Mauston, WI
WRJC WebMaster
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Posts by WRJC WebMaster
HS Football Preview –2024 Wisconsin Dells Chiefs
11 months
Wisconsin Dells Chiefs
2023 Record: 7-4 (5-2 South Central Conference)
Head Coach: Michael Janke (5th Season 31-10 Record)
Mike’s 2024 Projected Record 7-2 (6-1 South Central Conference)
Players to Watch: QB/LB Lex Rettinger RB/LB Sam Ersland OL/LB Logan Goodrich WR/S Raphael Berje
Team Preview: The Wisconsin Dells Chiefs were extremely young last year and still managed to finish 7-4 on their season, creating big expectations for this year. Lex Rettinger had a tremendous sophomore campaign at quarterback throwing for nearly 1400 yards and 17 touchdown passes. He loses favorite target Deagen Jensen but brings back Raphael Berje (18-522 5tds). Once again taking a lot of pressure of Rettinger will be running back Sam Ersland who scampered for 1540 yards and 16 touchdowns last year. The defense should be solid as well as they welcome back Logan Goodrich who led the team in sacks and tackles last year. Payne Carroll is also back who led the Dells in tackles for losses last year. The Chiefs have a good combination of speed and size on this years team and should be able to compete for a conference championship.
Key to Success: Complimentary players! The Dells has a very good big 3 in Rettinger, Ersland and Berje on offense but can they get the role players to step up around them. If there is an injury to that core group who will step up for the Dells? If they can develop the role players it will take the Dells up another notch and maybe even to a conference championship.
Game to watch: Week 7 Friday Friday October 4th home vs Berlin 7pm
This game might decide the conference championship. The two teams met in the playoffs in 2021 with the Dells routing Berlin in a level 2 matchup. It should be a good battle on the gridiron in early October!
Wisconsin Dells games on WRJC Radio: Week 8 Friday October 11th at Mauston 7pm 92.9FM
Next Preview: Bangor/Ithaca
Thanks to Wissports.net for statistics and player information.
Webber, Patricia “Pat” J. Age 74 of Reedsburg
11 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Patricia J. “Pat” Webber, age 74, of Reedsburg, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison. She was born on December 1, 1949, in Mauston, WI, the daughter of Arnold and Miriam (O’Day) Babcock. Pat was a graduate of Mauston High School and attended Juneau County Teacher’s College.
On May 26, 1973, Pat was united in marriage to Roger W. Webber. He preceded her in death on July 23, 2005.
Pat was employed as a Teacher’s Aid for several years. She was also employed at Dumore Corporation and worked in retail sales in Wisconsin Dells for a time. She was a former member of the Mauston Moose Lodge. In her free time, Pat enjoyed crocheting, playing cards, pool and bowling. She cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren, especially family camping trips and exploring while on vacation.
She was also preceded in death by her parents, and brother, Michael Babcock.
Pat is survived by her children, Samantha Webber, Bryan (Darcy) Johnson, Steven (Dawn) Webber; grandchildren, Kyla, Cody, Jordan, Ryan and Eric; great grandson, Aaden; siblings, Rosemary (Ron) Bobeck, Jeanette (Dan) Boehm, Rod (Patti) Babcock, Tony (Colette) Babcock, Harold (Amy) Babcock, Gladys (John) Golden; sister-in-law, Shirley Babcock; several nieces, nephews along with other relatives and friends.
A Celebration of Life for Pat will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, August 18, 2024 at Brewster’s Lanes.
The Farber Funeral Home, Reedsburg, is assisting the family.
Volden, Bruce E. Age 73 of Westby
11 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Bruce E. Volden, age 73, passed away June 28, 2024.
