Delila H. Hamel, age 90, of Withee, passed away on Thursday, September 10, 2015 at Aspirus Care and Rehabilitation in Medford. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 19, 2015 at the Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Owen. Rev. Tom Myhre will officiate. Inurnment will be held in Riverside Cemetery. Family and friends are welcome from 10:00 AM until time of services Saturday at the funeral home.

  Delila was born on July 29, 1925, the daughter of Henry and Doris (Lindau) Gosse. She was united in marriage to Loyd Hamel in June of 1947. He preceded her in death in 1993. Together they farmed for 20+ years in Taylor County. They also ran a fleet of school buses for many years. Upon retirement, they built a new retirement home in Withee. The past five years, Delila has lived in Medford at Aspirus Care and Rehabilitation.

  Delila enjoyed gardening, card playing and camping with friends. She also enjoyed snowmobiling and was a member of the Rock Dodgers Snowmobile Club.

  Delila is survived by her daughter, Darlene (Ed) Prince of NC; two grandchildren, Emily and Tyler; great-grandchildren; a brother, Sam Gosse of Abbotsford; other relatives and friends.

  She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Loyd and her son, Clinton; one brother and one sister.

ARLENE A. BRANDNER

AGE: 77

ADDRESS: Care Partners Assisted Living, Medford; A former Township of Medford resident

PLACE, DATE & TIME OF DEATH: 1:00 AM Monday, September 14 at Care Partners, Medford where she had resided for the past 1 year most recently under the care of Hope Hospice

TIME & PLACE OF SERVICES: 11:00 AM Wednesday, September 16 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, Whittlesey

OFFICIATING: Father Frederick Brost & Deacon Joe Stefancin

INTERMENT: OLPH Catholic Cemetery, Whittlesey

VISITATION: 4 to 8 PM Tuesday, September 15 at OLPH Catholic Church, Whittlesey where there will be a 7 PM Rosary Service held that evening; and also from 9 AM until the time of services at 11 AM on Wednesday September 16

DATE & PLACE OF BIRTH: October 8, 1937 at The Town of Johnson, Marathon County

EDUCATION: Birchwood Elementary School, Town of Browning and attended Medford High School

MARRIAGE: June 23, 1954 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Medford to Harvey L. Brandner and he preceded her in death March 16, 2013

PRINCIPAL EVENTS IN LIFE: They farmed in the Town of Medford for a period of years. Most of her life, she worked as a housewife and mother. She worked for a period of time as a CNA for Home Healthcare. She enjoyed gardening, cooking, playing games and spending time with her grandchildren

MEMBER OF: OLPH Catholic Church, Whittlesey

SURVIVING CHILDREN: 10 – Henry (Lois), Mike (Linda), Mary (fiance-George Niggemann) Schmeiser, Kathy (Harold) Pester, Judy (Mark) Decker & Ryan (Stacey), all of Medford, Debbie (Jerry) Ahrens of Luxemburg, Pat (Arlis) of Chippewa Falls, Andrew (Thu) of Osseo, MN, & Renee (fiance-Steve Knight) Brandner of Unity

# OF LIVING GRANDCHILDREN: 24 GR-GRANDCHILDREN: 25

SURVIVING BROTHERS/SISTERS: 9 – Adeline Stoiber of Dorchester, Henry (Marcella) Brushaber, Roceda Neumann, and Eugene (Helen) Brushaber, all of Medford, Norine Bahr of Milwaukee, Loretta (Dale) Krug of Spencer, Melvin Brushaber of Beaver Dan, Donna (Don) Brey of Stoughton & Alvin (Jane) Gilbertson of Portage

BROTHERS/SISTERS DECEASED: Sandra Warzecha, Delores Draeger, Elmer Brushaber

DECEASED FATHER: Elmer Hugo Brushaber

DECEASED MOTHER: Rose Marie Weiler

PALLBEARERS: Active – Grandchildren: Jason, Jori & Doug Brandner, John Meyer, Wayne Schmeiser, Kayanna Knight, Nicole Bartelt, Joe Ahrens; Honorary – all the other Grandchildren

OTHER INFORMATION: Memorial contributions may be given to the family for future designation
-For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com 

Rex Lee Mengel, 59, of Medford, passed away Saturday, September 12, 2015. His memorial service will be held on Sunday, September 20, 2015 at 3:00 PM at Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Owen. Visitation will be held from 1:30 PM until the time of the service Sunday at the funeral home.

  Rex was born on May 21, 1956 to Richard and Pearl (Thieme) Mengel in Medford, WI. He is a 1974 graduate of Owen-Withee High School. Rex was married to Ruth Osolkowski on September 25, 1982 at Saint Bernard’s Catholic Church in Abbotsford and later were divorced. Rex loved to drive semi truck. When he was younger, he worked for Liberty Homes out of Dorchester, and then drove truck for Weather Shield out of Medford. He later became an independent truck driver.

  Rex had a love for animals, and had a hobby farm on Jolly Avenue in Medford, WI. He also enjoyed making wine, buying old cars, and playing softball.

  Rex is survived by his mother; Pearl of Augusta, GA; four children; Jason Mengel of Eau Claire, Julia (William) Klimeck of Eau Claire, Zachary Mengel of North East Minneapolis, MN, and Dylan Mengel of Medford; four grandchildren; Maxwell, Ellanore, Joseph, and Benjamin; and four siblings; Pat Mengel of Colby, Chuck Mengel of Dorchester, Jeff Mengel of Withee, and Catherina (Ted) Brand of Augusta, GA.       He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, other family, and friends.

