Mauston, WI
WRJC WebMaster
This user hasn't shared any profile information
Posts by WRJC WebMaster
Henze, Laura Myrtle Age 79 of Elroy
8 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Laura Myrtle (Ragsdale) Henze, age 79 of Elroy, WI., passed away on September 14, 2024 from cancer at her home in rural Elroy, WI. Laura was born on September 15, 1945 at the families farm in Tripoli, Iowa to Benjamin and Arvilla (Davis) Ragsdale. She attended Tripoli public schools until the family relocated to New Hartford, Iowa. She lived on the farm in New Hartford until graduation in 1963. While attending school she participated in various activities including the high school newspaper, glee club, gymnastics and cheerleading. She was homecoming queen in 1962. After graduation she pursued waitressing as she did part time in high school, and she also did detasseling corn.
On December 7, 1963, she was united in marriage to Dallas Henze. She later gave birth to Todd Henze in July of 1964. After Todd was born, they continued to move to various rental properties to better their employment. She gave birth to Travis Henze in November of 1966. At approximately this time they purchased a farm near New Hartford, IA. In 1970 they sold the acreage and purchased a farm in Norwalk, WI. The entire family exhibited cattle at various shows at both state and national levels. Laura was involved in all aspects, she was an expert herdswoman. As a result, they had the highest DHIA herd average many times. She was also involved in managing the crops. They sold the farm and moved to Oregan in 1988. In Oregon she worked at forestry related jobs, watching for forest fires and equipment surveillance. Her husband and her were hired by Columbia Helicopter Company for around 6 years, she traveled with Dallas while being a security guard in several states including Alaska. She was involved in all aspects of what was demanded by the officers with logging and forest fire fighting. They moved back to Wisconsin to be with their children and grandchildren. They purchased the farm in Elroy where they are currently living. She was the manager of the family’s investment and insurance business. She did many rural newspaper routes until her health declined. While farming rural Norwalk, her family also operated a riding stable on one of their other farms.
Laura enjoyed being outdoors, farming and working in her flower garden. During her entire married life her main concern was family, whatever was needed always came before herself. She was a very ambitious and detailed person. She was never afraid to go the extra mile for anything or anyone. Her dedication and compassion to family and strong faith in God got her through many hardships in life, including her final battle with cancer.
Laura is survived by her husband Dallas, sons, Todd A. Henze, Travis W. (LaVonne) Henze, her brothers, Bob Ragsdale, Everette (Caroline) Ragsdale, Jerry (Sue) Ragsdale, her sisters, Ettamae (Dale) Henze, Betty (Rick) Newville and Carol (Bucky) Nolan. She will also be remembered by her grandchildren, Cody, Rebekah, Trevis, Charmayne, Jada and Hailey, and her great grandchildren, Madison, Brinley, Ellison, Thea, Haisly, Willow, Holden, Averleigh and Ilyzah. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother Gordon Ragsdale, sister-in-law Kathy Ragsdale, sister-in-law Joanne Ragsdale, and nieces Lisa Kay Henze Powell, Brenda Ragsdale and a nephew Chad Nolan.
Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Friday, September 20, 2024, from 9:00 A.M. until 10:30 A.M. at the Hare Funeral Home (217 W. Pearl St) in New Lisbon. A graveside service will take place following the visitation at 12:00 P.M. at the Pilgrims Home Cemetery in Norwalk. Laura would want everyone to be comfortable in casual dress clothes. Chaplain Shane Haynes presiding. A funeral lunch will follow at the Wilton Legion Hall. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com
Colonel James J. Olson Age 79 of Camp Douglas
8 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Colonel James J. Olson, retired, known affectionately as Jim to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2024, at his home in Camp Douglas, Wisconsin. Jim was the son of Julian and Gladys (Kish) Olson and was born on August 22, 1945, in Mauston, Wisconsin. Jim’s journey through life was marked by an unwavering spirit of adventure, a deep intelligence, and an immense capacity for love.
