Mauston, WI
Obituaries
Becker, Frederick Raymond Age 83 of New Lisbon
3 days
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Frederick Raymond Becker, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2025, at the age of 83 at Crest View Nursing Home in New Lisbon, Wisconsin. Fred was the son of John and Evelyn (McGuire) Becker and was born on July 28, 1942, in Necedah, Wisconsin, Fred’s life was a testament to his enduring love for his family, his passion for his work, and his unwavering commitment to his community.
Fred was a proud graduate of Necedah High School, class of 1960, and furthered his education at UW-La Crosse. After college, he returned to his hometown of Necedah, where he would establish and operate Becker Forest Products for 50 years. His dedication to the forestry business was not just a career but a calling. Fred loved logging and took great pride in his work, which was evident to all who knew him.
He married the love of his life, Diana Siegler on October 21, 1967, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Necedah, and together they built a beautiful family, including their children Mark (Cristina) Becker of Mauston, Philip (Shauna) Becker of Golden Valley, MN, and Jennifer (Jerrod) Knee of New Lisbon. Fred was a doting grandfather to Avery, Hallie, Canaan, Vivianna, Solomon, Giovanna, Shea, Cassius, Gwenyth, Aria, and Parker, whose activities and milestones he followed with great enthusiasm and pride.
Fred’s interests were as rich and varied as his life. He relished the time spent at the family vacation home in Chetek, where memories were made and laughter was shared. At his home in Necedah, Fred’s Bar was the setting for countless celebrations, stories, and friendships — a reflection of his generous spirit and love of good company. An avid traveler, he enjoyed exploring new places from the comfort of his RV, and he enjoyed being out on the water, boating with his family. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Fred was a fervent supporter of the Green Bay Packers and the Milwaukee Brewers.
Those who knew Fred will remember him as a kind man who would help anyone with anything that he could, a friendly man who was always ready for a conversation with a smile, and a gentle soul whose kindness touched the lives of many. His presence was a comfort, his advice was sought after, and his legacy is one of love, hard work, and integrity.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents, John and Evelyn Becker, his infant brother Jerry Becker, and his siblings Joseph, John, James, Raymond, Eileen Becker, Sharon Ravenscroft, and Evelyn (Sis) Johnson.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church (2001 S. Main St.) Necedah, WI. Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at the Hare Funeral Home (217 W. Pearl St.) in New Lisbon, and also at
Santas, Gladys Elaine Age 87 of Hillsboro
1 week
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Gladys Elaine (Bowen) Santas, age 87, of Hillsboro, Wisconsin, passed away on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at Milestone Senior Living in Hillsboro.
She was born on February 6, 1938, in Black River Falls, Wisconsin, the daughter of Enos and Luella (Scafe) Bowen. She graduated from Black River Falls High School.
Gladys was united in marriage to Richard “Dick” Santas on January 4, 1958, in Black River Falls. He preceded her in death on January 21, 2021.
Following their marriage, Gladys and Dick lived in Madison for several years, where she worked as a cook at an elementary school and cared for their home. In 1968, they moved to rural Wonewoc to begin farming and raising their family.
Along with her work on the farm, Gladys was employed at several local businesses, including Wurster’s Shoe Store and Dieck’s Clothing Store in Hillsboro, and Fick’s Clothing Store in Wonewoc. She later shared her caring heart as a caregiver at the Lutheran Home in Hillsboro.
Gladys and Dick were active members of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hillsboro. She participated in Ladies Aid, the Juneau County Farm Bureau, and the Red Hatters Club. Gladys enjoyed sewing, cooking, and preparing food for gatherings of family and friends. She and Dick loved to travel—although Dick managed to get Gladys on an airplane only once, and never onto a boat! Together, they also opened their home to several young men and women from France and other countries, sharing the rhythms of U.S. agriculture, local customs, and plenty of homemade food.
Gladys is survived by her children, Scott Santas (Jan Bires) of Wonewoc, Sherri (Tim) Torkelson of Black River Falls, Michael (Sarah) Santas of Portage and Merri (Ryan) Guggisberg of Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Heather (Cliff) Ruland, Megan Santas, Ashley Santas, Kelly Santas, Brittany (Zach) Savignac, Tyler Torkelson, Nicholas Santas, Cody Santas, Abby (Kyle) Kramer, and Alex Guggisberg; great-grandchildren: Ethan, Wyatt, Jaenelle, Hudson, and Braden; her sister, Carol Ibinger; brothers-in-law, Donovan Santas and Gordon Stittleburg; sister-in-law, Sandra Santas and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Dick; her parents; sisters Dorothy (Edson) Gearing and Gwen (Dale) Overlien; brothers Nick and Bud Bowen; and in-laws John Ibinger, Barbara Santas, Jean Stittleburg, Mary Phillips, and John Santas.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hillsboro, with Rev. Jacob Limpert officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Vernon Cemetery in Hillsboro. Visitation will be held at the church on Tuesday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Luncheon & Celebration of Life
A luncheon will be held in the church basement following the burial. The family warmly invites everyone to stay, share memories, and join them in celebrating the lives of both Gladys and her husband, Richard “Dick” Santas, whose life they also wish to honor at this time.