  Rex was preceded in death by his father; Richard; and his grandparents; Rudolph and Agnes Mengel.

  Friends may send online condolences to www.maurinaschillingfuneralhome.com
 

NINA E. UNDERWOOD

AGE: 91

ADDRESS: W435 State Hwy 64 Athens, WI

PLACE, DATE & TIME OF DEATH: 9:15 A.M. Monday, September 14, 2015 at Aspirus Nursing & Rehab in Medford under the care of Hope Hospice

TIME & PLACE OF SERVICES: 11:00 A.M. Friday, September 18, 2015 at St. Andrew Ev. Lutheran Church in Goodrich

OFFICIATING: Pastor Joseph Dietrich

INTERMENT: St. Andrew Ev. Lutheran Cemetery in Goodrich

VISITATION: 10:00 A.M. until time of services at 11:00 A.M. Friday, September 18, 2015 at St. Andrew Ev. Lutheran Church in Goodrich

DATE & PLACE OF BIRTH: September 20, 1923 in the Town of Johnson

EDUCATION: Nina attended Ladd School in the Town of Johnson. She attended Goodrich Grade School and then attended Athens High School for three years. She graduated from Medford Area High School. Nina attended Medford Normal School where she attained her teaching certificate.

PRINCIPAL EVENTS IN LIFE: After high school, Nina attended Medford Normal School where she attained her teaching certificate. She then went on to teach in Mud Lake for 3 years. Nina then worked at Cloverdale School for 3 years. She then worked as a caregiver for different families in the area. Nina taught Sunday school at St. Andrew Ev. Lutheran Church for over 50 years and was an active member of the Church’s Ladies Aid.

MEMBER OF: St. Andrew Ev. Lutheran Church & Ladies Aid

SURVIVING BROTHERS/SISTERS: Laura DuMont of Yorkville, IL & Charles Underwood Jr. of Athens

BROTHERS/SISTERS DECEASED: Howard, Lyle & Andrew Underwood and Gladys Nickels

DECEASED FATHER: Charles C. Underwood Sr.

DECEASED MOTHER: Johanna A. Bucholz

PALLBEARERS: Henry Nickels, James DuMont, Ed Smola, Ed Parks, John Lemke, Robert Capelle

OTHER INFORMATION: In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Nina’s family to be designated at a later date.

Hemer Funeral Homes of Medford and Rib Lake is assisting the family with arrangements.
-For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com 

John Lindberg, 83, passed away at the Golden Living Center - Continental Manor under the tender care of the staff after a brief battle with cancer.

  John “Bud” is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jean Lindberg who was “His Honey”; his children, Susan (Jeff) Viegut, Kerry (Jeannie) Lindberg, Jenny (Chuck) Runnoe, Amy (Jake) Adams, and Emily (Don) Lasee; Grandchildren, Lori, Jeremy (Heather), Adam (Marya), Nick, Christopher (Heidi), Melissa (Tim), Joshua (Jacqueline), Amanda, Seth (Amanda), Lucas, Jacob, Mel (Kevin), Angie, Bill (Keisha), Makala, and Sawyer, 18 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.

  John was born to John and Esther Lindberg on August 29, 1932 in Abbotsford, Wisconsin where he lived all of his life. He married Jean Klinkhammer on July 3, 1954. During his life he worked construction and raised a loving family. John was a Boy Scout leader, a passionate lover of fishing, hunting, roses, a constructor of model ships and fishing lures. He provided a loving home to many; his family, his foster children, his many dogs, especially his faithful companion, Scootch.

  He is preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers, Darrell and Wayne, 5 sisters, Doris, Ruby, Phyllis, Sandy and Muriel, and 2 grandchildren, Andrew and John. He is survived by his sister, Lenore (Gary) Gebert and 1 brother, Robert (Donna) Lindberg.

  A visitation will be held on September 25, 2015 at St. Bernard’s Church, 400 N. 2nd Ave., Abbotsford, Wi, where he was a long time member. His celebration of life will begin at 9:00am. with a service that begins at 11:00am. Father Peter Manickam and Father Eric Nielsen (nephew) will be officiating. The       Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford is entrusted with the arrangements.

  Please join his family and share your memories with them at a meal following the service.
 

  Eugene “Gene” K. Rothamer, 83, Medford, Township of Little Black resident, died Friday, September 18, 2015 at Medford Aspirus Care and Rehabilitation Center surrounded by his loving family.

  Gene was born June 19, 1932 in Medford to George L. and Margaret T. (Forest) Rothamer. He was the youngest of 4 brothers and 3 sisters. He was educated at Medford School Systems.

  Gene met his wife Shirle R. (Smrstick) at a dance in Dorchester. They were married on October 8, 1955 at Assumption of Our Lady Church in Chelsea, WI.
  Gene was employed as a meat processor at Brandner Meat Market, where they lived in an apt. on Clark Street, Medford. In 1957, they moved to Reisch’s Farm, in Dorchester, where he was a dairy farm employee. In 1959, they moved to Medford Parish, where he was employed as a caretaker of the Holy Rosary Church, school, and grounds, until 1963, when they bought their first home, a dairy farm in Little Black. They farmed for 37 years, until they sold their dairy herd on July 1, 2000. While farming, Gene also drove milk truck for Pleasant View Dairy, and worked as an electrician for Bach Electric, but farming was his passion.

