Mauston, WI
Obituaries
Wittig, Michael E. (Mike) Age 73
2 years
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Michael E. Wittig (Mike), aged 73, passed away peacefully on June 14th at Cumberland Medical Center in Crossville, TN, following a brief battle with a rare condition. Born on January 11th, 1951, in Milwaukee, WI, he was the son of Eugene and Carmella Wittig, and one of eight siblings.
Mike graduated from Boy’s Tech High School in Milwaukee and proudly joined the Marine Corps in 1969. His military service was a significant part of his identity, including time spent in both the Marine Corps and the Army, though he always identified as a Marine. In the mid-1990s, Mike discovered his true professional calling as a financial planner, a role he deeply believed in and excelled at. He built countless friendships and touched many lives in his job, friendship that lasted a lifetime.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Mike took immense joy in the achievements of his family, and his pride in them was unwavering. He was known for his eloquent writing and thoughtful advice, which he generously shared with those around him.
Mike was married to his first wife, Patricia, for 40 years until her passing in 2013. He later married Elizabeth (Liz), with whom he spent nine wonderful years.
He is survived by his wife Liz, children, Mikel (Kellie) Klossner (Mark) and Vincent Wittig (Kate), and his stepchildren, Christine Koerner, Jamie Percifield (Glenn), and Jim Lewis. He was a proud grandfather to Harrison, Bennett, Scarlett, Sidney, Sylvia, Kevin (Amanda), Jacob, April, and Nolan. Michael was also blessed with great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
A graveside service will be 12 Noon on Friday, July 12th, 2024 at Fordham Cemetery, Friendship, WI. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Fisher House, which supports veterans’ families with housing during medical crises.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff at the Nashville VA and his care team at Cumberland Medical Center. Mike will be deeply missed and remembered for his kindness, generosity, and ferocious love of his family.
Loring, Willard “Willie” Robert Age 96 of Friendship
2 years
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Willard Robert Loring “Willie”, age 96, of Friendship, Wisconsin passed away Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
Memorial service will be 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 27th, 2024 at the Arising Christian Church in Friendship, Wisconsin. Rev. Dennis Quinnell will officiate. Visitation will be at the church on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.
Willard was born July 31, 1927, in Freeport, Illinois to Russell and Alice (Toelle) Loring. He was a WWII veteran serving in the Army Air Corp in Okinawa, Japan. Willie married Linda Jane Stachowicz on June 2, 1984, in Freeport, IL.
He was an avid Chicago Bears Fan and loved watching the Bears and Packers games. He also enjoyed fishing and hunting and sharing lots of great stories, smiles, laughter, and memories made along the way. He loved sitting outside listening to country music.
Willie was preceded in death by his parents: Russell and Alice Loring; first spouse, Jean Loring; daughter, LeAnne Golden; great-granddaughter, Elise Moyer; and siblings: Donna, Joyce, and Dwyane.
Survivors:
Wife: Linda Loring of Friendship, WI
Daughter: Toni (Randy) Picha
Son: Kevin Loring
Daughter: Robin Timmer
Grandchildren: Chad Picha, Angie Picha, Brad (Taryn) Golden, Michael Golden, Jared Loring, Sarah (Chris) Moyer, Meghan (Andy) Stith
Great-Grandchildren: Ember, Ireland, Kara, Brooke, Ryan, Megan, Sonni, Dante, Kaylyn, Charleigh, Kaylie, Aubriella, and Madalynn
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.
Anderson, Raymond James “Porky” Jr. Age 81 of New Lisbon
2 years
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Raymond James “Porky” Anderson, Jr., 81 of New Lisbon passed away on June 22, 2024, at Elroy Health Services. He was born in Tomah, Wisconsin to Raymond Sr. and Helen (Fell) Anderson on October 22, 1942. He grew up in the Valley Junction area on the Grygleski Cranberry Marsh. Ray was baptized at the Methodist Church in Valley Junction. Raymond attended grade school in Valley Junction and graduated from Tomah High School in 1960. After graduation he attended WWTI for automotive repair. He began working at Larsen Chevrolet in Tomah and then for Milwaukee Railroad. In 1964 he began working for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation in Madison, transferring to the Department of Military Affairs at Volk Field in Camp Douglas in 1972. At that time, he and Jeanette purchased a farm in rural New Lisbon, where they grew corn and soybeans, and later an additional 2 acres of Upick Blueberries. Ray retired in 1998 after 32 years of service for the State of Wisconsin. Raymond married Jeanette Christensen on October 1, 1966, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Shennington. They enjoyed travelling and in 2004 purchased a second home in Picayune, Missouri, where they spent their winters. Ray enjoyed racing stock cars and watching them on TV. He was a private pilot and enjoyed flying his Piper Cherokee 235. His pastime was going to auctions, and was a collector of many old cars, railroad memorabilia, and other miscellaneous items.