Memorial services for Bruce will be held Saturday, August 17, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at Vang Lutheran Church in Westby. Pastor Alyssa Weaver will officiate. Burial with full military honors will follow in the church cemetery. Family and friends are invited for visitation Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church. The Torkelson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
HS Football Preview –2024 Nekoosa Papermakers
11 months
Nekoosa Papermakers
2023 Record: 3-6 (2-5 Central Wisconsin Large)
Head Coach: Derek Baker (2nd Season 3-6 Record)
Mike’s 2024 Projected Record 3-6 (1-6 South Central Conference)
Players to Watch: QB/DB Nash Krcmar RB/LB Francisco Vega RB/DB Jacob Bertling WR/DB Branden Winteland
Team Preview: The Nekoosa Papermakers are back in the South Central Conference after a brief absence. The Papermakers have not had a lot of success over recent years but have some young talent on this years team. Nash Krcmar led the team in passing and rushing last season and is back to lead the offense. Krcmar ran for nearly 600yards and threw for 497 yards and accounted for 15 offensive touchdowns for the papermakers. Francisco Vega (95-522 5tds) and Jacob Bertling (103-466 4tds) are back to lead a heavy rushing attack for Nekoosa. The Papermakers have talent to compete in the conference but I still see them struggling a bit this season finishing just 3-6 overall.
Key to Success: Defense. Nekoosa gave up a lot of points last year. They gave up 29 or more points in 6/9 games last year. The offense should be there for them if the defense can step up they should be much better then I predict them to be.
Game to watch: Week 5 Friday September 20th at Wautoma 7pm
Nekoosa and Wautoma will once again square off on the football field. I have both these teams struggling in the conference this season. This game might be about who wants it more.
Nekoosa games on WRJC Radio: Week 3 Friday September 6th home vs Mauston 7pm 92.9FM
Next Preview: Wisconsin Dells
Thanks to Wissports.net for statistics and player information.
Edwards, Terrence G. “Slo” Edwards Age 83 of Friendship
11 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Terrence G. “Slo” Edwards, age 83, of Friendship, Wisconsin passed away Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at his home.
A celebration of life will be from 12:00 Noon until 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at Connell’s Cedar Shack in Adams, WI.
Terrence was born November 30, 1940, in Elgin, Illinois to Milton and Betsy (Mahoney) Edwards.
He married Kathleen “Mutz” Wilson “on March 18, 1977, in Kane County, Geneva, Illinois.
Slo worked 33 years for ITW Buildex in Illinois before he retired and moved to Adams County. He loved the Cubs & Bears, playing the machines at bars, and spending time with Mutz. He had a great sense of humor and loved to socialize.
Slo was preceded in death by his parents Milton & Betsy; brothers Thomas “Tommy” & David, and two nephews John & Keith.
Survivors include his wife, Kathleen; daughter, Cynthia (Brad) Tafel; son, Timothy (Beth) Edwards; three grandchildren; one great-grandson; brothers, Steve (Cindy) & Craig (Sue); sister, Kim, and two sisters-in-law Roslyn & Margaret “Marg”. He is further survived by cousins and close friends.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.
Watson, Robert J. “Bob” Age 73 of Hillsboro
11 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Robert J. “Bob” Watson, age 73 years, of Hillsboro, Wisconsin, passed away on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at Gundersen Health Services in La Crosse.
He was born on August 5, 1951, the son of Bernard and Mary (Malphy) Watson in Hillsboro. Robert graduated from the Hillsboro High School in 1969.
Robert was united in marriage to Jean A. Fronk on June 12, 1982.
Bob worked in several different mechanic or maintenance positions, including Ken’s Mobil, Farmer’s Co-op, M & J Auto, Christmas Mountain Resort and Whitehall Specialties.
Bob also spent many years active in emergency services in the area. He served as an EMT in Hillsboro from the 1970’s to 1999 and became co-director with Terry Sosinsky. He served on the Hillsboro Fire Department for 17 years, with many of those years as Captain. He also served on the Hillsboro City Council.
Survivors include his brother-in-law, William (Carol) Fronk of Kendall; sister-in-law, Diane Fronk (Jim Moore) of Tomah; nephew, Matthew (Kelly) Fronk and family; niece, Meredith (Jeremy) Tomesh and family; and nephew, Chad (Samantha) Schiefelbein and family.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Jean Watson on July 19, 2023; father, Bernard Watson; mother, Mary O’Connor; step father, Thomas O’Connor; and aunts and uncles.
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at the Picha Funeral Home in Hillsboro, with Thomas Hotek officiating. Burial will be in the Mount Vernon Cemetery in Hillsboro. A time of visitation will be at the Picha Funeral Home in Hillsboro on Saturday, August 17th from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Bloomer, Michael G Age 65 of Necedah
11 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Michael G. Bloomer Jr., known affectionately to friends and family as Mike, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2024, due to complications from cardiac stenosis. Born on January 29, 1959, in Fairfax, VA, Mike’s life journey of 65 years was marked by an unwavering dedication to his loved ones, a passion for the outdoors, and an earnest commitment to his community in Necedah, WI, where he spent his final moments surrounded by the warmth of family.
