Marion E. Ridpath, age 86, of Owen, passed away on Monday, March 23, 2020 at Clark County Rehabilitation and Living Center.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 16 at St. Katherine’s Episcopal Church in Owen. The Rev. Tony Ring will officiate. Family and friends are welcome from 10:00 a.m. until time of service Friday at the church. We encourage those in attendance to abide by the Covid-19 guidelines by sanitizing, wearing a mask and social distancing. Family and friends can watch the service live on the funeral home’s Facebook page or after service anytime on Facebook or the website.

Marion was born on September 23, 1933, the daughter of Sherman and Anna (Newman) Long in Curtiss. She graduated from Owen High School. Marion was united in marriage to William Ridpath on March 3, 1951 at St. Katherine’s Episcopal Church. He preceded her in death in 1980. Marion worked at Owen Manufacturing, Amacher’s Trading Post and the IGA in Owen.

Marion loved St. Katherine’s and her church friends meant a lot to her. She was always making cookies for the cookie walk at Christmas. Marion also made pillows for the homeless Vets until her family told her to stop as there was a stockpile. She also baked cookies for the fire department. Marion enjoyed her pets but most importantly, she cherished her family.

Marion is survived by her four children: Rodney (Chris) Ridpath, Debra (John) Mayenschein, Jeffrey (Jan) Ridpath and Dawn Ridpath; six grandchildren: Eric (Heidi) Venet, Brandon Ridpath, Kaleb Ridpath, Jesse Wolk, Ashley (Dustin) Zilmer and Adam Wolk; three step-grandchildren: Curtiss (Elise) Mayenschein, Ashleigh Gayenschein and Jessica (Russell) Throckmorton; eight great-grandchildren: Bailey, Kayla and Rayden Venet, Megan, McKenzie and Aubrey Wolk, Mackenna and Alaric Zilmer; two step-great-grandchildren: Lily and Sam Throckmorton. She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her son, Bradley James; a great-granddaughter, Morgan; four siblings: Betty Meyer, Dorothy Rohland, Joyce Malm and Sherman Long and a brother-in-law, Charles Ridpath.

In lieu of flowers all memorials can be made to St. Katherine’s or Clark Co. Rehab and Living Center.

Cecilia L. Schmidt, age 97, of Colby, passed away on Tuesday, October 13, 2020 at the Waterford under the tender care of St. Croix Hospice.

A private family Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 16, 2020 at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Abbotsford. Father Timothy Oudenhoven will officiate. Interment to follow at Dorchester Memorial Cemetery South. Family and friends can watch the service live on the funeral home’s Facebook page or after service anytime on Facebook or the website. Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home of Abbotsford is entrusted with the arrangements.

Cecilia was born on January 29, 1923, the daughter of Anton and Pauline (Gass) Helfert in the Town of Holton. She was united in marriage to Theodore Schmidt on June 3, 1941 at St. Louis Catholic Church in Dorchester. He preceded her in death on March 5, 2001.

Cecilia played the accordion and keyboard and entertained many in nursing homes, at weddings, showers, birthday parties and during Dorchester Days. She also was a housekeeper, enjoyed gardening and canning. Cecilia was a member of St. Bernard PCCW and the Holton Homemakers. The first Saturday in June will always be known as Cecilia Schmidt Day in the Town of Holton. Most importantly, she cherished her family.

Cecilia is survived by five children: Daniel (Dorothy) of Mosinee, Alan (Kathy) of Windsor, Colleen Wegner of Alexandria, MN, William (Jeri) of Abbotsford and Aaron (Ellen) of Thorp; 14 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She is further survived by a sister-in-law, Beatrice Helfert of Colby; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; five brothers: Joseph, Carl, Anthony, Paul and Nick; two sisters: Agnes Bartnik and Marie Kugel.

Pauline K. Kelly, 103, of Rib Lake, passed away on Wednesday, October 7, 2020 in Medford at Aspirus Care and Rehab.

Pauline was born on August 5, 1917 to Edward and Mary (Tirpeck) Miller in Westboro. She attended Rindt Grade School. She married Frank Kelly on May 29, 1937 in Chelsea Assumption of The Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church; he precedes her in death.

Pauline worked along with her husband taking care of their dairy farm. She also worked at the Rib Lake nursing home for 6 years, working in the kitchen. She was a past member of the Westboro Homemaker Club, leader of the Skyline 4H Club, and a member of the Westboro Library Board.

