Mauston, WI
Obituaries
Van Natta, Gerald C. “Jerry” Age 84 of New Lisbon
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Gerald C. “Jerry” Van Natta, passed away of cancer, surrounded by his family at his home on June 28, 2025, at the age of 84 in New Lisbon, WI. Jerry was the son of Clifford and Nelda (Emler) Van Natta and was born on May 26, 1941, in Lancaster, WI, Jerry’s life was marked by his loving nature, adventurous spirit, and dedication to his family and community.
Jerry grew up on a farm in Janesville, WI, where he attended local schools and developed a strong work ethic that would define his professional life. After high school, he embarked on a lifelong career in the auto industry. Starting with General Motors, Jerry honed his skills as a mechanic and later joined Everhart O’Leary, where he dedicated 31 years of service, retiring in 2003, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues.
On October 5, 1979, Jerry married Barbara (Wille) Garey, in Janesville. Together, they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and shared passions. The couple enjoyed taking trips on their motorcycle, exploring the open road, and feeling the freedom that comes with it. Jerry’s love for motorsports extended to snowmobiling, where he not only raced but also served as the president of the Juneau County Winter Wanderers snowmobiling club for 11 years, fostering a sense of camaraderie and community among fellow enthusiasts.
Jerry and Barbara’s weekends and vacations often found them at their beloved property in New Lisbon, where they eventually decided to move permanently in 2003. This peaceful retreat was a testament to their adventurous spirit and love for the great outdoors.
Jerry’s legacy is carried on by his devoted wife, Barbara Van Natta of New Lisbon; his loving daughters, Jayne Griffeth of Janesville, Jodi Pingel of Janesville, Jackie (Scott Walker) Van Natta of Massachusetts, and Janel Van Natta of Janesville; his stepsons, Brian (Renee Lyke) Garey and Jeff Garey, both of Janesville; his sisters, Margie Weimer of Lancaster and Kathi Smith of Platteville; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Ken (Grace) Wille of Milton, Kathy (Ron) Sowles of Wyoming, Sherry Wille of Janesville, and Rick (Sue) Wille of Fort Wayne, IN. He was a proud grandfather to 10 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, his sister and brother-in-law Rita (Bob) O’Donnell, a nephew Jeff Mikkelson, his brother-in-law, Robert Wille and son-in-law Mike Griffeth. His departure leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his memory will continue to inspire those who knew him. Jerry’s life was a testament to the values of love, family, and adventure, and he will be remembered for his generous spirit and the joy he brought to every gathering.
The family would like to thank Sara, Tammy and the staff at the Serenity House for their compassionate care.
Wetley, Tammala “Tammy” J. Age 60 of Rural Elroy
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Tammala “Tammy” J. Wetley, age 60 years, of rural Elroy, Wisconsin, passed away on Monday, July 14, 2025 at her home.
She was born on May 1, 1965 in Madison, Wisconsin, the daughter of Gary and Kathleen (Sands) Leckwee. Tammy graduated from high school in Sun Prairie and furthered her education attending Technical College and obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Science from Kaplan University.
Tammy was united in marriage to Bruce Wetley on August 10, 2013 at East Lemonweir Lutheran Church.
She worked for 20 years at Madison General Hospital as a Lab Technician. Then in 2006, she owned her own business in Mauston, Occupation and Medical Testing Services. She was a Probation and Parole Agent and more recently she was a case worker for Lutheran social services. She had a heart of gold and was ready to take care of anyone in need. Tammy changed so many lives and helped so many.
Tammy was a very spiritual person and spent time with Bible studies. She was an animal lover of all kinds, loved watching the birds, enjoyed traveling and gardening were also things she enjoyed doing. Tammy loved people, taking care of her grandchildren, loved her family. She will forever be in our hearts.
Survivors include her husband, Bruce Wetley; daughter, Sabrina Wetley; grandchildren, Bentley Cooley, Maura Baumgart and Kae Haase; sister, Wendy Leckwee. She was preceded in death by her parents, Gary and Kathleen.
