Obituaries

Ganster, Kenneth Roy Age 80 of Arkdale

Kenneth Roy Ganster, age 80, of Arkdale, Wisconsin passed away Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at his home surrounded by his loving family following a short illness.

 

Per Kenneth’s request no services are to be held.

 

Kenneth was born April 28, 1944 in New Berlin, Wisconsin to John J. and Dorothy K. (Maier) Ganster . He graduated from Waukesha South High School in 1962. He married Nancy M. Williams on May 15, 1965 in New Berlin, Wisconsin. They made their home in New Berlin where they raised two children. He worked at Res Manufacturing for 35 years, retiring in 2000. Kenneth and Nancy then moved to Arkdale, Wisconsin in 2002. Nancy passed on April 17, 2016

 

Kenneth married Yvonne M. Welter June 19, 2021 in Friendship Park.

 

Kenneth enjoyed woodworking, hunting, fishing, photography, taking care of his chickens.

 

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents: John and Dorothy; first wife, Nancy; brothers: Marvin and John.

 

Survivors:

Wife Yvonne M. Ganster of Arkdale, WI

Son:  Kenneth B (Kathy) Ganster of Friendship, WI

Son:  Daniel R. Ganster of Spokane, Washington

5 Step-Children, 8 Grandchildren, 14 Step-Grandchildren, 7 Great-Grandchildren and 3 Step-Great-Grandchildren.

Further survived by other relatives and friends.

 

Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family.  Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.

Wagner, Lance Age 66 of Mauston

Lance Wagner, age 66 of Mauston, Wisconsin passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, August 13, 2024. 

A Celebration of Lance’s life will take place on Sunday, August 25, 2024, from 12:00 – 4:00 PM at the American Legion in Mauston, Wisconsin. 

Lance was born on April 20, 1958 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The son of Clarence “Bud” and Maryanne “Tiny” (Gradinjan) Wagner. He married his beloved Lynn Pieper on August 9, 1986, and just recently celebrated their 38th year of marriage. Lance was a loving son, brother, husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and mentor.  He was known for his compassion, loyalty, persistence, stubborn nature, and honesty (even though he enjoyed spinning tall tales).  He never shied away from a challenge, whether in work or play. His energetic and laughter-filled presence was contagious, leaving everyone with a smile. In his younger days, he was an all-around athlete who enjoyed busting moves on the dance floor, spinning records as a DJ, and was an avid hunter and fisherman.  Further highlighting his creative side, he participated in choir and numerous plays in his school days.  He had a strong passion for the food and beverage industry which left a lasting impact during his 50+ year career and was a recipient of many awards, recognition and accolades. Lance took pride in being involved within his community, providing meals on wheels for seniors and hosting many local fundraising events. His idea of a perfect day involved being with family, cheering on his favorite sports team (GO PACK GO) with his sons and a cold drink, or winning at slots with the love of his life Lynn. He cherished life’s simple pleasures: watching his grandchildren play, bonfires, birdwatching, morning coffee chats, fantasy sports as the 2023 Fantasy Football Reigning Champion, watching movies, tv shows and lately anime. Lance has left us with many unforgettable memories to cherish and will be greatly missed and forever loved, LUM.

Lance leaves behind his wife Lynn, and sons; Jacob (Olivia), Eli (Ally), A.J. (fiancé Kayla), and Quinn; brothers; Kurt (Sharon), David (Colleen) Gary, Kent, Glenn (Tina) and Don (Stacey); sisters Karen (Wayne), Kim (Jeff); and his 5 grandchildren: Reeve, Ryn, Wayklee, Paisley, and Jackson. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Mark, sister-in-law Barb Wagner, and nephew Bradley. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Lance’s name can be sent to the family at:  https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-lances-family-and-memorial

The Wagner Family would like to thank the Conway-Picha Funeral Home and Crematory of Lyndon Station, Wisconsin assisting with arrangements. 

Cowan, Evelynn Pearl Age 86 of Mauston

Evelynn Pearl (Pfaff) Cowan, age 86 of Mauston passed away peacefully in her sleep at her home, on Friday, August 9, 2024.  She was born third of four children, on March 20, 1938 in Mauston to Fredrick W. and Meda P. (St. Claire) Pfaff.

Evelynn was a graduate from Mauston High School. On September 15, 1956, she married John Paul (JP) Cowan.  Evelynn and JP enjoyed their time together going fishing, dancing and spending time with their grandkids and family. They also couldn’t turn down a great time of getting together with their friends having a good night of playing cards. 

Evelynn spent her early years working at the garment factory in Mauston, but the majority of her working career was spent at the Mile Bluff Nursing Home using her many talents like her gifts of gab, humor, craftiness and her ability to help residents until her retirement. 