In her spare time, Pauline enjoyed spending hours sewing for many individuals and organizations, traveling up north and out west, and berry picking.

Pauline is survived by her children, Pat (Roy) Vessley of Medford, Daniel Kelly of The Yaak Valley, Montana, Jeanene Kelly of Westboro, and Jason Jackson of Wisconsin Rapids; 15 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; 6 great-great-grandchildren. She is further survived by other family and friends.

Pauline is preceded in death by her husband, parents, daughter Kathleen Miller, brothers, and sisters.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com.

Arlan R. Hamm was called home to be with his Lord October 14, 2020 at Oakbrook Nursing Home in Thorp, WI.

Arlan was born December 13, 1938 in the township of Mayville, Clark, Co. to Frank and Mildred (Neitzel) Hamm. He attended Brady Grade School and Dorchester High School. He went to heavy equipment school in Pennsylvania. He also attended Lay School of Ministry of northwest Synod of WI.

Arlan was a lifelong member of St. Paul’s Lutheran in Curtiss, he served as the council President, Sunday School Teacher, and Confirmation Leader for many years. He also served as the village President, and the town of Hoard Treasurer. Arlan worked as a carpenter at Pathfinder Spencer and Liberty Homes of Dorchester. Then he farmed west of Curtiss on Romadka Ave. until 1993. He also drove delivery truck for Curtiss Metal Connection and Marge’s Flowers.

His passion was growing flowers, cooking and helping everyone out. He enjoyed playing dartball with friends, playing cards with Aunt Hannah, and watching WWF wrestling with his nephews Kris and Kenny. He loved eating popcorn and laughing.

Arlan is survived by a brother: Gary (June) Hamm of Curtiss, a sister: Donna (Duane) Schmidt of Stanley, and many nieces and Nephews: Sherry Looker and family of Rochester, MN, Julie Fink and family Rochester, MN, Jeff (Lois) Fischer and family of Colby, David (Reshell) Fischer of Jim Falls, Kristin Schmidt and family of Abbotsford, Janet (Tony) Schmidt and family of Chippewa Falls, and Rev. Kenneth (Sarah) Schmidt and family of Stanley; and 16 great nieces and nephews and many cousins.

Arlan is preceded in death by his parents and his sister: Judy Klemke and husband Larry.

A private Service will be held at St. Paul’s Lutheran in Curtiss on October 24, at 11:00 a.m.. Family and friends can watch the service live on the funeral home’s Facebook page or after service anytime on Facebook or the website.

A Celebration of Life will be at a later date because of covid.

Heartfelt thanks to the staff at Oakbrook Home for their care and love for Arlan these past four years. Dementia is a tough disease to deal with.

John E. C. Swanson, 80, Medford, WI, a Township of Hammel resident, died on Wednesday, October 21 at his residence under the loving care of his family and Hope Hospice.

There will be a public visitation for John from 4-7 PM on Tuesday, October 27 at Hemer Funeral Home, Medford.  There will also be a short military rites service performed by the Medford Area Military Honors Team at 5 PM.  Due to COVID concerns, masks will be required while in the funeral home.

John was born on October 13, 1940 at St. Cloud, MN, the son of Elmer C. and Doris L. (Schultz) Swanson.  He attended Foley, MN elementary schools and was a graduate of Foley High School.  His marriage to Ruth A. Graham took place on October 14, 1962 in Ralston, NB and she preceded him in death on May 12, 2004.

After his education, he entered the US Air Force and served from 1959 to 1971.  After the military, he returned to Medford and worked as a mechanic at Medford Motors.  For a short while, he co-owned and operated Rief Motors in Medford.  He then returned to Medford Motors and worked until his retirement in 2004.  He enjoyed fishing, wood working, camping, stock car races, gardening and bowling.  He was a member of the Esadore Lake Association.

He is survived by his daughters, Carol (Willis) Ziemer, Debbi (Greg) Hartwig both of Medford and Kristina Jaja of Marshfield, grandchildren, Sean & Ann Hartwig both of Medford and Cori Lanier of Marshfield, along with a brother, Gary (Jane) Swanson of Foley, MN.  He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, brother, Donald Swanson and domestic partner, Judy Inman.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be given to the family for a future designation.  Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family.  For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com. 

Gerald “Jerry” “Chops” R. Strebig, 68, a Town of Browning resident died on Sunday, October 25 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital, where he had been a patient for the past 4 days.

