Obituaries

Barthel, Sandra Alma Age 78 of Portage

Sandra Alma Barthel, age 78, of Portage, Wisconsin, passed away on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Hamilton Park Place in Portage.

 

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Oxford, Wisconsin, with Pastor Larry Sheppard officiating. Visitation will take place at the church beginning at 9:00 a.m. and continue until the time of service. A luncheon will be served at the church following the service, with interment to follow at 1:30 p.m. at Easton Cemetery in the Town of Easton, Adams County.

Sandra was born on November 9, 1946, in Portage, Wisconsin, to Arnold and Eleanor (DeWitt) Grabarski. She attended Grand Marsh Grade School and graduated from Adams–Friendship High School. Sandra went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point.

In 1968, Sandra married Timothy H. Barthel in Oxford, Wisconsin. She was an avid quilter, a devoted member of several quilting guilds, and participated in many quilting retreats. Sandra also enjoyed knitting and was known for generously sharing her handmade quilts with anyone in need. Above all, she cherished her time with family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Arnold and Eleanor, and her brother, Bill.

Sandra is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Timothy; their children, Matthew (Lori) Barthel, Michael Barthel, and Michelle (Walt) Moe; her brother, Bob (Aletta) Grabarski; and sister-in-law, Cathy Grabarski. Grandchildren: Chase, Colin, Liz, Walter, Emerson, Summer, William, Winter, and Bruce.

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

McDonald, Carol Jane Age 93 of New Lisbon

Carol Jane McDonald, age 93, passed away peacefully early on September 14, 2025, at Crestview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Carol was born August 4, 1932, to Augusta “Gussie” Lily Spors and Hugh James McDonald in Mauston, Wisconsin. Carol graduated from Mauston High School in 1950 and went on to earn her teaching certificate at Juneau County Normal Teachers College in 1952. She taught school for a brief time and ultimately went on to become an insurance underwriter. Carol never had a driver’s license but was very independent. She worked the majority of her years for Wisconsin Mutual Insurance in Madison, Wisconsin and lived directly across the street from her office. Carol took pride in her apartment being located right behind Camp Randall on Monroe Street. She knew the Badger schedule not because she was so much a football fan, but because she knew how to manage the bus schedule during busy home game weekends. Being in tune to the City of Madison bus schedules assisted her in navigating the City. Riding the Greyhound Bus back to New Lisbon to be part of family events and holidays was routine and “Picking up Carol” from the bus was a typical part of a big weekend. She lived an independent and full life traveling, crocheting, cross stitching, reading, shopping, writing letters and spending time with her family. She loved shopping for bargains and regularly made her rounds at the stores in Madison. She was gifted with her skills of crocheting and embroidery. She made countless handmade doilies, potholders, and pillowcases, and she also took the time to teach her nieces and great-nieces these skills. As an avid reader, she passed the love of reading on to many of her nieces and great-nieces and shared books on a regular basis.

She remembered every birthday, every anniversary, every special occasion with a card, signed, “Carol.” It just wasn’t a holiday without Aunt Carol. She enjoyed gifting immensely and wrapping every-single-item. She retired in 1999 and after a couple of years, relocated back to Mauston to be closer to family. She enjoyed her life at Terrace Heights and was proud of the fact she was one of the longest residing residents of that independent living community. The bus service at Terrace Heights was a big selling feature when she chose to make the move there. Carol’s last three years of life were spent at Crest View in New Lisbon. Despite her health issues, she flourished at participating in activities and still found time to slip away and work at her word puzzles. Some of her vocabulary and quips made the staff laugh and some made them take to their dictionaries. Carol was a person of few words, never asked of much from others, but your presence, correspondence, and words mattered and your visits were cherished.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother and sister-in-law, Fred and Alice McDonald, sister and brother-in-law Nancy and Budd Morris, and brother-in-law Harv Sorum.

Carol is survived by her sister Gail Sorum, her nieces and nephews: Kristie (Todd Bunker); Cheryl (Randy) Weiland; Connie (Gene) Gibson; Nancy (Gary) Cowan, Colleen (Greg) Grovesteen; Collette (Dan) Schultz; Jennifer (James Redelsheimer); Alan (Ruthie) Sorum, Roger Sorum, Julie Sorum, Linda Morris, Doug (Sandy) Morris, Donna Morris. Carol’s family wishes to express how grateful they are for the kindness and care she received these last few years at Crestview in New Lisbon.