Mike’s early years in Virginia set the stage for a life rich in love and adventure. His youthful spirit was a beacon that continued to shine brightly as he ventured into the world, eventually laying roots in Wisconsin. It was there that he met and married the love of his life, Julie L. Bloomer, and together they built a family founded on the principles of kindness, laughter, and resilience. His role as a father to Amanda Bloomer, Joseph (Katie) Bloomer, and Andrea Smith, his step-daughter, was one he cherished deeply, and his love was a guiding force in their lives.
He was the proud brother to Charlie (Vicky) Bloomer, Lorrie (Dave) Fox, Tim (Linda) Bloomer, Shan (Jessica) Bloomer, and Shawn Bloomer, all of whom shared countless memories filled with joy and camaraderie. He is further survived by brothers-in-law Jim (Connie) Peasley, Louie (Cindy) Peasley, Steve (Sue) Peasley, Sisters-in-law Debbie Peasley and Karen Neal, Linda (Jeff) Vavrin, Sue (Ray) Pruitt and Kathi (Hal) Rasmussen. Mike was also a doting grandfather, his heart brimming with pride for Jayden, Charolette, Emma Bloomer, and Greyson Kacmar. His legacy as a family man will be carried on through the stories and values he instilled in each of them. He is further survived by many loving nieces and nephews, who will continue to honor his memory by living the lessons he taught through his own example of integrity and strength.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Michael G. Bloomer Sr. and Barbara J. Bloomer, and his brothers Danny and Larry Bloomer, Mother and Father-in-law Louis (Mary) Peasley, and brothers-in-law Dave Peasley, Rich Peasley and Joseph Peasley.
An avid outdoorsman, Mike found solace and joy in nature. Hunting, fishing, and UTV riding were not just hobbies but a testament to his appreciation for life’s simple pleasures and the beauty of the wilderness. In his younger years he was an avid Eagle Scout. His reverence for the natural world was infectious, and he was always ready to share a story or two about his latest adventure in the great outdoors.
Mike’s commitment to service was evident through his active involvement with the Necedah Lions Club. His contributions to the club were numerous, and his efforts helped foster a sense of unity and support within the community. His generous spirit and willingness to lend a hand were hallmarks of his character, leaving an indelible mark on the lives he touched.
As we bid farewell to Mike, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and joy. His laughter, which echoed through the halls of every gathering, will resonate with us forever. Mike’s unwavering love for his family, his passion for the outdoors, and his dedication to his community will continue to inspire those who knew him. His was a life that exemplified the virtues of compassion, loyalty, and friendship.
A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Mike Bloomer Jr. will be deeply missed but never forgotten, as his spirit lives on in the hearts of all who were privileged to know him. We take comfort in knowing that he is at peace, and we hold tight to the memories that will forever be a source of strength and solace.
As we say goodbye to a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend, let us honor Mike’s memory by emulating his kindness, his laughter, and his zest for life. In every ripple of the lakes he loved, in every rustle of the leaves during a quiet hunt, and in every act of service to our neighbors, his legacy will endure. Rest in peace, Mike; your journey here has ended, but your story continues within us.
Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at 5:00 P.M. at the Hare Funeral Home (217 W. Pearl St) in New Lisbon. Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation at the Hare Funeral Home on Thursday from 3:00 P.M. until the time of service. Chaplin Michael Amberg presiding. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com
HS Football Preview –2024 Adams-Friendship Green Devils
11 months
Adams-Friendship Green Devils
2023 Record: 7-4 (6-1 South Central Conference)
Head Coach: Nick Stormoen
Mike’s 2024 Projected Record 3-6 (2-5 South Central Conference)
Players to Watch: QB/DB Eli Cole RB/LB Robert Irey RB/LB Cody Henricksen WR/DB Tyler Erickson WR/DB Robert Weaver RB/LB Crispin Landon
Team Preview: The Green Devils are the defending South Central Conference champions but things will be more difficult this season. The conference is better and QB Lincoln Smith, RB Johnny Drankiewicz, Linemen Jake Long are all gone. Those 3 were huge factors in their conference title run. There is some valuable pieces to build around for the Green Devils. Robert Irey (60tackles) led the team in tackles a season ago is back along with last years leading sacker Robert Weaver (5sacks). Irey should also see a majority of the carries on the offensive side of the ball behind Drankiewicz he ran the ball 57 times for 423 yards and 3 touchdowns last year. Tyler Erickson is also back at WR for the Green Devils Erickson had 5 receiving touchdowns last year. Replacing the big 3 won’t be easy for Adams-Friendship and I see them taking a step back this season and failing to make the post season.
