Mauston, WI
Obituaries
Beversdorf, Thomas Charles Age 80 of the Town of Rome
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Thomas Charles Beversdorf, 80, of Town of Rome (Nekoosa), passed on April 3, 2026 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital’s Palliative Care after suffering a severe stroke. He passed quietly in the evening with his wife by his side.
Thomas was born on April 20, 1945 in Birnamwood, WI to Herbert Louis Beversdorf and Dorothy Annabelle Justmann. Being the only son in the family, Tom would often have been found shadowing his father at his car dealership or spending an afternoon on the golf course. While he would not pursue business like his father, he developed a keen sense of finance and leadership that would make him successful in his own career. He graduated from Birnamwood High School in 1963 and then continued his education by earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with a minor in Physical Education at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in 1967. Returning home, Tom proudly accepted his first teaching position as a Physical Education teacher at Adams-Friendship High School.
Tom was married to Elinor Wunderlich on August 19, 1967. Tom had met Elinor at a Lutheran Convention in Green Bay, WI and then attended college together. They raised three beautiful children, Matthew, Andy, and Laurel on the shores of Friendship Lake in Friendship, WI. Tom, known as “Pop” to his children, spent time playing sports with them—whether in the yard with wiffle ball and basketball or on the golf course. Through sports, he taught the value of practice, hard work, perseverance, and competition. Through poker, especially during the annual Christmas tournaments at his sister Jane’s home, he taught them to read people, think ahead, and balance risk with reward.
Tom instilled in his children a competitive spirit, an appreciation for athletics, and a deep love of games. He also taught them that life is best lived by working hard, providing for your family, and finding plenty of time for fun and games along the way. In this season of life, Tom was a young father, teacher, and athletic coach. But being as tenacious as he was, Tom decided to start on the path toward school leadership. He soon earned a Masters of Physical Education and his School Principal Administrator’s License from the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse and the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Tom dedicated much of his life to education and mentorship. He began as a Physical Education teacher at Adams-Friendship High School, where he taught for 11 years. During that time, he coached basketball, cross country, golf, and boys volleyball, leading teams to three volleyball championships and one golf championship. He later served as Assistant Principal at Adams-Friendship High School for 11 years, followed by 14 years as Middle School Principal. Known affectionately as “Mr. B,” Tom retired in 2003, leaving a lasting impact on students, staff, and the community.
Tom was married to Teresa Lynn Harvey on October 27, 1999. Tom and Terri met while both teaching at Adams-Friendship High School. Through this marriage, he gained three young stepchildren: Shane, Terra, and Shad, and together they shared many years of family and life. Tom made sure that connection, opportunity and adventure were at the center of each family outing—whether that might be a camping trip at a State Park, fishing on the Wisconsin River, or Goose hunting in Horicon. In this season of life, Tom was attending and actively supporting all of his children’s (and later grandchildren’s) volleyball games, dance recitals, poker tournaments, soccer matches, band performances, golf outings, and other activities. He was also keenly interested in everyone’s grades, income, and careers and was immensely proud that each member of his family was successful in their own way.
In his personal life, Tom continued to participate in community activities and pursue his hobbies. He and Terri served as Special Olympics basketball coaches and volleyball referees for many years. Tom’s passion for the sports and the outdoors led Terri and Tom to golf regularly at Lake Arrowhead, fish from their boat in Wisconsin waterways, and buy a camper-trailer that they used around the state. These moments were made even better when able to share them with children and grandchildren. As life’s end came, Tom continued to be a loyal Badgers, Brewers, and Packers fan. He was an avid Democrat and made his opinion known—including the final days he spent at Aspirus.
The family would like to openly thank all of the caretakers, doctors, nurses, and medical professionals who crossed paths with Tom, especially at Emplify Moundview Hospital in Friendship, WI and Aspirus Wausau Hospital. Your care made the last years and moments of Tom’s life comfortable for him and his family. Thank you.
Tom is survived by his wife, Teresa; his children, Matt (Rachael), Andy (Mariana), and Laurel (Nathan); his stepchildren, Shane (Beth), Terra (Dustin), and Shad (Amanda); and his 12 grandchildren, who were a special source of pride and joy in his life. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert Louis Beversdorf and Dorothy Annabelle Justmann; and his sister and brother-in-law, Jane and Joe Resch.