In lieu of flowers, donations will be directed to Milestone Senior Living of Hillsboro. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Milestone for their loving care of Gladys over the past several years.
The Picha Funeral Home in Hillsboro is assisting the family. Online information is available at www.pichafuneralhomes.com
Gately, James A. Age 85 of Grand Marsh
1 week
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
James A. Gately, age 85, of Grand Marsh, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2025, at Fair View Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Mauston, Wisconsin.
James was born on January 20, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, to Arthur L. Gately and Regina Ann (Spellman) Gately. He was united in marriage to Linda Howe, the love of his life, on May 19, 1962, at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana. He was a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and later attended DePaul University College of Law, where he earned his Juris Doctor degree. James practiced law for over 40 years in Chicago, serving his clients and community with dedication, integrity, and compassion.
James was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Lions Club, and Kiwanis Club, and he valued the fellowship and service these organizations represented. In his free time, he enjoyed snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, and trap shooting.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Regina Gately; his sister, Regina Gately; and his beloved wife, Linda Gately.
James is survived by his two sons, James Thomas Gately (Geri) and Arthur L. Gately (Michele); his four grandchildren, Ashley Gately, Tiffany Braun ( Ryan), James A. Gately II, and Rachel Gately; and his good friend, Judy Bieri.
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025 at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Friendship, Wisconsin. Father David Bruener will officiate. Interment will be at the St. Leo Catholic Cemetery, Town of Adams, Wisconsin. Visitation will be 9 a.m. to the time of Mass on Saturday at St. Joseph Catholic Church.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St Jude Children’s Hospital.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.
Stoikes, Kathleen Ann Age 86 of Norwalk
1 week
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Kathleen Ann Stoikes, 86, of Norwalk, WI, the last sibling of Henry and Mary (Moore) Kotten, was called home Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Rolling Hills Rehab Center in Sparta, WI.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, December 27, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home, 1132 Angelo Rd. Sparta, WI. Father Eric Berns will officiate. Family and friends are invited for visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.
Lee, Timothy E. Age 76 of Arkdale
1 week
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Timothy E. Lee, age 76, of Arkdale, Wisconsin, formerly of Beloit, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 16, 2025.
Tim was born on May 27, 1949, in Ripon, Wisconsin, to Claude and Gladys (Liptow) Lee. He grew up and attended school in Ripon before beginning a long career as an engineer with Beloit Corporation in Beloit.
Tim was a devoted father who raised his two children on his own: Thomas (Melinda) Lee of Des Moines, Iowa, and Christine Lee of Hudson, Wisconsin. He was a proud grandfather to Brianna and Kira, whose lives brought him immense joy. He was a life member and officer of the Beloit Rifle Club and dedicated more than 40 years to teaching Hunter Safety. Tim was also a lifetime member of the Antique Farmers Club. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and shooting sports throughout his life.
In 2004, Tim married Sharon Blood, and her children, Heather Seese of Delavan, Wisconsin, and Kevin Blood of Oklahoma.
After retiring, Tim and Sharon built a beautiful home in Arkdale, where they enjoyed the community, friendships, and the peaceful life they created together.
Per Tim’s wishes no services will be held.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences and further information may be found at www.roseberrys.com.
Heitman, Don (Donnie) Age 64 of Adams
1 week
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
With heavy hearts, we share the passing of a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Don (Donnie) Heitman, whose life was rooted in family, hard work, and a deep love of the land. Don passed away on December 10, 2025.
A memorial service will be held in the near future. Details to follow.
Don was born March 14, 1961, to Edward and June Heitman. A farmer at heart, he found joy in the simple, meaningful things — working the land, tending to cows, and spending long days outdoors. His tractor was more than a tool; it was a source of pride, whether it was part of his toy collection or the real thing under open skies. Farming wasn’t just what he did — it was who he was — and his strong work ethic and love for nature were passed down through generations, connecting him closely to his own father and family roots.
Don worked for Wil-Kil/Rentokil for 26 years. He took great pride in showing up every day with honesty and dedication. Over the years, his customers became familiar faces and friends. On February 28, 1981, Don married Annette Guite. They spent 45 years loving each other and their family.