  Gene was a loving and loyal husband and father. He was hard working, with a carefree spirit. His spontaneous laughter was infectious. He loved people and never passed up an opportunity for a good conversation.
  Gene enjoyed spending any free time with family, especially his grandchildren. He also enjoyed square dancing with his wife, and playing sheepshead with friends.
  Their children surprised them with a 25th anniversary celebration in 1980, and a 50th anniversary celebration in 2005, at Molitor’s Steak House, where they arrived “in style” in a limo and were greeted by family and many friends.
  Travel included Washington D.C., South Dakota, Canada, Colorado, MN, and Florida (Disney World).
  Gene is survived by his wife, Shirle of Medford. Also survived by his six children: Judith (Russell) Hosler of Owen, Victoria (Richard) Schaetzl of Athens, Pamela Philipp of Wausau, Randall (Donna) of Glen Bernie, MD, Ryan (Pam Nelson) of Medford, Melissa (Terry) Pernsteiner of Champlin, MN
15 Grandchildren and 12 Great-Grandchildren
1 Brother: Theodore (Sharon) Rothamer of Newport Richey, FL

Sister-In-Law: Mildred Rothamer of Janesville
Also survived by many Nieces, Nephews, Other Relatives and Friends
  He was preceded in death by his parents, 1 grandchild, Chad Rothamer, 2 brothers: Raymond and Melvin Rothamer and 3 sisters: Marcella Noland, Dorothy and Harriet Laher
  Funeral services for Eugene K. Rothamer will be held at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, September 22, 2015 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Medford with Father Philip Juza officiating. Burial will take place in Holy Rosary Catholic Cemetery, Medford. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. Monday, September 21, 2015 at the Hemer Funeral Home, Medford with a 7:00 P.M. Rosary Service and also from 9:30 A.M. until 10: 45 A.M. Tuesday, September 22 at the Hemer Funeral Home. Grandchildren will serve as pallbearers. Nicholas, Jacob and Samantha Pernsteiner, Chelsea and Shauna Rothamer, Matthew Philipp, Brandon Tagg and Jacquelyn Schaetzl.
  In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Gene’s family to be designated at a later date
The family of Eugene would like to thank the Aspirus Care and Rehabilitation Center staff for their care and compassion they have given to Gene and his family for the past 5 years. 

Edward "Eddie" Lee Potocnik, age 92, of Withee, passed away at the Clark County Rehabilitation and Living Center on Sunday, September 20, 2015. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, September 26 at 1:00 PM at the United Church of Christ in Owen. Pastor Asafa Rajaofera will officiate. Family and friends are welcome on Friday, September 25 from 5:30 until 7:30 PM at Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Owen and from 12:00 PM until time of service on Saturday at the church. Military Honors will be provided by Lublin American Legion Post #547, Owen American Legion Post #123 and the Owen-Withee Vets Club.

  Edward was born on May 8, 1923 in Taylor County, the son of Joseph and Anna (Koprivniker) Potocnik. He received a welding certificate from the tech school in Marshfield. Edward worked on ships in Superior until enlisting in the US Army-Air Force. He served during WWII in Europe and was a POW in Germany. After his honorable discharge, he returned to Owen. On June 26, 1947, Edward was united in marriage to Berniece Laube at the United Church of Christ in Owen. He then started his own business, Withee Electric, which included working on electrical, refrigeration and water systems. In the early 1950's, they started raising turkeys commercially while continuing his other work endeavors. Edward retired in 1990.

  From 1990 - 2003, Edward and Berniece traveled and lived in a 5th wheel RV, visiting grandchildren, and touring the United States, including Alaska and Mexico and Canada. They also traveled to Europe retracing Eddie's steps as a POW. He loved fishing, hunting, dancing and visiting with family and friends. Most importantly, Edward loved being with his family.

  He was a member of the United Church of Christ in Owen and was a member of the choir and a proud member of Owen American Legion Post #123, the Owen-Withee Vets Club and the EX-POW Post in Marshfield.

  Edward is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Berniece of Withee; three daughters: Eileen Potocnik of Eau Claire, Kathy (Dave) Rice of Spanish Fork, UT and Janice (Don) Homan of Salem, UT; 12 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. He is further survived by a brother-in-law, Harold (Fern) Laube and Harriet Laube, both of Owen; many nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.

  He was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers and two sisters: Joseph, Jr., Frank, Tony, Bill, Carl, Anna and Alice.

  Edward's family would like to thank the staff at Clark County Rehabilitation and Living Center for the care he received the past three years where he resided.

