Obituaries

Mattox, Sharon Marie Age 79 of Marshfield and formerly of Mauston

Sharon Marie Mattox, a cherished mother, grandmother & great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025, at the age of 79, surrounded by her loving family at House of the Dove Hospice Center in Marshfield, WI. She was born on February 7, 1946, in Mauston, WI, to Melvin & Lorraine Cook. Sharon married Richard C. Gulas on January 7, 1967, although the union ended in divorce, their marriage was blessed with four children. She found true love and married William C. Mattox on October 11, 1986. They spent many wonderful years together traveling the United States, spending time with their family, and participating in community events.

Sharon was a lady who wore many hats in her lifetime. In addition to being a wife, homemaker, mother, grandmother and great grandmother; she spent many years working with local optometrists as an Optometry Tech, she worked with Adams County Memorial Hospital in the ER as an ER Tech, as an EMT and in the Outpatient Clinics, she was co-owner in AF Floral; and in her retirement was involved in the local chapter of Partners of Wisconsin Healthcare Association, Inc. Sharon had a deep and abiding faith in Christ and took comfort in the sure and certain hope of eternal life provided through that faith. She was a lifelong, faithful member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mauston, WI. She was very honored and thankful to be a part of the process of establishing a congregation in Adams-Friendship; from the humble beginnings at the community center, to the days at the “Purple Palace”, to the joyous move to the new church building in 2020. Sharon faithfully attended weekly services and thoroughly enjoyed worshipping God and fellowshipping with other believers.

Sharon was known for her ability to create beautiful floral arrangements, amazing birthday cakes when her children were little, and even an occasional wedding cake in her younger years. She took pride and enjoyed watching her children grow and start families of their own. Sharon could instantly make you feel at home and always hosted the family’s Sunday dinners, Packer or Badger game days, and holiday celebrations. Her home was filled with laughter & love, plenty of food, and the occasional late-night poker or dominoes game with family and friends. Sharon had an unwavering dedication to her family, rarely missing an extra-curricular school game, choral concert or band performance of her children and grandchildren who lived in town (Chris, Victoria,

Mikayla & Chase); and traveling to many ballet performances for her granddaughter Danielle. She found great joy in several hobbies; she loved traveling with her husband Bill and family to Yellowstone, the Black Hills, and Washington, DC, spending time with friends in the Northwoods seeing the beautiful fall tree colors and choosing the perfect Christmas or birthday gifts for those she loved.

Sharon is survived by her children; Lisa (Ron) Allen, Carol (Dan) Wood, David (Bobbi) Gulas and Jennnifer Gulas-Schultz; grandchildren, Danielle (Mark) Baughman, Christopher (Allexys Meyers) Collins, Victoria (Kainen Dyer) Collins, Mikayla (Cole) Trzesniak, and Chase Gulas along with 2 great-grandchildren Ezra Sasser & Harper Baughman and the newest great-grandchild Baby (Chris) Collins due in November 2025. She is also survived by her sister Carol Cook, brothers Bob (Rose) Cook & Bill (Karen) Cook, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and treasured friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin & Lorraine Cook, and her beloved husband, William C. Mattox.

On Saturday, June 14, 2025, family & friends are invited to gather for a visitation at 11:30 AM, with a Memorial Service at 12:30 PM which will be followed by a light luncheon at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 511 West Lake Street, Friendship, WI 53934. Private family graveside services will be held at Hancock Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sharon’s memory.

 

The family would like to thank Gundersen Moundview Hospital, Marshfield Hospital, and the wonderful and caring nursing staff at House of the Dove in Marshfield, WI, for the amazing care she received during her hospice stay, along with Roseberry’s Funeral Home.

Meinhardt, Betty Age 73 of Friendship

Betty Meinhardt, age 73, of Friendship, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at Our House Assisted Living in Wisconsin Rapids.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 10, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Connell’s Cedar Shack in Adams, Wisconsin. Betty will be laid to rest at Mt. Repose Cemetery in Friendship.