As a dad and grandpa, he was present, thoughtful, and endlessly loving. He delighted in time spent with his grandchildren — sharing ice cream and donuts, taking tractor and gator rides, going on adventures, and enjoying Disney vacations. He cherished watching sports, celebrating Christmas, and creating memories that will be treasured forever. He had a special way of surprising his family with small, silly gifts that brought big smiles and laughter.
He enjoyed simple pleasures like fish fries, hamburgers, and time with his dogs — especially his beloved corgis. Known for his good sense of humor, he could always bring lightness into a room and make those around him feel at ease.
Above all, he was a loving husband and a devoted family man. His love for his family was steady, genuine, and unwavering, and it showed in everything he did.
Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on in the values he taught, the land he loved, and the countless memories shared with those closest to him.
Don is preceded in death by his parents, Edward and June Heitman; and his son, Alexander.
He is survived by his loving wife, Annette; his children: Nicolas (Jenny) Heitman, and Sara (Brandon) Lukowski; beloved grandchildren, Madeline and Henry; his sister, Jean (Rich) Kleinfeldt; and his brothers, Lloyd (Roberta) Heitman and Larry Heitman. Further survived by nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.
The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the Life Star ambulance crew, the Quincy Fire Department, and the neighbors who stopped by for their kindness, care, and compassion during this difficult time.
Roseberry Funeral Home (www.roseberrys.com) is assisting the family
Knickelbein, Rick Age 58 of Mauston
2 weeks
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
A Funeral service for Rick Knickelbein, age 58, of Mauston, Wisconsin, will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 12:00 P.M. at New Life Assembly of God Church in Reedsburg, Wisconsin with Pastor Clark Peterson officiating. Visitations will be held on Friday evening at Conway-Picha Funeral Home in Lyndon Station from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and again on Saturday morning at New Life Assembly of God Church in Reedsburg, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 Noon.
The Picha Funeral Home and Crematory of Lyndon Station, Wisconsin assisted the family with arrangements. For On-Line condolences and information, go to www.pichafuneralhome.com.
Byington, Janice Jane “Chub” Age 85 of Wonewoc
2 weeks
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Janice Jane “Chub” Byington, age 85 of Wonewoc, WI passed away December 14, 2025 after a brief illness at Fair View Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Mauston, WI. She was born July 8, 1940 in Summit Township to Leonard Geier and Anna (Miller). She lived a life of joy, love, laughter and had many wonderful moments and memories with family and friends. No matter how difficult the times were, she would just laugh it off and move forward.
Chub completed the 8th grade and stayed home to help on the family farm. She said that she would rather be working outside on the farm with animals and field work instead of working in the house.
She married Norman L. Byington July 26, 1958. In her early married years, she worked at the Hillsboro Canning Plant and at Beranek’s Meat Market while also a farm wife and home maker on the Byington Family Farm located on Hwy G, Wonewoc.
Chub enjoyed farming, especially the cattle and chickens, gardening, fishing and hunting. She spent many autumn afternoons walking the surrounding hills and valleys chasing grouse and squirrels. In the spring, she logged many miles looking for the elusive morel mushroom and then gardened and picked all kinds of berries in the summer and nuts in the fall. In the wintertime, she kept busy with sewing, puzzles and playing card games such as gin rummy and solitaire later on. And let’s not forget watching the weekly Packer game!
She loved farming with Norm and they dairy farmed for decades on the family farm– Started with Holstein cows and then switched to Jersey cattle later on. Once retired from dairy cattle, they traveled to many of the national parks and spent many days fishing locally. Their favorite was fishing for northerns at Miller Dam, Gilman, WI. They were married for 54 years before Norm passed away.
Chub is survived by sisters Rose Ruetten and Sherry Gardehl (James Bohn); children Bruce Byington, LaValle, WI, Brian (Ellen) Byington Wonewoc, WI and Mary (Ben) Thompson, Fall Creek, WI; grandchildren Lauryn (Ethan) Pixler, Oklahoma, Lucas (Tanisha) Byington, Wonewoc, WI, Kelley (Eric) Basinger, Quincy, IL, Isabella Thompson, Fargo, ND and Colton Thompson, Eau Claire, WI; great grandchildren Aurora Basinger, Kali Rae Pixler, Olivia Audrey Grace Pixler, and Makenna Haugh; and many more nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Norm; brothers Julius (Jack) Geier, Gregory (Butch) Geier and sisters Betty Field, Charlotte Raese, twin sister Janette Turner and Dorothy Krueger.
In addition to family, Chub found great joy in other farming families and especially the “neighbor boys” next door. She adopted them like her own grandchildren and greatly enjoyed visiting with them and bringing them cookies.
