Obituaries
Zeman, Rosemarie Age 88 of Mauston
Rosemarie Zeman, age 88, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on Tuesday, September 17th, 2024, at Fairview Nursing Home. She was born on August 3rd, 1936 in Berwyn, Illinois. Her presence was a gift to all who knew her and the memories of her life will resonate in the hearts of family and friends forever.
Rosemarie is survived by her two sons William T. (Patti) Zeman and Thomas A. (Kim Murphy) Zeman, and her grandson Cody Zeman, each of whom carry forward her legacy of love and compassion. She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and her friends. She is preceded in death by her parents and husband William P., brothers Wally Kelly and Norman Kelly, and sisters Shirley Vondra and Dolores Gambino whom she missed dearly and is now reunited with.
Throughout her life, Rosemarie never shied away from a hard day’s work. She started her career at Ferryland in Berlin, IL tending to the horses and ponies throughout high school. Shortly after, she met Bill, the love of her life and they moved to Wisconsin where Bill continued to pursue his career as a mechanic. In 1963, Rosemarie and her husband Bill Zeman started what is now known as Zeman’s Machine & Repair where she spent her life running the family business. There they raised several pigs, horses, geese, and chickens. Rosemarie will always be remembered around the community as the face of Zeman’s.
To family and friends, she was known by many nicknames including: Rosie, Auntie Babe, and Nollie. She will always be remembered by a quick smile, a hearty laugh, and the jokes she told. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life: like collecting bird chotchkes, cooking and baking for her family, friends, and anyone who went into the shop, and going to the dress store in Adams.
A funeral service for Rosemarie will be held on Saturday, September 28th, 2024 at the Conway-Picha Funeral Home. The visitation will take place from 10am until the time of service at 12pm. Rosemarie will be laid to rest next to her husband at the Mauston City Cemetery following the service. A celebration of Rosemarie’s life will take place following the service from 2pm – 5pm at Zeman’s Machine & Repair garage where friends and family are welcome to gather.
We will miss Rosie every day, but we find comfort knowing that she will live on in the stories we share, the love we give, and the lives she touched.
Klaus, Myrna Marie Age 84 of Adams
Myrna Marie Klaus, age 84, of Adams, Wisconsin passed away on Sunday, September 15, 2024, at the Aspirus Riverview Hospital in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin.
Myrna was born October 14, 1939, in Quincy, Wisconsin to Kermit and Alma (Reuterskiold) Hammond. She married Ronald Klaus on July 4, 1964, in Adams.
Myrna had several jobs, ending her career at Nekoosa Middle School as a library aide where she made many friends and loved all the students. She was a big Brewers fan, (does the “M” on her shirt stand for Myrna or the Milwaukee Brewers? We will never know.) and loved spending time with Ronnie and her family. She enjoyed doing many things including bowling, going out to eat, taking rides in the country, knitting, crocheting, doing puzzles, and projects to donate to those in need. In her last years she especially loved spending time with her friends and staff at the Adams Village Apartments where they made her laugh and were like a second family to her.
Myrna was preceded in death by her husband Ronald; parents: Kermit & Alma; brothers: Vernon Hammond, Wilfred (Georgianna) Hammond, Kenny (Mary) Hammond, sisters; Kay Theisen, , Linda (Larry) Stemper, in-laws: Ken Klaus, Glen (Lois) Klaus, Yvonne Fusaro, Matt (Carol) Klaus, Marion Parks, Marie Klaus, Lawrence Klaus, Elaine Hall, Alice Olson, Mary Jo Klaus, Dave Roberts, and beloved nieces and nephews.
Survivors include her daughters: Gina (Michael) Klaus, Jill (Charles) Reichhoff; son: Mark Klaus; grandchildren: Devin, Jamey, Brooklyn, Ashleigh, Dane, and Silas; great-grandchildren: Oceana, Michael, and Autumn; brother: Doug (Jean) Hammond; in-laws: Lilah Hammond, Mark Theisen, Gordon (Mary Lee) Klaus, Dottie Klaus, Allan (Bonnie) Klaus, Sandy (Mike) Roberts, and Tom Olson. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins, whom she loved very much.
A special thank you to Aspirus Riverview Hospital 2nd floor nursing staff for taking such great care of Myrna during her time there and to Vicki & Jessica at North Star Services. She looked forward to every visit.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. A graveside service at the White Creek Cemetery will be held in the spring. Date and time will be announced by the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.