Betty was born on February 23, 1952, in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, to Louis Jacob and Delores Olga (Brey) Geiger. She grew up in New Ulm, Minnesota, and later married Michael Charles Meinhardt on July 6, 1970, in Watertown, South Dakota. Upon Mike’s return from  serving in the U.S. Army, the couple lived in Cedar and New Ulm Minnesota, before moving to Friendship, Wisconsin in 1983.

A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Betty was known for her strong work ethic and caring spirit. Over the years, she worked at Castle Rock Container, Adams County Memorial Hospital, and Citgo, before retiring from her role as a Job Coach for the disabled with Adams County in 2018.

Betty loved the outdoors, especially camping, and was an avid reader. She had a deep love for animals especially her dog Bandit and supported local animal welfare causes.

She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 55 years, Mike Meinhardt of Friendship; sons Mike (Kim) Meinhardt of Friendship, Jamie (Jennifer) Meinhardt of White Creek, Dan (Nichol) Meinhardt of Reedsburg, and Louis (Jamie) Meinhardt of Dellwood; and her cherished grandchildren: Devon, Tim, Mandy (Nathan), Mikayla (Logan), Austin, Colton, Jordann, Dayne, Carsen, Autumn, Orion, Chloe, and Mason.

She is further survived by her brother Leon (Shirley) Geiger; sisters Sharon Brush and Linda (Gary) Watson; sisters-in-law Lori and Dee Geiger and many loving nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Delores Geiger; her brothers Lester and LeRoy Geiger; sister Dianne Vonderharr; and brothers-in-law Jack Brush and Ron Vonderharr.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at Our House Assisted Living Memory Care and Hospice in Wisconsin Rapids for the outstanding care Betty received over the past year.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials in Betty’s name may be directed to the Adams County Humane Society.

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

Ellis, Bonnie Lou Age 66 of Wisconsin Dells

Bonnie Lou Ellis, age 66, of Wisconsin Dells, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin.

Born on December 12, 1958, in Watertown, Wisconsin, Bonnie was the daughter of George and Gertrude (Gloede) Graham. She was raised in Appleton and graduated from Neenah High School with the Class of 1977. Bonnie spent much of her working life at Choice Beverage in Neenah and in several deli stores throughout the Fox Valley area.

On June 10, 2020, she married Timothy S. Ellis in Portage, Wisconsin. Together, they made their home in Dell Prairie Township, Adams County.

Bonnie will be remembered for her love of cooking, baking, gardening, and caring for her beloved dog, Gizmo. She found joy in feeding birds and tending to her home.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers Ken, Allen, and Eugene.

She is survived by her loving husband, Timothy Ellis; sisters Phyllis (Randy), Penny Graham, and Debra (Mark) Shields; brother Greg (Sue) Graham; stepson Jeffrey Ellis; granddaughter Kira Ellis; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

In keeping with her wishes, no formal services will be held. She will be laid to rest at Highland Memorial Park in Appleton, Wisconsin.

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

Peterson, Mary Ann M. Age 90 of Necedah

Mary Ann M. Peterson, age 90, of Necedah, WI, passed away on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Crestview Nursing Home in New Lisbon, WI. 

 

Funeral services will be held Friday, June 6, 2025, 11:00 a.m. at St. James Lutheran Church in Necedah, WI. Pastor Roger Erdman will officiate. Burial will follow in the Bayview Cemetery. Family and friends are invited for visitation on Friday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church.

 

The Torkelson Necedah Family Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com

Martin, Edith “Edie” P. Age 82 of Wonewoc & La Crosse

Edith “Edie” P. Martin, 82 years young, of Wonewoc and La Crosse, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 30th, 2025, in Springfield, Illinois while in the care and comfort of her daughter Michelle, son-in-law Mark Ellenz and granddaughter Samantha Martin.

Born on August 17th, 1942 to Peter and Pauline Ennis in Wonewoc, Wisconsin;  Edie was the baby of the large Ennis clan.  She was the 9th of 9 children – Beverly, Donald, Joseph, John, Thomas, Irene, Susan, Esther, and finally Edie.    She loved being the baby of the family, and always looked up to her big brothers and sisters, frequently speaking highly of them and reminiscing about all the wonderful times they had growing up in Wonewoc.  

