Obituaries

Morgan, Shirley M. Age 81 of Milwaukee and formerly of Adams County

Shirley M. Morgan, age 81, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, passed away on Friday, March 28, 2025, at Froedtert Hospital in Milwaukee.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025, at Easton Cemetery, with Pastor Terri Skildum officiating.

Shirley was born on March 15, 1944, in Lincoln Township, Adams County, Wisconsin, to Floyd and Beatrice Cavanaugh. She grew up in Grand Marsh and moved to Milwaukee in 1962. On November 19, 1966, she married Wayne Allen Morgan Sr. in Milwaukee. After moving to Milwaukee, she worked at Brill Bros Sewing before taking on several roles at Mt. Sinai Hospital. Later, she became a cook at Atwater Elementary School, a position she cherished. She earned her GED from Milwaukee Area Technical College in 1994.

Shirley had a passion for embroidery, crocheting, and traveling the world on cruise ships. She was also a proud member of the American Legion Auxiliary.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Beatrice;her stepfather: Bill Kemnitz; her husband, Wayne Morgan Sr.; her siblings Mary Starling, Jimmy Cavanaugh, Melvin Cavanaugh, and Jerry Cavanaugh; and sisters-in-law Lorraine and Geraldine and brother in-law Lloyd (Skip).

She is survived by her children: Wayne (Renee) Morgan, Kandi Phelps, and Michaela (Charles) McNeil; her grandchildren: Talen, Kali, Autumn (Steven), Noah, Alex, James Henry, Olivia, Natori; her Great-grandkids: Donterius, Tiyee, and Kaylani, Olive; and her siblings: Freddie (Connie), Caroline (Richard), Carol Jean (Keith), and Priscilla (Douglas). She was also deeply loved by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Memorial contributions may be directed to her children in Shirley’s memory.

Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.

McPeek, Patricia A. Age 75 of Necedah

Patricia A. McPeek, beloved mother, grandmother and sister, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 75 on Thursday, March 27, 2025. She was born on March 7,1950, to Stanley and Evelynann (Dominiak) Wodecki in Chicago, Illinois and resided there till 2008 when she moved to Necedah, Wisconsin to be closer to her daughter Lori and her family. Throughout her career she held various customer service positions. She loved keeping up with friends and family, especially through social media and the internet. She will be remembered for her infamous stories starting with “I seen…!” “I heard…!” “I read…!”

 

She is survived by her daughter, Lori (Andy) Janociak; grandchildren, Andrew (fiancée, Christy Heusser) Janociak of Necedah, WI and Anthony (Gabby) and baby to be Janociak of Necedah, WI; brother, Stanley (Irene) Wodecki of Cicero, Illinois; nieces Patricia (Ron) Waymire of Justice, IL, Elizabeth (Jose) Wodecki of Chicago, IL, and Annie (Brandon) Sprau of Downers Grove, IL; and many great nieces and nephews.

 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Stanley and Evelynann Wodecki; and great grandchild, Angel Anne Janociak

 

A time for visitation will be held on Friday, April 4, 2025, 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., with a prayer service concluding at 7:00 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Necedah. A burial will be held at the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Cemetery on Saturday, April 5th, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Francis of Assisi Church in her name. The Torkelson Funeral Home of Necedah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at

www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com

Mergenthaler, Randy Charles Age 74 of Wisconsin Dells

Randy Charles Mergenthaler, age 74, of Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.

 

A Celebration of Life will be held at Barrel Springs Bar and Grill on Sunday, May 4, 2025. Military honors will be presented at 3:00 p.m. with a celebration of life gathering to follow.

Randy was born on May 30, 1950, in Hartford, Wisconsin, to Ray and June Rose (Lamprecht) Mergenthaler. He grew up in the Hartford/Slinger area and graduated from Hartford High School in 1968. A proud veteran, Randy served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded several medals for his service and bravery on the front lines.

Throughout his career, Randy worked in landscaping and welding in Milwaukee before moving to Adams County in 1981. Randy worked for Ronald E. Collins pulpwood & Logging, owned and operated Randy Mergenthaler’s Forestry Service for 20+ years.