Walter, Byron Gary Age 77 of Mauston
Byron Gary Walter, age 77, died Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at his home in rural Mauston. Born September 29, 1946 to Clifford and Vera (Sonnenberg) Walter in Mauston. Byron graduated from Mauston High School in 1964. While attending school he helped on the family farm in the Mauston Valley. After graduation he joined the Army and served in Vietnam. After he was discharged, he worked as a heavy equipment operator in Wisconsin and Illinois. Byron was a member of the American Legion post in Mauston.
Byron is survived by his sister Bonnie Hooker, Hillsboro, sister-in-law Judy Walter, Capron, IL, many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents Clifford and Vera Walter, brothers Leroy Walter and Lyle Walter, sisters Edith Burkhalter, Yvonne Walter and Bernadine Vodak, sister-in-law Jean Walter, brothers-in-law Hugh Hepp, Edward Hooker, Donald Vodak, Ervin Burkhalter.
In lieu of flowers, contributions to Freedom Honor Flight (donate online at freedomhonorflight.org) or to the Mauston American Legion would be appreciated.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 12:30 p.m. at the Crandall Funeral Home, Mauston where friends may call from 10:30 a.m. until time of service.
Interment will be at Lindina Evergreen Cemetery with military honors.
Henze, Laura Myrtle Age 79 of Elroy
Laura Myrtle (Ragsdale) Henze, age 79 of Elroy, WI., passed away on September 14, 2024 from cancer at her home in rural Elroy, WI. Laura was born on September 15, 1945 at the families farm in Tripoli, Iowa to Benjamin and Arvilla (Davis) Ragsdale. She attended Tripoli public schools until the family relocated to New Hartford, Iowa. She lived on the farm in New Hartford until graduation in 1963. While attending school she participated in various activities including the high school newspaper, glee club, gymnastics and cheerleading. She was homecoming queen in 1962. After graduation she pursued waitressing as she did part time in high school, and she also did detasseling corn.
On December 7, 1963, she was united in marriage to Dallas Henze. She later gave birth to Todd Henze in July of 1964. After Todd was born, they continued to move to various rental properties to better their employment. She gave birth to Travis Henze in November of 1966. At approximately this time they purchased a farm near New Hartford, IA. In 1970 they sold the acreage and purchased a farm in Norwalk, WI. The entire family exhibited cattle at various shows at both state and national levels. Laura was involved in all aspects, she was an expert herdswoman. As a result, they had the highest DHIA herd average many times. She was also involved in managing the crops. They sold the farm and moved to Oregan in 1988. In Oregon she worked at forestry related jobs, watching for forest fires and equipment surveillance. Her husband and her were hired by Columbia Helicopter Company for around 6 years, she traveled with Dallas while being a security guard in several states including Alaska. She was involved in all aspects of what was demanded by the officers with logging and forest fire fighting. They moved back to Wisconsin to be with their children and grandchildren. They purchased the farm in Elroy where they are currently living. She was the manager of the family’s investment and insurance business. She did many rural newspaper routes until her health declined. While farming rural Norwalk, her family also operated a riding stable on one of their other farms.
Laura enjoyed being outdoors, farming and working in her flower garden. During her entire married life her main concern was family, whatever was needed always came before herself. She was a very ambitious and detailed person. She was never afraid to go the extra mile for anything or anyone. Her dedication and compassion to family and strong faith in God got her through many hardships in life, including her final battle with cancer.
Laura is survived by her husband Dallas, sons, Todd A. Henze, Travis W. (LaVonne) Henze, her brothers, Bob Ragsdale, Everette (Caroline) Ragsdale, Jerry (Sue) Ragsdale, her sisters, Ettamae (Dale) Henze, Betty (Rick) Newville and Carol (Bucky) Nolan. She will also be remembered by her grandchildren, Cody, Rebekah, Trevis, Charmayne, Jada and Hailey, and her great grandchildren, Madison, Brinley, Ellison, Thea, Haisly, Willow, Holden, Averleigh and Ilyzah. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother Gordon Ragsdale, sister-in-law Kathy Ragsdale, sister-in-law Joanne Ragsdale, and nieces Lisa Kay Henze Powell, Brenda Ragsdale and a nephew Chad Nolan.
Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Friday, September 20, 2024, from 9:00 A.M. until 10:30 A.M. at the Hare Funeral Home (217 W. Pearl St) in New Lisbon. A graveside service will take place following the visitation at 12:00 P.M. at the Pilgrims Home Cemetery in Norwalk. Laura would want everyone to be comfortable in casual dress clothes. Chaplain Shane Haynes presiding. A funeral lunch will follow at the Wilton Legion Hall. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com
Colonel James J. Olson Age 79 of Camp Douglas
Colonel James J. Olson, retired, known affectionately as Jim to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2024, at his home in Camp Douglas, Wisconsin. Jim was the son of Julian and Gladys (Kish) Olson and was born on August 22, 1945, in Mauston, Wisconsin. Jim’s journey through life was marked by an unwavering spirit of adventure, a deep intelligence, and an immense capacity for love.
A graduate of Tomah High School, class of 1963, Jim’s thirst for knowledge led him to further his education, culminating in a bachelor’s degree from Mount Senario College in 1989. His military education includes Officer Candidate School at the Wisconsin Military Academy, Camp Douglas, WI; Basic and Advanced Ordnance Officer course at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Maryland, and the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
Colonel Olson began his military career when he was drafted into the United State Army in January of 1968. He served two years active duty with the 193rd Infantry Brigade in the Panama Canal Zone and nearly four years in the U.S. Army reserve before transferring to the Wisconsin Army National Guard in December 1973. In August 1975 he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant of Ordnance and became a Heavy Maintenance Platoon Leader in Detachment 2, 108th Maintenance Company, Portage, Wisconsin. He later served as 108th Maintenance Company, Senior Tactical Officer for the Wisconsin Military Academy, and Commander of the 107th Maintenance Company. In 1984 he was transferred to the 723rd Maintenance Battalion, Tomah, and held a variety of staff positions with the battalion and with the State Area Command, before becoming the 732nd’s Executive Officer in 1989 and its Commander in April 1994. Three years later he was assigned as Deputy Commander of the 64th Troop command. In July of 1998 he became the Troop Command Commander and was promoted to the rank of Colonel. In September 2000 he became the commander of the 426th Regiment (Leadership) and the Wisconsin Military Academy.
His military awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal with tree oak leave clusters, the Army Commendation Medal with five oak leaf clusters, the Army Achievement Medal, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal with five oak leaf clusters, the Army Reserve Components Overseas Service Ribbon, and the Wisconsin National Guard Emergency Service Ribbon.
On October 11, 1972, Jim married the love of his life Kathleen. They shared a love of traveling all over the United States, specifically to the Florida Area. They also loved spending time at their cabin on Castle Rock Lake. Jim and Kathy owned Jim & Kathy’s Bar and grill in Camp Douglas from 1983 until 2012. Kathleen preceded Jim in 2012.
Jim’s professional and personal endeavors were many and varied, but he always found time to support his community. He was a respected member of the VFW and the Camp Douglas American Legion, where his commitment to service shone brightly. His love for his country was paralleled only by the love he had for his family.
Surviving Jim are his devoted children, Brian (Katie Kopplin) Olson of Camp Douglas and Jamie (Dustin) Elsing of New Lisbon. His legacy also lives on through his sister, Jeliane (John) Mochenbacher of Camp Douglas, and his cherished grandchildren, Caitlin (Matt) Kikta, Sadie and Rylie Olson, Connor Stauff, and Charlotte Brahmer. Each of them will carry forward the lessons of kindness and strength that he instilled in them. Jim was preceded in death by his loving parents and his beloved wife, Kathleen Olson, with whom he shared a lifetime of memories.
An avid sports fan, Jim could be found in the stands at his grandchildren’s sporting events, cheering them on with enthusiasm and pride. His presence at these events was a source of encouragement and support, emblematic of his loving nature.
Jim’s life was one of purpose and joy. His adventurous spirit, coupled with his intelligence and loving heart, left an indelible mark on the world. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who were touched by his remarkable life.
Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Monday September 23rd at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church (215 Douglas St) in Camp Douglas from 10:00a.m. until 12:00p.m, with a funeral service starting at 12:00p.m. Rev. Brad Lindberg presiding. Burial with military honors will take place in the Camp Douglas Cemetery. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com
Rogers, Albert “Buddy” age 74 of New Lisbon
Albert “Buddy” Rogers III, age 74 of New Lisbon, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2024, surrounded by his loving family in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Buddy was the son of Albert and Doris (Fogo) Rogers and was born on March 10, 1950, in Reedsburg, Wisconsin. Buddy lived a life marked by joy, camaraderie, and a genuine love for his family and friends.