Thomas was cremated, and his remains will be interred in Big Flats, Wisconsin. A visitation will be held at Zion Lutheran Church of Big Flats (886 Bighorn Ave, Hancock, WI) on Sunday, April 26 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a service at 12:00 PM. Inurnment will take place immediately following for those who wish to attend.
Family and friends are invited to gather later that afternoon, starting at 3:00 PM, at Moundview in Friendship, WI to share memories and celebrate Thomas’s life. Roseberry’s Funeral Home assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences.
Corbett, Robert M. Age 65 of Adams County
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Robert M. Corbett, age 65, passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
A memorial gathering will be held from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin.
Robert was born on April 19, 1960, in Chicago, Illinois, to Leroy and Carol (Stephens) Corbett. He dedicated 26 years to the Public Works Department in Schaumburg, Illinois, where he worked in the landscaping division prior to his retirement.
Robert was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He was a devoted fan of the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Cubs and could often be found relaxing in his favorite recliner, enjoying a game. He found great joy in the outdoors—camping, tinkering with cars, and puttering around outside. He also enjoyed listening to classic rock and spending time socializing with family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his loving wife of over 20 years, Sandra; children, Kristin (Michael), Brent, and Christopher; his grandchildren, Margaret and Riley; two brothers, Lee and David; two sisters, Debra and Kelly; and many nieces and nephews.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences and further information are available at www.roseberrys.com.
Weittenhiller, Cleda Zoe Age 102 of Mauston
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Cleda Zoe Mortimer Weittenhiller passed into the loving arms of our Lord on December 18, 2025 at the Crestview Assisted Living in New Lisbon, WI surrounded by family. She was 102 years old.
Born on August 11, 1923 to Ethel and Elmer Mortimer in Hitchcock, South Dakota. She would say that she never felt she was from a poor family because she knew she was always loved. She loved the farm animals and admitted to being pretty much a “tomboy”. Cleda graduated from Hitchcock High School. She then went to nursing school in Huron, South Dakota. After about a year and a half she met the love of her life, a teacher, Keith Weittenhiller, who asked her to marry him. They were married in the “Little Brown Church” in Nashua, Iowa on July 21, 1942. From then on she was a homemaker and Keith continued as an agriculture teacher. They moved to Wisconsin where they had five children together. They eventually made Mauston, Wisconsin their home. Besides raising children, she was also very active in various organizations such as the PTA and the Eastern Star where for over 80 years she was Worthy Matron and held many other stations. She became very active in the development of the ARC (Association of Retarded Citizens) in Juneau County upon giving birth to a Down’s Syndrome boy, Jeff. She helped to acquire one of Juneau County’s first group homes in the 1990’s. Cleda was also very involved in the Methodist church and worked as the church secretary for about 9 years. She supported the church until her death. She had a strong faith in God and always felt it was “better to give than to receive”. But her favorite activity was playing cards including Bridge, Pinochle and Up and Down the River. Cleda also served on the election Board and was a member of a league bowling team. Her life and heart were full.
Cleda was preceded in death by her parents, Ethel and Elmer, her brothers; Donovan, Marvin, Murray and Max, her husband, Keith, her youngest son, Jeffrey, a grandson, Jerred Nuttall, and a baby granddaughter, Kari Pisha. Cleda will be deeply missed by her children, Larry Weittenhiller (Carol) of Virginia Beach, VA, Douglas (Denice) Weittenhiller of West Bend, WI, Candace Weittenhiller Little of Estacada, OR, Kim Weittenhiller Pisha of Puyallup, WA. and 12 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren and many friends.
The family would like to thank the staff of Crestview Assisted Living for all their compassion and loving care for our mom. We would especially like to thank Gladys, Kristen and Katie who spent many hours with our mom. You are the best! We would also like to thank Sara, the Hospice nurse, who cared for our mom in her final days and hours and kept us well informed.
A memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at the Mauston Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, please make memorials in her name to the Mauston Methodist Church. Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Born on August 11, 1923 to Ethel and Elmer Mortimer in Hitchcock, South Dakota. She would say that she never felt she was from a poor family because she knew she was always loved. She loved the farm animals and admitted to being pretty much a “tomboy”. Cleda graduated from Hitchcock High School. She then went to nursing school in Huron, South Dakota. After about a year and a half she met the love of her life, a teacher, Keith Weittenhiller, who asked her to marry him. They were married in the “Little Brown Church” in Nashua, Iowa on July 21, 1942. From then on she was a homemaker and Keith continued as an agriculture teacher. They moved to Wisconsin where they had five children together. They eventually made Mauston, Wisconsin their home. Besides raising children, she was also very active in various organizations such as the PTA and the Eastern Star where for over 80 years she was Worthy Matron and held many other stations. She became very active in the development of the ARC (Association of Retarded Citizens) in Juneau County upon giving birth to a Down’s Syndrome boy, Jeff. She helped to acquire one of Juneau County’s first group homes in the 1990’s. Cleda was also very involved in the Methodist church and worked as the church secretary for about 9 years. She supported the church until her death. She had a strong faith in God and always felt it was “better to give than to receive”. But her favorite activity was playing cards including Bridge, Pinochle and Up and Down the River. Cleda also served on the election Board and was a member of a league bowling team. Her life and heart were full.
Cleda was preceded in death by her parents, Ethel and Elmer, her brothers; Donovan, Marvin, Murray and Max, her husband, Keith, her youngest son, Jeffrey, a grandson, Jerred Nuttall, and a baby granddaughter, Kari Pisha. Cleda will be deeply missed by her children, Larry Weittenhiller (Carol) of Virginia Beach, VA, Douglas (Denice) Weittenhiller of West Bend, WI, Candace Weittenhiller Little of Estacada, OR, Kim Weittenhiller Pisha of Puyallup, WA. and 12 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren and many friends.
The family would like to thank the staff of Crestview Assisted Living for all their compassion and loving care for our mom. We would especially like to thank Gladys, Kristen and Katie who spent many hours with our mom. You are the best! We would also like to thank Sara, the Hospice nurse, who cared for our mom in her final days and hours and kept us well informed.
A memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at the Mauston Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, please make memorials in her name to the Mauston Methodist Church. Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Meistad, Geraldine C. Age 84 of Friendship
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Geraldine C. Meistad, age 84, of Friendship, Wisconsin, passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.
A celebration of life will begin at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at the Mill in Arkdale, Wisconsin.
Geraldine was born on December 25, 1940, in Gilmanton, Wisconsin, to Roy and Lillian (Larson) Kent. On November 16, 1957, she was united in marriage to Leonard Meistad in Gilmanton, and together they shared many years of life and family. Geraldine found joy in simple pleasures. She enjoyed playing horseshoes and darts, tending to her garden, bowling, trying her luck at gambling, and cheering on the Green Bay Packers. She worked at Medical Engineering, Hamilton Beach, and SC Johnson before retiring in 1991.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Lillian Kent; her husband, Leonard Meistad; her children, Vicki Beres, Laurie Schumacher, and Todd Meistad; and her siblings, Myrna Loomis, Roger Kent, and Lyle Kent.
Geraldine is survived by her daughter, Brenda (Jim) Winchester, her grandchildren, James (Beth) Meistad, Teresa (Jeff) Gagne, Robert (Amanda) Beres, Erica (Nick) Schumacher, Jari Kay Meistad, Janah Lynn Meistad, Randi (Anthony) Goettl, Bradley Winchester, and Jessica (Lars) Wacker; 16 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; brother, Lowell (Elnor) Kent; sons-in-law, Jeff Beres, and George Schumacher; and daughter-in-law, Kim Meistad.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences and further information may be found at www.roseberrys.com.
Diethman, Edward John “Corncob” Age 93 of Adams
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Edward John “Corncob” Diethman, age 93, of Adams, Wisconsin passed away Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Villa Pines Living Center in Friendship, Wisconsin.
Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship. Pastor Rich Thompson will officiate. Visitation will be at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday at Roseberry’s Funeral Home.
Edward was born on January 14, 1933, on the family farm in Spencer, Wisconsin to Vernon and Lillian (Volker) Diethman. He married Mary E. Trump on December 5, 1951, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Ed lived a life with so many experiences that he rarely had to tell the same story twice. Visitors to his home were often treated to tales about growing up on a farm in Spencer, WI or his vacations to places like the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, GA with his wife Mary. His adventures included feeding bears through a car window in Yellowstone, fishing trips to Canada, and building the United in Christ Lutheran Church. He played basketball, football, baseball and the trumpet in his youth and made a career out of climbing ladders and pounding nails. He opened his home to Tom Callahan and showed through his actions the importance of family.