A graduate of Tomah High School, class of 1963, Jim’s thirst for knowledge led him to further his education, culminating in a bachelor’s degree from Mount Senario College in 1989. His military education includes Officer Candidate School at the Wisconsin Military Academy, Camp Douglas, WI; Basic and Advanced Ordnance Officer course at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Maryland, and the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
Colonel Olson began his military career when he was drafted into the United State Army in January of 1968. He served two years active duty with the 193rd Infantry Brigade in the Panama Canal Zone and nearly four years in the U.S. Army reserve before transferring to the Wisconsin Army National Guard in December 1973. In August 1975 he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant of Ordnance and became a Heavy Maintenance Platoon Leader in Detachment 2, 108th Maintenance Company, Portage, Wisconsin. He later served as 108th Maintenance Company, Senior Tactical Officer for the Wisconsin Military Academy, and Commander of the 107th Maintenance Company. In 1984 he was transferred to the 723rd Maintenance Battalion, Tomah, and held a variety of staff positions with the battalion and with the State Area Command, before becoming the 732nd’s Executive Officer in 1989 and its Commander in April 1994. Three years later he was assigned as Deputy Commander of the 64th Troop command. In July of 1998 he became the Troop Command Commander and was promoted to the rank of Colonel. In September 2000 he became the commander of the 426th Regiment (Leadership) and the Wisconsin Military Academy.
His military awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal with tree oak leave clusters, the Army Commendation Medal with five oak leaf clusters, the Army Achievement Medal, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal with five oak leaf clusters, the Army Reserve Components Overseas Service Ribbon, and the Wisconsin National Guard Emergency Service Ribbon.
On October 11, 1972, Jim married the love of his life Kathleen. They shared a love of traveling all over the United States, specifically to the Florida Area. They also loved spending time at their cabin on Castle Rock Lake. Jim and Kathy owned Jim & Kathy’s Bar and grill in Camp Douglas from 1983 until 2012. Kathleen preceded Jim in 2012.
Jim’s professional and personal endeavors were many and varied, but he always found time to support his community. He was a respected member of the VFW and the Camp Douglas American Legion, where his commitment to service shone brightly. His love for his country was paralleled only by the love he had for his family.
Surviving Jim are his devoted children, Brian (Katie Kopplin) Olson of Camp Douglas and Jamie (Dustin) Elsing of New Lisbon. His legacy also lives on through his sister, Jeliane (John) Mochenbacher of Camp Douglas, and his cherished grandchildren, Caitlin (Matt) Kikta, Sadie and Rylie Olson, Connor Stauff, and Charlotte Brahmer. Each of them will carry forward the lessons of kindness and strength that he instilled in them. Jim was preceded in death by his loving parents and his beloved wife, Kathleen Olson, with whom he shared a lifetime of memories.
An avid sports fan, Jim could be found in the stands at his grandchildren’s sporting events, cheering them on with enthusiasm and pride. His presence at these events was a source of encouragement and support, emblematic of his loving nature.
Jim’s life was one of purpose and joy. His adventurous spirit, coupled with his intelligence and loving heart, left an indelible mark on the world. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who were touched by his remarkable life.
Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Monday September 23rd at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church (215 Douglas St) in Camp Douglas from 10:00a.m. until 12:00p.m, with a funeral service starting at 12:00p.m. Rev. Brad Lindberg presiding. Burial with military honors will take place in the Camp Douglas Cemetery. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com
Rogers, Albert “Buddy” age 74 of New Lisbon
8 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Albert “Buddy” Rogers III, age 74 of New Lisbon, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2024, surrounded by his loving family in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Buddy was the son of Albert and Doris (Fogo) Rogers and was born on March 10, 1950, in Reedsburg, Wisconsin. Buddy lived a life marked by joy, camaraderie, and a genuine love for his family and friends.
Buddy’s life was a tapestry woven with the love of his devoted wife, Yvonne Rogers, and the pride he took in his children, Brett Evans of New Lisbon, Brian (Jean) Evans of Hustler, Kim (Rob) Bradley of New Lisbon, and Kelly Greeno Rogers of Holmen. His legacy continued to flourish through his six grandchildren, Dustin, Mariah, Gabe, Donavan, Heather, and Austin, and his seven great-grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable joy and laughter. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Butch and Steve, and his sisters Patti, Judy, Barb, Dianna and Cathy.
A man of many interests, Buddy was a member of the New Lisbon American Legion. His love for golf was well known, as he spent many a sunny morning on the greens with Johnny and Mike, when he was able to. When the music played, Buddy was often the first to hit the dance floor, his feet tapping and his voice singing along to the tunes he adored.
Buddy’s daily ritual of meeting friends for a cup of coffee was more than a pastime; it was a testament to his ability to cultivate lasting friendships and his genuine interest in the lives of those around him. Those who knew him will fondly remember the warmth of his smile and the infectious laughter that accompanied his witty jokes.