There will be a public visitation for Jerry from 9 to 11 AM on Wednesday, October 28 at Hemer Funeral Home, Medford.  Due to COVID concerns, masks will be requested for attendance.  A private interment will take place at Our Saviours Lutheran Church Cemetery, Town of Holway.  Pallbearers will be family members.

Jerry was born on April 1, 1952 at Medford, the son of Roland O. and Alvera E. (Steiner) Strebig.  He went to Holway Elementary School and attended Medford High School.  His marriage to Patsy Hoffmann took place on October 10, 1970 in Medford and they were later divorced.  He then married Patty L. Ziembo on February 19, 2000 at Ripon, WI.

After his education, he did logging work, drove milk truck, was a owner/operator long haul trucker,  Merrill Cranberry Marsh, Meir’s Tree Service of Green Lake, WI, Miller Brothers, Bauer Trucking, owned and operated Jerry’s Black Bear Bar in Westboro and Rib River Bar and Grill in Interwald and was presently employed at T-N-T Hauling of Medford.  He enjoyed softball, snowmobile racing, NASCAR, all types of hunting including bear.  He was a member of the Rib Lake Fish and Game, Whitetails Unlimited, Little Lakes Memories of Irma and the Wild Turkey Federation.

Surviving along with his wife Patty Strebig of Medford are his son, Scott (Krista) Strebig of Medford, grandchildren, Marshall (Brenna) Strebig of Kimberly, Shealyn Strebig of Phillips and Garrett Strebig of Las Vegas.  Also a great grandson, Michael John Wiemer of Phillips.  Other survivors include his step children, Ray (Nancy) Duerr of Rib Lake and Bob (Molly) Duerr of Minnesota, step grandchildren, Morgan & Hailey Duerr of Rib Lake, Samanatha Duerr of Stetsonville, Alex & Zach Duerr of Minnesota and step great grandchild, Ashlyn Switlick of Stetsonville.  His surviving siblings are Evelyn (Wayne) Lee of Minocqua, Jack (Rosie) Strebig of Medford, Dan (Carol) Strebig of St. Petersburg, FL, Bill (Judy) Strebig of Mosinee, Robert Strebig of St. Francis, MN, Margie S.D. of Colorado and Roland Strebig, Jr. of Medford.  He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Michael J. Strebig in 1993.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be given to the family for a future designation.  Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family.  For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com.

Elmer E. Gayhart, Jr., 77, of Medford, passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2020 at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau.

Elmer was born on January 3, 1943 to Elmer Sr. and Cecelia (Hilden) Gayhart in Wabeno, WI. He attended Wabeno Schools and UW-Oshkosh. He graduated from Milwaukee School of Engineering with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He married Dorothy M Lois at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in New Munster on October 30, 1965; she survives.

Elmer worked for Evinrude Motors in Milwaukee, before moving to Medford in 1972. Once in Medford he worked for Conseco and later, Enerquip. He then started his own business, Central Design Inc., which allowed him to travel the world, before retiring in 1998.

In retirement, Elmer still worked side jobs on old projects from Central Design. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, time at the cabin, reading, and spending time with his family and friends. His grandchildren were his pride and joy. He was a huge Green Bay Packer fan and an avid sportsman, which he passed down to his children and grandchildren. He also enjoyed playing softball for many years and wild game feeds that he would put on with Dorothy. He will always be remembered for his infectious laugh and larger than life personality.

In addition to his wife, Dorothy, Elmer is survived by his children, Lisa M. (John) Shear of Medford, Renee A. Gayhart of Juneau, AK; grandchildren, Mikaila G. Shear of Oshkosh, John F. Shear of Wausau, Alec M. Shear of La Crosse, and Gavin Gayhart Millard of Juneau, AK; sister-in-law Janice Gayhart of Kewaunee; brothers-in-law Leonard (Carol) Lois, James (Marilyn) Lois, and Donald Lois, all of Burlington. Elmer is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

Elmer was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Nancy Vanderbur, and brother, James Gayhart.

A memorial service for Elmer will take place at 11:00 on Friday, October 30, 2020 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, with Father Patrick McConnell officiating. Visitation will take place on Friday, October, 30, 2020 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM.

Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family.  For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com.

Dorothy Marie Baumgartner, age 91, of Colby, passed away Tuesday, October 27, 2020 at her home with her family by her side and under the tender care of Aspirus Comfort Care hospice.

