Obituaries
Hadley, Denis S. Age 64 of New Lisbon
Denis S. Hadley, 64, of New Lisbon, passed away on February 15, 2025, at Mile Bluff Medical Center in Mauston, Wisconsin. He was born on December 28, 1960, in Winfield, Illinois, to Donald J. and DixieLee (Dewey) Hadley Sr.
A proud graduate of Wheaton North High School in 1980, Denis was deeply passionate about mechanics and problem-solving. His dedication to his craft led him to earn his Mercury Motors and Evinrude Technician Certification, and he became a well-respected figure in his field. Denis moved from Illinois to Wisconsin in 1984 when he started work for Castle Rock Marina before founding Hadley’s Lifts and Piers Service in 1994, an entrepreneurial venture that reflected his work ethic and love for what he did.
Denis was as dedicated to his profession as he was to embracing the thrill of life. An avid hunter and expert trap shooter, he spent countless hours reloading ammunition—an activity that highlighted his patience and meticulous attention to detail. His lifelong membership in the Camp Douglas Sportsman’s Club spoke volumes about his commitment to both the sporting world and the sense of camaraderie and friendly competition he cherished. Whether he was cruising in his side-by-side or gliding across the water in his boat, Denis found joy in every moment of movement. His adventurous spirit also led him to join the ATV Club, where he shared his passion for exploration and the great outdoors with like-minded adventurers.
Denis’s love of life was also evident in his spirit of service. In 1976, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout, demonstrating his leadership skills and deep commitment to his community. He was a man of integrity, known for his generosity and his knack for bringing people together.
He is survived by his devoted mother, DixieLee Hadley; his cherished daughter, Hillary (Michael) Gallup of Trempealeau, WI; his beloved granddaughters, Kylee and Taylor Gallup; and his siblings, Doyle (Dee) Hadley of Necedah, Darlene (Peter) Edwards-Sklarenko of Wheaton, IL, Dale (Kari) Hadley of Wheaton, IL, Donald (Nancy) Hadley Jr. of Necedah, and Darrell Hadley of South Haven, MI. He was preceded in death by his father, Donald.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 3:00 PM at Hare Funeral Home (217 W. Pearl St.) in New Lisbon. A visitation will take place from 1:00 PM until the time of service. Father Peter Raj will preside. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.harefuneralhome.com
Leopold, Carol Lynee Age 80 of Juneau County
Carol Lynne Leopold, born June 23, 1944, Kendall, WI., passed away on Monday, February 17, 2025 at SSM Health St. Clare Meadows in Baraboo. Carol graduated from New Lisbon High School in 1962 and also attended MITC in Milwaukee. She met and later married her husband Alan Leopold on September 7, 1963, at Fountain Lutheran Church. They worked together in Milwaukee until their marriage.
They moved to Rockford, IL where she was an active member and was on the Board of Education and taught Bible School at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepard. Later they moved back to Kendall. There she had her own ceramic shop. She sold Avon and was a Team Leader, and she also worked at Park Oasis Motel as front desk manager, Juneau County Title Company and John W. Schaefer Eye Clinic in Mauston. She also worked at Kohls in different positions. She was a member of the Chamber in New Lisbon and Mauston. All while serving at Fountain Lutheran Church as a Sunday School teacher, Bible School teacher, Superintendent of the Sunday School and on the Council as President, Vice President and Treasurer. She also held every position in her circle. She was Treasure of the La Crosse Area Synod WELCA, Vice President, President and Triennial Coordinator. She always loved her Church work.
Carol lost her husband in December of 2022 and her son Alan in January of 2023. She is survived by her daughter Leanne (Harry) Lutz of Baraboo, a daughter-in-law Beth of Baraboo, and a son Christopher (Christine) Leopold of New Lisbon. She is further survived by her grandchildren Jacob and Emily Lutz, Caron (Aaron) King, Jonathan (Alyssa) Leopold, Joseph Leopold, Emma Leopold and Nathan Leopold, her great grandchildren Mason, Myles and Madelyn King, Edward and Dawson Leopold and Oliver and Adrian Lutz. She is also survived by her sister Joan Hemenway of Beloit, her brothers James Johnson of Wisconsin Rapids and Larry Johnson of California and a very special cousin Judy (Carl) Ericson of Tomah, along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents Jacob and Pearl Johnson, her sister Helen Ward, and brothers Robert Johnson and Edward Johnson of Kendall and two grandsons, Alan and Owen Leopold.