Per her wishes her burial will be private. Interment will be in the New Lisbon City Cemetery. Hare Funeral home in New Lisbon is assisting the family. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com

Tyne, Jeffrey W. Age 58 of Nekoosa

Jeffrey W. Tyne, age 58, of Nekoosa, Wisconsin, passed away on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Riverview Hospital in Wisconsin Rapids.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin. Visitation will take place from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Interment will follow at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at Mt. Repose Cemetery in Friendship.

Jeffrey was born on September 23, 1966, in Sterling, Illinois, to Thomas and Sara (Sterenberg) Tyne. He graduated from Larkin High School in Elgin, Illinois, with the Class of 1984.
Together with his brother, Scott, Jeffrey owned and operated Alpine Electric. He was passionate about fishing, loved the ocean and his time in Florida, and cherished every moment spent with family and friends.

Jeffrey was preceded in death by his father, Thomas, and his brother, Scott.

He is survived by his children, Justin and Katrina (Dylan); grandchildren, Maverick, Amara, Zaiden, Emma, and Brock; his mother, Sara; sister, Nicole (Mat); nephew, Austin (Nia); niece, Gracelynn; and his beloved dog, Nala. He is further survived by many dear friends who will miss him greatly.

Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be offered at www.roseberrys.com

Wienke, Frederick “Rick” Leigh Age 72 of Nekoosa

Frederick “Rick” Leigh Wienke, age 72, of Nekoosa, WI, entered eternal peace on September 9th, 2025. 

 
Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin, followed by a memorial service at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home and a meal of remembrance at 1:00 p.m. in Lyndon Station.

 Rick was born in Milwaukee, WI, on September 29, 1952, to Frederick August and Marion Eleanor (nee Yeip) Wienke. He was raised with his little brother Bob in Muskego, where he participated in Scouts, learned to fish, build cars, hunt, and became an expert trapshooter and bowman. He loved the outdoors and anything that involved spending time outside, woodworking, or tinkering. He met Judy in 1978, and they married in October of 1983. Rick chose to be a father to her 6 children from her previous marriage, and together, they had a son, Jeffrey. They were married for 41 years prior to her passing, and were a classic fairy tale of true love, loyalty, and commitment. Rick was a journeyman tool and die maker by trade, and a farmer and all-around handyman in every other aspect of his life. He won awards for trapshooting, built and raced cars, and could grow any vegetable there was to grow. His craftmanship at building cabinets, dressers, décor, etc. was beyond compare and immaculate in design and execution. He was well traveled, well rounded, and full of knowledge, which he shared with his family.

Rick was known for his big, often uncontrolled beard, his belly laughs, the smell of his pipe from his younger days, his unparalleled skill as a cabinet maker and woodsman, but most of all, his love for his wife and kids. He taught his children to hunt, fish, work on cars, operate power tools,  and even cook a mean omelet.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Marion Wienke, his stepson John Espinoza, and his beloved wife. Rick is survived by his brother Robert Wienke, West Virginia, and his children, Jeffrey Wienke, Nekoosa; Isolina Jackson (Mike), Lyndon Station; Christine Espinoza, Burlington, WI; Maria Espinoza (Pete Torres), Fond du Lac WI; Micaela Bell (Christopher), Wisconsin Rapids, and Sylvia Espinoza, Wisconsin Rapids; Niece, but daughter in heart, Sydney Hope (Bill) De la Torre. Grandchildren Shelly (Mike) Nestler, Amanda (Kevin) Ebert, Gregory Morrow, Jeremiah (Felicia Peckham) Teske, Brandon (Meghan) Perschke, Cindy (Casey) Bell, Jonathon Bell, Amanda Herrin, Jimmy (Kryslin) Jackson, Brianna (Derek) Moffat, Kayla Jackson, Jeffrey Gettier, Athena Perschke Great Grandchildren Autumn, Rosalie, Kylie, Kinlie, Kelcie, Bently, Harlowe, Lyndon, Jonathon, Wesley, Allis, Creedence, Finn, Claire, Riley, Dominic, Camden, and Gracie. Great Great Granddaughter Catherine.

Rick will be missed by many who called him Uncle or Pop in his lifetime, including Al Palmatier, Jeff Musialowski, and Roy Gerber.

The family wishes to extend thanks to the exceptionally caring doctors and nursing staff at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau. Thank you to the nurses and staff with Aspirus Hospice at Home, for the ability to bring our Pop home to pass peacefully. Thank you, Kayla, Molly, and Bri, for assisting with his transition. Thank you to his at home caregiver, Lisa, for the care and love she has shown him the last few months; For his grandson Greg Morrow in being such a big help with at home caregiving; to Mike Jackson for being the most understanding spouse in the world when your wife wasn’t home; and to the friends of Jeff Wienke for opening their arms and making Rick feel welcome, for including him in their everyday activities, and accepting him as a part of their extended families.