Dorothy was born July 29, 1929; the daughter of William and Evelyn (Carpenter) Young, in Colby. Dorothy was united in marriage to Vernon Baumgartner on June 25, 1949 in Colby, WI. Vern preceded her in death on November 13, 2018. Dorothy worked at St. Mary’s Catholic School as a cook and also made Christmas wreaths for Church for many years.

Dorothy was a member of St. Mary’s Parish and PCCW in Colby. Every weekend Vern and Dorothy would head up to their cabin on Pier Lake near Tripoli. That’s where she enjoyed trout fishing on Thunder Creek. She also enjoyed bowling, golfing and sewing.

Dorothy is survived by her children: Diane (Donald) Jacquart of Delafield, WI, David (Wanda) of Elk River, MN and Dennis (Mary) of Colby, WI; 11 grandchildren: Leslie (Matthew) Young of Waterford, WI, Paul (Christy) Jacquart of Whitefish Bay, WI, Toni (Kevin) Hogan of Westminster, CO, Lori (Travis) Deters of Otsego, MN, Mike (Brenna) Baumgartner of Monticello, MN, Scot (Liz) Baumgartner of Colby, Jessica (Brent) Haas of Unity, Ashley (Matt) Hibberd of St. Louis, MO, Megan Baker of Milwaukee, WI, Jared Baker of Merrill, WI and Breanna Baker of St. Louis, MO; 21 great-grandchildren: Dominic, Savannah, Matt and Audrey; Annabelle and Alec; Ava, Noah and Jonas; Reid and Beau; Kya, Brody, Stella and Ruby; Luke, Caleb, Ezra and Levi; and William and Claire. She is further survived by her brother, Louis (Joan) Young of Colby; and many nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Dorothy is preceded in death by the infant twin sons of David and Wanda Baumgartner, her parents, her husband, her brothers: Bill and Dick and her sisters: Marge, Shirley and Carol.

The family of Dorothy Baumgartner wants to send a special thank you to her caregivers: Mary, Bonnie, Viki, Izzy and her special nurses at Aspirus Hospice for the amazing job they did caring for her.

In lieu of flowers, family request donations to the St. Mary’s School.

There are no events scheduled. You can still show your support by planting a tree in memory of Dorothy Marie Baumgartner.

James “Jim” L. Faber, 80, Town of Bern, passed away on Wednesday, October 28, 2020 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

Jim was born on December 23, 1939 in Goodrich to Peter and Leone (Marschner) Faber. He married Donna Gallistel on January 31, 1962. They were married for 58 years.

Jim enjoyed hunting, snowmobiling, old western movies and spending time with his family. He was very proud to be the youngest of ten siblings. He was a driver for Leffel trucking for many years.  He has left his family and friends with many wonderful memories.

Survivors include his loving wife, Donna; his daughter, Norma (Tracy) Sossaman of Dorchester; Granddaughters, Kate (Arik) Tischendorf of Wausau and Rachel (Matthew) Obrock of Columbia City, IN and Great Granddaughter Obrock to be born in November of 2020. Jim is further survived his brother-in-law, Lyle Dahl, and sister in-laws, Jacqueline and Rose Faber, many nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, seven brothers, Peter (Theresia), Norbert (Myrtle), Everett (Marie), Harley, Gene (Betty), Willard, Robert (Estelle) and two sisters, Bernita Dahl and Carol (Elmer) Riemann.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, November 6, 2020 at St. Andrews Cemetery in Goodrich with Rev. Kenneth Bittorf officiating. Social distancing will be observed and face masks will be required to attend.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be given to Jim’s family to be designated at a later time.

Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake have been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice.com.

Jonathan A. Lyne, 43 of Jump River, passed away from natural causes at his home on Thursday, October 29, 2020.

He was born on January 17, 1977 in Milwaukee to Robert and Linda (Hafemann) Lyne. His family moved to the Gilman area when he was a young boy and he went to Gilman Schools. Jon worked for Norco for a time and then drove truck for Pioneer. He was an avid collector: Transformers, Matchbox Cars and Star Wars memorabilia. Jon was a true animal lover and had a cat: Misty. He also enjoyed his time on the Jet Ski.

Jon is survived by his mother, Linda Lyne of Jump River, his sister, Renee (Jeff) Burton of Gilman, his nieces, Kasee and Kylee and other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his father, Robert in 2019 and his grandparents, George and Gladys Hafemann and Arlis and Molly Lyne.