Buddy’s life was a tapestry woven with the love of his devoted wife, Yvonne Rogers, and the pride he took in his children, Brett Evans of New Lisbon, Brian (Jean) Evans of Hustler, Kim (Rob) Bradley of New Lisbon, and Kelly Greeno Rogers of Holmen. His legacy continued to flourish through his six grandchildren, Dustin, Mariah, Gabe, Donavan, Heather, and Austin, and his seven great-grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable joy and laughter. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Butch and Steve, and his sisters Patti, Judy, Barb, Dianna and Cathy.
A man of many interests, Buddy was a member of the New Lisbon American Legion. His love for golf was well known, as he spent many a sunny morning on the greens with Johnny and Mike, when he was able to. When the music played, Buddy was often the first to hit the dance floor, his feet tapping and his voice singing along to the tunes he adored.
Buddy’s daily ritual of meeting friends for a cup of coffee was more than a pastime; it was a testament to his ability to cultivate lasting friendships and his genuine interest in the lives of those around him. Those who knew him will fondly remember the warmth of his smile and the infectious laughter that accompanied his witty jokes.
In honor of a life that touched so many, we say goodbye to a man who was much more than the sum of his years—a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and friend. Albert “Buddy” Rogers III will be fondly remembered and forever cherished in the stories that will be told and retold by those who loved him most.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at the New Lisbon Community Center from 4:00pm until 6:00pm, with a service starting at 5:30pm. Mark Hanson will be presiding. Military Honors will be provided by the New Lisbon American Legion Post 110. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com.
Viegut, John Edwin Age 78 of Baraboo
John Edwin Viegut, 78, passed away on September 8th, 2024, in Baraboo, WI. Born on January 12, 1946 in Wausau, WI, John was the cherished eldest son of Marvin and Lorraine Viegut. Throughout his life, John was a beacon of love and strength for his family and friends.
John leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. He was the beloved husband of Linda, with whom he shared 57 years of marriage, filled with mutual support and deep affection. A dedicated father, he was immensely proud of his five children: Troy (Lisa; grandkids: Trenton, Troy, Trevor, Tyler, Thomas: great-grandkids: Sadie), Tim (Toni; grandkids: Ty, Cody, Torrin, Trey: great-grandkids: Tae, Harper, Gio), Terry (Nikki;) grandkids: Bailey, Wyatt, Chloe, Peyton, Ryder: great-grandkid: Bryn), Tammy (Matt; grandkids: Holden, Alex), and Tanya (Dustin; grandkids: Sophia, Grace). John also held a special place in his heart for his cats, Dawson and Dixie.
John’s sisters, Dorothy (Larry), Mary (Duke), and Dawn (Art), remember him as a guiding light of strength and a source of unwavering support and love. A devout Catholic, John was a current member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Parish in Baraboo and a long-time member of St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish in Eagle, WI. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, providing him with comfort and guidance.
John flew over 1 million airline miles during his career. He was known for his charismatic personality, work ethic, and ability to deliver solutions to challenging problems. He was proud of his tenure and service during his career at Hein-Werner, P&H-Akerman, and InPro Corp.
John was also an avid sports enthusiast, fervently supporting the Packers, Badgers, and Brewers, and had a passion for NASCAR. His hobbies brought him much joy and connected him with a community of fellow fans.
John was a lifelong coach which included his daughter’s recreational softball teams and his son’s semi-recreational league in the Land O’Lakes western division. Many nights and weekends of his dedication built a strong foundation for his children’s love of sports and showcased his dedication to the community of Eagle.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Parish, 302 2nd Street, Baraboo, Wisconsin on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral luncheon at the church hall. John will be laid to rest at St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish Cemetery in Eagle, Wisconsin at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 25, 2024. Visitation will begin at the Church on Wednesday, September 25th, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass.
John’s life was marked by his unwavering commitment to his loved ones and his church. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
John’s family asks that in lieu of flowers, you make a donation to Second Harvest Food Bank, or to Easter Seals, which helped John’s parents navigate through the early days of his fight with polio.
