Mauston, WI
Obituaries
Collopy, Denis M. Age 64 of Grand Marsh
1 year
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Denis M. Collopy, age 64, of Grand Marsh, Wisconsin passed away unexpectedly on Monday, May 13, 2024, at his home.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Denis was born August 5, 1959, in Enterprise Oregon to Richard and Rosetta Collopy. He graduated from High School in Elgin, Oregon. Denis married Melody Rothe on January 12, 1995, in Ft. Collins, Colorado. He worked as a delivery driver for Holiday Wholesale.
Denis enjoyed being outdoors and was an avid gardener. He also enjoyed doing yardwork, watching the birds & squirrels, and fishing.
Denis was preceded in death by his parents and one brother.
Survivors include his wife: Melody, three daughters: Stacey, Amanda & Tanya; Papas Girl: Madison, and several grandchildren.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.
Zirk, Betty J. Age 90 of Wilton
1 year
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Betty J. Zirk, 90 of Wilton, passed away on May 14, 2024, in Gundersen Lutheran Medica Center, LaCrosse.
A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, May 18, 2024, 11:00 AM at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 401 Mill Street, Wilton. Pastor Karen Sparling. Relatives and friends are invited for a time of visitation on Saturday at the church from 9:00 AM until the time of the service.
Smith-Nelson Funeral Home, Wilton is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be offered by visiting www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com
Mock, George G. Age 81 of Adams
1 year
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
George G. Mock III, 81, of Adams, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 13, 2024. Born on May 10, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois, George was the son of George and Jayne Mock.
George’s life was one filled with love, dedication, and service. He met his beloved wife, Diane (Kirsenlohr) Mock, at the Dellwood Pavilion in Adams, Wisconsin, and they were united in marriage on August 17, 1968, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Adams. Together, they shared 55 years of love and companionship.
George was a pillar of his community, dedicating himself to serving others. He was instrumental in starting and running the local ambulance service for thirty years, ensuring that his neighbors received the urgent medical care they needed in times of crisis. His commitment to helping others extended beyond his professional life, touching the lives of many in his community.
In addition to his service in emergency medical care, George pursued his passions with unwavering enthusiasm. An avid photographer and skilled woodworker, he poured his heart into creating beautiful rainsticks, bowls, and chairs, which he generously shared as gifts with loved ones.
Traveling was another of George’s great joys, especially when spent with his family. From exploring the wonders of the western United States with his children to leisurely walks along the beaches of Santa Barbara, George cherished every moment spent making memories with those he held dear.
A true connoisseur of life’s simple pleasures, George’s perfect day included savoring a tall Starbucks Latte and indulging in a Chicago Style hotdog from Hot Dog Avenue, complete with extra hot peppers.
He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Jayne Mock, and his in-laws, Clelia and George Kirsenlohr.
George is survived by his loving wife, Diane, of Adams, Wisconsin; his children, Chris (Amy) Mock of Baraboo, Wisconsin, David (Mindy) Mock of Port Edwards, Wisconsin, Daniel Mock of Adams, Wisconsin, and Sarah Mock (Mike) of Friendship, Wisconsin; his sister, Andrea (Mock) LaValle; his niece, Angela (LaValle) Trevino; his nephew, Peter LaValle, all of Santa Barbara, California; as well as nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and numerous extended family members and friends.
The family expresses their gratitude to Heartland Hospice and the staff of Rosebrooke Assisted Living for their exceptional care and compassion.
A Celebration of Life in honor of George will be held from 1:00-4:00 pm on Sunday, June 2, 2024, at Moundview Golf Course, 1930 14th Ct, Friendship, Wisconsin, 53934.
Mueller, Arthur J. Age 83 of Grand Marsh
1 year
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Arthur J. Mueller, age 83, of Grand Marsh, Wisconsin passed away Friday, May 3, 2024, at his home.
No services are planned at this time.