A memorial service will be held at 7PM on Tuesday, November 3, 2020 at the Gilman Funeral Home. Rev. Jeremy Allard will officiate. Visitation will be from 5PM until time of service. 

Dean R. Tesch, 58, a Township of Deer Creek resident, died on Saturday, October 31 at his residence in the Township of Deer Creek under the loving care of his family and Hope Hospice.

Funeral services for Dean will take place at 10 AM on Saturday, November 7 at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church, Medford with Rev. Mark Gass officiating.  Interment will be at 3 PM that day at Town of Forest Cemetery, Fond du Lac, WI with Rev. Daniel Iwinski officiating.  There will be a public visitation at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church, Medford from 4-7 PM  on Friday, November 6 and from 9 AM until the time of services at 10 AM on Saturday, November 7. Due to COVID concerns, masks and social distancing will be required at the visitation and services.

Dean was born on March 28, 1962 at Appleton, WI, the son of LaWellyn H. and Janet V. (Vetter) Tesch.  He was baptized, confirmed and received his elementary education at Bethlehem Lutheran Church & School in Hortonville, WI.  He was a 1980 graduate of Fox Valley High School, Appleton, 1984 graduate of Dr. Martin Luther College, New Ulm, MN with a BS degree in elementary education, and a 1988 graduate of UW-Oshkosh with a Masters degree in elementary education.  In 2000, he received his Certified Financial Planner designation.  

His marriage to Debra Ann Grunwald took place on June 30, 1984 at Salem Ev. Lutheran Church, Sturgeon Bay, WI.

After his education, he moved to Medford and worked as an elementary school teacher at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran School from 1984-1989.  In 1989, he established Tesch Financial Services and operated that until the time of his death.  Dean served on many boards including:  from 2006 to present, director and chairman of Taylor Electric Cooperative, 1994-2015, director, Taylor Credit Union, Stetsonville Community Center board, 2015-2019, director, Dairyland Power, 2015 to present, director and chairman, National Rural Utilities Co-op Finance Corporation.  Dean was a member of Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church, Medford where he served as organist, choir director from 1990-1999, hand bell director from 1992-2008 and 2014-2020.  His special interests include, music, playing organ, leading Bible study groups, driving his tractor and maintaining their cabin in Holway. He was a member of the 5-4-1 acapella church group and Sojourner music group.

Surviving are his wife, Debra Tesch of Stetsonville and his father, LaWellyn (Yolanda) Tesch of Appleton.  He is also survived by numerous cousins.  He was preceded in death by his mother, Janet (Vetter) Tesch and grandparents, Wilbur & Gertrude Vetter, Fred & Eden Tesch.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the family for the establishment of a Dean Tesch Charitable Fund.  Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family.  For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com.

Judith D. Gallistel, 78, of Medford, passed away on November 1, 2020 at Abbotsford Health Care Center, under the care of Hope Hospice.

Judith was born on January 18, 1942 to Ralph and Hildegarde (Dassow) Jari in Medford. She attended Medford Area Schools and furthered her education at Humboldt Institute in Minneapolis. She married James E. Gallistel on April 18, 1964 in Medford; he precedes her in death.

Judith worked at Tombstone Pizza and Hope Hospice.

In her spare time Judith enjoyed crafting, rubber stamping, and spoiling her pets.

Judith is survived by her sons, Jeffrey (Shelley) of Yermo, CA and Thomas of Medford; grandchildren, Kaeda, Justin, and Gordon; brothers, Rodney (Linda) Jari of Omro, Randy, Steve, and David Jari, all of Medford. Judith is further survived by many other family and friends.

Judith is preceded in death by her husband and parents.

Funeral services for Judith will take place at 11:00 AM on Thursday, November 5, 2020 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, with Pastor Daniel Iwinski officiating. Burial will follow at Medford Evergreen Cemetery II. Visitation will take place at Immanuel Lutheran Church on Thursday, November 5, 2020 from 9:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Judith’s name may be given to Hope Hospice.

Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family.  For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com.

John “Jack” W. Nystrom, age 80, of Rib Lake, WI, passed away on Sunday, November 1, 2020, at his home under the care of his family and Hope Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. Jack was born in Spirit, WI, to the late John and Myrtle (Tobin) Nystrom on January 20, 1940. He was later married to Ramona Kettleson on August 29, 1959, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Rectory in Rib Lake; she survives.

