Mauston, WI
Obituaries
Birdd, Robert “Bob” Age 67 of Hillsboro
2 years
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Robert “Bob” Birdd Jr., 67, of Hillsboro, Wisconsin, journeyed home on May 16, 2024. Bob was diagnosed with late-stage gastric cancer in the summer of 2022. He and his wife, Ann, took on the many challenges of the last two years with courage and strength and the support of their community.
Bob was born on April 11, 1957, to Florence (Piatkiewicz) and Robert Birdd Sr. in Hillsboro, WI. Bob’s boyhood was filled with endless days among neighborhood friends. He and his cousins often ventured around the Piatkiewicz farm, located where the Hillsboro schools and athletic fields are today. During this time, he established many lifelong bonds. Bob was a Hillsboro boy through and through.
Bob graduated from Hillsboro High School in 1975. Throughout high school, he spent many hours playing football, basketball, and baseball. Bob and his friends attended the school dances and thoroughly enjoyed their youth. Throughout college, he spent summers working with the Hillsboro Summer Recreation program, which aligned with his education and athletics values. He supported himself throughout his schooling with jobs at Frito Lay in Racine, Kickapoo Stations, and Elroy Community Dairy. He went on to obtain his degrees in Natural Resource Management and Environmental Education from UW-Stevens Point in 1980.
In the summer of 1981, Bob met his future wife, Ann Christianson. Bob and Ann both played in a coed summer softball league. After games, they celebrated wins (or losses) at local bars – Hynek’s or Mabel’s. Ann caught Bob’s eye with a zinger throw to first base, securing a surprise out. Bob and Ann married on September 13, 1986, at St. Aloysius Church in Hillsboro.
Bob began his 37-year career with the City of Hillsboro in 1982. He served as a Wastewater Treatment Operator and the City Forester. It was under Bob’s direction that the City of Hillsboro was initially recognized as a Tree City USA. Throughout his tenure, he received many consecutive growth awards. The locals labeled him “The Tree Guy,” and he was well known for his Tree Top Tidbits and Arbor Day proclamations in the local papers. He also received several awards from the National Weather Service for his daily recording of local weather observations. He was always happy to assist in his quiet and helpful manner. Bob retired in 2019 but continued learning best practices in forestry and served as a forestry consultant.
One of the most joyous events of Bob’s life was the birth of his daughter, Stephanie. To say that she brought him so much joy through the years is an understatement. He was beyond proud of her and how she grew up to be a fantastic woman. The best gift he ever received from Stephanie and her husband Jacob was his two beautiful granddaughters, Josephine (Jojo) and Scout. He loved being a grandpa and made sure their time together was all about their happiness.
Bob’s quiet personality allowed him to be an excellent listener everyone around him. He had an unassuming sense of humor characterized by a short chuckle or a slight smirk. Bob felt at home being outside in nature. He was content to be alone in the woods and enjoyed the serenity in the whisper of the leaves.
Bob is survived by his wife and best friend, Ann, daughter, Stephanie (Jacob) Board and granddaughters, Josephine Joy and Scout Marie, as well as his sister, Stella (Kevin) Walker, nephew, Eric (Kim) Walker and children, and niece, Nicole Monks (Jeff Caher), and children. He is further survived by several cousins and special friends.
Preceding him in death were his parents, Robert Sr. and Florence (Piatkiewicz) Birdd, his mother-in-law, Emily (Hynek) Christianson, and father-in-law, Rolland Christianson.
A celebration of Bob’s life will be held on Thursday, May 23, from 4 to 8 PM with a time of remembrance, fellowship, and a shared meal at 6 PM at the Field Veterans Memorial Park, 209 Water Avenue, Hillsboro, Wisconsin.
His family wishes to preserve his memory by establishing a scholarship fund. Memorials may be made to the Robert E. Birdd Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund.
The Picha Funeral Home in Hillsboro is assisting, for online information go to www.pichafuneralhomes.com
Waite, Velna Irene Age 86 of Adams
2 years
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Velna Irene Waite, age 86, of Adams, Wisconsin passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, May 9, 2024.
Velna was born September 24, 1937 in Portage, Wisconsin to Lee and Emma (Vondrak) Dye. She graduated from Adams-Friendship High School in 1956. Velna married Ronald John Waite Sr. on April 20, 1956 in Adams. She worked at the Adams County Moundview Hospital as a nurse and later at Castle Rock Container before she and Ron purchased and owned Ron’s Body Shop for many years. Following retirement, she spent many years actively working in and around the community.