In honor of a life that touched so many, we say goodbye to a man who was much more than the sum of his years—a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and friend. Albert “Buddy” Rogers III will be fondly remembered and forever cherished in the stories that will be told and retold by those who loved him most.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at the New Lisbon Community Center from 4:00pm until 6:00pm, with a service starting at 5:30pm. Mark Hanson will be presiding. Military Honors will be provided by the New Lisbon American Legion Post 110. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com.
DOT Meeting on Interstate Construction Work
8 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Local News
Public Meeting – September 18
Public Meeting – Wisconsin Dept. of Transportation (WisDOT)
September 18 | 5 pm – 7 pm | Parks and Recreation Dept. | 819 Superior Ave., Tomah
The WisDOT is conducting a public involvement meeting to discuss plans to replace two bridges at the I-90/94 interchange in Tomah. The objective of this meeting is to familiarize the public with the purpose and need for the project, and obtain input on the proposed improvements. Adjacent property owners are encouraged to attend. For more information, contact Hannah Punzel at 608-246-7907, or hannah.punzel@dot.wi.gov.
Mauston Cross Country Has Successful Week
8 months
The Mauston High School cross country teams have a very positive week of competition.
The teams competed at the 58th Annual Verona Invitational on Saturday September 7th.The meet featured over thirty teams from Wisconsin and Illinois. The boys varsity team placed 2nd in their 13 team division with senior Josh Ellerman the top finisher for the boys varsity with a 34th place finish out of 232 varsity runners.
The MHS CC teams Traveled to G-E-T to compete at the 2024 Redhawk Invitational held at the Ettrick Golf course. Fourteen teams competed at the meet. The boys varsity earned the team championship with a score of 19 points placing five runners in the top eight places. Josh Ellerman was the individual meet champion winning the 5K race in 17;02. The balance of the medalist finishes for the MHS CC crew: Brekk Peterson 2nd, Westin Pouillie 5th, Sebastian Naquayouma 6th and Hakkan Peterson 8th place. The girls varsity team placed 5th led by senior Alyexis Smith 5th place finish. It was a great night for the Golden Eagles.
Local Prep Scores from Thursday 9/12
8 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Sports
Girls Volleyball
Cashton 3 Necedah 2
Hillsboro 3 Necedah 2
Hillsboro 3 New Lisbon 0
Wonewoc-Center 3 Bangor 1
Brookwood 3 Wonewoc-Center 1
Royall 3 Bangor 2
Royall 3 Brookwood 2
Mauston 3 Adams-Friendship 1 (Ava Stanila 6aces for Mauston)
Stoughton 3 Reedsburg 2
Tomah 3 La Crosse Logan 0
Nekoosa 3 Westfield 0
Wautoma 3 Wisconsin Dells 1
Boys Soccer
Mauston 3 Coulee Christian 0
Wisconsin Dells 9 Nekoosa 1
River Valley 4 Reedsburg 1
Tomah 2 West Salem 0
Sparta 8 Adams-Friendship 3
Viegut, John Edwin Age 78 of Baraboo
8 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
John Edwin Viegut, 78, passed away on September 8th, 2024, in Baraboo, WI. Born on January 12, 1946 in Wausau, WI, John was the cherished eldest son of Marvin and Lorraine Viegut. Throughout his life, John was a beacon of love and strength for his family and friends.
John leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. He was the beloved husband of Linda, with whom he shared 57 years of marriage, filled with mutual support and deep affection. A dedicated father, he was immensely proud of his five children: Troy (Lisa; grandkids: Trenton, Troy, Trevor, Tyler, Thomas: great-grandkids: Sadie), Tim (Toni; grandkids: Ty, Cody, Torrin, Trey: great-grandkids: Tae, Harper, Gio), Terry (Nikki;) grandkids: Bailey, Wyatt, Chloe, Peyton, Ryder: great-grandkid: Bryn), Tammy (Matt; grandkids: Holden, Alex), and Tanya (Dustin; grandkids: Sophia, Grace). John also held a special place in his heart for his cats, Dawson and Dixie.
John’s sisters, Dorothy (Larry), Mary (Duke), and Dawn (Art), remember him as a guiding light of strength and a source of unwavering support and love. A devout Catholic, John was a current member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Parish in Baraboo and a long-time member of St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish in Eagle, WI. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, providing him with comfort and guidance.