Memorial Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at the East Lemonweir Lutheran Church – W8943 County Highway S, Elroy, WI (just off State Highway 80). A time of visitation will be from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, service at 12:30 pm, with lunch to follow.
The Picha Funeral Home in Elroy is assisting, for online information go to www.pichafuneralhomes.com
Beeman, Ronald L. Age 83 of Adams
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Ronald L. Beeman Sr., age 83, of Adams, Wisconsin, passed away on Friday, July 11, 2025.
A memorial service will be held at 12:00 Noon on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin, with Gary Beeman officiating. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will follow at Mt. Repose Cemetery in Friendship.
Ronald was born on February 26, 1942, in Adams, Wisconsin, to Irwin and Ruth (Hyck) Beeman. He was united in marriage to Mary VanSchoyck on April 27, 1962, in Adams. Together they shared 63 years of love and devotion.
Ron led a full and active life. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, trapping, and playing softball with the Old Timers. He also had a passion for racing and was a proud member of the Central Wisconsin Racing Association during his younger years.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Irwin and Ruth; his daughter, Janette; three great-grandchildren; and six siblings.
Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Mary; his children, Ronald (Deb) Beeman Jr., Doreen (Jason) Putzkie, Bruce Beeman, and Cindy Gast; grandchildren: Chace, Brett, Sierra, Reva, Kasey, Teara, Devin, Ridge, Keegan, Makinlea, Jacob, and Jenny; 25 great-grandchildren; and sister, Val Simpson. He was deeply loved and cherished by many nieces and nephews.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be offered at www.roseberrys.com.
Weisenhaus, Duane Barton Age 94 of Mauston
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Duane Barton Weisenhaus Sr., 94, a native of rural Minnesota who became an electrical engineer, national guardsman, airplane pilot, school board president, photographer, and devoted husband, father and grandfather, died at his home in Mauston, WI, on July 8, 2025.
Visitation will be Saturday, July 19, 2025 from 10 to 11 a.m., followed by services at 11 a.m., and a military honor salute at the Bethany Lutheran Church, 701 Grove St., Mauston. A luncheon will be held at the church from 11:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. Interment will follow at Bayview Cemetery in Necedah. The Torkelson Funeral Home in Necedah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com
Baumgart, Joseph Wayne Age 73 of Necedah
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Joseph Wayne Baumgart, 73 of Necedah, Wisconsin, peacefully departed this life at his home, surrounded by family, on July 8, 2025.
A memorial service will be held at Torkelson Funeral Home in Necedah on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at 11:00 AM, Pastor Roger Erdman will officiate, with visitors welcome starting at 9:00 AM. A luncheon will follow at the Necedah Veterans Hall.
The Torkelson Necedah Family Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
Pantaleo Dominic Phillip Age 70 of Adams
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Dominic Phillip Pantaleo Jr., of Adams, Wi, passed peacefully in the arms of the Lord on July 8, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his devoted family and his beloved dog, Ben. He courageously battled cancer for 2 years, drawing strength from his unwavering faith each day.
Dominic was born July 31, 1954 in Chicago, Illinois to Dominic and Dorothy Pantaleo. Dominic graduated from A-F High School in 1972. He began his career with the Chicago Northern Western Railroad and later joined Union Pacific Railroad, where he worked diligently in the Signal Department. He retired as a Safety Trainer with the U.P. out of Chicago after 38 years of service. His dedication and work ethic earned him great respect throughout his career.
He had one son, Dominic Pantaleo III, in 1982. Dominic remarried to Roberta Perkins on April 22, 1995, and together they shared 33 wonderful years in McHenry, IL, and Adams, WI. United in love and faith, they built a life centered on family and raised a blended family of 4 children, 7 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild. Dominic was an active and devoted member of Maranatha Assembly of God in McHenry and Arising Christin Church in Friendship, WI. A man of deep faith: he cherished time spent with his family and loved working on projects, fishing, hunting, camping, and embarking on travel adventures. Dominic was admired for his wisdom, kindness, and willingness to help others. He saw the best in people and generously shared his knowledge with anyone who needed it.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Dominic and Dorothy Pantaleo; his stepson, Richard; and many beloved uncles, aunts, and cousins.