ANNA M. MAYER

AGE: 88

ADDRESS: W5376 Cemetery Avenue, Medford; A Township of Chelsea resident

PLACE, DATE & TIME OF DEATH: 10:08 AM Monday, September 21 at Care Partners Assisted Living, Medford where she had resided for the past 3 months most recently under the care of Hope Hospice

TIME & PLACE OF SERVICES: 10:30 AM Friday, September 25 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Medford

OFFICIATING: Father Phil Juza

INTERMENT: Chelsea Community Cemetery, Township of Chelsea

VISITATION: Hemer Funeral Home, Medford from 4 to 7 PM on Thursday, September 24 where there will be a 7 PM Catholic Rosary service held that evening; and also from 9 AM to 10:15 AM on Friday, September 25

DATE & PLACE OF BIRTH: October 24, 1926 at Blue Island, IL (Chicago area)

EDUCATION: Chicago area elementary schools, Hillcrest Grade School, Town of Chelsea, 1944 graduate of Medford High School, attended Taylor County Normal School, Medford and received a BS from UW-Stevens Point

MARRIAGE: October 9, 1948 at OLPH Catholic Church, Whittlesey to Charles “Chuck” G. Mayer and he survives

PRINCIPAL EVENTS IN LIFE: After her education, she taught school in Medford area elementary schools for 36 years. They also farmed in the Town of Chelsea for a period of years. She enjoyed wintering in Texas, crocheting, knitting, reading books, traveling, puzzles, cooking, & spending time with her family and grandchildren.

MEMBER OF: Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Medford, Westboro VFW Auxiliary; Past member of OLPH Catholic Church, Whittlesey & Assumption Catholic Church, Chelsea where she was an organist, taught catechism & was a member of its Ladies Sodality

SURVIVING SPOUSE: Charles “Chuck” G. Mayer of the Township of Chelsea

SURVIVING CHILDREN: Kathleen M. (Jerome) Kleutsch of Medford, Teresa A. (Doug) Kleutsch of Winter, WI, Susan J. (Dennis) Jensen of Medford, Sandra J. (Gary) Scheithauer of Medford

CHILDREN DECEASED: Daughter – Cynthia M. Mayer in 1997

# OF LIVING GRANDCHILDREN: 6 – Katelyn & Allisyn Kleutsch, Jesse (Amanda) & Brandon (Casey) Jensen, Nathan (Jenna) Scheithauer & Nicole (Dustin) Misener

GR-GRANDCHILDREN: 4 – Sierra, Miles & Lucas Jensen, Eden Misener

SURVIVING BROTHERS/SISTERS: Marie Jochimsen of Medford and John (Char) Gosbee of Medford

BROTHERS/SISTERS DECEASED: Margaret Jochimsen

DECEASED FATHER: John Gosbee

DECEASED MOTHER: Anna T. Steiner

PALLBEARERS: Jesse Jensen, Brandon Jensen, Nathan Scheithauer, Dustin Misener, Steve Mayer, Tom Jochimsen

OTHER INFORMATION: In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be given to the family for a future designation
-For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com 

MARY “DONNA” D.L. TAYLOR

AGE: 81

ADDRESS: W 5986 Old 8 Road, Prentice, WI 54556

PLACE, DATE & TIME OF DEATH: 4:20 PM, Wednesday September 23, 2015 at surrounded by her family at Aspirus Nursing and Rehab, where she had been a resident for the past 26 days.

TIME & PLACE OF SERVICES: 11:00 AM, Monday September 28, 2015 at Word of Life Family Church in Phillips, WI.

OFFICIATING: Pastor Terry Sellers

INTERMENT: Kennan Cemetery in Kennan, WI

VISITATION: 9:00 until the time of services at 11:00 AM Monday September 28, 2015, at Word of Life Family Church in Phillips, WI.

DATE & PLACE OF BIRTH: May 22, 1934 in Nebraska.

EDUCATION: She attended Hawkins Elementary, was a 1953 graduate of Hawkins High School.

MARRIAGE: She married William Wayne Taylor, in November of 1953. He preceded her in death on May 1, 1992.

PRINCIPAL EVENTS IN LIFE: Donna was a home maker. After high school, she married the love of her life, William W. Taylor. They moved to Minnesota for a period of time before settling in Prentice. She enjoyed being outdoors, listening to music, especially Polka, cooking, baking, and spending time with her family and caring for her children and grandchildren.

MEMBER OF: World of Life Family Church of Phillips, and past member of Kennan Methodist Church.

SURVIVING CHILDREN: Raymond (Rose) Taylor of Rib Lake, Kathleen (Tom) Dupin of Longmont, CO, Robert Taylor of Prentice, Roy Taylor of Wausau, Sandra Teeters of Prentice, and Phillip Taylor of Stetsonville.

# OF LIVING GRANDCHILDREN: 12 GR-GRANDCHILDREN: 17 GR. GR. GRANDCHILDREN: 4

BROTHERS/SISTERS DECEASED: Raymond and Lyle Cronk.

DECEASED FATHER: Raymond H. Cronk

DECEASED MOTHER: Mary May Schmidt

PALLBEARERS: Danny Thums, Roy, Samuel, Raymond, Timothy & Robert Taylor
Honorary: William Teeters

OTHER INFORMATION: In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Donna’s family to be designated at a later date.
Hemer Funeral Homes of Medford and Rib Lake assisted the family with arrangements.
-For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com
 

JUNE E. SPIELES

AGE: 97

ADDRESS: W10728 Spieles Lanes, Westboro, Township of Westboro Resident

PLACE, DATE & TIME OF DEATH: 5:00 P.M. Wednesday, September 23 at Care Partners Assisted Living, Medford where she had resided for the past 3 years and under the care of Hope Hospice

TIME & PLACE OF SERVICES: 11:00 A.M. Monday, September 28 at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Rib Lake

OFFICIATING: Father Otto Bucher

INTERMENT: Cremainal Inurnment will take place at a later date in Mt. Olive Cemetery, Westboro

VISITATION: 9:30 A.M. until 10:50 A.M. Monday, September 28 at the Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Rib Lake

DATE & PLACE OF BIRTH: July 20, 1918 on the family homestead in Westboro

EDUCATION: Attended grade school in Westboro and Rib Lake High School

MARRIAGE: August 22, 1938 in Pine City, Minnesota to Roy J. Spieles and he preceded her in death on March 19, 1991

PRINCIPAL EVENTS IN LIFE: They homesteaded on the John Spieles old farm and celebrated their 50th Anniversary there. June spent 34 years selling Christmas trees in Fort Atkinson. She was a songwriter and story teller. June was an avid garage seller and loved nature and the outdoors.