John flew over 1 million airline miles during his career. He was known for his charismatic personality, work ethic, and ability to deliver solutions to challenging problems. He was proud of his tenure and service during his career at Hein-Werner, P&H-Akerman, and InPro Corp.
John was also an avid sports enthusiast, fervently supporting the Packers, Badgers, and Brewers, and had a passion for NASCAR. His hobbies brought him much joy and connected him with a community of fellow fans.
John was a lifelong coach which included his daughter’s recreational softball teams and his son’s semi-recreational league in the Land O’Lakes western division. Many nights and weekends of his dedication built a strong foundation for his children’s love of sports and showcased his dedication to the community of Eagle.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Parish, 302 2nd Street, Baraboo, Wisconsin on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral luncheon at the church hall. John will be laid to rest at St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish Cemetery in Eagle, Wisconsin at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 25, 2024. Visitation will begin at the Church on Wednesday, September 25th, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass.
John’s life was marked by his unwavering commitment to his loved ones and his church. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
John’s family asks that in lieu of flowers, you make a donation to Second Harvest Food Bank, or to Easter Seals, which helped John’s parents navigate through the early days of his fight with polio.
Mauston Volleyball Loses Heartbreaker to Nekoosa
8 months
The Mauston Golden Eagles Volleyball team lost a heartbreaker to Nekoosa Tuesday evening falling 3-2 in 5 sets. Mauston dropped the opening set but came back to take set two. Nekoosa went on to win the third set but Mauston dominated set 4 to force a winner take all race to 15 set five. Mauston built a 9-3 lead in the deciding set but saw Nekoosa finish on a 12-3 run to win the set and the match. Maddi Quist had 16kills while Bre Heller had 5 blocks. Ellie Poullie had 37assists for the Golden Eagles who drop to 4-3 overall and 0-1 in the South Central Conference.
Lake Delton Family Medical Center Health Fair
8 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Local News
Take control of your health by reserving your spot at the upcoming health fair hosted by Mile Bluff – Delton Family Medical Center in Lake Delton on Thursday, September 19 from 7 to 10 am. Receive free blood pressure and blood sugar testing, and learn what your risk factors are for developing heart disease and diabetes. In addition to these services, cholesterol screenings will be available for a small fee.
Appointments are required for all services. Call 608-254-5888 to reserve your spot today!
For more information on future events, visit milebluff.com.
Juneau County Area Top 10 Prep Football Power Rankings
8 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Sports
- Ithaca Bulldogs (3-0) – The Bulldogs blanked Hillsboro 18-0 to pick up their first ever Scenic Bluffs Conference victory. The Bulldogs defense has now pitched back to back shutouts.
- Berlin Indians (2-1) – Berlin Buried Wautoma in their conference opener and have just one loss to a very strong Kiel Football team.
- Nekoosa Papermakers (3-0) – The Papermakers are off to a surprise 3-0 start to their season after dispatching Mauston 22-8 in their return to the South Central Conference.
- Wisconsin Dells Chiefs (2-1) – The Chiefs dropped their season opener but have won back to back games including a conference opening victory over Waupun.
- Bangor Cardinals (2-1) – Bangor once again is one of the favorites in the Scenic Bluffs Conference and pounded Brookwood 42-0 in their conference opener. It’s a different look Cardinals team but they will still be very strong as they showed against the Falcons.
- Royall Panthers (2-1) –Royall rolled over New Lisbon 44-12 behind 5 Jackson Bender running touchdowns. They have rival Brookwood this Friday.
- Hillsboro Tigers (2-1) – Hillsboro will be without their starting quarterback this season after suffering an injury against Boscobel in the season opener. There is still plenty of talent on this team but they were shutout by Ithaca 18-0 in their conference opener.
- Cashton Eagles (2-1) – Cashton has bounced back after falling in week 1 to win to games convincingly although against weaker competition. They will try to win their 3rd in row vs New Lisbon this Friday.
- Adams-Friendship Green Devils (2-1) – Adams-Friendship is in slight rebuild mode but are still of to a 2-1 start after blanking Ripon 6-0 last Friday.
- Tomah Timberwolves (1-2) – Tomah had a brutal loss to Richland Center in their season opener and were then handled by West Salem but came from behind to defeat Baraboo last Friday. Baraboo defeated Tomah twice a season ago.
*This is just a “fun” poll of local team around Juneau County or in the Scenic Bluffs or South Central Conferences. This does not mean the #4 ranked team for example would necessarily beat the #9 ranked team as I am not doing this by divisions.