Edie was married twice.  First to Karey Robert Bigham, with this union being blessed with two children,  Karey Thomas Bigham  and Valerie Ann Bigham. (Partner-Dale) She later married Larry Martin, which blessed her with Michelle June Martin / Ellenz.   Edie is further survived by six grandchildren – Tanner, Cassie and Hunter Bigham, Devan Jensen, Samantha Martin, and Jacob Ellenz.   She will be joining one other grandchild, Tisha Schulz, in heaven.  Edie wanted all the grandkids to know that they were the joys of her life.

Edie had several jobs throughout her life, but when asked, her most favorite job was the many years she spent as a young waitress at the Valley Inn in Elroy, Wisconsin.   This job gave her the ability, in her own words, the “gift of gab” and the ability to easily make friends.  This skill carried on throughout her life.    Edie also retired from Juneau County, Wisconsin as a Supervisor in the Juneau County Human Services Sheltered Workshop, supervising adults with disabilities.  This also brought her great joy and a sense of leaving the world a better place than when she arrived.

Edie was an animal lover with a kind heart.  She had horses, dogs, cats, barn cats, and loved all of them throughout her life.  Even up to her final days, she would eagerly be watching the squirrels fight each other over food and call the instigator squirrel unflattering words at Michelle’s house. 

Last but not least, Edie’s favorite hobby, up to her last days, was to get dressed up and go out to eat at her favorite restaurants.   She loved fashion, jewelry, and make-up.    We lovingly called her Elizabeth Taylor because of her fashion taste and how long it took Edie to get ready every day, even if it was to go see the Doctor or the grocery store.  Her colorful palette of wardrobe choice lasted all her life to her final day.  

Edie was one of a kind and we will miss her very much.   Per Edie’s wishes, no services will be held, so instead, please plant a tree, be kind to an animal, and above all, get all dressed up and go to your favorite restaurant in honor of Edie.

Kurzydlo, Elaine S. Age 76 of Mauston

Elaine S. Kurzydlo, age 76, of Mauston, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at her home on May 31, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Elaine was born on April 27, 1949, in Glasgow, Scotland, the daughter of Robert and Violet (Ferguson) Henderson. From the moment she entered this world, Elaine had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and loved. She was a constant source of joy, warmth, and kindness, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Whether as a devoted volunteer for Girl Scouts, 4-H, National Ski Patrol, or a loving member of her community, she touched countless lives with her generous spirit. She also enjoyed her time working at WWTC and teaching first aid and CPR to the community.

Elaine touched many lives with her warmth, kindness, and compassion. She had a deep love for family. She cherished every moment spent with her loved ones, creating a home full of laughter, support, and unwavering love. Family gatherings, holidays, and spontaneous get-togethers were always filled with her infectious smile and kind heart.

Her love for animals was equally profound. Whether it was caring for her beloved pets or supporting animal charities, she always demonstrated a profound respect for all creatures. She believed in the simple joy that animals bring to life and shared that love with everyone she met.

Elaine is survived by her devoted husband, Dennis; her daughters, Carla Nolden (Eric Greve) and Ami (Zac) Board; five beloved grandchildren, Kayla (Greg), Adam, Alexis (Caleb), Maddie, and Gracie; and one cherished great-grandchild, Hudson. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Robert, and her sister-in-law Marcy. She loved her family deeply and took great joy in being a grandmother and great-grandmother.

True to her spirit, Elaine wished for her life to be celebrated, not mourned. A brief memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at the Conway-Picha Funeral Home in Lyndon Station, WI. Chaplain Shane Haynes will offer words of remembrance and a blessing at 3:30 p.m. Following the service, family and friends are invited to a celebration of life gathering at Zac and Ami’s home: (N4763 22nd Ave, Mauston.)

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Elaine’s honor to two causes close to her heart: Carl W. Nelson Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 345, Mauston, WI 53948 or Friends and Family Cancer Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 8, Mauston, WI 53948.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to all who supported Elaine and continue to honor her memory.

Long, Jerry P. Age 84 of Westfield

Jerry P. Long, age 84, of Westfield, Wisconsin, passed away on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Moundview Memorial Hospital & Clinics in Friendship, Wisconsin.

A celebration of life will be held from 11am to 3pm on June 14 2025 at the American Legion Post 244, 452 N Main Street, Westfield, WI 53964.