Arthur was born November 25, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois to William and Luella (Schultz-Meyer) Mueller. He graduated High School in Chicago in 1960. Shortly thereafter, he moved with his family to Adams County. He married Patsy R. Hoadley on June 27, 1970, in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Arthur worked for Big Joes in Wisconsin Dells for forty years, retiring in 2005.
Arthur was preceded in death by parents, William and Luella.
Survivors include his wife, Patsy; sister, Linda (Jerry) Phelps, niece, Kim; brother-in-law, Daniel (Debra) Hoadley; and sister-in-laws: Janice Larson and Jeanne Du Puis. Arthur is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.
Cauley, Mary Jean Age 93 of Mauston
1 year
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
The Mass of Christian Burial for will Mary Jean Cauley, age 93 of Mauston, Wisconsin be held on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Lyndon Station with Father Cryton Outschoorn celebrating. Visitation will be held at Conway Picha Funeral Home in Lyndon Station on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. and then proceed to the church for Mass at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be given to St. Mary’s Parish of Lyndon Station, or St. Croix Hospice are appreciated.
The Conway-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.
Opalinski, Kathleen Elizabeth, Age 85 of Adams County
1 year
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Kathleen Elizabeth Opalinski was born in Chicago, Illinois on June
16 th , 1938, to Victor and Elsie Lyons. Kathy was the eldest of 4,
having 3 younger brothers. She passed away peacefully at her
home in Orlando, Florida on January 19, 2024, at the age of 85.
Kathy graduated from Proviso West High School in Melrose Park,
IL after which she attended beauty school and began working as a
hair stylist. She married Sam J. Scurto in 1959, they had 5 boys.
After divorcing in 1975, she began Nursing School and became
reacquainted with the love of her life, Richard Opalinski. They
married in 1977 and became a blended family to include 8 boys
and 1 girl. They moved to Hancock, WI in 1985. Following the
premature death of her beloved Richard in 1994, she wanted to
create a new chapter in her life by bringing joy and laughter to
others. She went to Clown School which she genuinely loved.
Kathy was very active in bringing her “clowning skills” to church and
civic events, elderly care facilities and private parties. This is where
she found her true self as she loved making people happy. Kathy
wanted her legacy to be remembered as a person who desired to
lift other people up, bringing joy to the world around her. Kathy was
also a talented seamstress making clothes and costumes for her
family and anyone who needed her sewing skills. Kathy enjoyed
spending her summers at her home in Hancock, Wisconsin, and
her winters at her 2 nd home in Orlando, Florida.
Kathy is survived by her 5 sons, Steven J. Scurto (Maureen Hogan)
of Carol Stream, IL, Anthony J. Scurto (Deborah) of Hancock, WI,
Raymond R. Scurto (Victoria) of Orlando, FL, Sam Scurto (Yolanda)
of Barrington Hills, IL, and Douglas V. Scurto (Mary) of Arkdale, WI.
Her 4 stepchildren, Lynn Opalinski of California, Richard Opalinski,
Jr. of Wisconsin, Tony Opalinski of Nevada, and Joey Opalinski of
Indiana.
She is survived by many grandchildren and step grandchildren,
great grandchildren and step great grandchildren, her brother
Richard Lyons (Diane) and several nieces and nephews.
Kathy was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Opalinski,
her parents, Victor and Elsie Lyons and brothers, Jerry & Michael
Lyons.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 1 st , 2024, 11am
to 4pm at the Town of Monroe, Town Hall, 981 Cty Rd Z, Arkdale,
WI 54613.
All Memorials will be directed to: Aspirus Cancer Care- Wisconsin
Rapids, 410 Dewey St, Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54495.
Murray, Scott A. Age 60 of Grand Marsh
1 year
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Scott A. Murray, age 60, of Grand Marsh, Wisconsin passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at his home.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Friendship, Wisconsin. Father David Bruener will officiate. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass on Thursday at the Church. Interment will be at the Mt. Repose Cemetery, Friendship, Wisconsin at a later date.