Raymond is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Jeanette; siblings-in-law, Marilyn Anderson and Bernie Fortman; and many other nieces, nephews, and family members.
Raymond is preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Helen, and siblings, Kent Anderson and Karen Fortman.
A Prayer Service will be held on Friday, June 28, 2024, 11:00 AM at Sonnenburg Family Funeral Home, 801 E. Monowau Street, Tomah. Pastor Brad Lindberg will officiate. Burial will be in St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery. A luncheon will be held at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Shennington immediately following the graveside committal service. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Friday at the funeral home from 9:00 AM until the time of the service. Online condolences can be offered by visiting www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com
Leak, Shirley Kay Age 79 of Mauston
2 years
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Shirley Kay (Rieck) Leak entered her heavenly home on June 20th, 2024, where she is now singing, talking, and laughing again after an 8-year battle with dementia/Alzheimer’s disease.
Shirley was born March 6th, 1945, in Sparta Wisconsin to William and Violet Rieck. She grew up in Kendall on the family farm where she loved exploring the woods and getting into mischief with her 2 brothers Charlie and Alan (Butch). In 1963 Shirley graduated from Royal High School in Elroy. After graduating high school Shirley and her best friend Phyllis moved to Milwaukee to begin exploring the world.
On April 3rd of 1965, Shirley was united in marriage to the love of her life Duane (Pete) Leak in Kendall, Wisconsin. In 1966 after deciding that Milwaukee wasn’t their final home, they chose Mauston, Wisconsin to be their forever home. While living in Mauston, Shirley enjoyed working at Curan & Curan Law Firm and Hess Memorial Hospital while she searched for her ideal career. She found that at Walker Stainless for 34 years where she not only enjoyed her co-workers but also the customers that she assisted daily. Shirely and Pete enjoyed bowling weekly in league and playing cards with family and friends.
Shirley’s biggest joys were found in the birth of her two children Dennis and Susan. She was an active mother that enjoyed reading books, playing games, bike rides, and assisting in their FFA, 4-H, and church activities.
Music was always one of Shirley’s biggest passions. She loved listening to music; Elvis and the Statler Brothers were common artists to be heard coming out of the record player on the weekends. Shirley also enjoyed singing in the St. Paul’s church choir and performing at nursing homes with her brother Butch and neighbor Bob Pellegrin. Shirley’s faith found her volunteering for the church library and as a youth group leader. It was common to find Shirley reading her romance novels, competitively playing cards with co-workers and her daughter Sue and her son-in-law Tony and baking her famous oatmeal chocolate chip cookies. Saturdays were spent cheering on the Wisconsin Badger football team and Sunday’s you would find Shirley in church, making a delicious roast, and then watching the Green Bay Packers.
Her four grandchildren Jerome, Courtney, Sydney, and Jacob brought excitement to her life. She loved spending time with them and spoiling them. Baking her famous cookies, mini golfing, shopping trips, and Christmas wish lists were always exciting experiences. Shirley’s special “kid wine” was always a treat for the grandkids on holidays and special occasions.
Shirley loved traveling with family and friends. Florida and Disney World were family favorites where they enjoyed rides, parades, and beaches. Wintertime in Biloxi, Mississippi and other warm destinations with their best friends Phyllis and Hank was always an adventure. After retirement casino trips were part of Shirley’s exploring with her cousin Lucy and her husband Dave.
Left to cherish her memory is her loving and caring husband Duane; children Dennis (Corina) Leak of New Lisbon, and Sue (Tony) Seebecker of Algona, Iowa. Her precious grandchildren: Jerome (Cassie) Leak of Mauston, Courney (Joe) Cook of Necedah, Sydney, and Jacob Seebecker of Algona, Iowa. Great Grandsons; Kyan and Kolt Leak of Mauston. Step-Grandchildren Cole Haschke of New Lisbon, Cade (Adele) Haschke of Silverdale, Washington, and Cody Haschke of West Salem. Shirley is also survived by her brother Alan (Darlene) Rieck, Brothers in laws; Darryl (Karen) Klawitter, David (Joan) Leak, Sister-in-law; Sherry Shields. Best Friends; Phyllis and Hank Betthauser and Mary Pellegrin.