Jerry was born on March 20, 1941, in Westfield to John F. and Judith Long. He was raised in Westfield and graduated from Westfield High School in 1959. He began his career with Pioneer Power and Light Company before being drafted into the U.S. Army, where he earned the rank of Corporal. Upon his return to Wisconsin he worked at Badger Army Ammunition Plant before becoming a Wisconsin State Trooper. On September 9, 1967, Jerry married Deloris Schley in Wautoma, Wisconsin. Jerry’s law enforcement career included working in Dane County before serving in Adams County for many years. He retired in 1987 following an on-duty injury.

Jerry had a deep love for the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and cheering on the Milwaukee Brewers. He especially cherished watching his grandchildren play sports. He also served as President of the Village of Friendship and Little League Coach for the Champion Cub teams of the early 1980’s.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John F. and Judith Long; his beloved wife, Deloris; and his brother, Jimmy.

Jerry is survived by his son, Shaun (Kathy) Long; and two grandsons, Jimmy and Jake. He is further survived by extended family and many friends.

In lieu of flowers,  memorials in Jerry’s memory may be donated to his family.

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

Jackson, Debra K. Age 63 of New Lisbon

Debra K. Jackson, age 63, of New Lisbon, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2025, at Casa de Oakes in Reedsburg, WI. She was the daughter of Arthur Sr. and Virginia (Babcock) Slater and was born on April 30, 1962, in Chicago, IL.

She graduated from New Lisbon High School in 1980 and pursued further education in Richland Center, which laid the foundation for her lifelong dedication to helping others. Debra’s career was marked by her compassionate service as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Pleasant Acres in New Lisbon, where she touched the lives of many with her gentle care. She also provided home healthcare for several years, bringing comfort and support to families during their most challenging times.   Debra later worked for Kwik Trip as the Deli Manager for 15 years. Her work was not just a job but a way to connect with her community and spread joy every day. She married the love of her life David Jackson on October 20, 1984 at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church in Camp Douglas.

Debra’s love for the outdoors was evident in her passion for camping and boating. These activities brought her closer to nature and provided cherished moments with her family, which she valued above all else.

Family was the cornerstone of Debra’s world. She is survived by her loving children, Nichole Jackson of Tomah, Joshua Jackson of Necedah, and Benjamin (Danielle) Jackson of Mauston. Her brothers, Arthur (Dori) Slater Jr. of Gilman, Timothy (Cindy) Slater of Tomah, and her sister-in-law, Dolly (Tom Meoska) Jackson of Wonewoc, will hold her memory dear in their hearts. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she poured her love into every moment spent with Mikayla (Fiancé Lance Houzner), Austin, Cole, Skyla, Kayden, Cameren, Kerenden, Ava, Alayna, and her great-grandchild, Delilah. Debra was preceded in death by her parents Arthur Sr. and Virginia, her sister Ellen Rose Slater, and her beloved husband, David, who passed away in 2024.

As we bid farewell to Debra K. Jackson, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a heart generously shared. Her spirit will forever be a guiding light to her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her. Debra’s journey on earth has ended, but her story of love and kindness will continue to inspire us all for generations to come.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, May 31st, 2025 from 12:00p.m. until 3:00p.m at the Wonewoc American Legion Hall (108 Center St). The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com

Johns, Bonnie Maureen Age 75 of Tomah

Bonnie Maureen Johns, 75, of Tomah, died peacefully on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at the Serenity Hospice House in Tomah. On March 3, 1949, Bonnie was born to Martin and Laura (Sutton) Johns in Phillips, Wisconsin. She was a member of the Tomah High School’s graduating class of 1967. After graduation Bonnie lived in Madison, Racine, Michigan where she worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and Chicago before settling back in Tomah. She ran the Greyhound Bus Station in Tomah for a time also. She loved going for rides, visiting with family and friends, until health declined.