Jack moved to the Appleton area in 1943. He was a semi-truck driver working for such firms as A.E. Schultz Corp., Rich Products, and Kimberly Clark for a brief time. He owned and operated a truck leasing it out to Phoenix Trucking. Jack’s hobbies included old cars, Nascar, cheering on the Wisconsin sports teams, and deer hunting. His highlight of the year was spending deer season at his cabin with relatives and friends.

Survivors include his wife, Ramona Nystrom, of Rib Lake;

his son-in-law, Peter Laux, of Appleton;

3 brothers, James (Janet) Nystrom, of Appleton, Donald (Ann) Nystrom, of Canton, WI, and Gary Nystrom, of Eugene, OR;

1 sister, Lynn (Dave) Ritchie, of Appleton;

his brother-in-Law, John (Donna) Kettleson, of Fremont, WI;

his sister-in-law, Neltia Kettleson, of Appleton; and

his granddaughter, Danielle Laux, of Appleton.

Jack is further survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Myrtle, and his beloved daughter, Natalie Laux.

The family would like to thank Jack’s caregivers, Paul and Tracy, and the hospice team at Hope Hospice for their care and concern during this time.

In accordance with the family’s wishes, no formal services will be held.

Jo Ann Jascor, age 78, of rural Withee, passed away on Friday, October 30, 2020 surrounded by her loving family at her granddaughter’s home in Owen under the tender care of St. Croix Hospice. She was peacefully lifted to be with Jesus, like an Indian Butterfly with her new wings.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 7 at Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Owen. Family and friends are welcome from 11:00 a.m. until time of service Saturday at the funeral home. We encourage those in attendance to abide by the Covid-19 guidelines by sanitizing, wearing a mask (if able) and social distancing. Family and friends can watch the service live on the funeral home’s Facebook page or after service anytime on Facebook or the website.

Jo Ann was born on March 23, 1942 in Superior, WI to John and Lorraine (Onnestad) Gall. She attended the Delavan Wisconsin School for the Deaf. There at the school, Jo Ann met the love of her life, Harry Jascor from Withee. After completion of school, she moved back to Withee with Harry and they married on September 16, 1961. Together they ran a successful dairy farm for many years and raised their family there. Jo Ann and Harry remained happily married for 59 beautiful years.

Jo Ann and Harry raised three children: Jay, Sally and Penny. She tended to the farm while raising her children. Jo Ann loved going for car rides with her family. She enjoyed the beautiful scenery, especially in autumn. Jo Ann was well known to have a kind and sweet uplifting spirit that people gravitated towards. She loved to have a good time with family and friends and was always known for her goofy and humorous personality.

Jo Ann is survived by her husband, Harry; her son, Jay and her daughter, Penny; three grandchildren: Brittany, China and Josh; five great-grandchildren: Kaitlyn, Brianna, Ryan, Kaylee and Carson. She is further survived by other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Sally and grandson, Robby.

Karen L. Olson, 81, Medford, died on Monday, November 2 at Marshfield Medical Center, Weston where she had been a patient for the past 1 week.

Memorial services for Karen will take place at 12 noon on Monday, November 9 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Stetsonville with Father Michael Hayden officiating.  Visitation will be on Monday from 10 AM until the time of services at 12 noon at the church.  Burial of her cremated remains will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Town of Holway at a later date.  Due to COVID concerns, masks and social distancing will be required for the services.

Karen was born on July 5, 1939 in the Town of Little Black, the daughter of Norman “Buck” Edgar and Ruth Mary (Ludwig) Riemer.  She attended Liberty School, Town of Little Black and was a 1957 graduate of Dorchester High School.  Her marriage to Otto “Junior” Olson was on May 22, 1957 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Stetsonville and he preceded her in death on September 10, 2016.

After their marriage, they farmed in the Town of Holway until 1966.  She also cooked for the Medford School District and worked for 28 years at Weather Shield Mfg. in Medford until retirement.  She enjoyed polka dancing, camping, playing cards, snowmobiling, quilting, cooking, baking and spending time with her grandchildren.  She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Stetsonville, the Catholic Order of Foresters and a local card club.

