Mauston, WI
Obituaries
Kurzydlo, Elaine S. Age 76 of Mauston
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Elaine S. Kurzydlo, age 76, of Mauston, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at her home on May 31, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Elaine was born on April 27, 1949, in Glasgow, Scotland, the daughter of Robert and Violet (Ferguson) Henderson. From the moment she entered this world, Elaine had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and loved. She was a constant source of joy, warmth, and kindness, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Whether as a devoted volunteer for Girl Scouts, 4-H, National Ski Patrol, or a loving member of her community, she touched countless lives with her generous spirit. She also enjoyed her time working at WWTC and teaching first aid and CPR to the community.
Elaine touched many lives with her warmth, kindness, and compassion. She had a deep love for family. She cherished every moment spent with her loved ones, creating a home full of laughter, support, and unwavering love. Family gatherings, holidays, and spontaneous get-togethers were always filled with her infectious smile and kind heart.
Her love for animals was equally profound. Whether it was caring for her beloved pets or supporting animal charities, she always demonstrated a profound respect for all creatures. She believed in the simple joy that animals bring to life and shared that love with everyone she met.
Elaine is survived by her devoted husband, Dennis; her daughters, Carla Nolden (Eric Greve) and Ami (Zac) Board; five beloved grandchildren, Kayla (Greg), Adam, Alexis (Caleb), Maddie, and Gracie; and one cherished great-grandchild, Hudson. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Robert, and her sister-in-law Marcy. She loved her family deeply and took great joy in being a grandmother and great-grandmother.
True to her spirit, Elaine wished for her life to be celebrated, not mourned. A brief memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at the Conway-Picha Funeral Home in Lyndon Station, WI. Chaplain Shane Haynes will offer words of remembrance and a blessing at 3:30 p.m. Following the service, family and friends are invited to a celebration of life gathering at Zac and Ami’s home: (N4763 22nd Ave, Mauston.)
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Elaine’s honor to two causes close to her heart: Carl W. Nelson Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 345, Mauston, WI 53948 or Friends and Family Cancer Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 8, Mauston, WI 53948.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to all who supported Elaine and continue to honor her memory.
Long, Jerry P. Age 84 of Westfield
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Jerry P. Long, age 84, of Westfield, Wisconsin, passed away on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Moundview Memorial Hospital & Clinics in Friendship, Wisconsin.
A celebration of life will be held from 11am to 3pm on June 14 2025 at the American Legion Post 244, 452 N Main Street, Westfield, WI 53964.
Jerry was born on March 20, 1941, in Westfield to John F. and Judith Long. He was raised in Westfield and graduated from Westfield High School in 1959. He began his career with Pioneer Power and Light Company before being drafted into the U.S. Army, where he earned the rank of Corporal. Upon his return to Wisconsin he worked at Badger Army Ammunition Plant before becoming a Wisconsin State Trooper. On September 9, 1967, Jerry married Deloris Schley in Wautoma, Wisconsin. Jerry’s law enforcement career included working in Dane County before serving in Adams County for many years. He retired in 1987 following an on-duty injury.
Jerry had a deep love for the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and cheering on the Milwaukee Brewers. He especially cherished watching his grandchildren play sports. He also served as President of the Village of Friendship and Little League Coach for the Champion Cub teams of the early 1980’s.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John F. and Judith Long; his beloved wife, Deloris; and his brother, Jimmy.
Jerry is survived by his son, Shaun (Kathy) Long; and two grandsons, Jimmy and Jake. He is further survived by extended family and many friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Jerry’s memory may be donated to his family.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences and additional information can be found at www.roseberrys.com.
Jackson, Debra K. Age 63 of New Lisbon
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Debra K. Jackson, age 63, of New Lisbon, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2025, at Casa de Oakes in Reedsburg, WI. She was the daughter of Arthur Sr. and Virginia (Babcock) Slater and was born on April 30, 1962, in Chicago, IL.
She graduated from New Lisbon High School in 1980 and pursued further education in Richland Center, which laid the foundation for her lifelong dedication to helping others. Debra’s career was marked by her compassionate service as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Pleasant Acres in New Lisbon, where she touched the lives of many with her gentle care. She also provided home healthcare for several years, bringing comfort and support to families during their most challenging times. Debra later worked for Kwik Trip as the Deli Manager for 15 years. Her work was not just a job but a way to connect with her community and spread joy every day. She married the love of her life David Jackson on October 20, 1984 at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church in Camp Douglas.
Debra’s love for the outdoors was evident in her passion for camping and boating. These activities brought her closer to nature and provided cherished moments with her family, which she valued above all else.