Rick will be missed by many, but his legacy lives on in the memories and love he gave us all.
 
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting  with arrangements.  Please visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences.

Bigalke, Albert William Age 89 of New Lisbon

Albert William Bigalke, known affectionately as Bert to his family and friends, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025, at the age of 89 at Close to Home in Tomah, Wisconsin.  He was born on July 31, 1936, in New Lisbon to William and Lucy (Cure) Bigalke. He graduated from New Lisbon High School in 1954. He was a proud member of the 1954 undefeated championship football team. Burt was united in marriage to Eileen Georgeson on August 30, 1958 at the St. Stephens Lutheran Church in Camp Douglas, WI.

Bert served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956. After Bert’s military service in the Army, he owned his own gas stations, where he was known for his honest service and friendly banter. He also served his country by being on the volunteer fire department. Later, he joined the teams at Bunker Ford and Leer Manufacturing in New Lisbon. After retiring he resumed farming at the Bigalke Ranch. Bert enjoyed his annual Colorado trips with family and friends.

Bert is survived by his children Jody (Johnnie) Bigalke, Mary (Greg) Shattuck, and Aaron (Janine) Bigalke. He found his true calling as being a grandfather to his much loved granddaughter, Tess (Luke) Bigalke. He is also survived by two sisters, Sally (Jerry) Hable and Suzan Brzoska, many nieces and nephews, friends and other family.

Bert was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife, Eileen on October 21, 2010, his siblings, Gale, Marion, and Gordon.

The family would like to thank Tomah Hospice, the staff at Close to Home and Pastor Lucy Hardie for their heartfelt care in his final days.

Casperson, Dale 74 of Adams

Dale Casperson of Adams, WI, passed away peacefully on September 4th, 2025 at the age of 74 at his home, his most cherished place.

 

Dale was preceded in death by his sons, Michael and Patrick, and brother-in-law, Ray Churchill. Dale is survived by his wife Joy; son Nathan (Brianna Downs) Winchester, twin grandsons Kuiper and Calem; brother Dean; sister Dawn; sisters-in-law Nancy Churchill and Helen (Von) Ibbotson; brother-in-law Wade Ostrum; nephew Ray (Promise) Churchill; nieces Hannah Powell, Harmony Powell, and Haven Powell; great-nephew and great-nieces Sam, Pearl, and Kierra.

Dale served as a Specialist in Vietnam, and was awarded a Bronze Star Medal, First Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Commendation Medal, and Purple Heart.

Dale loved being creative and always had several projects in progress. His craftsmanship is evidenced in his house which he and Joy built, and which they never stopped updating, remodeling, and re-landscaping. Dale always had a new idea for something in the yard and loved spending his time working outside. Dale was an avid woodworker, photographer, gardener, and chef. He was especially fond of making soup and loved making recipes from every cuisine and culture. In addition to creating and experimenting he loved to travel, visiting 49 states and several countries. Over the course of several mission trips he teamed up to repair an orphanage and build two churches in Mexico, Nicaragua, and Guatemala. He loved spending time with family, and was rarely found without Joy.

Dale ran a construction company in the Adams-Friendship area for 25 years, sharing his abilities far beyond his own house. After retiring his business, Dale continued to run maintenance for Central Wisconsin Community Action Council (CWCAC) for 16 years.

Per Dale’s wishes, no services will be held.

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

Carlton, Elda E. Age 81 of Oxford

Elda E. Carlton, age 81, of Oxford, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 31, 2025.

A time of visitation will be held on Saturday, September 20th, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., followed by a service. A luncheon and celebration of life will begin at 2:00 p.m. — all taking place at Elda’s home, 2563 1st Avenue, Oxford, Wisconsin.

Elda was born on March 30, 1944, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, to Elmer and Edna (Bleefnick) Rick. On July 13, 1963, she married Jesse “Sonny” Carlton in Caledonia, Minnesota.
Elda’s smile was truly contagious. She lovingly raised five children, along with many foster children, and had a special gift for caring for babies — always happiest with one in her arms. Her home was filled with joy whenever her grandchildren visited, and she cherished every moment spent with her great-grandchildren. Known for her playful spirit, Elda kept family and friends laughing with her quick reflexes, often chasing kids, pets, or the occasional guest with her trusty flyswatter or slipper in hand.