Survivors include her sons, Gary (Lori) Olson, Guy (Penny) Olson & Monte (Mary) Olson, all of Medford; grandchildren, Andrew (Anabelle), Adam, Danny (Amber)  & Abby Olson, Danielle (Nick) Roiger, Dayna (Andrew) Neilson, Paige (Blake) Fleischmann, Jenna (Nathan) Scheithauer and 6 great grandchildren.  Further surviving are her siblings, Joyce (Eugene) Erickson of Jackson, Marjean Zemaitis of Phoenix, AZ, Rhonda (Mike) Handel of Medford, Kristin (David) Tickler of Park Falls, Jon (Julie) Riemer of Osceola, Phyllis (Bill) Schafer of Brodhead, Larry (Pam) Riemer of River Falls; and her sister-in-law, Pauline Riemer of Stetsonville along with many nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, a son, Gordon Olson, grandson, Gary Olson Jr., brothers, Marvin Riemer in 2011, Richie Riemer in 2018 and a brother-in-law, Steven Zemaitis in 2017.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be given to the family for a future designation.  Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family.  For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com.

Florence M. Jahnke Abbotsford Wisconsin, age 94, died on November 3, 2020.

She was born August 11, 1926 in the town of Rietbrock the daughter of  Alex and Florence(Milkowski)  Pietrowski.

Florence was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Daniel, brothers Frank, Alexander, George, Joseph; sisters, Cecelia, Marcella, Gladyce, and Marian.  She is survived by brothers, Don  James, and sister Theresa

Florence was united in marriage to Daniel Jahnke August 21, 1954 at the Wuertzburg Catholic Church.  She is survived by their 5 children Mary (Ralph) Bredl, David (Laurie), Nancy (James) Lulloff, Denise Fryklund, and Polly Ackerman, 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grand children.  One grandson Troy Scott Olsen, with his dad, Robert Olsen, Grandpa Danny, are in heaven waiting for grandma.

Private family services will take place at a later date. A public visitation will take place at St. Thomas Catholic Church on Saturday, November 7, 2020 from 9:00 AM until 10:30 AM. Paris Ackerman will lead the pallbearers; son David Jahnke grandchildren;  Trent Olsen, Ben Jahnke, Jessica Lulloff, Joseph Ackerman, and Kristy Brunner The honorary pall bears include all grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Burial will be at the Catholic cemetery Milan, Wisconsin.

Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family.  For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com.

Wayne H. Paur, 84, Medford, died on Tuesday, November 3 at Aspirus Medford Hospital, emergency department where he was taken earlier by ambulance.

There will be a graveside service for Wayne at 2 PM on Thursday, November 5 at Medford Evergreen Cemetery II with Rev. Rodger Prois officiating.  Pallbearers will be Michael Tallman, Mitch Paur, Roger Nowacki, Galen Raasch, Ryan and Jamie Bucki.

Wayne was born on October 28, 1936 at Medford the son of Stanley and Lorraine Ida (Judas) Paur.  He attended Spruce Grove grade school in the Town of Deer Creek and was a 1954 graduate of Medford High School.   His marriage to Abbie Lou Downing-Motte took place on October 27, 1973 at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church, Medford and she preceded him in death on July 1, 2016.

He served in the National Guard from 1955 to 1964.  He worked as a truck driver for Jochimsen Trucking for 35 years until retirement in 1998.  He enjoyed socializing, spending time with his step-children and enjoyed life in general.  Wayne was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Medford.

Surviving are his step-daughters, Linda (Dennis) Post of Marshfield and Karen (Larry) Gyorkos of Stetsonville; step-grandchildren, Jody (Tracy), Jamie (Jen), Joshua & Ryan (Danielle) Bucki, Larry (Tina) Gyorkos, Jr. & Jennifer Tallman; along with 12 step-great grandchildren.  Also surviving are his sisters, LaVerne (Robert) Jari and Shirley Gallistel, both of Medford, along with a brother-in-law, Dale (Kimberly) Williams of Stetsonville. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, brother, Claire Paur, sister, Myra Williams, step-children, Edwin & Sandra Motte both dying in 2018, great-granddaughter, Tammi Lyn Bucki.

Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family.  For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com.

Gary A Fehlhaber, 64, passed away Saturday, October 31st, 2020, at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau.

Gary was born May 16, 1956 to Earl and Alice (Fisher) Fehlhaber. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. His passion for business and driven hard work allowed Gary to hold several executive positions for many companies, and eventually the owner of his own business. Gary met his wife, Debra working at a grocery store in Wausau. Quickly, they realized their love for each other and were married on May 3, 1980.  

The most important things to Gary were God and his Family. Gary always put God as #1 in his life by attending church weekly, reading the bible, praying, and serving as president of the church.