 

Bonnie is survived by her Brother, Ronald Johns and wife Diane, Sister, Cheryl Hernandez and husband Ron, Sister, Monica and husband Marvin Groothuis, Brother, Randie Johns and wife Pam, Sister-in-law, Avon Neupert; Nieces and Nephews, Norma and Bill Schmudlach, Stacy Johns and Liana Lewis; Rhonda and Don Killgo, Rocky and Sandy Johns, Patrick and Khristina Boyle, Zachary Boyle, Asha and Ryan Olson, Rob Meyer, Josie Wilson, Julie Lalor, Amy and Bruce Hofstetter, Vaughn and Melissa Groothuis, Jenny and Robbie Ledford, Jon and Rebecca Groothuis; Jeremy Johns, Jamie and Brian Hyer, Jared Johns and fiancé Kelly Lupton. She is further survived by her Great Nieces and Nephews, Bryor and fiancé Heather, Jasmine and Jerry, Zelda, Juliette, Cass, Justin, Hanna, Ross, Lynsey and Andrew, Bailey, Madison, Korayma, Emma, Kellee, Asha, Bethany, Michael, John, Amire, Zach, Tyler, Blake, Riley, Delaney, Ambur Lynn, Zachary, Kai, Judah, Danielle and James, Mackenzie and Dilan, Abigail, Dillyn, Katie and James, Brittany and fiancé Chandler, Gracie, Christopher and fiancé Anna, Cori, Jada, Jacob, Adler, Jordyn, Carl John (CJ), Brailyn, and Zaiden; Great-Great Nieces and Nephews, Isla, RJ, Judy, Amelia, Charlotte, and Javon; Aunts, Sandy Feryance, JoAnn Sutton, and Ruth Sutton; Special friends, Barb Minor, Bonnie Hogan, and Vicki Janusheske; Neighbors, who were the best and did so much for her, Mike and Geri Hodur, and James Sherman; and her beloved Fur-Baby, Sadie.

 

Bonnie was preceded in death by husband, Ray DeHate; parents, Martin and Laura Johns; brother, Robert Johns; nephew, Scott Johns; nieces, Sandra Kay and Nannette Johns; great-nephews, Carson and Shelton; and her fur babies Bucky, Ruby, Holly, Bonbon.

 

The family would like to extend a very special thank you to the staff at Serenity House, in Tomah, for being Bonnie’s final blessing.

 

A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, June 1st, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. at Bible Ev. Free Church, 625 W. Veterans Street, Tomah. Family and friends are invited for a time of visitation from 1:00 P.M. until the time of the service. Online condolences may be given at www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com. Sonnenburg Family Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Reeves, Sandra June Age 71 of New Lisbon

Sandra June Reeves, age 71, of New Lisbon, WI passed away at home in the early morning hours of Sunday, May 18th, 2025. Born in Milwaukee, WI on April 13th, 1954, she was known for her incredible drive, embracing and overcoming life’s challenges, and her ability to make fun and crazy memories.

 

Sandi was a devoted and much loved mother, sister, grandma, great-grandma, and aunt. She leaves behind a legacy of great love that will be forever remembered.

After retiring from Seneca Foods in Baraboo,WI, Sandi dedicated herself to making lasting memories with her family.

Sandi was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Gloria (Bruyette) Reeves; a sister, Linda (Reeves) Kirkpatrick; 2 brothers, Marvin Reeves and Bruce Reeves; a loving step mother Grace (Perillo) Reeves.

She is survived by 3 siblings, Kenneth Reeves, Dale Reeves, Phyllis Mickelson; 2 very loved sister-in-laws Kathy Reeves, Donna Reeves; 4 children, Tanya (Elmer III) Anderson, Shane (Amy) Talty, Chris Talty, Tiffany (Aaron) Talty; 14 grandchildren, Tiara, Cynthia, Christopher, Nicholas, Katrina, Andrew, Aurora, Jade, James, Ayden, Thomas, Zachary, Graede, Annabelle; 7 great-grandchildren Nanette, Natalie, Jaxson, Hunter, Michael, Tanner, Riley. She is also loved and remembered by numerous nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held at the Bible Baptist Church, 148 Grayside Ave, Mauston, WI 53948 on Saturday, June 14th, 2025 beginning at 9:00 a.m. until the time of the Memorial Service at 10:30 a.m. Following the service, guests are invited to stay for food, refreshments, and a Confetti Salute in celebration of Sandi’s life.

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

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