Klipstein, Dorothy J. Age 101 of Elroy
Dorothy J. Klipstein, age 101 years, of Elroy, Wisconsin, passed away on Sunday, September 8, 2024 at Gundersen St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hillsboro.
She was born on February 23, 1923, the daughter of Herbert and Agnes Mary (White) Popp in the Town of Glendale, Kendall, Wisconsin.
Dorothy was united in marriage to Melvin “Bud” Klipstein on February 7, 1942 in Mauston. They farmed in the Town of Plymouth, for many years. He preceded her in death on October 2, 1991.
She also volunteered at the Elroy Legion Hall for many, many years and the Meals-on-Wheels program. She enjoyed bird watching, solving puzzles and a few Herefords as pets were her “hobby.” She always enjoyed a good game of cards and a good laugh, along with with hosting and attending family get-togethers.
Survivors include her children, Joyce Sinkule, Rodney (Deb) Klipstein, Roger Klipstein, Donna (Bob) Sather, Gary Klipstein, Dennis (Mary Jo) Klipstein, Robert Klipstein, Sandy Klipstein, Bruce Klipstein and Debra Klipstein (Rodger Pierce); daughter-in-law, Marlene Klipstein; twelve Grandchildren, several Great and Great Great Grandchildren; sister, Audrey Sosinsky and sister-in-law, Irene Popp. She is also survived by many loving in-laws, nieces, nephews and long-time friends.
In addition to her husband, Melvin “Bud”; she was preceded in death by her Parents; son, David Klipstein; daughter-in-law, Jeannie Klipstein; son-in-law, Thomas Sinkule; granddaughter, Amy Jo Blaha; sister, Eleanor Perkins and brothers, Robert Popp and Bernard Popp.
There will be a gathering at the American Legion Hall in Elroy on Monday, September 16, 2024, with a prayer service at 11:00 a.m. and a meal following. Interment will be in the Mount Zion Cemetery, rural Elroy.
The Picha Funeral Home in Elroy is assisting, for online information go to www.pichafuneralhomes.com
Repka, Mary Teper Age 90 of Lyndon Station
Mary Teper Repka, born August 31, 1934 in Chicago, Illinois passed away Friday, September 6, 2024 at 90 years old at Fair View Nursing Home in Mauston.
Mary was married to Richard (Dick) Repka in Lyndon Station, Wisconsin in 1963 on the 6th of November, who preceded her in death December 15th, 2009.
Mary is survived by a stepson James Repka (Lisa) granddaughter Laura (Tim) Baron and great grandchildren Natatie, Kendal, and Carter and a special friend Sally Erickson.
Mary and Dick loved to travel especially to Branson, Missouri, Grand Ole Opry, Nashville and as far as Hawaii.
Friends may call on Thursday, September 12th from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Crandall Funeral Home, Mauston.
Interment will be at the Mauston, Cemetery.
For online condolences please go to www.crandallfuneral.com
Burch, Robert “Bob” Age 64 of Wilton
On Friday, September 6, 2024, Robert “Bob” Burch of Wilton, passed away peacefully at the Serenity House in Tomah, Wisconsin.
Bob was born in Ladysmith, WI, on November 9, 1960 to Ruth (Overhagen) and James Burch.
On December 29, 2006, Bob married his best friend and companion, Dutch Amberg. Dutch and Bob built their dream home in Wilton in 2007.
Bob started his journey with Norbco Industries in 2000. He started in Tomah and ended in Watkins, Minnesota, with retirement in 2022.
Bob absolutely loved cutting wood, having campfires and “borrowing” things. He loved watching the Packers, playing cards, dancing and lighting off fireworks. Bob had a smile and laugh that everyone adored.
Bob will be greatly missed by his wife, Dutch; his son, Tucker (Jen); granddaughter, Cora; mother and father in law, Don and Donna Amberg; brother-in-law, Jerry; sister-in-law, Dawn; and their “kids” Andi (Mark), Dani (Jenna), DJ (Chris) and Donnie (Lauren); his siblings, Scott (Pauline), Chris (Brian) and Jeff (Brenda); and many special nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services will be held on Friday, September 13, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Elroy. A time of visitation will be at the Church on Friday from 9 to 11 a.m.
The Picha Funeral Home in Elroy is assisting with arrangements.