MEMBER OF: North American Hunting Club, National Trappers Association, Taylor County Historical Society and St. Theresa N.C.C.W. Society and Choir. She also traveled to Alaska four times and was a member of the Alaska Geographic Society. June also served as Secretary for the Westboro Centennial in 1974-1975.

SURVIVING CHILDREN: Son: Leroy ‘Spike” (Mary) Spieles of Westboro

6 GRANDCHILDREN

15 GREAT-GRANDCHILDREN

SEVERAL GREAT-GREAT GRANDCHILDREN

DECEASED DAUGHTER: Kathy Geckler

SURVIVING SISTER: Mary (Lawrence) Salzman of Medford
Also survived by Nieces, Nephews, Other Relatives and Friends

BROTHERS/SISTERS DECEASED: 2 Sisters: Edith Archibald and Elynora Ripley

3 Brothers: Bill, Vernon, Edward and Orrie Bundick

DECEASED FATHER: Ray L. Bundick

DECEASED MOTHER: Apprilla E. Bundick (Maiden Name: Pendelton)

PALLBEARERS: Dave Nordgren, Jim Krizan, Ed Hink, David Salzman, Eldred and James Tlusty

OTHER INFORMATION: In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in June’s name to Good Shepherd

Catholic Church 513 State Highway 102 Rib Lake, WI 54470 Hemer Funeral Homes of Medford and Rib Lake is assisting the family with arrangements

-For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com 

Kenneth “Ken” E. McRoberts, age 92, City of Medford resident passed away on September 24, 2015 at the Aspirus Care and Rehab, Medford and under the care of Hope Hospice.

  Kenneth was born on August 29, 1923 in Chemung, Illinois to the late George and Florence (Maiden Name: Jeffrey) McRoberts. The family then moved to Janesville in 1929. Ken attended Dillenbeck School in Janesville and graduated from Janesville High School in 1941. He was employed by Gilman Engineering until entering the U.S. Navy on October 12, 1943. He served aboard the destroyer, USS Phelps in 4 battle zones, the Pacific, Atlantic and the Mediterranean for 15 months and aboard the aircraft carrier, USS Randolph for 15 months in Atlantic and Mediterranean. After his discharge from the U.S. Navy, Ken returned to Janesville and was employed by Gilman Engineering and Parker Pen. He was united in marriage on August 14, 1948 to Valerie C. Nelson at the Methodist Church in Johnson Creek.     He then enrolled at Milton College and received his Bachelor’s Degree cum Laude in 1953 and then received his Master’s Degree from U-W Madison in 1959. Ken contracted with Janesville Public Schools to teach handicapped children at a high school level where he developed a work study program. After 10 years, he became a demonstration teacher at UW-Eau Claire. In addition he served as a psychologist for the Eau Claire County Youth Study. He was also Director of Christian Education at Lake Street United Methodist Church in Eau Claire. After 2 years he contracted with CESA 6 (Cooperative Education Service Agency) that was comprised of 19 school districts) as school psychologist and Special Education Director.   He left that position to accept Director of Dane County program for handicapped children. He moved from that program after 7 years to take the Director of Special Education with the Medford Public Schools. Ken retired from that position after 8 years in 1986. He enjoyed woodworking, motorhome traveling, camping and was an avid reader. He was a former member of the Medford Public Library Board, school board election canvas, Chequamegon Bird Club, Boxrucker-Berry American Legion Post #519, Stetsonville, the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, American Association of Mental Disabilities, The Boy Scouts of America in Janesville and Eau Claire and Northernlights WITS (Motorhome Club).

  Survivors Include: Wife: Valerie McRoberts of 67 years, of Medford; 6 Children: Jeffrey ( Brenda Germain) of New Richmond, Julie of Madison, Kenton Scott of Madison, Quentin (Lori) of Lodi, Ellyn Bartelt of Chippewa Falls and Sarah Buehler of Elk Mound and Winter. He is also survived by 12 Grandchildren and 15 Great-Grandchildren, Sister: Florence Schmidt of Rhinelander. Kenneth is preceded in death by his parents, Son: Martin Ross Mc Roberts in 1994, 3 Brothers: George, Wallace and Harold Mc Roberts and 2 Sisters: Elizabeth Keith and Lorraine McRoberts.
  A Celebration of Kenneth’s Life will be held at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, October 1 at the Hemer Funeral Home, Medford with full military honors performed by the Boxrucker-Berry American Legion Post #519, Stetsonville. Pastor David Clements will be officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. until 10:50 A.M. Thursday, October 1 at the Hemer Funeral Home, Medford. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Kenneth’s family that will be made to the Medford Public Library. For online condolences please visit hemerfuneralservice.com

Harley L. Johnson, age 75, of Colby, passed away on Tuesday, September 15, 2015 at Ministry Saint Josephs Hospital in Marshfield. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 10, 2015 at First United Church of Christ in Colby. Pastor Teri Hanson will officiate. Inurnment to follow at Colby Memorial Cemetery with Military Honors provided by Colby VFW post #2227. Family and friends are welcome from 10:00 AM until time of service Saturday at the church.