Randy had a passion for riding his Harley and cherished time spent socializing with friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and June.

Randy is survived by his children, Jesse (Lori) Mergenthaler, Shane (Angela) Mergenthaler, and Eve Mergenthaler; as well as his beloved grandchildren, Colin, Bailey, and Kasandra.

Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. For online condolences and further details, please visit www.roseberrys.com.

Elwort, Corliss James Age 59 of Grand Marsh

Corliss James Elwort, age 59, of Grand Marsh, Wisconsin passed away Saturday, March 22, 2025 at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

 

Memorial service will be 12 Noon on Saturday, April 26th, at the Village Hall, 507 W Lake Street, Friendship, WI 53934. Visitation will begin that day at 10:30 a.m. A luncheon will follow the memorial service.

Corliss was born February 08, 1966 in Friendship, Wisconsin. He graduated from Adams-Friendship High School. Corliss worked at Seates Inc, Paste Company, Trienda, and several area potato farms.
He married Jeanie Stone on October 16, 1992 in Adams-Friendship.

Corliss enjoyed shooting darts, pool, fishing, walking, watching tv, and gaming.

Memorials may be directed in Corliss’s memory to his family.

Corliss was preceded in death by his wife, Jeanie Stone; mother, Patricia Page and step-father, Charles A. Page; grandparents: Louie Russell, Millie Zychowitz, and step-grandfather, Joseph Zychowitz; and uncle, Charles Cavanaugh.

Survivors include his children: Jessica Ambrose, Joseph Orick, and Crystal (Matt) Mahoney; grandchildren: James Stone, Cassie Stone, Brooklynn Retzer-Orick, Audreyanah Peterson-Orick, Skyler Allen, Ashton Diamond, Jaxsin Wedde, Jonah Wedde, Caleb Albiter; siblings: Dale (Brenda) Elwort,
Gail Dobbs, Charles Page, and Teresa (Mike) Carlton. He is further survived by nephew and niece, Michael “Mikie” (Naomi) Carlton and Bethany (Adam) Spaw, other relatives and friends.

Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.

Connor, Steven Joseph Age 64 of New Lisbon

Our loving and joyful Steven Joseph Connor, 64, of New Lisbon passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, March 25, 2025, surrounded by his devoted wife Loretta and their five children; Kami, Michael, Renee, Stephanie and Sami. 
 
Steven was born on June 28, 1960, to Myles and Joanie(Schumann) Connor. He attended Hustler Community School in his early years, followed by New Lisbon Schools, where he graduated from high school in 1978. On August 21, 1982, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Loretta Bailey. 
 
Steve wore many hats throughout his life, but he was best known in the community as a hardworking farmer, a beloved bus driver for New Lisbon Schools and sports teams, and a dedicated PCT at Sand Ridge. When diagnosed with cancer, Steve retired and spent the last three years enjoying what mattered most—time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. 
 
He found joy in the simple things: logging firewood, listening to the backyard waterfall, and feeding the birds year-round. Steven had a quiet reverence for the beauty of God’s creation and never missed a chance to pause and appreciate it. Even in his final days, he kept his signature big smile and a light-hearted spirit, often cracking jokes with loved ones. Most of all, he continued to express profound gratitude for each day, often saying what a truly blessed man he was and that he has lived a blessed life.  

Steve was a jack of all trades—a handyman in every sense. He believed in fixing things, not replacing them. His greatest ambition was to love his family well and to reach Heaven. He succeeded. 
 
He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Loretta (Bailey); his children, Kami (Paul) Hansen of Cottage Grove, WI; Michael (Anna) of Vienna, Austria; Renee (Jay) Woinarowicz of Apache Junction, AZ; Stephanie (Dan) Couey of New Glarus, WI; and Sami Connor of New Lisbon, WI; as well as his cherished grandchildren; Hunter, Riley, Dylan, Ellie, Connor, Jack, Sarah, Aaron, Myles, Chloe, and baby to be; his siblings: Gigi (Scott) Rysdahl, Dave (Susan) Connor, Steve (Loretta) Connor, and Geralyn (Paul) Klinkner; his brothers-in-law Larry Mueller and Don Hemmersbach.  