Scott was born December 18, 1963, in Janesville, Wisconsin to Arleigh and Donna (Klitzki) Murray. Growing up, his family traveled often due to his father’s sales career, and he attended various schools throughout the state. Scott later followed in those footsteps and became an entrepreneur in sales himself.
Scott met Geralyn Niles in Milwaukee and together they had three children: Danny, Summer, and Sean. In 2002, they moved to Adams County.
Scott was known by many for his gardening skills, home grown produce, and canning. He loved spending time outdoors, camping, fishing, playing with his grandkids and storytelling. In the summer he could be found in his garden, and in the winter, he could be found outside splitting wood. He loved referring to himself as a farmer.
Scott was preceded in death by his father: Arleigh; mother: Donna, and brother: Russell.
Survivors include his soulmate of over 30 years: Geralyn, children: Eric, Danny (Angel), Summer (Tyler) & Sean (Sierra), two stepsons: Gregory (Carolyn) & Kevin (Stacey), two sisters: Tina & Colleen, stepmother: Ann, stepbrother: Jeff, stepsister: Ashleigh, best friend: Rodney “Buddy”, and his dog Autumn. He is further survived by grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many friends.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.
1 year
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Judith Kay Taylor, born September 26th, 1947, wife to Bill, the love of her life for 57 years, and mom to Mike and Sandra, was called home by the Lord on May 8th, 2024.
Mom grew up in the small town of Brunswick, Missouri, with her parents and three siblings. While she always had what she needed, her family did not have a lot of extras, which is likely the reason she became a bookworm. Her love of reading allowed her to fade into the background where she was most comfortable rather than being the center of attention. Her passion for reading continued as a student and into her adult life where a good book allowed her to escape, even if just for a short while.
Incredibly selfless, mom found great joy putting the needs of others before her own. Her caring and compassionate qualities were evident throughout her life and defined the ways she chose to spend her days.
During our early years in South Wayne, Wisconsin, mom taught Sunday school, volunteered in classrooms, chaperoned field trips, and eventually became Mother’s Club President.
As we grew, her pursuits became more community-focused. Her desire to make a difference pushed her to organize a bike-a-thon to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, drive a bus for students with special needs, and serve as a First Responder, EMT, and an ambulance attendant in Monroe, Wisconsin. Mom’s heart was service-oriented, and she thrived in this line of work.
But above all, she loved being a mom. >From reading, baking, and building blanket forts to making dollhouse furniture, turning little grass bundles into tiny hay bales, and cutting newspaper into strips to create pom poms, she never let her responsibilities outside the home interfere with her mom duties. She attended all of our concerts and sporting events, helped us with homework, and always welcomed our friends for dinner and sleepovers as these were just the everyday things a mom did.
After moving to Adams, Wisconsin, she became a Phlebotomist and Lab Tech at Adams County Memorial Hospital, served on the Moundview Memorial Healthcare Foundation Board, volunteered for Faith in Action, and committed 20 years to the Castle Rock Triathlon Committee.
As time went on, her focus became her five grandchildren. Nothing brought her more joy than Taylor, Luke, Brandt, Lindsay, and Kristin. Each held a very special place in her heart, and she treasured every moment she had with them, including making chocolate chip pancakes, which only grandma could make.
Mom’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those she loved and the many lives of those she touched. Wife, mom, grandma and so much more, we will love you always and forever, no matter what.
Memorial service will be 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 18th, 2024 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Adams, Wisconsin. Rev. John Krebs will officiate. Visitation will be at Immanuel Lutheran Church from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. A luncheon will follow the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to:
- Agrace
- Adams-Friendship Area Educational Foundation, Inc.
- Moundview Memorial Healthcare Foundation; PO Box 40; Friendship, WI 53934
Roseberry’s Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences.
Machnik, Michael J. Age 67 of New Lisbon
1 year
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Michael J. Machnik, of New Lisbon, WI. passed away on Sunday, December 17, 2023, at the age of 67. He was the son of Frank and Myrtle (Hemenway) Machnik as was born on July 1, 1956, in Tomah, Wisconsin.