Family was the cornerstone of Debra’s world. She is survived by her loving children, Nichole Jackson of Tomah, Joshua Jackson of Necedah, and Benjamin (Danielle) Jackson of Mauston. Her brothers, Arthur (Dori) Slater Jr. of Gilman, Timothy (Cindy) Slater of Tomah, and her sister-in-law, Dolly (Tom Meoska) Jackson of Wonewoc, will hold her memory dear in their hearts. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she poured her love into every moment spent with Mikayla (Fiancé Lance Houzner), Austin, Cole, Skyla, Kayden, Cameren, Kerenden, Ava, Alayna, and her great-grandchild, Delilah. Debra was preceded in death by her parents Arthur Sr. and Virginia, her sister Ellen Rose Slater, and her beloved husband, David, who passed away in 2024.
As we bid farewell to Debra K. Jackson, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a heart generously shared. Her spirit will forever be a guiding light to her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her. Debra’s journey on earth has ended, but her story of love and kindness will continue to inspire us all for generations to come.
A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, May 31st, 2025 from 12:00p.m. until 3:00p.m at the Wonewoc American Legion Hall (108 Center St). The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com
Johns, Bonnie Maureen Age 75 of Tomah
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Bonnie Maureen Johns, 75, of Tomah, died peacefully on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at the Serenity Hospice House in Tomah. On March 3, 1949, Bonnie was born to Martin and Laura (Sutton) Johns in Phillips, Wisconsin. She was a member of the Tomah High School’s graduating class of 1967. After graduation Bonnie lived in Madison, Racine, Michigan where she worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and Chicago before settling back in Tomah. She ran the Greyhound Bus Station in Tomah for a time also. She loved going for rides, visiting with family and friends, until health declined.
Bonnie is survived by her Brother, Ronald Johns and wife Diane, Sister, Cheryl Hernandez and husband Ron, Sister, Monica and husband Marvin Groothuis, Brother, Randie Johns and wife Pam, Sister-in-law, Avon Neupert; Nieces and Nephews, Norma and Bill Schmudlach, Stacy Johns and Liana Lewis; Rhonda and Don Killgo, Rocky and Sandy Johns, Patrick and Khristina Boyle, Zachary Boyle, Asha and Ryan Olson, Rob Meyer, Josie Wilson, Julie Lalor, Amy and Bruce Hofstetter, Vaughn and Melissa Groothuis, Jenny and Robbie Ledford, Jon and Rebecca Groothuis; Jeremy Johns, Jamie and Brian Hyer, Jared Johns and fiancé Kelly Lupton. She is further survived by her Great Nieces and Nephews, Bryor and fiancé Heather, Jasmine and Jerry, Zelda, Juliette, Cass, Justin, Hanna, Ross, Lynsey and Andrew, Bailey, Madison, Korayma, Emma, Kellee, Asha, Bethany, Michael, John, Amire, Zach, Tyler, Blake, Riley, Delaney, Ambur Lynn, Zachary, Kai, Judah, Danielle and James, Mackenzie and Dilan, Abigail, Dillyn, Katie and James, Brittany and fiancé Chandler, Gracie, Christopher and fiancé Anna, Cori, Jada, Jacob, Adler, Jordyn, Carl John (CJ), Brailyn, and Zaiden; Great-Great Nieces and Nephews, Isla, RJ, Judy, Amelia, Charlotte, and Javon; Aunts, Sandy Feryance, JoAnn Sutton, and Ruth Sutton; Special friends, Barb Minor, Bonnie Hogan, and Vicki Janusheske; Neighbors, who were the best and did so much for her, Mike and Geri Hodur, and James Sherman; and her beloved Fur-Baby, Sadie.
Bonnie was preceded in death by husband, Ray DeHate; parents, Martin and Laura Johns; brother, Robert Johns; nephew, Scott Johns; nieces, Sandra Kay and Nannette Johns; great-nephews, Carson and Shelton; and her fur babies Bucky, Ruby, Holly, Bonbon.
The family would like to extend a very special thank you to the staff at Serenity House, in Tomah, for being Bonnie’s final blessing.
A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, June 1st, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. at Bible Ev. Free Church, 625 W. Veterans Street, Tomah. Family and friends are invited for a time of visitation from 1:00 P.M. until the time of the service. Online condolences may be given at www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com. Sonnenburg Family Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Reeves, Sandra June Age 71 of New Lisbon
6 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Sandra June Reeves, age 71, of New Lisbon, WI passed away at home in the early morning hours of Sunday, May 18th, 2025. Born in Milwaukee, WI on April 13th, 1954, she was known for her incredible drive, embracing and overcoming life’s challenges, and her ability to make fun and crazy memories.