He was preceded in death by his parents Myles and Joan, his siblings Kaye (Connor) Hemmersbach, Mary (Connor) Mueller, his mother and father-in-law Raymond and Joan Bailey and brother-in-law, Kenneth Bailey.


A visitation will take place from 4pm-7pm on Monday, March 31st at Saint James Catholic Church in Camp Douglas, WI. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, April 1st, at 10:30 a.m. with a private family burial taking place at St. James Catholic cemetery on a later date. Fr. Peter Raj Mariasamy presiding. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com
 
In leu of flowers, send firewood (Just kidding–though he’d have appreciated it). Charitable donations are welcome and will be thoughtfully directed toward causes and opportunities that were close to Dad’s heart. 
 
“A man is truly blessed when he finds joy in the simple things, love in his heart, and gratitude in his soul.” — Unknown 

Lagendorf, Burton W. Age 84 of Mauston

Burton W. “Burt” Langendorf,  age 84 of Mauston, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2025, at the House of the Dove in Marshfield, Wisconsin. Burton was the son of Henry and Harriet (Preston) Langendorf and was born on May 26, 1940, in Mauston, Wisconsin.  Burt was a man whose life was defined by love, faith, and an exceptional talent in woodworking and construction.

Burt grew up in the small town of Mauston, where he graduated from Mauston High School in 1958. After graduation, he briefly moved to Kenosha for work, but the call of his hometown brought him back, where he began his lifelong passion for construction and farming. It was during this time that Burt met the love of his life, Helen M. Moore. The couple united in marriage on May 8, 1965, at the United Methodist Church in Madison, Wisconsin, embarking on a journey that would last 60 years.

Professionally, Burt first honed his skills working for Paul Retzlof in construction. His dedication and craftsmanship allowed him to work on the family farm for two decades while simultaneously building a reputation in the construction industry. In 1972, Burt’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Langendorf Construction, a residential construction company renowned for its custom cabinets and exquisite stonework for fireplaces. Burt’s work was not just a means to an end but a form of artistry, earning him a place in the Master’s Craftsman Organization. Through this association, he generously donated his time and skills to the construction and renovation of churches, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to his community.

Burt’s talents extended beyond his professional life into his personal interests. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church in New Lisbon, where he deepened his faith and formed lasting friendships. After retiring in 2005, Burt discovered a new passion for golf, which he enjoyed playing with his grandson Ryan. He also found solace in the tranquility of hunting, the patience of fishing, and the wisdom found in studying the Bible.

Those who knew Burt will remember him as a loving, faith-filled, and handy individual. He had the gift of creating beautiful things with his hands, whether it was a piece of furniture for his home or a toy for his grandchildren. His handiwork was not just an expression of his skill but also of his heart, as each piece he created was infused with love and care.

Burt is survived by his devoted wife, Helen of Mauston; his loving children, Diana (Peter) Day of Stitzer, James (Shell Lee) Langendorf of Mauston, and Burton Langendorf of New Lisbon; his sister, Arlene (Chuck) Frankie of Alaska; his cherished grandchildren, Katie Kunz, Courtney (Adam) Buchmeier, Hannah (Zach) Martin, Caroline (Brad) Jones, and Ryan (Cali) Langendorf, step grandchildren Erica, Paul and Mychal Hainz; and his adored great-grandchildren, Caleb, Aubrie, Lydia, Elli, Lane, and Luke. Each family member carries forward a piece of Burt’s legacy in their lives. He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant son Mat, a daughter-in-law Julie Langendorf, his sisters, Phyllis and Jean, a brother Norman and a brother-in-law Paul.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, March 29th, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at the First Baptist Church (525 S. Washington St) in New Lisbon.  Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Saturday at the church from 9:00 A.M. until the time of service.  Burial will be in the Evergreen Cemetery in Mauston. Rev. James Appel presiding.  The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com

Larson, Landon Floyd Age 74 of New Lisbon

Landon Floyd Larson, affectionately known as Lanny, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2025, after a short battle with cancer. Born on May 28, 1950, in Sparta, Wisconsin to Stanley Larson and Beulah (Walker) Larson. Lanny was a man whose kind spirit and generous nature touched the lives of many. His final days were spent surrounded by love by his family.