Funeral Services will be held on Friday, February 21, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. at Fountain Lutheran Church (W10815 Church Rd ) in Kendall. Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Friday at the church from 9:00A.M. until the time of service. Burial will take place in the Fountain Lutheran Cemetery. Chaplain Jonathan Tipton presiding. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com
Carter, Ellamae Esther Age 94 of California & Formerly of Hustler
Ellamae Esther Carter entered this world on September 29, 1930 in Hustler, Wisconsin and departed it
on February 7, 2025 in Goleta, California. She spent her childhood on her parents, Norman and Osa
Olson’s, farm until graduating from New Lisbon HS in 1947. From there she pursued training and a
career as a hairdresser/beautician. She married Gordon E. Carter of Mauston, Wisconsin in 1954 while
living in Milwaukee where they began their family, adding a son, John , and a daughter, Sally. The family
relocated back to the Juneau County area in 1961 where she worked as a hairdresser in New Lisbon,
Wisconsin Dells and eventually opened her own salon in Camp Douglas. After the death of her husband
in 1981, she relocated to Santa Barbara/Goleta, CA to be with her daughter and grandson, Andy.
She loved to travel the United States with family or friends seeing new places. She equally enjoyed the
simpler things in life; just sitting in the sun, tending to her plants, reading a good book, a drive in the
country when the trees were in full autumn bloom, or just having a good cup of coffee visiting with a
relative or friend. She was a devoted Christian with an unwavering faith in God and Jesus Christ.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Norman and Osa; her husband, Gordon; her siblings Jeanette
and Donald and many other relatives/friends. She is lovingly survived by her daughter, Sally Reagan,
Goleta, CA; her son John (Lolita) Carter, Helena, MT; grandson, Andy (Lesli) Reagan, Goleta, CA.; sisters,
Elaine St. Clair, Hustler, WI, and Judy Pearsall, Richland Center, WI; along with 6 great-grandchildren,
additional relatives, extended family and friends
She touched the lives of many people with her genuine compassion, understanding, forgiveness and
unconditional love through her 94 year journey on this earth. She will be deeply missed and loved, but
never forgotten, by her family and friends as she now enters the Lord’s eternal kingdom.
Bloss, David Dean Age 69 of Oxford
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.
David was born on August 27, 1955, in Portage, Wisconsin, to Clifford Carl and Flossie Mae (Drew) Bloss. He grew up in Brooks, attended Brooks Elementary, and graduated from Adams-Friendship High School in 1973. David managed the Standard Service Station in Brooks before marrying Renee in 1975. They later moved to Walworth, where he built pole barns for Wick Construction and discovered his passion for farming while working for “Woody.” In 1980, he returned to the Brooks area and spent 12 years managing Wallace Acres Dairy Farm. He later worked at Faye Luger Farms and Penda in Portage before becoming the night-shift herdsman for Slowey Farms, where he dedicated himself until retiring in 2019.
Beyond his career, David found joy in the outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing, and caring for his hobby farm, which he proudly built up to include horses, chickens, pigs, goats, and 100 beef cattle. A proud member of the Brooks Lions Club, he was always willing to take in stray pets and lend a helping hand to his community.
David was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Flossie Bloss; his sister, Donna; his brother, Rick; his infant sister, Cheryl; and his former wife, Renee.
He is lovingly remembered by his sons, Channing (Melanie) Bloss and Ryan (Crystal) Bloss; his partner, Anita Dahlberg; his siblings, Linda (Vera) Bloss, Teressa Ott, Bev Warner, Dennis (Karen) Bloss, Dale (Cindy) Bloss, Karen Christensen, and Harlan Bloss; his grandchildren, Tessa, Macie, Mya, Kai, and Mason; his great-grandchildren, Ezra, Oliver, and Kyomi; two unofficial sons, Rodney Reichhoff and Chris Thomas. He is further survived by his partner in crime, his dog, Fido.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to his family.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences and further information can be found at www.roseberrys.com.
Edman, John H. Age 68 of Arkdale
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, February 10, 2025, at Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin, with Pastor Terri Skildum officiating. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment at Monroe Center Cemetery in the Town of Monroe, Adams County, will take place at a later date.