Debra and Gary loved to travel near and far on their motorcycle several times a week. Life at the lake was where you could find Gary making endless memories water skiing, tubing, pontoon rides and telling endless funny stories around the fire. Gary’s 3 sons; Eric, Mike, and Andrew will forever miss the love, life-lessons, and laughter he brought to them every day.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 40 years of marriage, Debra. Gary and Debra have 3 sons; Eric (Terri), Michael (Lacey), and Andrew (Haley); grandchildren, Braelynn, Kyelynn, and Brenna; siblings, James and Shirley. He is preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Alice.

There will be a visitation open for family and friends of Gary on Thursday, November 5th from 5:00-7:00 PM at Helke Funeral Home. Facemasks are required by all of those attending. Due to COVID restrictions, the funeral service on Friday for Gary will be private to only invited guests by the family. Gary will be placed at his final resting place at Restlawn Memorial Park among his parents.

As an expression of sympathy, flowers may be sent to Helke Funeral Home (302 Spruce St, Wausau, WI 54401) or Our Savior’s Evangelical Lutheran Church (703 Flieth St, Wausau, WI 54401).

The family wishes to extend their deepest appreciation to the staff of Aspirus Hospital for the sympathetic and loving care given to Gary in his last days.

Richard Henry Poehnelt, age 73, of rural Athens, WI passed away unexpectedly due to COVID on Tuesday, November 3, 2020 at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau, WI.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Sun., Nov. 8, 2020, from 1:00pm to 3:00pm at Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford followed by Military Honors provided the Colby VFW Post #2227. Masks and social distancing will be required. Family and friends can watch the service live on the funeral home’s Facebook page or after service anytime on Facebook or the website.

Richard was born Oct. 11, 1947 to Matt Poehnelt and the late Dorothy (Glenn) Poehnelt in Marshfield, WI. He attended Colby High School and then proudly served in the Army in Korea during the Vietnam War. He worked at Packaging Corp. in Colby for many years and various semi driving jobs. He married Marjean Fischer and they later divorced. They raised two children.

Richard was one of a kind. He definitely brightened the room with his smile and sense of humor. He was always quick with a joke and had a good story to tell. Richard’s “rough exterior” sometimes hid his heart of gold. But, his home was filled with family pictures and his fondest memories. He saved every birthday and Christmas card anyone ever sent him.

His favorite hobbies were riding motorcycle, hunting and fishing, tinkering in the garage, woodworking, guns, truck and tractor pulls, and putting together puzzles and model cars. He loved hanging out with his grandkids, helping Derek and Misty with their hemp farm and projects, helping out on his sisters’ (Sharon and Linda) family farms, quality time with his family, and having a few drinks with old friends and neighbors.

He is survived by his father, Matt Poehnelt of Colby, a daughter, Dawn Belanger of Lomira and a son, Derek (Misty) Poehnelt of Medford. He is further survived by four grandchildren, Meghan Belanger, Eric Belanger (currently serving in the U.S. Navy), Gracen Poehnelt and Ava Poehnelt; five brothers, Tom (Diane) of Eagle, Don (Jackie) of Loyal, Mike of Colby, Mark of Medford and Jim, Abbotsford, and five sisters, Karen (Lanny) Ludwig, Sandy (Mike) Jakel, Sharon (Henry) Blume, and Linda (Steven) Bach all of Dorchester, and Donna (Kevin) of Westboro. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and many friends and other family.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy (Glenn) Poehnelt, a sister, Julie Schindhelm, two brothers David and Ronald, a brother-in-law, David Schindhelm and step-mother, Shirley Poehnelt.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to The High Ground Veterans Memorial Park in Neillsville, where a stone will be placed in Richard’s honor.

We were informed of the death of 79 year old Janice A Meyer who died Sunday evening, November 1st, 2020 at her home of natural causes.

Survivors include: her husband Harvey Meyer, her children:  Bruce Meyer, Scott (Elaine) Meyer and Michelle (Al) Graffunder.

Her grandchildren:  Rachel Lord, Arica (Chris) Kreklau, Craig Meyer, Trey , Chelsea and Noah Graffunder.

Her Great Grandchildren: Kyanna & Keyton Lord, Melanie & Erin Kreklau.

Her Great, Great Grandchild:  Xaiver Couillard.

There will be no public visitation for Janice A. Meyer.  Her cremated remains handled by the Cremation Society of Wisconsin.