Lanny grew up in the nurturing arms of his parents, Stanley and Beulah Larson, in a household filled with music and joy.  Lanny was beat of his family band as the drummer, bringing rhythm into their lives from a young age. He graduated from New Lisbon High School where he honed his skills and passion for music. His love for the drums led him to teach himself how to play, a talent that would become a lifelong joy and a source of entertainment for many.

Lanny was raised with a very special person “brother like” instead really being cousins. Lanny and Steve Walker were inseparable as kids, being the same age they did everything together. As both of them got married and having children, you could find both families hanging out and playing dice or cards. Lanny and Steve later started taking motorcycle trips together and did Lanny’s dream vacation to Alaska.

As a young man, Lanny embarked on a career in over-the-road construction, a job that allowed him to travel with his family while his daughters were young. His dedication to his family was unwavering, and he ensured that they were part of his adventures until schooling beckoned them to settle down. Lanny then transitioned to work as a telephone technician, showcasing his natural aptitude for technical and mechanical work.

With an entrepreneurial spirit, Lanny went on to establish his own business, Larson’s Excavating, which he successfully ran for many years. His work ethic and commitment to quality were evident in every project he undertook. Later in life, he found joy in driving trucks for his good friend Kenny Hendricks, a role that allowed him to stay connected to the industry he loved.

Lanny’s interests extended far beyond his professional endeavors. He continued to play drums with various bands over the years, never losing the rhythm that had been a part of him since childhood. Golfing provided him with a chance to enjoy the outdoors and engage in friendly competition with friends and family. But perhaps his most cherished dream was that of flight. Lanny always aspired to be a pilot, and he realized this dream by not only earning his license but also taking to the skies in his own airplane.

 

Lanny’s legacy is carried on by his loving family. He is survived by his daughters, Lana Wagenson and her husband Paul, and their children Elizabeth, Christian, Abigail (Mason) Gerke, and Nathanial; and Lynn Larson and her children Codi (Dylan Kobel) Bradley and their children Jackson, Wren, and Elena, and Colten (Brittany) Christopherson and their children Emrick, Sterling, and Scarlett. He was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Beulah (Walker) Larson; his siblings Sandra Baumgart, Richard, Chris Sr, and Daniel Larson; and his nephew Ronald Baumgart, Grandson-in-law Anthony “Tony” Bradley, and significant other Marilyn Brown.

Those who knew Lanny would describe him as a man of kind heart, spirited soul, and generous disposition. His laughter was infectious, his support unwavering, and his presence a comfort to all who had the pleasure of his company. Lanny’s memory will be treasured in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with him.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Lanny Larson was a remarkable man who lived his life with passion, joy, and an unyielding commitment to those he loved. As we bid farewell to Lanny, we celebrate the indelible mark he has left on our lives and the melody of his spirit that will continue to resonate within us forever.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, March 29th, 2025, at 1:00 P.M. at the Hare Funeral Home (217 W. Pearl St) in New Lisbon.  Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Saturday at the Hare Funeral Home from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service.  Burial will be in the Trinity Lutheran Cemetery.  The Hare Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com

Martin, Donna Paulette Age 74 of Adams County

With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Donna Paulette Martin who passed away at her home on March 12, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering kindness. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

 

Donna Paulette Martin was born on June 18, 1950 in Laurium, Michigan and lived a life filled with joy, compassion, and a deep love for her family. She was a true embodiment of the nursing profession, a true inspiration, always putting others first before herself both professionally and personally.