  Harley was born on April 16, 1940, the son of Salem and Edythe (Engblom) Johnson in Spokesville, Clark County. He graduated from Colby High School in 1958. Harley enlisted in the US Army in 1958 and was stationed in Germany until his honorable discharge in 1961. He was united in marriage to Miriam Kilty on June 27, 1964 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Unity. Harley worked for the manufacturing housing industry for many years.

  Harley enjoyed spending his summers at their cabin in Chetek, fishing, bowling, reading (especially Civil War history), observing birds and wildlife, and cheering on the Green Bay Packers. His special pet was his cat Delilah. He was most known for his "dopey joke" of the day.

  Harley is survived by his wife of 51 years, Miriam of Colby; nieces and nephews: Debbie (Ron) Johnson of Batesville, IN, Mike (Cheryl) Kilty of Abbotsford, Patrick (Debbie) Kilty of Colby, Mark (Bev) Kilty of Colby and Connie (Ken) Ven Rooy of Colby; a brother-in-law, Merlin Kilty of Owen, other relatives and friends.

  He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Gilbert and a sister, Elaine Wheatley.

  Memorials can be given to the Clark County Humane Society.

  Rodger C. Wright, 71 of Jump River, died Thursday, October 1,

2015 at his home with his family by his side under the care of Hope
Hospice. He was born on July 4, 1944 to the late George and
Audrey (Rose) Wright. Rodger grew up in the area attending
Woodprairie and Jump River grade schools and graduated from
Hannibal High in 1962. On August 17, 1963 he was united in
marriage to Doreen Berg in Cornell.
  Rodger started out farming, logged in the winter and worked for
Jump River Electric for 38 ½ years. His passion was for the
outdoors. Hunting here in Wisconsin and out west for big game
and snowmobiling. In 2000, he built a cabin in the mountains of
Dubois, Wyoming. He also spent countless hours riding his Harley.
  He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Doreen of Jump River, his
children, Dawn (Barry) Reidner of Dorchester, Sherri (Russ
Westrich) Wright and Kevin (Chrisie) Wright both of Jump River,
one grandson, Jason Reidner, his grand dogs, Gunner, Minnie,
Trixie and Buddy, two brothers, Mike (Debbie) Wright of Jump
River and Rocky (Debbie) Wright of Minnesota and many nieces
and nephews. Rodger is preceded in death by his parents and his
sister Barbara Foster.
  A memorial service will be at 11AM on Saturday, October 10, 2015
at Christ Community Church of Jump River with Pastor Joey Olsen
officiating. Inurnment will take place later in Mt. Nebo Cemetery. A
memorial visitation will be Friday from 4 until 8 PM at the Gilman
Funeral Home and Saturday morning from 10AM until time of
service at the church in Jump River.

WILMA M. ZASTROW

AGE: 87

ADDRESS: 600 E. Elm Street Abbotsford; Former City of Medford Resident

PLACE, DATE & TIME OF DEATH: 9:54 A.M. Sunday, October 4 at the Golden Living Center, Abbotsford where she had resided for the past 3 years.

TIME & PLACE OF SERVICES: 11:00 A.M. Saturday, October 10 at the Hemer Funeral Home, Medford

OFFICIATING: Deacon Joseph Stefancin

INTERMENT: Cremainal Inurnment will take place in St. Mary’s Cemetery in the Township of Little Black

VISITATION: 10:00 A.M. until 10:50 A.M. Saturday, October 10 at the Hemer Funeral Home, Medford

DATE & PLACE OF BIRTH: June 22, 1928 in the Township of Little Black

EDUCATION: Attended grade school at Holy Rosary, Medford graduate of Wilmette High School in Illinois and received advanced education in Bookkeeping

MARRIAGE: January 24, 1957 at Decorah, Iowa to Gerald W. Zastrow and he preceded her in death on May 22, 2007

PRINCIPAL EVENTS IN LIFE: Wilma worked at Mondeaux Millwork for a period of time. She worked at Tombstone Pizza and then started in April 1977 at Time Federal as a teller until her retirement on April 30, 1991. She enjoyed gardening, canning, making maple syrup, camping, fishing and especially her family.

MEMBER OF: Holy Rosary Catholic Church

SURVIVING CHILDREN: 2 Daughters: Kelly (Randy) Temanson of Stratford and Jeanne (David) Baxter of Germantown
2 Sons: John (Jane) Zastrow of Spencer and Gary Zastrow of Madison

11 GRANDCHILDREN

SURVIVING SISTERS: Lucille Drost of Minnesota, Mary (Bill) Luterbach of Merrill and Rita (Sam) Way of Medford

SISTER DECEASED: Jeanne Surman

DECEASED FATHER: Paul Schupp

DECEASED MOTHER: Mary B. Schupp (Maiden Name: Kellnhofer)

OTHER INFORMATION: In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Wilma’s family to be designated at a later date
-For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com