Sandi was a devoted and much loved mother, sister, grandma, great-grandma, and aunt. She leaves behind a legacy of great love that will be forever remembered.
After retiring from Seneca Foods in Baraboo,WI, Sandi dedicated herself to making lasting memories with her family.
Sandi was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Gloria (Bruyette) Reeves; a sister, Linda (Reeves) Kirkpatrick; 2 brothers, Marvin Reeves and Bruce Reeves; a loving step mother Grace (Perillo) Reeves.
She is survived by 3 siblings, Kenneth Reeves, Dale Reeves, Phyllis Mickelson; 2 very loved sister-in-laws Kathy Reeves, Donna Reeves; 4 children, Tanya (Elmer III) Anderson, Shane (Amy) Talty, Chris Talty, Tiffany (Aaron) Talty; 14 grandchildren, Tiara, Cynthia, Christopher, Nicholas, Katrina, Andrew, Aurora, Jade, James, Ayden, Thomas, Zachary, Graede, Annabelle; 7 great-grandchildren Nanette, Natalie, Jaxson, Hunter, Michael, Tanner, Riley. She is also loved and remembered by numerous nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held at the Bible Baptist Church, 148 Grayside Ave, Mauston, WI 53948 on Saturday, June 14th, 2025 beginning at 9:00 a.m. until the time of the Memorial Service at 10:30 a.m. Following the service, guests are invited to stay for food, refreshments, and a Confetti Salute in celebration of Sandi’s life.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences.
Schnolis, Frank Stanley Age 80 of Adams
6 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Frank Stanley Schnolis, Jr. Frank Stanley Schnolis, Jr., age 80, of Adams, WI passed away December 3, 2024, at the Tomah VA Medical Center in Tomah, Wisconsin.
A Celebration of Life Gathering will be from 12 Noon until 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at the Easton-White Creek Lions Park. Military honors will be presented 12 Noon on Saturday, May 31st by the Ryan Larson American Legion Post.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Pollex, Charles August Age 81 of Quincy Township
6 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Charles August Pollex, age 81, of Quincy Township, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, May 15, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Services include a visitation on Friday May 23rd, from 4-7 p.m. at Roseberry’s Funeral Home. Saturday May 24th, at St. John’s Lutheran Church Quincy 10am-11am visitation. 11a.m. church service. Internment will be at a later date.
Charles was born on September 26, 1943, in Quincy Township, Wisconsin, to Walter and Katherine (Heitman) Pollex. He was raised on the family farm and graduated from White Creek School, Castle Rock School and Adams-Friendship High School in 1961. He went on to attend the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he earned his undergraduate and law degrees. While completing law school, Charles also taught in Mount Horeb. He graduated from UW Law School in 1968.
On April 8, 1967, Charles married Sharon Lee Boerner in Adams, Wisconsin. After beginning his career teaching Business Law and Math in Reedsburg, he returned to Adams County and was elected District Attorney, a role he served in for three terms. In 1976, he formed a law partnership with Don Hollman, practicing for 25 years. Charles also served as Corporation Counsel, Family Court Commissioner in 1991, City Attorney for the City of Adams for many years, and as Town Attorney for several area Townships. In 2003, Charles was elected as a judge in Adams County, where he served two terms with distinction before retiring in 2015.
Deeply devoted to his community, Charles served on the Adams County Memorial Hospital Board. He coached Little League baseball and Bantam basketball, and remained active in local sports, playing baseball into his 50s for teams including Easton and the AF Angels.
A lifelong member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Charles served in many leadership roles, including as President and Elder, and occasionally led services in the pastor’s absence. His faith, integrity, and service to family and others were hallmarks of his life.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Katherine; his son, Eric; and his brother, Fred.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Sharon Pollex of Wisconsin Dells, WI; daughter, Danielle Rabl of Portage, WI; sons: Walter Pollex of Adams, WI and Mark (Jessica) Pollex of Pewaukee, WI; grandchildren: Dalton Pollex, Grace (Arlen) Pollex Rabl Castro, Hadley Pollex, Harper Pollex, and Hayden Pollex; sisters: Anita Schnolis of Adams, WI, and Dolores (Jon) Roseberry of Friendship, WI; He is further survived by many other cherished relatives and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Charles’s honor to St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2823 County Rd Z, Adams, WI 53910.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences and additional information are available at www.roseberrys.com.
Cernicka, Sandra L. Age 74 of Necedah
6 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Sandra L. Cernicka, age 74, of Necedah, WI, passed away on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025, 11:00 a.m. at the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Necedah. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Family and friends are invited for visitation from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church on Friday. The Torkelson Funeral Home in Necedah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com
Gnirk, Greg Age 63 of Hillsboro
6 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Greg Gnirk, age 63, of Hillsboro, passed away on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at his home, following a courageous battle with cancer. The wake will take place at Picha Funeral Home, Hillsboro, on Thursday, May 22, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a Knights of Columbus rosary at 7:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, Hillsboro, on Friday, May 23 at 3 p.m. Interment will be in St Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery, Mt Tabor.
