy Myers (Sue Bush), Diane (Ken) Peterson, Donna (Greg) Ryczeck, Kathy (Brian) Bye and Cindy (Craig) Myers-Rattunde and their families.
In addition to his wife, Ann; he was preceded in death by his Parents; sons, Alan Smith and Jonathan Smith; son-in-law, Jeff Jensen and siblings, Milton Smith, Verna Smith, Ramona Slama, Norm Smith and Violet Carpenter.
Funeral Services will be held on Friday, January 10, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Mauston, with Rev. Phil Waldschmidt officiating. Burial with military rites will be in the Mauston Cemetery. A time of visitation will be at the Church on Friday from 10 to 11 a.m.
The family would like to share their appreciation to Milestone Senior Living, St. Croix Hospice and Amy Zirk, his primary caregiver the last years.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. Croix Hospice.
The Picha Funeral Home in Elroy is assisting with arrangements, for online information go to www.pichafuneralhomes.com
Hagemann, Valerie Irene Age 67 of Wonewoc
Valerie Irene Hagemann was called to her eternal rest on Tuesday, December 31, 2024. She was born March 14, 1957 in the Milwaukee, the daughter of Russell and Evelyn (Roos) Patnode.
Val was called to a life of service to her Lord and after graduating from Dr. Martin Luther College, she began her teaching career in Wonewoc, Wisconsin. It was there she met the love of her life, Alvin Hagemann Jr. They were united in marriage on May 29, 1983. During their marriage, they were blessed with five children.
Valerie taught at St. Paul’s School in Wonewoc for 45 years, only retiring after her cancer diagnosis. She was greatly involved in the church and school serving in various positions as a coach, head organist, Senior Choir director and operetta director amongst many other roles. Her great and lifelong faith was a comfort for her through her trials with cancer.
Valerie is survived by her husband of 41 years, Alvin. She is also survived by her children, Alma (Gary) Schnurr, Rebekah, Matthew, Jennifer and Mark (Marah) Hagemann; three grandchildren, Aria, Ronald and Arthur Schnurr; sister, Louise (Bill) Holder; sister-in-law, Sandy Hagemann and brother-in-law, Leland Hagemann. Valerie was predeceased by her parents; Russell and Evelyn Patnode and her parents-in-law, Alvin and Frieda Hagemann Sr.
Valerie was a woman of strength, kindness and faith. She touched the lives of everyone she encountered. Her love for her Savior, family and friends and community was immeasurable and she dedicated herself to those she loved. She was well known for her crocheting during her children and grandchildren’s games. The family takes comfort in knowing she is now with her family and Savior in heaven and in peace.
Funeral Services will be held on Monday, January 6, 2025 at 12 noon at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Wonewoc, with Rev. Jacob Limpert officiating. Burial will be in the St. Paul’s Lutheran Cemetery. A time of visitation will be held at the Church on Sunday, January 5th from 1 to 5 p.m. and on Monday from 11 a.m. to noon.
The Picha Funeral Home in Wonewoc is assisting, for online information go to www.pichafuneralhomes.com
Barribeau, Gordon J. “Tush” Age 84 of Adams
Gordon J. Barribeau, lovingly known as “Tush,” passed away peacefully at his home in Adams, Wisconsin, on Sunday, December 22.
Born in Hermansville, MI on October 29, 1940, he was the son of the late Harvey and Irene (Ayotte) Barribeau. He was also preceded in death by his three brothers, Ronald, Lloyd, and Gary.
Gordon was a dedicated worker in the construction trades, specializing in cold storage buildings which he retired from in 2000. Upon retirement, relocated from St. Francis, WI to their part-time home in Adams, WI, where many years were enjoyed living amongst nature of Sand County. Gordon worked seasonal jobs at Chula Vista and Wagner & Alsum Farms as a truck driver harvesting potatoes for the past eight years.
Gordon was proud of his achievements playing the position of guard for his high school basketball team, winning the 1957 district championship and U.P. class E championship. A lover of nature, enthusiast of his scooter, tractors, ATV, and especially Peterbilt potato truck. He enjoyed the camaraderie of coworkers and easily made all those around him laugh. He was a member of United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America Local UBC 344 and a member of St. Joseph Parish in Friendship, WI.
Gordon is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Maria; his son Mitchell Barribeau (Lisa); his daughter MarnieAnn Polkky (John); and six cherished grandchildren: Joe, Jenah, Riley, Makenzie, CamrynLee, and Conner, brothers Harlan (Marian) and Roland (Laurel), brother-in-law, Bob Bembenek, Sr. and many loved nieces and nephews, and beloved companion dog, Fannie.
A memorial Mass and celebration of life will be held at a later date in Hermansville, MI.