JERRE L. FORBES   

AGE:  77

ADDRESS:  1129 Landall Avenue, Rib Lake, WI  54470

PLACE, DATE & TIME OF DEATH:  5:25 AM, Monday, October 5 at Golden Living-Rib Lake where he had been residing for the past 2 months

TIME & PLACE OF SERVICES: 10:00 AM Thursday, October 8 at Woodland Community Church, Westboro where there will also be military rites performed by the Westboro VFW military honors team

OFFICIATING:  Pastor Len Robinson

INTERMENT:  Interment of his cremated remains will take place at Lakeview Cemetery, Rib Lake 

VISITATION:  Woodland Community Church, Westboro from 9 AM until the time of services at 10 AM on Thursday, October 8

DATE & PLACE OF BIRTH: September 22, 1938 at San Antonio, Texas

EDUCATION: graduate of Artesia High School, Artesia, New Mexico; Bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas; Master’s degree from Texas A & M University in College Station, Texas

MARRIAGE: November 17, 1968 in North Bend, Washington to Jane Steinke and she survives

PRINCIPAL EVENTS IN LIFE: US Navy veteran of the Vietnam War having served from 1961-1968.  After his education, he worked as an inspector of nuclear plants for American Nuclear Insurers while residing in Windsor Locks, CT until retirement in 2006.  In 2008, they moved to Rib Lake, WI to be near family.  He did foster care of children for 25 years.  He served as chairman of the board of the National Nuclear Regulatory Commission for a period of time.  He enjoyed his family, tools, reading, his personal library & bible study groups.

MEMBER OF:  Woodland Community Church, Westboro; Gideon’s International & did prison ministry through the Gideon’s organization; Past member of Windsor Locks Congregation, Windsor Locks, CT;

SURVIVING SPOUSE:  Jane Forbes of Rib Lake, WI

SURVIVING CHILDREN:  Rebeccah (Dave) Hopkins of Rib Lake, Chris (Jen) Forbes of North Haven, CT, Devon (Kara) Forbes of Windsor Locks, CT

CHILDREN DECEASED:  Son – Josean R. Forbes in 2013

# OF LIVING GRANDCHILDREN:  14      

DECEASED FATHER:  Lynn F. Forbes    

DECEASED MOTHER:  Nellye R. Yeates

URNBEARER:  John Henry Hopkins

OTHER INFORMATION:  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be given to Woodland Community Church in Westboro

-For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com 

Janet B. Barnett, age 85, Dorchester, passed away Tuesday, October 6, 2015 at Ministry Saint Joseph's Hospital in Marshfield, WI. Memorial service will be held Monday, October 12, at 11:00 am at the Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home, 203 North Fourth Street, Abbotsford, WI. Visitation will be held 10:00 am until time of service at funeral home.

  Janet was born June 6, 1930 in Eagle River, WI to Bruno and Jenny (Johnson) Ewald. Janet attended Eagle River schools and Randolph High School. She was united in marriage to August Barnett on March 31, 1948 in Randolph, WI. Janet resided in Beaver Dam, Eau Claire, Abbotsford, Eagle River for 2 years and then back to Abbotsford. She worked various jobs the most recent being a library assistant for the Abbotsford Public Library.
  She loved to garden and watch the Milwaukee Brewers.
  Janet is survived by her four children; Michael (Sue) Barnett of Madison, Lynn Gabriel of Wausau, Mark (Nancy) Barnett of Appleton, and Ellie (Dave) Block of Dorchester, six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She is further survived by a sister; Eileen Brower of Beaver Dam.
Janet is preceded in death by her parents, her husband; August Barnett on May 4, 2006, daughter; Vicki Barnett and siblings; Hiram Carl Ewald and Helen Ewald Peters.
  Family and friends can make online condolences to www.maurinaschilling.com

ELMER G. BLASEL

AGE: 88

ADDRESS: Aspirus Care and Rehab Center, Medford, WI; A former Town of Little Black resident.

PLACE, DATE & TIME OF DEATH: 9:10 AM, Wednesday October 7, 2015 at Aspirus Care and Rehab, Medford where he resided at for the past three years.

TIME & PLACE OF SERVICES: 11:00 AM, Saturday, October 10, 2015 at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, Stetsonville, WI.

OFFICIATING: Rev. James Babler

INTERMENT: Zion Evangelical Lutheran Cemetery, Stetsonville, WI

VISITATION: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Friday October 9, 2015 at Hemer Funeral Home, Medford, and also from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM, Saturday, October 10, 2015 at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, Stetsonville, WI.

DATE & PLACE OF BIRTH: May 11, 1927 in the Town of Deer Creek, WI.

EDUCATION: He attended Stetsonville Elementary School, and graduated from Medford High School in 1945.

MARRIAGE: Married to Ilaine P. Brink on June 9, 1951 at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Stetsonville.

PRINCIPAL EVENTS IN LIFE: After his education, he worked at Peterson Construction. Then he farmed in the Town of Little Black for many years, until retiring in 2008. While farming he worked at Eggert Lime Company for a period of time. He enjoyed farm auctions, playing cards, traveling, and farming.

MEMBER OF: Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, where he served on the Church Council for a period of time.

SURVIVING SPOUSE: Ilaine P. Blasel of Medford.

SURVIVING CHILDREN: Susan (James) Stahl of Winneconne, David (Betty) Blasel of Stetsonville, Jeanne (David) Tlusty of Deerbrook, Peggy Blasel of Stetsonville, and Dennis (Amy) Blasel of Medford.

