Mauston, WI
Obituaries
Celmer, Bernadette Mary Age 69 of Adams
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Bernadette Mary Celmer, age 69, of Adams, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at Gundersen Lutheran Hospital in La Crosse, Wisconsin
Born on December 29, 1955, in Rockford, Illinois, Bernadette was the daughter of Bernard and Cecilia (Brodeski) Krowczyk. She grew up in Rockford and graduated from Auburn High School in 1973. On April 10, 1975, she married the love of her life, David A. Celmer. Bernadette worked for several companies over the years, including Berol Pencil Sharpener Company and Tote Cart Shopping Cart Company.
In 2000, Bernadette and David made their home in Adams County, where she continued her career with Cardinal Glass and the Ho-Chunk Casino. She was known for her strong work ethic, quiet kindness, and deep love for her family.
Bernadette was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Bernice Lawver, Bernard Krowczyk Jr., and Stanley Krowczyk; and her beloved grandson, David Celmer.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 50 years, David Celmer; her two sons, Levi (Oana) Celmer and Luke Celmer; brother, Joseph (Lynn) Krowczyk; and granddaughters: Olivia and Stella.
In accordance with Bernadette’s wishes, no funeral service will be held.
She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.
Quimby, Vergie Mae Age 94 of Big Flats
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Vergie Mae Quimby, age 94, of Big Flats, Wisconsin, has gone on to paradise on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Edgewater Haven Nursing Home in Port Edwards, Wisconsin. Her long and well-lived journey has now led her to her eternal home.
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 21, 2025 at the Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin. Pastor Milt Duntley will officiate. Interment will be at the Pine Grove Cemetery, Bancroft, Wisconsin. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. until the time of service on Monday at Roseberry’s Funeral Home.
Vergie was born on March 25, 1931, in Jump River, Wisconsin, as a twin, to Louis T. and Alice (Warner) Crook. On October 29, 1949, she married her childhood sweetheart, Gilman Quimby Sr., in Camp Douglas, Wisconsin. Together they built a life filled with love and dedication. They began raising their family and moved to Janesville, where Vergie worked for Parker Pen, before relocating to Waukesha, where she was employed by Amaron Company for 10 years and continued to raise her children and babysitting her grandchildren. She trained for and became a home health care giver until she retired. In 1993, Vergie and Gilman moved to Big Flats, where they ran the beloved “Quimby Vegetable Barn.” Even in retirement, Vergie’s hardworking spirit led her to McCain Foods in Plover, where she worked for many years.
Vergie had a heart as generous as her hands were skilled. She found joy in crocheting, crafting cherished blankets for each of her children, grandchildren, and even many great-grandchildren. She loved tending her garden and spending precious time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating lasting memories through her kindness.
In addition to her devotion to family, Vergie was passionate about supporting others. She proudly served as a chairperson for the Alzheimer’s Walk for many years, lending her time and efforts to a cause close to her heart.
Vergie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gilman Sr.; her parents, Louis and Alice; two sons, Richard and Leonard; and her siblings: Genevieve (Harold) DeBruin, Vivian (Ray) Quimby, Henry (Betty) Crook, Robert (Kathy) Crook, Virgil (Delores) Crook, Alvin (Doris) Crook; and in-laws Glen Warner, Norman Jensen, and Bonnie Crook.
She is lovingly survived by her children: Gilman Jr. “Jim” (Shirley) Quimby, Sharil Gallagher, Karen (Dennis) Tolley, and Allen (Katie) Quimby; daughter-in-law, Sharon Quimby; her siblings: Arlene Warner, Olsie Jensen, Paul (Dee) Crook, and Gloria (Tom) Heyer; and her sister-in-law, Leona Taylor.
Vergie’s legacy also lives on through her 13 grandchildren: Brenda, Michelle, Delta (Sarah), Charity, Lewis, Dwayne, Derrick (Bobbi), Shannon (Brian), Jessica, Ryan (Jeng), Jeremiah (Amanda), Stacie, and Jay (Casey); her two step-grandchildren, Samantha (Trevor) and Darren (Georgette); her 28 great-grandchildren; 6 step-great-grandchildren; 15 great-great-grandchildren; and 2 step-great-great-grandchildren. She is further survived by many, many nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.
Vergie will be remembered for her strong yet gentle spirit, her unwavering love for her family, and her deep-rooted kindness that touched every life she encountered. Her 6 grandsons will serve as pallbearers and her 12 great-grandsons will serve as honorary pallbearers.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family. Online condolences and further information are available at www.roseberrys.com.
Stormoen, Mary “Evelyn” Age 67 of Friendship
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Mary “Evelyn” Stormoen, age 67, of Friendship, Wisconsin passed away Saturday, April 12, 2025 at her home following recent decline in health.