The family is being assisted by Roseberry’s Funeral Home. Online condolences and further details can be found at roseberrys.com
Bilek, Barabara A. Age 70 formerly of Mauston
Barbara A. Bilek, 70 formerly of Mauston passed away Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at Wellington Place in Wisconsin Rapids.
Barbara was born on September 14, 1954 in Hillsboro, Wisconsin, the daughter of Martin J. and Betty Bilek.
At the age of three she lost her vision due to a surgical error which left her blind. In spite of all the trials that she endured, Barbara still enjoyed being with her family and friends. She also loved traveling, visiting Hawaii, Graceland, Nashville, Branson, Lambeau Field to watch her beloved Green Bay Packers on more than one occasion. She even had the opportunity to dip her toes into the Atlantic Ocean on her travels.
Barbara is survived by her siblings Gary Bilek of Norfolk, VA, Carol (Dennis) Schrank of Reedsburg, Steven Bilek of Loganville, Anthony “Tony” (Virginia) Bilek of LaFarge, her nieces and nephews Rhonda (Keith) Kelly, Thomas (Teresa) Davis, Stephen (Andi) Bilek, Aaron (Anna) Bilek, Jason (Melissa) Bilek, Jeremy Bilek, Jennifer Bilek, Kayla Bilek,and Britta Deaton (Stephen McNelly), many great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews. She is also survived by many close cousins.
In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by one brother David (Bugsy)Bilek.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, December 28, 2024,at St. Theresa Catholic Church, Union Center where friends may call from 10:00 a.m. until time of service.
Burial will be at St. Theresa Catholic Cemetery.
Her family is finding comfort in the fact that even though she spent her life in the dark she’s now able to see the Light.
Sedevic, Richard John Age 67 of Arkdale
Richard John Sedevic, age 67, of Arkdale, Wisconsin passed away Friday, December 20, 2024 at Marshfield Medical Center Weston, Wisconsin.
A Celebration of Life Gathering will be 12 Noon to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at the Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin.
Richard was born May 16, 1957 in Chicago, Illinois to Frank and Margaret (Vanoskey) Sedevic Sr. He grew up in Chicago and worked for the City of Chicago for 18 years before moving to Adams County in 1993. Richard worked as a security guard for Best Power and Rainbow Casino until his retirement.
Richard married Jan 25, 1978 to Suzanne Sliwa in Chicago, IL. This marriage was blessed with six children before ending in divorce after 26 years. Richard enjoyed working on and rebuilding cars, motorcycle rides, and working on remodeling projects.
Richard was preceded in death by parents: Frank and Margaret; brother, Frank Jr.; and in-law, Frank and Susan Sliwa; his dog, “baby” Nicky.
Survivors include his former wife, his children, 2 brothers, and two sisters. Further survived by many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.
Klentz, Donna L. Age 84 of Necedah
Donna L. Klentz, age 84, of Necedah, WI, passed away on Thursday, December 19, 2024 at Meriter Hospital in Madison surrounded by her children and their spouses. She was born on December 10, 1940 in Mauston, WI to Elmond and Rose (Tatzel) Wright. She married Harold Klentz on November 21, 1998 in Mauston.
A true family woman, Donna cherished the holidays, with Christmas holding a special place in her heart. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the scent of freshly-baked cookies during the festive season. Her happy-go-lucky attitude brought light to everyday moments, making them memorable.
Donna’s generosity knew no bounds. She gave selflessly, always putting others before herself. Her love extended to all creatures great and small, as she had an unwavering affection for animals.
She is survived by her children, Jeff (Mary) Ritchart of Necedah, Greylan Ritchart of Necedah, Robyne (Kevin) Freber of Juneau, WI and step-daughter, Kim (Dale) Deibert of Burnett, WI; grandchildren, Greg Ritchart, Jamie Ritchart, and Josh Ritchart, Kyrsten and Gavin Smith, Beth Ritchart, Jeff Ritchart, Amber Kittleson, Mason and Jenna Deibert; great grandchildren, Kegan, Kendra, and Kiera Kittleson, Benjamin Eastman, and Braxton Smith; along with her brother, Charles Wright of Mauston; and her loyal companion and cat, Neptune.
Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Elmond and Rose; husband Harold L. Klentz; a sister, Sharon Downing; and her special Chihuahua, Cricket.
A Memorial Service for Donna will be held on Monday, December 30, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Necedah. Family and friends are invited for visitation from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home on Monday. A private burial will be held in the Mauston Cemetery.
The Torkelson Funeral Home of Necedah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com
Van Dusen, Robert William Age 62 of Mauston
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert William Van Dusen on December 15, 2024, at the age of 62. Robert was born on May 1, 1962, and leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories.
Robert was a proud 1980 graduate of Mauston Area High School. An avid outdoorsman, he spent countless hours enjoying one of his greatest passions: deer hunting. He took great pride in his hunting success, carefully crafting custom mounts of the antlers from every buck he got. Robert was also a lifelong Green Bay Packers fan, cheering for his team through thick and thin. He expressed his creativity through building and flying RC model airplanes, a hobby he greatly enjoyed.