Dominic is survived by his loving wife Roberta (Bobbi) Pantaleo; 3 children; 7 grandchildren and 1 grand-child; 1 sister; 2 brothers; and many nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 30 st , 2025 at 5:00 pm with funeral at 6:00 pm at the Arising Christian Church in Friendship, officiated by Pastor Dennis Quinnell and Christian Brother Ron Dawson. A burial service will take place on Saturday, August 2nd at the Viola, Wi Cemetery at 11:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to City of Hope Cancer Institute, in Zion, IL. The family also extends heartfelt gratitude to St. Mary’s Hospital in Baraboo, Madison, and to Heartland Hospice for their compassionate care.
Dominic’s legacy of faith, love, and service lives on in the many lives he touched.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home (www.roseberrys.com) assisted the family.
Calaway, Thomas E. Age 65 of Grand Marsh
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Thomas E. Calaway, age 65, of Grand Marsh, Wisconsin passed away at his home on Wednesday, July 09, 2025.
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 14, 2025 at the Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin. Rev. John K. Stake will officiate. Interment will be at the Gould Rock Cemetery, Grand Marsh, Wisconsin. Visitation will be 9 to 11 a.m. on Monday at Roseberry’s Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Grand Marsh Community Center following the internment.
Thomas was born December 05, 1959 in Geneva, Illinois to Ray and Anna G. (Duhai) Calaway. He served in the Army from 1985 to 1987. Thomas enjoyed hunting and horses.
Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Anna G. Calaway
Marchetti, Margaret (Donovan) Age 89 of Necedah
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Margaret (Donovan) Marchetti, age 89, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in King, WI.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Necedah. Burial with full military honors will follow at Queen of the Holy Rosary Mediatrix of Peace Cemetery in Necedah. Family and friends are invited for visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday at the funeral home.
The Torkelson Funeral Home in Necedah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers or any donations, the family requests you spend a few minutes on your own reflecting on the many blessings we all have each day.
Tomschin, William A. “Billy” Age 55 of Friendship
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
William A. “Billy” Tomschin, age 55, of Friendship, Wisconsin, passed away on Tuesday, July 1, 2025.
A celebration of Billy’s life will be held from 12:00 noon until 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the Big Flats Town Hall in Big Flats, Wisconsin. Interment will be at the Niebull Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest beside his parents.
Billy was born on June 16, 1970, in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, to William E. and Lois (Rogers) Tomschin. He grew up in Adams County and attended Adams-Friendship High School. Billy found joy and purpose in the farming life, where he loved working.
Billy was preceded in death by his parents, William and Lois Tomschin; brother-in-law, Delbert Babcock, his niece, Heather Tomschin; and his nephew, Matthew Henriksen.
He is survived by his life partner, Sharon Tallman; his children, William Challoner and Jenna Tomschin; and his cherished grandchildren, William, Ace, and Novalee. He is further survived by his siblings: Tom (Louise) Tomschin, Jerry Tomschin, Carol (Al) Karsner, Jeff (Mary) Tomschin, Terry (Pam) Tomschin, Cheryl (Kenny) Roberts, Cathy (Scott) Williams, Bobby Tomschin, Charlene (Tom) Baggs, Cindy (Todd Stammen) Babcock, and Candy (Mike) Henriksen; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.
Poppler, Courtney R. Age 43 of Tomah
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
With deep sorrow and immense love, we announce that Courtney R. Poppler, 43, of Tomah, passed into the loving arms of Jesus, her Lord and Savior on June 26, 2025.
A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday at 12:00 pm at Bible Evangelical Free Church, 625 W. Veterans St., Tomah, with Pastor Neil Nelson and Pastor Ben Upham officiating. Burial will be private.
Relatives and friends are invited to call on Wednesday, July 9th from 4 to 8 PM at Bible Evangelical Free Church. Friends and relatives are also invited on Thursday, July 10th from 11 AM until the time of service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Courtney’s memory are appreciated and may be directed to the family.
Online condolences may be shared at www.sonnenburgfh.com. The Sonnenburg Family Funeral Home is assisting the Poppler and Sanford families with arrangements.