Funeral services will be 12 Noon on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.
Evelyn was born on September 16, 1957, in Marion, Kentucky, to Clarence and Mable (Wafford) Belt. She was raised in Kentucky as part of a large and loving family alongside her seven siblings. From an early age, Evelyn developed a passion for cooking, a skill she learned and cherished under the guidance of her mother.
On January 14, 1993, she married Richard Leroy Stormoen in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The couple made their home in Colorado Springs until 1997, when they relocated to Adams County. Together, Evelyn and Richard were proud to help operate the Skyline Restaurant.
Evelyn found joy in gardening, bird watching, and spending time outdoors. She especially treasured moments shared with her children and grandchildren. Her love for baking and cooking remained a lifelong passion.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents: Clarence and Mable; husband, Richard; siblings: Kenny, Louise, and Joyce; nephew, Kevin; and grandson, Matthew.
Survivors include her children: Nakita (John) Stormoen of Friendship, WI; Michael Hicks of Gunneson, Co; and Veronica (Roger) Soular of Piedmont, NC; grandchildren: Trinity, Gianna, Everly, Brian, Chelsy, Tesla, Melissa, Mikey, Sarah, Zack, Liv, and Willow; siblings: Austin (Anna), Gene (Kathy), Brenda (Butch), and Tina (Phillip). She 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.
Brogan, William “Bill” Charles Age 74 of Adams
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
William Charles “Bill” Brogan passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 3, 2025, in Adams, Wisconsin. He was born in 1950 in West Bend, Wisconsin, to Charles and Grace (O’Toole) Brogan.
Bill spent his early childhood in Arcadia, Wisconsin, before the family settled in Adams in 1961—a place he would call home for most of his life. Known for his adventurous spirit and zest for life, Bill embraced every opportunity that came his way. He excelled in a wide range of school sports, drove a dynamite truck in the rugged mountains near Clatskanie, Oregon, and enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1969. A highly decorated Vietnam veteran, Bill was awarded the Bronze Star with “V” for valor in recognition of his courage and service.
He had a deep and abiding love for the American West, wildlife, and the outdoors. His family, friends, and especially his beloved dogs—whom he lovingly referred to as “his children”—were central to his life. Bill will be remembered for his sharp intellect, remarkable memory, and unwavering loyalty.
Bill is survived by his sisters: Patricia Haines, Mary Dockendorff, Grace Ann Costello, and Susan (Ken) Curry, along with many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers-in-law, two nieces, and his cherished canine companions: Turk, Nitro, Bubba, Sadie, Xerxes, Arthur, and Recon.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Rosebrook Senior Living and Heartland Hospice for the compassionate and attentive care they provided Bill in his final days.
A Memorial Gathering to honor Bill’s life will be held on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at Roseberry’s Funeral Home, 512 Main Street, Friendship, Wisconsin, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Military Honors will be presented at 5:45 p.m.
Hammond, Douglas A. Age 83 of White Creek
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Douglas A. Hammond, 83, of White Creek, passed away at his home on March 29th, 2025. Doug was surrounded by his loving wife, children and grandchildren.
Doug was born March 27th , 1942 at the family home in White Creek, WI to Kermit (Casey) Hammond and Alma (Reuterskiold) Hammond. Doug was a lifelong resident of White Creek. He attended the White Creek School House, Castle Rock Grade School, and Adams-Friendship High School. When Doug was 56 years old he obtained a GED and his fellow classmates awarded him an Honorary High School Diploma. Doug married his dance partner and the love of his life Jean Babcock, at the White Creek Church on August 22nd, 1964.
In his early years, Doug worked alongside his father Casey and brothers, on the family sawmill. Doug also spent time working at Carpenter’s Pure Oil Station and the Arkansas Traveler Boat Factory in Adams. Doug then worked 45 years at Theisen Lumber. Doug was known to family and friends as a “Jack of all trades”. Doug could solve most any difficult plumbing or electrical problem, even if requiring a “MacGyver” type fix. After retiring, Doug took on other part time work that included delivering car parts. Doug cared a great deal about the neighborhood he was born in, lived in, and raised his children in. He built his house, razed a tumbled down abandoned house and remodeled four other homes in White Creek.
Doug enjoyed playing golf in his middle years. He played frequently, until losing his golf partner in 2006. Doug coached Pete’s Little League Team for neighborhood children including his three sons. Doug enjoyed following the Brewers, Badgers and Packers. He was quick to remind us that he was old enough and tough enough to have attended the Ice Bowl in 1967.