Velna enjoyed the outdoors, taking care of her animals, gardening, and attending a good rummage sale. She also enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and was known to carve their names into pumpkins she grew.
Velna was preceded in death by her parents: Lee and Emma Dye; husband, Ronald Waite Sr.; sisters: Lucille Duir, Violet Premo, Vivian (Roger) Weir; brothers: Leonard (Bobbie) Dye and William (Elka) Dye; son, Randall (Diane) Waite; and daughter, Debra Waite.
She is survived by her son, RJ (Janet) Waite Jr.; daughters: Krystal (Rick) Roenneburg and Sonya Waite Johnson; 16 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren.
A celebration of life gathering will be held at a later date.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.
Coon, Marshall H. Age 92 of Adams
2 years
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Marshall H. Coon, age 92, of Adams, Wisconsin passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center at LaCrosse, Wisconsin.
Memorial services will be 12:00 Noon on Thursday, May 23,2024 at Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, WI. Reverend Richard Corning will officiate. Visitation will be 10:00 until the time of service on Thursday at Roseberry’s Funeral Home
Interment will be at the Spring Grove Cemetery, Wisconsin Dells, Wi at a later date.
Marshall was born September 27, 1931, in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin to Howard B and Hazel (Marshall) Coon. Marshall graduated high school from Oxford, Wisconsin in 1949. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1951. While stationed in England he met Emily Arstall. They married in the United States and had two daughters Rita and Marty. Emily passed away in 1988. Marshall married Rita Dittburner in 1989 and she passed away in 1995. Marshall married Frances Roberts in 1998 and they celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary in 2023.
Marshall was a man of many talents as his work life was so diverse. He farmed as a young man and then he and Emily purchased and operated Club 23 for 10 years. In 1989 Marshall was appointed by the Adams County Board to the position of Adams County Highway Commissioner. He held this position until his retirement in 1998.
Marshall belonged to many clubs during his lifetime which led him to volunteer many hours of community service. He belonged to the Adams Trinity Congregational Church,
Quincy Adams Lodge #71, Order of the Eastern Star – Kilbourn Chapter #120 and Rainbow Chapter #87, Faith in Action, Heart of Wisconsin Shrine Club, New Haven Sno-Streakers, Lake Mason Lions Club, and Moundview Golf Course.
Marshall loved spending time at Castle Rock Park at their “home on the lake.” Family get togethers at the lake was always a special time. Marshall enjoyed golfing, bowling, and going to the stock car races in the Dells until his health did not allow any longer. He looked forward to watching the Nascar races on Sundays, as well as reading and doing crossword puzzles. But his favorite time was spending time with his family whether it was a family reunion in Oxford, a lunch date with his siblings and relatives or going to watch his grandchildren and great grandchildren in sport, plays, or special events – these were the times that were most precious to him.
Marshall was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ed and sister-in-law Joy, brother-in-law Don Goetsch, son-in-law Jeff Mamayak, stepdaughter Brenda Quinnell and wives Emily and Rita.
Marshall is survived by: Wife Frances, Daughters, Rita Mamayak and Marty Coon, Stepdaughters Kathie (Jerry) Dye, Nancy (Claude Hiller) Macewicz, Stepson Butch (Lori) Roberts, Sisters Patsy Goetsch, Catherine (Tony) Deichl, Grandchildren Kelly (Kim) Roehl, Quinn (Michele) Roehl, Chad Roehl, Kristy (Kris) Barr, Karrie (Terry) Fritz, Katie (Tim) Mallet, Brett (Megan) Borck, KC (Kristen) Houslet, Carrie (Scott Young) Allard, Jennifer (Zac) Henson, Kevin (Amy) Dye, Christopher Macewicz, Amy Macewicz, Chad (Karen Perik) Rhinehart, Heather Rhinehart, Abigail Quinnell, and many loving great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Special thanks to the loving and compassionate staff at Gundersen Moundview and Gundersen Lutheran that helped make his last days dignified and comfortable and to the kind and caring staff at Rosebrooke Senior Living who always shared a smile and a friendly game of Bingo.
In lieu of flowers Memorials may be directed in Marshall’s memory to the Heart of Wisconsin Zor Shrine Club to be forwarded to the Shriners Children’s Hospital.
Marshall will always be remembered for his smile and good hugs.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences.
Collopy, Denis M. Age 64 of Grand Marsh
2 years
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
2 years
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
2 years
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
2 years
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
2 years
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
2 years
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
2 years
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.