She enjoyed motorcycle rides with Sonny, searching for treasures at rummage sales, and showing off her signature style with bows in her hair and her beloved “Hoochie Momma” earrings. Elda delighted in having her hair done, nails painted, and in shopping for clothes and shoes — always matching them perfectly to her outfits. Her strong Christian faith guided her life, and after God, her family was her greatest joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Edna; her husband, Jesse “Sonny”; and siblings, Irene and Herby.
                                                       
Elda is survived by her children: Richard (Jackie), Michael “Mike” (Teressa), Christy (Bob), Corrina (David), and Faith (Jon); her grandchildren: Corey, Danielle, Tevra (Eugene), Mike Jr. (Naomi), Bethany (Adam), Kelly (Jordan), AJ, Nicki (Donny), Heather, Michael, Emily, Nicholas, Matthew, Kaitlyn, Ali (Zack), Taylor (Tristen), Nate (Jenna), Skylor, Victoria (Charlie), Brian, and Keith; her great-grandchildren: Riley, Brandon, Rosetta, Hunter, June, Alisa, Braxton, Braelynn, Paisley, Everlee, Brooklyn, Annabelle, Benjamin, Addison, Mackinlie, Levi, Amy, Jessalyn, Barrett, Donna, Deliliah, Ayden, Nolan, Charlie, and Emma; siblings: Eleanor, Doris, Judy, Barbara, and Evy, and her sons in law: Allen, Trevor, and Michael (Shirley).

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

Miller, Kevin S. Age 63 of Rural Elroy

Kevin S. Miller, age 63, of rural Elroy, Wisconsin, passed away on, Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at home, surrounded by his loving family.

 

Born April 1962, Kevin developed a love for farming at an early age. In 1972, he began building his vision of a generational family farm by milking his parents, Ed and Eileen Miller’s, second herd at Whispering Pines. Over the next 53 years, Kevin expanded and refined that dream with unwavering dedication.

 

On October 6, 1984, Kevin married the love of his life, Mary Rath. Together they shared nearly 41 years of marriage built on loyalty, determination, and deep friendship, a partnership that became the foundation of their family.

 

Kevin’s passion for Farmall and International tractors is reflected in his vast collection, fondly known as “Papa’s Tractors” by his grandchildren: Isla, Gentry, Halle, Joanna, and Mya.

 

Known for his good stories, tireless work ethic, and playful nicknames, Kevin was the heart and anchor of his family. He instilled in his children—Andrew and Lynsey (Johns) Miller, Alan and Leah (Burns) Miller, Brian Miller and Hailee Litche, and Madeline (Miller) and Justin Kennedy—the values of compassion, service, laughter, and the belief that pursuing one’s passion holds more worth than simply chasing a salary. 

 

His parents, Ed and Eileen (DeWitt) Miller and sister, Lynette (Miller) and David Livingston, were able to see Kevin hand down these things from generation to generation. 

 

Kevin will be laid to rest at Millard’s Prairie Cemetery beside his infant brother, Michael and sister, Kim Miller, surrounded by the people and the land he cherished. His soul now rests with his Heavenly Father, the Creator of all things, while his legacy continues in the lives of those who loved him.

 

Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church with Pastor Kris Stauffacher officiating.  A time of visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 9th from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Grace Lutheran Church and on Wednesday from 10 to 11 a.m.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. 

 

The Picha Funeral Home in Elroy is assisting with arrangements.

 

Davies, Harriet Helen Age 85 of New Lisbon

Harriet Helen Davies, a cherished mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, went home to heaven to be with her Savior on August 27, 2025, at the age of 85. She was born on January 11, 1940, to the parents of Roy and Mildred (Ritchart) Cure. Harriet’s life was a testament to the power of passion and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those she touched.

Harriet’s journey began in New Lisbon, Wisconsin, where she was born and raised. After graduating from high school in 1958, she pursued her passion for helping others by attending St. Luke’s 3-year nursing school in Racine, Wisconsin, where she earned her RN degree. Her career in nursing was marked by her unwavering commitment to care and comfort, as she worked at an OBGYN Clinic in Waukesha and later served the community at Hess Memorial Hospital. Harriet’s professional life culminated with a remarkable 25-year tenure at Pleasant Acres Nursing Home, where she retired in 2001.