Mike’s journey through life was marked by his steadfast love for his family, his dedication to education, and his service to his country. After graduating from New Lisbon High School in 1974, he pursued further education, earning an associate degree from Chippewa Valley Technical College followed by a BA in Management Information Systems from UW Eau Claire in 1985. His academic achievements laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors.
Answering the call of duty, Mike served with honor in the Air Force and was Active Guard from 1977 to 1981, attaining the rank of SGT for the 128th C.S. SQ. His commitment to excellence and his country was evident in his work, and his legacy in the service remains a source of pride for his family and friends.
Mike’s life was one of connection and affection, which is clear when one considers the family he leaves behind. He was a loving father to his sons, Matthew (Erin) Machnik, of Menomonie and Eric (Samantha) Machnik, of Fond Du Lac. His brother, Thomas Machnik of Middleton, will also cherish the memories of the bond they shared. Mike’s joy was multiplied with the arrival of each of his grandchildren, Sawyer, Rocky, Emma, Eric Jr., Camryn, and Finlay, who will carry forward his legacy of kindness and warmth. He was preceded in death by his parents and numerous aunts and uncles.
A Graveside Service with military honors will be held on Friday, May 17th, 2024 at 12:00 noon at St. Paul’s Catholic Cemetery in New Lisbon. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com
Harrison, Gladys D. Age 93 of Tomah & Formerly of New Lisbon
1 year
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Gladys D. Carter Harrison age 93 of Tomah, formerly of New Lisbon passed away peacefully on May 7, 2024, at the age of 93 at the Serenity House in Tomah, WI. Born in the rural heartlands of Wilton, Wisconsin, on a farm on August 23, 1930 to Fred and Leona (Pasch) Saxby.
Gladys taught school, then went to raise her family, and later she went back to teaching school. She spent most of her life in Waterford, WI and also Ripon and DeSoto. She was united to in marriage to William Kenneth Carter on June 10, 1950 and he later preceded her in death. She later married Robert Harrison on June 2, 2012 in Kendall at St. John’s Lutheran Church.
Gladys’s journey was one of lifelong learning and service. After graduating from high school, she expanded her horizons at JCTC and UW Whitewater, where she specialized in special needs education. Her passion for teaching and her profound empathy for others led her to a distinguished career as a special needs teacher, where she touched the lives of countless individuals with her warmth and dedication.
Her commitment to her community was unwavering. Gladys’s spirit of volunteerism shone brightly as she dedicated her time to the New Lisbon Community Closet and the New Lisbon Food Pantry, ensuring that those around her had the support and resources they needed. Her efforts did not go unnoticed, as evidenced by her being honored with the New Lisbon Citizen of the Year award in 1997, a testament to her generous spirit and dedication to the welfare of others.
In addition to her professional and volunteer work, Gladys was a member of the Lioness Club and the Retired Teachers Association, further contributing to the community she cherished so deeply.
She was a devoted wife to her husband, Robert Harrison, of Tomah, and cherished the memories they created together. She is further survived by her son, Craig (Carolyn) Carter of Argyle, WI, sister-in-law Sharon Saxby of Wanakee, WI, stepdaughters, Vicki L. Boeder of Reeseville, WI, and Barbara J. Brieske of Tomah, WI. Gladys’s warmth extended to her grandchildren, Alexandria Carter, Katrina (Brogan) Potter, David Carter, Scott (Kristy) Carter, and Erica (Martin) Kempf, and to her eight great-grandchildren, who will carry her legacy forward.
She was preceded in death by her first husband, William Kenneth, her son Richard, and her two brothers, Harold and Raymond.
Funeral Service will be held on Saturday May 11, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.in St. Lukes Evangelical Lutheran Church (208 Alan Rd.) New Lisbon, WI, with Pastor Jason Zuehlke presiding. A visitation will be held at the church on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place in the New Lisbon City Cemetery. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting with the arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com.