Doug was passionate about auto racing. He started with go-karts alongside his brothers. He later moved on to full-size stock cars at A-F Motor Speedway. His passion for racing extended to his three children and then grandchildren. Doug could be found in the racetrack pit area helping any of his 3 children or grandchildren. In his later years, you could find Doug in the grandstands cheering them on. Doug enjoyed supporting his children and grandchildren in all their activities.
Doug and Jean loved to travel, almost always ending up on a beautiful beach. They enjoyed trips to The Great Lakes, Gulf Shores, Myrtle Beach, Nova Scotia and Hawaii. Doug and Jean always planned vacations around racing schedules and included an ASA tour in one of their adventures.
Doug is survived by his wife Jean, brother-in-law Mark Theisen, sister-in-law Lilah Hammond, Sons; Eric (Dawn) Hammond, Ross (Tammy) Hammond, Jason (Cathy) Hammond. Grandchildren; Taylor Hammond, Dillon Hammond, Megan (Kameron) Dickman, Gunner Hammond, Sophia Hammond, and Ethan Hammond. Step Grandchildren; Johanna Hudson, Emily Banie, Patricia Bass, Zach Bass, and Amber
Bass. Great Grandchildren; Aurora, Henry, Eloise, Connor, Anna, God Daughter Shelly Harvey, and numerous family and friends.
Doug was preceded in death by his parents: Casey and Alma; Siblings: Vern, Willy, Kenny, Kay, Myrna, and Linda; sisters-in-law: Georgiana and Mary; brothers-in-law: Ronnie and Larry, and beloved niece and nephew Emily and Triston.
Doug believed that his hand held out, was a hand up. When you lend a helping hand to someone in need, think of Doug. When you defend someone’s honor think of Doug. Doug was fond of children’s charities. He would be honored if you added one to your giving list. St. Jude Children’s Hospital was the most frequent recipient of his generosity. The family is grateful that Doug’s wish of donating his body to a teaching university is being fulfilled at the University of Wisconsin.
The family would like to thank Agrace Hospice and all its wonderful staff. Especially Katrina and Pastor Derek for all that they have done. We would also like to thank family and friends who have supported and sent their thoughts and prayers. Special visits, cards, and calls are appreciated. No service will be held.
Rurup, Douglas E. Age 85 of New Lisbon
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Douglas E. Rurup, age 85 of New Lisbon, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2025, at his home, in New Lisbon. Doug was the son of Albert and Doris (Weber) Rurup and was born on March 21, 1940, in Britton, South Dakota.
After graduating from New Lisbon High School in 1958, Doug ventured to Kenosha, where he began his career working for General Motors. His life took a joyful turn when he married Marleta Preston on November 24, 1960. Doug’s path led him to serve his country in the US Air Force, where he specialized in aerial photography and was stationed across the globe, from Virginia to Thailand, and from Minnesota to Germany, before retiring after 22 years of dedicated service.
Following his military career, Doug’s entrepreneurial spirit shone through when he and Marleta owned and operated Maranatha Auto in South St. Paul. His professional journey continued as he worked as an electrician and later for BowMaster in Minnesota. Eventually, Doug and Marleta returned to New Lisbon, and Marleta passed away on February 14, 2014. Doug later found love once more and married Maryann Sterling on August 7, 2017, at the Necedah Assembly of God Church. Their time together was cherished until Maryann’s passing on December 18, 2022.
Doug’s life was enriched by his family, including his daughter, Gina Heckel of St. Paul, MN; siblings, Charmaine (Bill) Reid of Henderson, NV, Kristy Koca of New Lisbon, Randy (Christine) Rurup of Adams Friendship, and Mark Rurup of Marshall, WI; grandchildren, Danielle (Derrick) Sherwood, Lindsey Heckel, Nichole Heckel, Perry Jr., Becky Jo and Debbie Barts; and several great-grandchildren. He also found joy in his foster sons, Andreas (Monica) Schumacher of Germany and Perry Nelson of New Lisbon. Doug was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Leo and Howard Rurup, and his sister Dawn Rurup.
An avid outdoorsman, Doug loved to hunt and fish, and he found camaraderie and relaxation in skeet shooting. His membership in the Necedah Assembly of God Church was a cornerstone of his life, reflecting his faith.
A Memorial Service will be held on April 9, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at the Hare Funeral Home (217 W. Pearl St.) in New Lisbon. Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Wednesday at the Hare Funeral Home from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service. Inurnment with Military Honors will be in the Potter Cemetery in Summit Township. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com
Schroeder, Jimmy A. Age 73 of Kendall
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Jimmy A. Schroeder, Sr., 73 of Kendall passed away on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at the Tomah Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Tomah.