On November 17, 1962, Harriet married the love of her life, David Davies, at the First Baptist Church in New Lisbon. Their union was blessed with three daughters: Sheryl (Joel) Heesch of New Lisbon, WI, Sandra Davies of Mauston, WI, and Susan Heesch of Elroy, WI. She is further survived by her beloved sister, Brenda (Steve) Day of New Lisbon, WI, three grandchildren: Jilleen (Lisa) Heesch-Collogan of Waunakee, WI, Joel (Elizabeth) Heesch of Mauston, and Olivia Heesch of Elroy, WI, and a great-grandchild, Millie Jane Heesch. Harriet was preceded in death by her parents, her husband David, her brother Bob Cure, and her sister Janice Davis.

Harriet’s life was a testament to her passions and interests. She was a lifelong member of the First Baptist Church in New Lisbon and shared her musical talents by playing the organ and piano, often bringing joy to residents at local nursing homes. Her hobbies included knitting, assembling puzzles, and spending quality time with her family at various events. Harriet found solace in nature, whether watching birds, admiring waterfalls, traveling to Door County, or simply enjoying mowing the lawn.

Harriet’s legacy is one of heartfelt service and love. She was a passionate, selfless, and loving individual who left an indelible mark on the hearts of those she touched.

Harriet’s life journey was filled with the richness of caring for others, the melody of music, and the beauty of life’s simple pleasures. Her memory will be treasured, and her spirit will continue to be felt by all who were fortunate enough to have known her.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 6th, at 11:30a.m. at the First Baptist Church (525 S. Washington St.) in New Lisbon with Pastor James Appel presiding.  Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Saturday at the church from 9:00a.m. until the time of service.  Private inturnment will be at a later date in the Brewster Cemetery.  The Hare Funeral Home is assisting the family with services.  Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com

Hora, Robert J. Age 91 of Hillsboro

Robert J. Hora, age 91 years, of Hillsboro, Wisconsin, passed away on Thursday, August 21, 2025 at Emplify by Gundersen Hospital in Hillsboro, surrounded by his loving family.

 

He was born on December 23, 1933 in Hillsboro, the son of Joe and Bessie (Holak) Hora and graduated from Hillsboro High School in 1951.  Bob then enlisted in the U. S. Army and received basic training at Fort Ord, California.  He served during the Korean War at the 38th parallel.

 

Robert was united in marriage to Velma Stekel on June 29, 1960 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Mount Tabor and they recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.

 

Bob began working with his father at Hora Implement in Hillsboro.  He eventually took over the management of the shop and continued to operate until the present, doing repairs and selling products.  Bob also restored several Farmall Tractors.  He appreciated his loyal customers and usually the conversations about sports or the Packers draft picks would go on at length. 

 

Over the years he served as Quartermaster for Hillsboro VFW Post 8262 for 35 years and was honored to participate in the Freedom Honor Flight to Washington D.C. in 2017.

 

Even though he had workaholic ways, Bob never missed the performances of any school activities his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren participated in.  He also enjoyed their yearly family Brewers trips, the record-breaking Easter egg coloring, New Year’s Eve Chinese buffet, Pizza Ranch birthday parties and Father’s Day mini golf.

 

In his younger days, Bob enjoyed bowling and became an avid sports fan. He attended Badger football games and faithfully watched the Brewers and Packers.  

 

Survivors include his wife, Velma; children, John (Bobbi Jo) Hora, Diane (Mike) Stockwell, Matt (Erin) Hora and Tom (Lisa) Hora; grandchildren, Brittany (Shawn) Kuester, Nick Hora (Jenna), Nate Hora, Jake (Shelly) Stockwell, Max (Kelsey) Stockwell, Grace Stockwell, Greg Hora, Andrew Hora, Allison Hora and Madelyn Hora; great grandchildren, Karson, Axton, and Eden Kuester, Sophia, Mallory, and Colby Stockwell and Vivian Stockwell; siblings, Evelyn Jindrick, Don (Jeanne) Hora, Ed (Donna) Hora and Rosemary (Leonard) Stanek, and in-laws Caroline Stekel, Jim Stekel, JoAnn and Bill Filler, Ellen and Jerry Stark, Rita Harris, Jerome Stekel, and many wonderful nieces and nephews.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers-in-law, Paul Stekel, Paul Harris, and Richard Jindrick, and sister-in-law Jackie Stekel.

 

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, August 28, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Hillsboro, with Father Don Bauer officiating.  Burial with military rites will be in the Mount Vernon Cemetery in Hillsboro.  A time of visitation will be on Wednesday at the Picha Funeral Home in Hillsboro from 4 to 7 p.m. and at the Church on Thursday starting at 10 a.m.

 

The Picha Funeral Home in Hillsboro is assisting, for online information go to www.pichafuneralhomes.com  

Go to Top