During her retirement she enjoyed volunteering at West Side Elementary in the cafeteria and for the Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Store.  Her retirement also gave her the time to do more of the things she loved, like sewing, doing crafts with her grandkids, feeding and watching the birds and cooking/baking.  She loved to collect cookbooks and share recipes with family and friends.  She also had a green thumb which she put to good use growing her plants and flowers in her garden.  Evelynn always had a love for animals, especially her pets Tippy, Blackie, Tosha, Princess, Dixie and her newest love, her cat, Fluffy.

Evelynn is survived by her daughter Pam (Randy) Hartje and grandchildren,Courtney Hartje, Brittney (Joe) Crowley and daughter-in-law Barb (Craine) Cowan and grandchildren, Jaime (Adam) Pouillie, Patrick (Megan) Cowan, Lisa (Brad) Vinopal and Shannon (Brandon) Feit.  Great grandchildren, Makenna and Ellie Pouillie, Ryleigh,Toby and Maylee Vinopal.  She is further survived by her many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

Evelynn was preceded in death by her parents Fred and Meda Pfaff, sister Delores (Pfaff) Thompson, brothers Alfred and Arthur Pfaff, husband John Paul Cowan and her son Greg Cowan. 

A memorial service will be held at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 517Grayside Ave. Mauston, 53948 at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 24, 2024 where friends may call from 9:00 a.m. until time of service.

Inurnment will be at the Evergreen Cemetery.

Webber, Patricia “Pat” J. Age 74 of Reedsburg

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

Edwards, Terrence G. “Slo” Edwards Age 83 of Friendship

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

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

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

 

Ryan, Erika “Ricky” Age 94 of Fort Atkinson

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.

Nichols, Elma Jean Age 87 of Friendship

Elma Jean Nichols, 87 of Friendship, Wisconsin passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday, July 19, 2024.

Elma was born October 22, 1936 in Coloma, WI to Arnold and Margaret (Lyon) Sorenson. She attended Adams-Friendship High School graduating in 1954. Elma married the love of her life, Charles Nichols, on December 4, 1954 in Coloma, WI. From this beautiful union the Lord gave them four daughters; Patricia, Peggy, Norma, and Nancy.

Charles built their home in Adams County in 1959 where they enjoyed country living. Elma’s work history included bookkeeper for the Farmers Union Cooperative, sales clerk and bookkeeper at Murph’s Department Store, school bus driver for Adams-Friendship School District, and bookkeeper for Grand Marsh State Bank.

She enjoyed raising her four daughters to know and love the Lord. She delighted in visiting with family and friends and corresponded with many by letters.

Her family knew Elma for her insightful advice and wonderful hugs. She had some notable sayings throughout her years also. The most famous and beloved one of her children and grandchildren is: “Why are there fourteen people in my kitchen?”

Some of her favorite things were car rides with Charles to see the countryside; vegetable and flower gardening; daisies, daffodils, and yellow pansies; quiet times with Charles viewing nature out their large kitchen table window; regularly attending Grace Bible Conferences to strengthen her walk with the Lord; listening to her beloved husband sing classical and gospel songs; reading her variety of books; and listening to gospel music with the dearest one to her heart being: “Complete in Thee.”

Elma was preceded in death by her parents Arnold and Margaret Sorenson; Aunts and Uncles: Bethel (Robert) Hazeltine, Mildred (Marvin) Neuman, Vinetta Hollers; and son-in-law, Dave Dowden.

Survivors include her husband Charles of 69 years. Daughters: Patricia (Leslie) Landon of Friendship, Peggy (Scott) Willis of De Pere, Norma (Rick) Abbott of Whiting, and Nancy Dowden of Adams. Grandchildren: Cynthia (Royce) Hazel of Wisconsin Rapids, Peter (Jessica) Landon of Friendship, Michael Landon of Friendship, David (Megan) Willis of Green Bay, Amy (Nick) Darnick of De Pere, Benjamin (Kate) Abbott of St. Francis, Daniel Abbott of Nekoosa, Emily Abbott of Stevens Point, Ashley (Joe) Noelke of La Crosse, and Amanda (Aaron) Johnson of DeForest. Great grandchildren, Gavin Hazel, Zoe Hazel, Hannah (Aaron) Tully, Riley Landon, Jadyn Landon, Logan Landon, Crispin Landon, Haiden Landon, Desiree Landon, Korbin Landon, Jackson Willis, Sawyer Willis, Breleigh Darnick, Matthew Darnick, Sophie Korbal, Brooklyn Korbal-Abbott, Vincent Noelke, Charles “Charlie” Noelke, Alexia Johnson, and Aiden Johnson.

Donations in memory of Elma can be made to Berean Bible Institute of West Bend, WI; Milwaukee Rescue Mission, Milwaukee, WI; or the Adams County chapter of the Salvation Army.

A private celebration of life will follow at a later date.

The family of Elma thanks the staff of Rosebrooke Assisted Living Center and Heartland Hospice for their wonderful care.

Roseberry’s Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.

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