Robert lived much of his life on the family homestead on Johnson Road in Mauston, a place that always held a special meaning for him. He enjoyed the years he spent working alongside three of his brothers at Ultra Tool and Manufacturing in Milwaukee. Even though he worked in Milwaukee during the week, his heart always led him back home to Mauston every weekend.
In 1989, Robert faced a life-altering motorcycle accident. With resilience and determination, he recovered and went on to lead a life that made him happy, comfortable, and fulfilled. His strength and positive outlook inspired those around him. Over the years, many people lent their support to Robert as he navigated life after the accident, and his family would like to extend heartfelt appreciation to everyone who helped him along the way.
Robert was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Orville and Yva (Onsager) Van Dusen, as well as his brothers, James Van Dusen and John Van Dusen (Juana). Though he is deeply missed, his memory lives on in the hearts of his surviving siblings: Ann (Van Dusen) Harkness, Ronald Van Dusen (Betty), Roberta (Van Dusen) Endres (Rick), Dean Van Dusen (Edie), and his twin brother, Richard Van Dusen (Lisa). He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Robert will be remembered as a devoted family member, a source of steadfast support for those he loved, and someone who cherished the simple joys of life. His kind heart and gentle spirit touched all who knew him.
A Memorial Gathering will be held Saturday, December 21, 2024 from 3:00 pm until 6:00 pm at the Crandall Funeral Home, Mauston.
Heesch, Paula Lee Age 75 of New Lisbon
Paula Lee Heesch (Delaney), a beacon of warmth and a devoted pillar of her community, passed away on December 15, 2024, at the age of 75. Born on February 21, 1949, in Necedah, Wisconsin, Paula’s journey came to a peaceful close in New Lisbon, Wisconsin, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was a woman of steadfast faith, a gentle spirit, and selfless nature, touching the lives of all who knew her.
Paula’s early years were spent in the village of Necedah, where she cultivated lifelong friendships and a love for learning. Her academic journey led her to the University of Stevens Point, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. This was the foundation upon which she built a remarkable 38-year career. She began her career in the Tomah School District where she taught for 3 years and then moved to the Necedah School District where she spent the next 35 years educating thousands of young people. Paula’s passion for teaching was paralleled only by her dedication to her students, whom she inspired until her retirement in 2010.
Beyond the walls of the classroom, Paula was a cherished wife, mother, and nana. She leaves behind her loving husband of 55 years, Jack Heesch, with whom she shared countless memories and scenic rides across the United States. Together, they nurtured a family that includes their son, Kevin Heesch, and daughter, Kristin Jones. Paula’s legacy continues through her adored granddaughters, Olivia Heesch (Kevin) and Heidi, Haley, and Brooke Mathes (Kristin), who will carry forth her love for life and family.
Paula’s kinship extended to her siblings, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond. She is survived by her brothers Jerry Delaney, Mike Delaney, and David Delaney, as well as her sisters Judy Tatu, Roxanne Scott, and Jeanne Shramek. Each family member added a unique thread to the tapestry of her life, creating a pattern of love and support that was evident to all.
A woman of many interests, Paula found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Her home was an extension of her heart, lovingly adorned to reflect the changing seasons. Her gardens bloomed with the same care and attention she gave to her family, and her creative touch made every space feel special. Paula’s fondness for road trips with Jack was a testament to her love of spending time with family and her appreciation for the beauty of the world around her.
aula’s essence was encapsulated by her faith-filled life. She accepted the Lord as her personal Savior when she was 16 years old. From that time on, she wanted to live a life that was pleasing to her Lord. Her gentle demeanor and selfless actions spoke volumes about her character. She moved through life with a gentleness that was both rare and profound, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those she encountered. Her life verse was Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Paula’s absence will be deeply felt, but her spirit will continue to guide and comfort those she loved.
As we bid farewell to Paula Lee Heesch, we celebrate a life that was lived with purpose and generosity. Her story is not one of an end, but a beautiful legacy that will resonate through the generations through her family and the many students she had an impact on through the years. We honor the memory of a remarkable woman whose life was a testament to the power of love, education, and family. Paula’s journey through life was a gift to us all, and she will be remembered with admiration and affection.
In her passing, Paula leaves behind a world that is undeniably brighter for her having been in it. Her memory will be cherished, and her teachings will live on in the many lives she has shaped. Though she has left our sight, the essence of Paula Lee Heesch will forever be a guiding light to those who had the privilege of knowing her.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, December 20th, 2024, at 7:00 PM at the Tomah Baptist Church (1701 Hollister Ave) in Tomah, WI. Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Friday at the church from 4:00 PM until the time of service. Pastor Aaron Smith presiding. The Hare Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com.