He took pride in the fish he caught, the lawn he maintained, and the Wisconsin sports teams he followed.
His gruff voice was balanced out by the sweets he kept in the cabinet next to his chair in the living room. He would pass out malted milk balls or bars of chocolate to his seven grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren whenever they came to visit and generations grew up laughing and playing pool in his basement on Christmas.
We will remember him when we hear the winning bells of a slot machine or smell the sweet smoke of pipe tobacco. He will be in our thoughts when our gardens sprout in the Spring or we make a batch of homemade caramel corn.
At his 90th birthday party his grandchildren asked what his secret was to living a long life. He said, “Chewing on a pipe for 70 years,” which made us all laugh. Then he took a second and said, “The truth is living with my wife. There was a right way, a wrong way, and her way. And no bending the rules.”
May it bring us all comfort to know they are reunited again.
Ed was preceded in death by his wife Mary; daughter Christine Hinrichs; grandson Billy Hinrichs, brothers Kenneth and Elroy; sister Dolores Garderbrecht and Thomas (Big Tom) Callahan.
Survivors include his sister, Mabel Luepke; son Edward (Susan) Jr.; daughter Dawn (Patrick) Connell; 7 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and brother-in-law, Jerry Trump.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.
Fiegel, Ronald C. Age 80 of Friendship
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Ronald C. Fiegel, age 80, of Friendship, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 23, 2026.
A celebration of life will be held at the V.F.W. Hall in Adams, WI on Thursday, April 2, 2026, beginning at12:30 p.m. with a service at 1:30 p.m. officiated by Rev. John K. Stake, and military honors to follow.
Ronald was born November 5, 1945, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, to Norm and Ruth (Redlin) Fiegel. Following high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.
He married Susan C. Cookson on September 28, 1984, in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
Ron spent 35 years working at J.I. Case in Racine before his retirement. He and Susan later moved to Adams County in 2001, where they made their home.
Ronald had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and found great joy in fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, four-wheeling, spending time in nature and spending time with his friends and helping in the community.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister-in-law, Susie; and his brother-in-law, Brian.
He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Susan; his children, Billy, Craig, and Kathy (Jack); his siblings, Ruthann, Jim (Sue), Wayne, and Jean (Gary); his grandson, Ronnie.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.
Sullivan, Michael “Mike” Age 99 of New Lisbon
3 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Michel “Mike” Sullivan, cherished husband and father, devoted Christian, and revered community member, completed his earthly journey on March 23, 2026, at the age of 99, surrounded by the love and warmth of his family at his home in New Lisbon, Wisconsin.
Born on March 29th, 1926, in Madison, Wisconsin, Mike grew up with the values of faith, family, and country at the forefront of his life. He attended Madison East High School, where he graduated in 1944. Shortly thereafter, he answered the nation’s call to service as a Seaman First Class in the U.S. Navy, bravely fighting in the South Pacific during World War II on an LST. His valor and commitment to liberty were hallmarks of a generation that sacrificed so much for the freedoms we cherish today.
After the war, Mike returned to Madison and met the love of his life, June Labahn. They were married on March 29, 1947. He soon began a distinguished career with the Madison Fire Department. His dedication to protecting others was evident in his 30-year tenure, retiring as a respected Lieutenant. His sense of camaraderie and leadership within the department left a lasting impact on those who had the honor of serving alongside him.
Mike’s faith in Christ was the cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and interactions with a gentle strength and a compassionate heart. He lived his beliefs through acts of service, not only to his family but to his community as well. As a volunteer and leader in the Boy Scouts of America, he mentored young men on their paths to becoming responsible, God-fearing citizens. He also volunteered at the food pantry in Mauston and was instrumental in securing the building it now occupies.
Family was Mike’s most treasured blessing. He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion through his four children: Denise (David) of Lake Mills, WI, Cindy (Al) of Middleton, WI, and Darryl (Barb) of Poynette, WI, and Clyde of Madison, WI. Mike adored his five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, each a testament to the values and traditions he held dear. He was preceded in death by his parents Phillip and Ella, his wife June and his siblings.
Mike’s life was one of unwavering commitments to the things he held sacred. He walked with God, served his country with honor, fought fires with bravery, and raised a family with unconditional love.
We take comfort in knowing that he has been welcomed into the loving embrace of his Creator, where he rests in eternal peace.