She is survived by her loving children, Daniel Pecha, Paula (Rodney) Stephani, Kathryn (Jared) Lowe, and her cherished grandchildren, Noah, Landen, Ashton and Easton. She was predeceased by her husband, Kenneth D. Martin, and her parents, Paul and Helene Tikkanen.

A celebration of life ceremony will be held later for close friends and family. We will forever cherish the memories of her laughter, sense of humor, her wisdom, and the immeasurable love she shared with us. She will be forever in our hearts.

Gollnick, Dawn Age 92 of Adams

Dawn Gollnick, 92, of Adams, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Rosebrooke Senior Living.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Adams, with Rev. John Krebs officiating. Visitation will begin at 12:00 noon at the church.

Interment will be at Hillside Cemetery in Coloma at a later date.

Dawn was born on September 23, 1932, in Coloma, Wisconsin, to Alton and Audrey Whitrock. She grew up in a loving family with two brothers and three sisters. On August 31, 1952, she married Harlan Gollnick, and together they built a life filled with love and family, raising their son, Jamie, and daughters, Pamela, Audrey and Kelli.

Dawn dedicated many years of service to Adams County Memorial Hospital, where her kindness and compassion touched many lives. She found joy in sewing, gardening, crafting, bowling, and playing bingo. She also loved singing in the church choir, watching wildlife, and tending to her plants.

A devoted member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Dawn’s faith was central to her life. She was an active participant in the church choir and cherished the fellowship of her congregation.

Dawn was preceded in death by her parents, Alton and Audrey; her husband, Harlan; and her daughters, Pamela and Audrey.

She is survived by her son, Jamie (Tammi Jo) Gollnick of Friendship, WI; her daughter, Kelli (Joe ) Stone of Friendship, WI; grandchildren: Hallie (Toby), Jessie, Joseph, David (Carolyn), Dakota, Andrew, Emily, Khole; great-grandchildren: Phoenix, Neko, Kayson, Avianna.

Memorial contributions in Dawn’s honor may be directed to her family.

Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences and further information can be found at www.roseberrys.com.

Baumann, Kay Marie Age 71 of Friendship

Kay Marie Baumann (née Sagan), age 71, of Friendship, Wisconsin (formerly of Racine), passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Riverview Hospital in Wisconsin Rapids.

A celebration of her life will be held at a later date, with details to follow.

Kay was born on June 21, 1953, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Leo F. Sagan and Nellie L. (née Burmeister) Suszka. She grew up in South Milwaukee and graduated from South Milwaukee High School. Over the years, she worked at Everbrite and was a beloved bartender and cook at many Milwaukee-area taverns and restaurants.

On December 31, 1989, she married the love of her life, Robert Gerhard Baumann, in Milwaukee. Together, they retired to Big Flats in 2018, embracing the peacefulness of the Northwoods.

Kay had a deep passion for the outdoors and marksmanship. She enjoyed hunting, high-power and pistol shooting, ATV riding, and was an avid dog enthusiast. She had a knack for winning raffles and a sharp sense of adventure. A dedicated member of the Racine County Line Rifle Club, she served as a board member and president, overseeing training schedules for 41 police departments, the Secret Service, and the military.

Kay is survived by her loving husband, Robert; her children, Tina Lynch, Denise Lynch, Rachel (TJ) Kriska, Benjamin (Jodi) Baumann, Katie Lynch, and Ruth Baumann; nine cherished grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren, father, Leo Sagan, she is also survived by her siblings, Ruth, David, Anna, Teresa, Lee, and Robert, as well as her beloved dogs, Nellie Bell and Bell Pepper, along with many other relatives and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Nellie Suszka, and her beloved dogs, Christmas Bell, Tinker Bell, Liberty Bell, and Let Freedom Ring.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the ICU team at Aspirus Wisconsin Rapids, especially Dr. Myers, Nurse Bill, and Nurse Katie, for their extraordinary care and compassion.

Kay loved police, firefighters and military, in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Kay’s name.

Kay will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her strength, generosity, and adventurous spirit.

Arrangements are being handled by Roseberry’s Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared at www.roseberrys.com.

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