Key to Success: QB play! Adams-Friendship must develop a new quarterback after the graduation departure of Lincoln Smith. Eli Cole might get that opportunity; he completed 2-4 passes for 10yards and an interception last season. The quarterback decision might determine the success or lack thereof for this team.
Game to watch: Week 6 Friday September 27th at Mauston 7pm
This matchup last year decided the South Central Conference Championship. This game might not decide the championship but it’s still a big game between two rivals.
Green Devils games on WRJC Radio: Week 6 Friday September 27th at Mauston 7pm 92.9FM
Next Preview: Nekoosa
Thanks to Wissports.net for statistics and player information.
Ryan, Erika “Ricky” Age 94 of Fort Atkinson
11 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Erika “Ricky” Ryan, age 94, of Fort Atkinson, formerly of Friendship, WI passed away Monday, August 5, 2024, at Wellington Meadows in Fort Atkinson.
Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship. Father David Bruener will officiate. Interment will be at the Quincy Cemetery. Visitation will be 12:00 noon until the time of service on Saturday at Roseberry’s Funeral Home.
Erika was born June 17, 1930, in Amberg, Germany to Johan and Maria (Balk) Hofmann. She graduated High School in Amberg, Germany and then attended Arthur Murray Dance School.
Erika married Alfred V. Ryan on June 27, 1987, in Friendship.
She was a dance instructor for Arthur Murray Dance School and Manager of Dunkin Jewelers for many years.
Erika enjoyed cooking, baking, reading books, and loved feeding, listening to and watching birds. She was a Master Gardener and was passionate about flower gardening.
Erika was preceded in death by her parents Johan & Maria Hofmann; brother Heinz Hofmann; husband Alfred Ryan; stepson Kean Ryan (Noreen); mother-in-law Cecilia Koral; brother-in-law Thomas Ryan, and brother-in-law Philip Ryan Sr. (Sharon)
Survivors include her daughter Kristan Hoffman; stepdaughters Meghan Brown (Dan), and Killeen Ryan; grandchildren Keith Ryan, Jacob Brown, and Emily Brown.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.
HS Football Preview –2024 Wautoma Hornets
11 months
Wautoma Hornets
2023 Record: 3-7 (2-5 South Central Conference)
Head Coach: Andy Krueger
Mike’s 2024 Projected Record 1-8 (0-7 South Central Conference)
Players to Watch: RB/LB Skyler Royston OL/DL Michael Roeske QB/DB Peyton Pica
Team Preview: Wautoma might have the biggest name and biggest player in the conference in 6’8 linemen and Badger recruit Michael Roeske outside of that Wautoma does not return a whole lot from a team that finished just 3-8. Skyler Royston is back to lead the ground game. Royston racked up 756yards and 6 touchdowns on 168 carries last year. Peyton Pica might play the quarterback position after the graduation of Carson Armstrong. Roeske led the team in sacks with a pair last year. Wautoma was once a powerhouse in the conference but now there in the thick of hard times and I see that continuing all the way to a winless conference season this year.
Key to Success: Roeske playing big. The Wisconsin Badgers see something in Roeske as did other major college football programs. If Roeske can make big plays on defense and be a road grader on the o-line Skyler Royston might have some open daylight to keep Wautoma in games and give them a chance to win.
Game to watch: Week 1 Friday August 23rd at Westfield 7pm
A former conference matchup turned into a non-conference matchup as Wautoma will try to start its season with a victory.
Wautoma Hornet games on WRJC Radio: Week 4 Friday September 13th at Mauston 7pm 92.9FM
Next Preview: Adams-Friendship
Thanks to Wissports.net for statistics and player information.