Shirley was proceeded in death by her parents William and Violet Rieck, mother and father-in-law Leilah and Harold Leak, brother and sister-in-law Charles and Linda Rieck, sister- in-laws; Shirley Klawitter and Joanne Leak and brother-in laws; Roger Leak and Mike Shields.
A special thank you to Shirely’s care givers while at home, the staff at Crestview nursing home, Cristina Custer, APNP and Dr. James Logan MD.
Memorials may be given to St Paul Lutheran Church Library Fund or St Jude’s Children Hospital in Shirley’s name.
A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, 11:00 AM at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 517 Grayside Ave, Mauston. Pastor Russell Wilke, III will officiate.
Relatives and friends are invited to call on Tuesday at the church from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM and on Wednesday at the church from 10:00 AM until the time of the service.
Sonnenburg Family Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be offered by visiting www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com
Droste, Arlene M. Age 78 of Lebanon, TN, and formerly of Necedah
2 years
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Arlene M. Jacobson Droste, age 78, of Lebanon, TN, formerly of Necedah, WI passed away Sunday, June 16, 2024, at Tri Star Summit Hospital surrounded by her loving family.
Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin. Visitation will be 12:00 Noon until the time of service on Saturday at Roseberry’s Funeral Home. Interment will be at a later date at the Niebull Cemetery, Town of Big Flats, Adams County, Wisconsin.
Arlene was born July 2, 1945, in Necedah, Wisconsin to Jake & Beulah (Perkins) Jacobson.
She married Robert Droste in 1969 and together they raised 8 children. Arlene was a loving mother and is survived by her 7 children: Diana (Greg) Lesperance, Karen (Ron) Amell, Robert (Theresa) Droste, David (Beata) Droste, Ledah (Rod) Billington, Malinda (Kevin) Krutza, and Theron (Sarah) Droste. She was a loving grandmother of 32 grandchildren & 25 great-grandchildren.
Arlene was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years Robert (4/3/2018); daughter Sharon Lee; parents Jake & Beulah; sister Evelyn Droste, and brother Merlin Jacobson
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and
further information.
Leake, Rosemary Fredricka Age 97 of Oxford
2 years
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Our beloved Rosemary Fredricka Leake passed away on June 16th, 2024, in her home at the age of 97. Rosemary was born February 24th, 1927, in Ironton, WI. She lived in Brooklyn, WI and moved to Oxford, WI in 1987 where she lived her long and fulfilled life.
Rosemary enjoyed spending time at church, with her family and friends, and with her flowers and garden. She was always complimented on her garden and because of her “green thumb”, she has many beautiful flowers in her yard. Rosemary enjoyed feeding the birds and watching them come to her feeders throughout her yard. Rosemary also enjoyed sharing her knowledge and life experiences with everyone that came to visit.
Rosemary is survived by her daughters Carolyn Rhinehart, Rosalie (Micheal) Bredeck, Sandra Klinge, Debra Ledbetter, Barbara Dreger and son Dale (Debbie) Leake. At Rosemarys last count she is survived by 54 grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren and great- great-great grandchildren. She is further survived by her siblings Jerry (Violet) Sass, Clarence (Sharon) Sass, Betty Langenfeld, and Bonnie (John) Berndt.
Rosemary was preceded in death by her parents, daughters Donna and June, son Roger, grandson Daniel, great-granddaughter Letty; Husbands Donald and Arther; siblings Fred (Shirley) Sass, John (Yvonne) Sass, Bertha (Marvin) Klitzke, Luella Klitzke, Rosella Sass, Mary Ann Sass, Laurence Sass, Anna Marie Madden, and many aunts and uncles and other relatives.
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 21, 2024, at Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin. Father David Bruener will officiate. Interment will be at the Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Town of New Chester, Adams County, Wisconsin. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. until the time of service on Friday at Roseberry’s Funeral Home.
A luncheon will follow at the Grand Marsh Community Center.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.
Holton, Julie Ellen Age 47 of Juneau County
2 years
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Julie Ellen Holton, a beacon of love and selflessness, left this world on June 18, 2024, in Camp Douglas, Wisconsin, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on December 10, 1976, in Mauston, Wisconsin. Julie’s infectious passion for life touched everyone she met and her smile could light up a room.