# OF LIVING GRANDCHILDREN: 16 GR-GRANDCHILDREN: 10

SURVIVING BROTHERS/SISTERS: Sisters - Edna Porter of Plover, Florence Jarvis of Menomonee Falls, Arlene (Harvey) Dassow of Wauwatosa; Half-Sisters: Alice (Don) Nelson of Stevens Point, Doris (Bruce) Dietze of Medford; Half-Brother: Allen (Sue) Blasel of Plymouth.

SIBLINGS DECEASED: Infant Brother, Chester Blasel.& Sister, Norma Lake

SURVIVING PARENTS: Step-Mother: Leona Blasel of Stetsonville.

DECEASED FATHER: Edwin R. Blasel

DECEASED MOTHER: Hattie Korth

PALLBEARERS: Grandsons: Matthew Stahl, Jayson Blasel, Peter Blasel, Michael Tlusty, Jeremy Blasel, Nicholas Blasel

OTHER INFORMATION: In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family for a future designation
-For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com 

BETTY JANE KAAT

AGE: 84

ADDRESS: 1000 Kennedy St. Lot. 108 Rib Lake, WI

PLACE, DATE & TIME OF DEATH: 6:10 P.M. Thursday, October 8, 2015 at her residence with her family and under the care of Hope Hospice

INTERMENT: Cremainal Inurnment will take place at a later date at Lakeview Cemetery in Rib Lake

DATE & PLACE OF BIRTH: July 28, 1931 in Jefferson

EDUCATION: Betty attended school in Wisconsin and Connecticut

MARRIAGE: In August of 1985, Betty married Donald Kaat and he preceded her in death on May 1, 2013

PRINCIPAL EVENTS IN LIFE: At the age of 15, Betty worked in the tobacco industry in Connecticut for a period of time. She then moved to Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin where she worked at various jobs for a period of time. Betty then settled in Rib Lake where she worked at various local businesses. She enjoyed sewing, knitting and cooking and she liked to dance.

MEMBER OF: past President of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary in Glastbury, Connecticut

SURVIVING CHILDREN: Bertha Goodale of Rib Lake and Mary-Ann (Fiancé: Greg Henze) Goodale of Fort Atkinson

CHILDREN DECEASED: Son: Frank E. Goodale Jr. on September 6, 2015

# OF LIVING GRANDCHILDREN: David & Steve Ingwell & Benjamin Goodale all of Fort Atkinson

SURVIVING BROTHERS/SISTERS: Chester (Rosemary) Fleck Jr. of Fort Atkinson & Shirley (Bill) Brandt of Janesville

BROTHERS/SISTERS DECEASED: Janet Fleck in infancy

DECEASED FATHER: Chester Henry Fleck

DECEASED MOTHER: Marian Martha Bussler

OTHER INFORMATION: In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Betty’s family to be designated at a later date.
-For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com 

Harlan Everett Prestien, age 87, of Unity, passed away Sunday, October 11, 2015 at Ministry Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield. A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, October 13 at 6:00 PM the Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford. Family and friends are welcome from 4:00 PM until the time of the service on Tuesday, at the Funeral Home in Abbotsford. Interment will be in Waterloo, IA on Wednesday.

  Harlan was born on April 17, 1928 to Everett and Hilda (Bauer) Prestien in Iowa. Harlan was united in marriage to Norma Lantz on October 23, 1949 in Tripoli, IA.

  Harlan was passionate about polka music. He enjoyed watching Mollie B. polka on Saturday night. He also enjoyed milking cows, and hated to give up farming. He loved to bowl in Abbotsford and Colby and also dance. Harlan loved to spend time with his children and grandchildren. Harlan liked to watch sports, especially the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers and the Wisconsin Badgers.

  Harlan is lovingly survived by his wife; Norma, his children; John Prestien of Unity and Daniel (Marlene) Prestien of Black Creek; his grandchildren; Diedre Kolbeck, D.J., Molly, Meredith and Deven and one great-grandchild; Angela Kolbeck. He is further survived by his sisters; Delores and Judy.

  Harlan is preceded in death by his parents, one brothers and one sister.

  Donna M. Pabich, age 63, passed away at Ministry St. Joseph's Hospital in Marshfield. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, October 14, 2015 at St. Bernard's Catholic Church in Abbotsford. Father Peter Manickam will officiate. Interment to be held in the Abbotsford Public Cemetery. Family and friends are welcome from 10:00 AM until time of service Wednesday at the church.

  Donna was born on April 9, 1952 in Owen, the daughter Frank and Mary (Henzel) Pabich. The family moved from Owen to Milwaukee and back to Abbotsford. She was born premature or as Donna would say "miniature". Her life was a miracle and she impacted many including her caregivers beyond words.

  Donna took pride in her work at the Clark County Rehabilitation and Living Center. Her faith was important to her and she was always at Mass. She also expressed her caring for others by making cards for different occasions. Donna enjoyed attending badger camp, liked to fish, and loved dogs!

  Donna is survived by her two brothers: Alex (Judy) Pablich of Loudon, TN and Edward (Faerie) Pabich of Colleyville, TX; many nieces and nephews; cousins, other relatives and many friends.

She was preceded in death by parents; her sisters: Mary Ann Hollman, and Leona Jaeger, and her brother, Frank Pabich Jr.