Services will be held Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Picha Funeral Home, Wonewoc, WI with visitation from 9 am to 11 am. Father Don Bauer will be officiating and burial afterwards at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Union Center, WI. Luncheon will follow at the American Legion Hall, Wonewoc, WI.
Chub, you will be forever in our hearts. May you rest in eternal peace, knowing that your love and spirit will continue to guide and inspire us.
The Picha Funeral Home in Wonewoc is assisting, for online information go to www.pichafuneralhomes.com
Thompson, Darleen S. Age 77 of Rural Elroy
2 weeks
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Darleen S. Thompson, age 77 years, of rural Elroy, Wisconsin, passed away on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at home, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born on September 7, 1948 in Mauston, Wisconsin, the daughter of Buford and Irene (Olson) Jones. Darleen grew up in the Elroy area and graduated from the Royall High School.
Darleen was united in marriage to Adelbert “Bud” Thompson on April 29, 1967 in Elroy. They farmed for 25 years in Millards Prairie, following retiring from farming in 1992, she then worked at the Reedsburg Egg Factory. Bud preceded her in death on March 24, 2021.
Darleen loved her family, spoiling her grandkids, having family around, attending family gatherings and singing happy birthday to all of her family on their birthdays. She loved to read books, watch murder mystery shows, cruise around in her collector cars with the top down and playing cards with family and friends, especially the ladies in card club.
Survivors include her children, Teresa (John) Rose, Todd (Jennifer) Thompson, Troy (Jennifer) Thompson and Tammy Thompson; grandkids, Ronald Seitz Jr., Adrian Seitz, Brooke Denman, Cody Miller, Hayden Thompson, Tylah Baetje, Zachary Thompson, Clarissa Littlebear and Kyle Krueger; ten Great Grandkids; and sisters, Sharon Jones, Dona (David) Brown, Kristy (Tom) Wroblewski and Debbie (Terry) McKee.
In addition to her husband, Adelbert “Bud” Thompson; she was preceded in death by her Parents and a brother, Gary Jones.
A time of visitation will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Picha Funeral Home in Elroy, with a service to follow at 7:00 p.m., with Kris Stauffacher officiating.
The Picha Funeral Home in Elroy is assisting, for online information go to www.pichafuneralhomes.com
Rabl, Norman E. Age 89 of Adams
2 weeks
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Norman E. Rabl, age 89 of Adams, Wisconsin passed away on December 11, 2025.
Norm was born on June 16, 1936, in Columbus, WI to John Rabl and Elizabeth (Huber) Rabl. He graduated from Fall River High School in 1957 and went on to attend UW Madison where he played trumpet and tuba in the University Marching Band. He belonged to Delta Sigma Phi graduating with a BS in 1958. He received his MS in 1965 and PhD in 1978 from UW. His career began in Jefferson County in University Extension-Education. Norm began his career as a 4-H Club Agent, then as a Horticulture and Livestock Specialist, ending his formal career as the County Resource
Agent & Business Specialist for Jefferson Co. He was granted Professor Emeritus from UW in 1978. While living in Jefferson he was involved with the National 4-H Club, Jefferson Kiwanis, Fort Atkinson Lions, WI Conservation Club and UW Madison Alumni Association.
Norm married his beloved wife, Carol (Hackl) in May 1963 and the couple were married for 58 years. As a couple they enjoyed spending time with their three children and five grandchildren, camping, boating and traveling to FL, Branson, Door County, the Northwoods and many National Parks. Norm loved playing the accordion and enjoyed entertaining others at Christmas and parties for many years. He remained an avid hunter and fisherman his entire life with annual trips to the Chippewa Flowage where he had a favorite “crappie hole”. After retirement, Norm and Carol moved to Adams, WI where they developed the Pinequilizer Campground/Mobile Home Park and Tree Farm. He began a Christmas tree lot in Fort Atkinson in 1968 where he enjoyed visiting with old friends and colleagues even after his son took over the sales. He had a vivid passion for life, often capturing it via his photography of family, friends and places he went. Norm had a special gift of making friends wherever he went and they remained friends for a lifetime.
Norman was preceded in death by his wife, Carol; his parents and brothers (John, Phil and Butch). He is survived by his loving family; sister, Nancy Mickelson; daughter, Laurie Rabl (Anthony Roberts); son, David Rabl (Jolane Benner); daughter, Kelly (Trent) Allen. Grandchildren Keith Diemert; Collin (Fillipi) Diemert; Grace (Arlen) Rabl Castro; Chloe (Jake) Allen and Luke Allen.
A celebration of life and internment will be planned later in 2026, details to follow.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home (www.roseberrys.com) is assisting the family.