Julie grew up in a warm and loving family, cherished by her parents, Cheri and Tom Hopper. She was a nurturing sister to Rob, Jamey, and Billi Jo. She carried this nurturing spirit into her own family, becoming a devoted wife to Jason Holton and a loving mother to Lexie and Carter. Her family was her pride and joy, and she instilled in them the values of compassion, perseverance, and joy for life.
A proud graduate of New Lisbon High School, Julie’s thirst for knowledge led her to the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology with a focus on Genetic Science. This academic achievement paved the way for her fulfilling career as a Clinical Lab Technician. Julie excelled in her profession, contributing to the field with her keen intellect and meticulous attention to detail.
Beyond her professional life, Julie was a cornerstone in her family’s business, where she applied her talents and dedication to ensure its success. Her work ethic and team spirit were unparalleled, and she was respected by all who had the pleasure of working alongside her.
Julie’s interests were as diverse as they were profound. Her love for music filled the rooms of her home with melodies and joy (even if that meant waking everyone up in her household with her morning jam sessions) while her skill in creating stained glass art brought beauty and light into the world. Her creations were not just displays of her artistic talent, but also reflections of her vibrant soul.
Those who knew Julie describe her as loving, selfless, and passionate. She approached every day with an open heart, ready to give her all to her family, friends, and the community. Julie’s legacy is one of generosity and kindness, as she always put the needs of others before her own.
Julie’s presence will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She is survived by her adoring husband Jason; her children, Lexie and Carter, who were the very essence of her being; her mother, Cheri Hopper; her father, Tom Hopper; and her siblings, Rob Hopper, Jamey Peltonen, and Billi Jo Peltonen. Each family member carries a piece of Julie’s spirit, and her love will continue to guide them through every step of their lives.
As we bid farewell to Julie Ellen Holton, we celebrate the remarkable life she led and the countless lives she enriched. Her journey on earth may have ended, but her spirit will forever dance in the light of the stained glass she so lovingly crafted, and her melodies will resonate in the hearts of those she loved. Julie’s memory will be cherished, and her legacy will endure, inspiring all who knew her to live with the same boundless love and selfless passion she embodied every day.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at the Hustler Exhibit Hall (110 Omaha St.) in Hustler, WI from 12:00 P.M. until 4:00 P.M. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com
Brauner, John Frank Age 87 of Adams
2 years
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
John Frank Brauner passed away peacefully during the early morning hours of June 16, 2024 at the Columbus Health and Rehab Center. He was born on April 14, 1937 in Black River Falls to John and Mary Brauner, the youngest of 7 children.
He enlisted in the US Army and served from 1955 – 1957. Upon returning home, he worked at the Wisconsin Gas Company until his retirement from the same in 1995. He married DeLayne Joy (Affeldt) Brauner on December 4, 1965. They have two children, Kenneth Robert, born in 1966, and Anthony Joseph, born in 1969.
John was also a volunteer firefighter with the Adams County Fire Department, working his way through the ranks to Battalion Chief.
He enjoyed gun rifle season; watching NASCAR and INDY car racing; spending time with his family ~ especially visiting the township of Irving and Soupbone Road, where he was raised; pontoon boating on Castle Rock Lake; car and truck shopping; spending time on his hunting land in Adams and enjoying the company of one very special ruffed grouse, who he affectionately named Patti; driving laps through town, and over the last few years, going on car rides with his son Anthony; and sharing his home with numerous cats and dogs through the years.
John is preceded in death by his parents; brothers John Brauner and Robert Brauner, sisters Marie Garber, Lillian Stetzer, Helen Brauner and Mildred Hutchins; and dear friends Bud and Lillian Goggins.
He is survived by DeLayne Brauner; sons Kenneth (Melissa Jacobson) Brauner and Anthony (Dawn) Brauner; grandchildren Gavin Brauner and Alexis and Dalton Brauner; numerous nephews and nieces; and his beloved golden retriever, Scarlett.
Memorial services will be 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 26th, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Friendship, Wisconsin. Father David Bruener will officiate. Visitation will be prior to the service on Wednesday at the Church from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Military Honors will be provided by the Adams County Honor Guard.
The family would like to thank the staff at Our House Assisted Living in Portage, Wisconsin, Columbus Health and Rehab in Columbus, Wisconsin, Bristol Hospice Care, and Roseberry Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to your local human society or to Alzheimer’s research in John’s name.