John was born on July 28, 1956, in Beloit, Wisconsin, to Harold and Katherine (Mannone) Edman. He moved with his family to Big Flats at the age of five and later attended Pineland Elementary and Adams-Friendship High School, graduating in 1975. He married Faye E. Eads on July 8, 1978, in Big Flats.
John worked at Townsend Pallet Factory in Dellwood and as a truck driver for Ron Collins and other local woodsmen. In his free time, he enjoyed hunting, working on projects, playing guitar, and singing at local venues.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Katherine, and his son, John Edman Jr.
He is survived by his wife, Faye Edman of Arkdale, WI; granddaughter, Courtney; great-granddaughter, Evelynn; sister, Adelia McCue; and nephews, Josh and Cody McCue, along with other relatives and acquaintances.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. For online condolences and additional information, please visit www.roseberrys.com
Deja, Daniel R. Age 72 of Adams
A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
Daniel was born on April 7, 1952, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Leonard and Helen (Davis) Deja. On November 13, 1971, he married the love of his life, Deborah E. Seager, in Milwaukee. Together, they built a beautiful life and were blessed with three children: Darla, Dean, and Dereck. After dedicating many years to Briggs & Stratton, Daniel and Debbie retired to Adams, Wisconsin, where they enjoyed a peaceful life surrounded by family and friends.
Daniel found great joy in the simple pleasures of life—fishing with his sons and grandsons, playing dice with friends, and visiting the casino with his sister Mary, his beloved wife, and dear friends. He cherished his time outdoors, caring for his birds and his pet cockatiel, Molly, and taking golf cart rides to visit his friendly neighbors. A devoted Elvis fan, Daniel loved collecting memorabilia and listening to his music. Above all, he treasured time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who brought him endless happiness.
Daniel was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Helen Deja; his brother, Butch; and his sisters, Linda and Sandra.
He is lovingly survived by his wife of 53 years, Deborah Deja; his children, Darla (Jamie), Dean (Kelsey), and Dereck (Lisa); 12 grandchildren: Bradley Ehleiter (Sarah), Dillon Schroeder (Jenna), Tyler Schroeder, Kyle Polack, Cody & Chris Deja, Allysa, Bryanna, Haley, Mason, and Brayden Deja, and Caitlin Raines; and 12 great-grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
The family is being assisted by Roseberry’s Funeral Home. Online condolences and further information are available at www.roseberrys.com.
Luke, Gerald “Jerry” E. Age 77 of Seven Mile Creek Township
Gerald “Jerry” E. Luke, age 77, of Seven Mile Creek Township, Juneau County, Wisconsin, passed away on Monday, February 3, 2025. He was born on June 21, 1947 to William and Clara (Barr) Luke. He was united in marriage to Esther Clark on March 25, 1967. She preceded him in death on August 10, 2017.
Jerry worked at Grede Foundry in Reedsburg, where he retired from after 43 years of employment.
Jerry and Esther had three children, Anna (Pete) Volk, Terry (Jennifer) Luke, and Jerry (Brandy) Luke. He was so proud of his grandchildren, Blake (Danielle) Volk, Aaron (Michelle) Volk, Kailey Luke, Celeste Luke, and Cody Baker.
He was blessed to spend time giving his great-grandchildren, Gideon, Ezra, Sullivan, Matilda and Sage rides in his UTV. It always brought a smile to his face when they asked to ride with their GG.
Jerry looked forward to summer road trips, riding his Spyder motorcycle with his eldest son, and his nephews Carl and David Luke.
Jerry is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, his brother Kenneth (Doris) Luke; sisters-in-law, Patricia Luke, Ruth Rego; and brothers-in-law, Larry (Joyce) Clark, and Glen (Lillian) Clark; along with other relatives and friends.
A Celebration of Life for “Jerry” will be held on Sunday, March 9, 2025 from 12:00 Noon until 4:00 P.M. at the American Legion Hall in LaValle.
The Farber Funeral Home, Reedsburg, is assisting the family.
Mead, Sharon J. Age 89 of New Lisbon
Sharon J. Mead, age 89, of New Lisbon, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at Crest View in New Lisbon.
A Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at Arkdale Trinity Lutheran Church in Arkdale, Wisconsin, with Pastor Terri Skildum officiating. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m. until the time of service on Saturday, February 8th. Following the service, she will be laid to rest at Mt. Repose Cemetery in Friendship, Wisconsin.