As we gather to celebrate his century-spanning journey, we remember a man whose spirit was as enduring as the values he espoused. Mike’s memory will forever be a guiding light to all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, March 28th, 2026, at 10:30 A.M. at Bethany Lutheran Church (701 Grove St.) in Mauston, WI. Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Saturday at the church from 9:30 A.M. until the time of service. Military Honors will follow the service. Rev. Joan Breazeale presiding. Inurnment will take place at a later date. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com
McClelland, Zella S. Age 71 of Friendship
3 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Zella S. McClelland, age 71, of Friendship, formerly of Baraboo, Wisconsin, passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Villa Pines Living Center in Friendship.
Per Zella’s wishes, no services will be held.
Zella was born on April 7, 1954, in Canton, Ohio, to Floyd and Susie (Brantley) Minor. She was united in marriage to Charles McClelland on October 28, 1972, in Waco, Ohio.
Zella found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She enjoyed thrifting and knitting, and in her younger years, she spent time sewing, playing softball, and bowling. She loved playing poker with friends and family. Above all, she cherished her family, who meant everything to her.
She was employed for ten years at the Circus World Museum in Baraboo, a position she truly loved, before dedicating herself fully to her home and family.
Zella was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Susie.
She is survived by her loving husband, Charles; her children, Kimberly (Dan) Cole, Bradley McClelland, and Melanie Videc; her grandchildren, Teja (James), Andrew, and Courtney (Kyle); her great-grandchildren, Benjamin and Baby Everett; and her siblings, Frances (Leon), Wilma, and Wayne (Darlene). She is further survived by nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences and additional information may be found at www.roseberrys.com.
Bakovka, Lula M. Age 98 of Friendship
3 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Lula M. Bakovka, age 98, of Friendship, Wisconsin, passed away on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at Villa Pines Living Center in Friendship.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Zion Lutheran Church in Big Flats, Wisconsin, with Pastor Peggy Werner officiating. Interment will follow at Niebull Cemetery in the Town of Big Flats, Adams County, Wisconsin. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church.
Lula was born on August 11, 1927, in Friendship, Wisconsin, to John and Ethel (Jones) Buck.
She was united in marriage to John Joseph Bakovka on October 27, 1950, in Friendship. Together, they shared 60 years of marriage filled with partnership and devotion.
Lula found joy in sewing and embroidery, tending to her beautiful peony garden, and working alongside John—he in the garden and she in the kitchen, preserving the harvest through canning. These simple, shared routines were the threads that wove a life rich in care and tradition.
She was a faithful member of Zion Lutheran Church in Big Flats.
Lula was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John, on June 10, 2019.
She is survived by her daughter, Ellen Renee Cashman of Ely, Minnesota; her son, Gregory John (Tammy) Bakovka of Valparaiso, Nebraska; and her grandson, John Gregory Bakovka. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences and additional information may be found at www.roseberrys.com.
Dombroski, Rachel S. Age 76 of Lyndon Station
3 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Rachel S. (Marusin) Dombroski, age 76, Lyndon Station, WI, passed away on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
A Memorial Gathering will be held on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at the Conway-Picha Funeral Home in Lyndon Station from 12:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. with a Committal Service to follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery with Father Cryton offering prayers at the gravesite.
Rachel was born December 12, 1949, in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Michael and Sophie (Gajduk) Marusin. She married Ronald Dombroski, Sr. in Chicago, IL, on November 16, 1968.
Rachel worked multiple simultaneous jobs most of her life, including at K-Mart/Sears for 40+ years and as the utility clerk for the Village of Lyndon Station for 26 years. She loved traveling the world, enjoying the best food, schmaltzy (her words) Hallmark movies, and most of all, taking care of other people, particularly by cooking for them.
Rachel is survived by her sons, Ronald Jr. of Nomadland, OR, James (Becky) of Chicago, IL, Jason (Miaya) of Talent, OR, and Matthew (Erin) of Appleton, WI; brother, Robert (the late Barbara) Marusin of Monee, IL; brother-in-law, David (the late Pam) Dombroski of Tinley Park, IL; her grandchildren (Madelyn; Autumn, Grace, Ennio, Steven, and Sophie; Maverick; and Liam); her beloved cat Maggie; and many, many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Ronald, and two cherished cats named Mittens.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ronald McDonald House Houston at www.rmhhouston.org.