Wallner, Mary L. Age 97 of Friendship
2 years
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Mary L. Wallner, age 97, of Friendship, Wisconsin passed away peacefully in the comfort of her own home on Sunday, June 9, 2024.
Memorial services will be at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service. A celebration of life at the VFW in Adams will follow.
Mary was born July 17, 1926, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Mathew and Fannie (Kravanya) Komatz.
She attended Fairview Fernwood, West Milwaukee High School, graduating in 1944.
Mary married Marvin Robert Wallner on September 20, 1947, in West Allis, WI. Marvin passed away on October 13, 2016. She worked at St. Luke’s Hospital for 19 years and retired in 1984 before moving to Adams County in 1985.
Mary enjoyed golf, baking, traveling, reading, feeding & watching the birds, and especially spending time with her family.
She was a member of the Roche-A-Cri Recreation Ladies League, Couples League, and Woodland Lutheran Church.
Mary was preceded in death by her husband Marvin; parents: Mathew & Fannie; brothers Ernie, Matt & Joey, and sisters Rose & Ann.
Survivors include her sons Daniel (Tara) Wallner, Randy Wallner, Rick Wallner (Terri), and Michael (Toni) Wallner; grandchildren Brandon Wallner (Becky), Raeann (Bryan) Volk, Jason Wallner, Jessica Wallner, Cortney (Dan) Sunderlage, Megan (Scott) Fritton, Nicole (Joel) Gilbert, and brother Edward (Sue) Komatz. Mary is further survived by many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives & friends.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and
further information.
Pfeifer, Peter Paul Age 84 of Elroy
2 years
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Peter Paul Pfeifer, “Paul,” 84, of Elroy passed away peacefully on January 2, 2024, in Baraboo after a brief illness.
Paul was born in Chicago, Illinois, on February 17, 1939, to George T. and Anna C. (Wojtowicz) Pfeifer. The family relocated to Elroy when Paul was three years old. He attended a one-room country schoolhouse until third grade, when he transferred to the grade school in Elroy. He graduated from Elroy High School in 1956. During his school years, Paul participated in band and sports.
Paul attended La Crosse State College from 1956-1961, graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Geography and Social Sciences. While in college Paul played percussion in the band and made many life-long friends. Prior to graduation, Paul completed his student teaching at Onalaska High School.
Paul began his teaching career at the School District of Mauston in the spring of 1961. For 36 years he imparted knowledge to eager 8th grade minds in his World History classes. Paul made history come alive for his students in many ways, especially when guiding them in live presentations of a medieval castle and a Roman village. He loved engaging his students with humor, starting each class with a joke or a pun. Paul was very honored to host many Veterans Day programs at Mauston Middle School, and he held great respect for all men and women who are serving or have served our country. Paul was also coordinator of the middle school chess tournament, as well as coach and referee for boys basketball. Paul retired from teaching in 1996 and moved back to the family farm in Elroy.
While attending college in La Crosse, Paul met his future wife, June Speer. Paul and June were married at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Mauston on June 15, 1963, and recently celebrated their 60th anniversary. Their union was blessed with three daughters:
Amy (Mark) Behling, Becky (Bill) Rose and Emily (Tom) Morris and five grandchildren: Josh Behling, Will and Olivia Rose and Colin and Abbie Morris.
Paul’s interests and activities were many, including:
Foreman at the Hillsboro Canning Factory, member of Mauston Drum and Bugle Corps,
field measurer for the ASCS farmland office, student at Michigan State University, councilman for the City of Mauston, member of Mauston Jaycees, member of the Studebaker Auto Club, member of Elroy Rotary, bailiff at the Juneau County Courthouse and owner of “The Bike Hut.”
Besides family and teaching, Paul’s greatest loves were acquiring antiques and spending winters in Yuma, Arizona, with June. He was also an avid reader and enjoyed repairing bikes, hunting, fishing and driving his Allis Chalmers tractor on his beloved farm.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Tom Pfeifer, sister-in-law, Irene Pfeifer, nephew, Tim Pfeifer, in-laws, Fred and Beatrice Speer, sisters-in-law, Sylvia Seidel and Donna Speer, brother-in-law, Tom Seidel and numerous cousins and other family members.
Paul is survived by his loving wife, June, daughters Amy, Becky and Emily and their families, brother-in-law, David Hupke and many dear friends and relatives.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday June 22nd from 11am-4pm at the Mauston High School Commons.
Thank you to those who touched Paul’s life with love and laughter. He cherished you all.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family, please visit www.roseberrys.com to offer online condolences.