Sharon was born on July 7, 1935, in Racine, Wisconsin, to Russell and Louise Keebler. She graduated from high school in Racine before pursuing her passion for nursing. On October 27, 1956, she married the love of her life, Frank Mead, in Racine. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising their family and creating lasting memories. Sharon dedicated many years to nursing in Illinois before she and Frank took on the rewarding role of managing Petenwell County Park for two decades.
Sharon found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She cherished trips to Branson with Frank, tending to her garden, canning, and sharing her love of making lefse at church. A devoted member of Arkdale Trinity Lutheran Church, her faith and kindness touched the lives of many.
She was welcomed into heaven by her beloved husband, Frank; her parents, Russell and Louise Keebler; her granddaughter, Melissa Mead; her great-grandson, Sgt. Quintin Browne; and her sister, Shelby (Don) Bohn.
Sharon’s legacy lives on through her loving children: Dawn (John) VanMeter, Cheryl (Rich) Ristow, David Mead (Michele), and Danny (Dawn) Mead; her cherished grandchildren: Amy (Nolan) Nolte, Jennifer (Joshua) DuMond, Brandon Murphy, Jeremy (Anna) VanMeter, Kristin (Tim) Cross, Jaime Mead, Savanna Mead, Mitch Collins, Riley Collins, and her precious great-grandchildren: Emeri, Aubre, Finley, River, Jake, Zoie, and Joe Browne. She is also survived by many dear relatives and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. For online condolences and further details, please visit www.roseberrys.com.
Sharon’s warmth, generosity, and unwavering love for her family will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Heitman, Kenneth D. Age 97 of Adams
Kenneth D. Heitman, age 97, of Adams, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Villa Pines Living Center in Friendship, Wisconsin.
A funeral service to honor and celebrate Kenneth’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 7, 2025, at St. John Lutheran Church in Quincy Township, with Rev. Dean Dummer officiating. Interment will follow at Quincy Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation at the Church on Friday, February 7th, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.
Kenneth was born on January 23, 1928, in Quincy Township, Adams County, Wisconsin, to Charles and Katherine A. (Schroeder) Heitman, the youngest of 14 children. He attended White Creek Elementary and graduated from Adams-Friendship High School before continuing his education at UW-Madison. A dedicated and hardworking man, Kenneth played a role in constructing the Castle Rock and Petenwell Dams and spent his life maintaining a farm in Quincy. However, his true passion was carpentry. His craftsmanship left a lasting impact throughout Dane County and beyond, contributing to numerous residential, commercial, and state projects.
Kenneth found joy in the simple yet meaningful aspects of life—hunting, working in his workshop, and lending a helping hand at church. A devoted member of St. John Lutheran Church and the Wood Carpenters Union, he was a man of faith, integrity, and quiet generosity.
Memorials in Kenneth’s memory may be directed to St. John Lutheran Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Katherine Heitman; his brothers Albert, Adolph, Charles, Alfred, Edward, Ervin “Jim,” and Arnold; and his sisters Esther Freeck, Alvina Mikoda, Ruth Pease, Clara Heitman, Dorothy Wood, and Katherine Barich.
Kenneth leaves behind a cherished legacy and is survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. For online condolences and additional information, please visit www.roseberrys.com.
Wojtowicz, James F. Age 83 of Elroy
James F. Wojtowicz, age 83, of Elroy, Wisconsin, passed away on Thursday, January 30, 2025 at Gundersen St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hillsboro.
He was born on December 21, 1941 in Mauston, the son of Stanley and Winifred (Mullen) Wojtowicz. He graduated from the Elroy High School.
On February 24, 1962, James was united in marriage to Betty Skailand.
They have lived in the Elroy area, farming until 1976 and then having other various jobs. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing cards. He was a member of the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Elroy and the Knights of Columbus.
Survivors include his wife, Betty; son, Michael (Michelle); daughter-in-law, Lynelle; grandchildren, Travis (Emily), Ashley (Logan), Casey, Arnold, Diana, Matthew and Kristin; and great grandchildren, Weston and John.
He was preceded in death by his Parents; son, Gary; and siblings, Agnes Galle, Robert Wojtowicz, Marie Zingshiem and Margaret Vieth.
A private family funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Elroy, with Father John officiating. Burial will be in the St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery.
The Picha Funeral Home in Elroy is assisting, for online information go to www.pichafuneralhomes.com