A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, April 11, 2025, 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church of Necedah, W6295 23rd Street W., Necedah, WI 54646. Pastor Kevin Meinke will officiate. Burial will be at a later date. Relatives and friends are invited for a time of visitation on Thursday from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Smith-Nelson Funeral Home, 112 E. South Railroad Street, Kendall and at the church on Friday from 10:00 AM until the time of the service. Online condolences can be offered by visiting www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com
Morgan, Shirley M. Age 81 of Milwaukee and formerly of Adams County
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Shirley M. Morgan, age 81, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, passed away on Friday, March 28, 2025, at Froedtert Hospital in Milwaukee.
Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025, at Easton Cemetery, with Pastor Terri Skildum officiating.
Shirley was born on March 15, 1944, in Lincoln Township, Adams County, Wisconsin, to Floyd and Beatrice Cavanaugh. She grew up in Grand Marsh and moved to Milwaukee in 1962. On November 19, 1966, she married Wayne Allen Morgan Sr. in Milwaukee. After moving to Milwaukee, she worked at Brill Bros Sewing before taking on several roles at Mt. Sinai Hospital. Later, she became a cook at Atwater Elementary School, a position she cherished. She earned her GED from Milwaukee Area Technical College in 1994.
Shirley had a passion for embroidery, crocheting, and traveling the world on cruise ships. She was also a proud member of the American Legion Auxiliary.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Beatrice;her stepfather: Bill Kemnitz; her husband, Wayne Morgan Sr.; her siblings Mary Starling, Jimmy Cavanaugh, Melvin Cavanaugh, and Jerry Cavanaugh; and sisters-in-law Lorraine and Geraldine and brother in-law Lloyd (Skip).
She is survived by her children: Wayne (Renee) Morgan, Kandi Phelps, and Michaela (Charles) McNeil; her grandchildren: Talen, Kali, Autumn (Steven), Noah, Alex, James Henry, Olivia, Natori; her Great-grandkids: Donterius, Tiyee, and Kaylani, Olive; and her siblings: Freddie (Connie), Caroline (Richard), Carol Jean (Keith), and Priscilla (Douglas). She was also deeply loved by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Memorial contributions may be directed to her children in Shirley’s memory.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.
McPeek, Patricia A. Age 75 of Necedah
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Patricia A. McPeek, beloved mother, grandmother and sister, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 75 on Thursday, March 27, 2025. She was born on March 7,1950, to Stanley and Evelynann (Dominiak) Wodecki in Chicago, Illinois and resided there till 2008 when she moved to Necedah, Wisconsin to be closer to her daughter Lori and her family. Throughout her career she held various customer service positions. She loved keeping up with friends and family, especially through social media and the internet. She will be remembered for her infamous stories starting with “I seen…!” “I heard…!” “I read…!”
She is survived by her daughter, Lori (Andy) Janociak; grandchildren, Andrew (fiancée, Christy Heusser) Janociak of Necedah, WI and Anthony (Gabby) and baby to be Janociak of Necedah, WI; brother, Stanley (Irene) Wodecki of Cicero, Illinois; nieces Patricia (Ron) Waymire of Justice, IL, Elizabeth (Jose) Wodecki of Chicago, IL, and Annie (Brandon) Sprau of Downers Grove, IL; and many great nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Stanley and Evelynann Wodecki; and great grandchild, Angel Anne Janociak
A time for visitation will be held on Friday, April 4, 2025, 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., with a prayer service concluding at 7:00 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Necedah. A burial will be held at the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Cemetery on Saturday, April 5th, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Francis of Assisi Church in her name. The Torkelson Funeral Home of Necedah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at
www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com
Mergenthaler, Randy Charles Age 74 of Wisconsin Dells
3 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Randy Charles Mergenthaler, age 74, of Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Barrel Springs Bar and Grill on Sunday, May 4, 2025. Military honors will be presented at 3:00 p.m. with a celebration of life gathering to follow.
Randy was born on May 30, 1950, in Hartford, Wisconsin, to Ray and June Rose (Lamprecht) Mergenthaler. He grew up in the Hartford/Slinger area and graduated from Hartford High School in 1968. A proud veteran, Randy served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded several medals for his service and bravery on the front lines.
Throughout his career, Randy worked in landscaping and welding in Milwaukee before moving to Adams County in 1981. Randy worked for Ronald E. Collins pulpwood & Logging, owned and operated Randy Mergenthaler’s Forestry Service for 20+ years.
Randy had a passion for riding his Harley and cherished time spent socializing with friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and June.
Randy is survived by his children, Jesse (Lori) Mergenthaler, Shane (Angela) Mergenthaler, and Eve Mergenthaler; as well as his beloved grandchildren, Colin, Bailey, and Kasandra.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. For online condolences and further details, please visit www.roseberrys.com.