Gregory Gerhardt Gnirk was born on August 15, 1961, in Green Bay. He was adopted by Gerhardt “Pete” and Evelyn Gnirk of rural Elroy on May 26, 1964. He grew up on the family farm, graduating from Royall High School in 1979. He attended Milton College for two years, majoring in Criminal Justice. On June 27, 1981, he married his high school sweetheart, Brenda Brey, of Hillsboro, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Elroy. They were blessed with three children.
Greg entered the United States Army on May 3, 1985, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant before his Honorable Discharge on September 23, 1994. He served as a Military Policeman, Traffic Accident Investigator and Desk Sergeant while being assigned to Ft. Riley, Kansas, Defense Nuclear Agency Johnston Atoll, Hawaii and Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia. He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal twice, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal three times and a Joint Services Award, the last of which very few service members ever receive.
After military service, Greg co-owned a logging company and eventually began a lawn care/landscaping company, which he operated with his oldest son. He was also a part-time Rural Postal Carrier for Elroy for many years, becoming a full-time Rural Postal Carrier for New Lisbon in 2010.
He was a member of St Aloysius Parish and the St Christopher Knights of Columbus.
Greg is survived by his wife of 43 years, Brenda; two sons Walter, of Hillsboro; and Mathew (Amanda), of Muskego; one daughter, Angela (Brandon), of Appleton; seven grandchildren, Sophia, MacKenzie, Lucas, Fiona, Liliana, Aria and Aiden; one brother, Darin (Jennifer), of LaValle; one sister, Lynn Kranz, of Elroy; one aunt, Judi Halbmaier, of Washburn, Iowa; several cousins, nieces, nephews and a multitude of friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Evelyn Gnirk; his father-in-law, Roger Brey; aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
The Picha Funeral Home in Hillsboro is assisting, for online information go to www.pichafuneralhomes.com
Cowan, Geneive, “Genny” Lorene Age 88 of Mauston
6 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Geneieve “Genny” Lorene Cowan, age 88 of Mauston, Wisconsin, died on Wednesday,
May 14, 2025, at Serenity House in Tomah. Geneieve was born to Edward A. Krueger and Hazel L. (Boyce) Krueger on January 19, 1937, in Hillsboro, Wisconsin.
Geneieve was united in marriage to William Cowan on September 8, 1956, in Mauston, Wisconsin. After they married, Bill and Genny spent a year living in Illinois before moving back to Mauston. Genny was a hard worker and loved working with people. Through the
years, she worked at Jean‘s Café in downtown Mauston, Rusty’s Red Dot Bar, and at the Alaskan Supper Club. She came to her retirement from Mile Bluff Medical Center in the kitchen and linen departments. Bill and Genny spent several years bowling in couples’ leagues at the
Mauston Bowling Alley. They took pride in and spent hours in their yard and flower gardens. Even after moving into an apartment later in life, Genny had the best-looking front step in the neighborhood. Over the years, Genny valued her time with loved ones and good friends.
She filled her time spending endless hours playing cards with her friends, casino bus trips, and watching her grandkids play sports. There is no place else she would rather be than in the stands at her grandkids’ sporting events.
Genny was predeceased by her husband, William Cowan, parents, Edward A. Krueger and Hazel L. (Boyce) Krueger, siblings, Betty Krueger, Helen Krear, Ralph Krueger, Harold Krueger, Paul Krueger, and Eddie Krueger. Genny is survived by her children William John (Joan) Cowan of Eau Claire, Cindy Lorene (Jason) Jerome of West Salem, and Gary Allen (Nancy) Cowan of New Lisbon, her grandchildren, Scott Pellegrin, Stacie Cowan, Andrew Cowan, Brandon (Kaytlyn) Beilke, Ciana (Karl) Kroner, Kinsey Smith, Jacob (Jessica) Smith, Chance (Thom) Smith, Mallory Cowan, and Garrison Cowan, her great-grandchildren, River Pellegrin, Makenzie Caldwell, Tori Cowan, Khloe Cowan, Xena Cowan, Ruby Smith, Blair Smith,
William Kroner, Addie Kroner, Russell Kroner, Edynn Beilke, Karrick Beilke, and Kreighton Beilke, along with many nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, May 21st, 2025, at 11:30 A.M. at the New Lisbon Community Center (110 Welch Prairie Rd) in New Lisbon. Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Wednesday at the Community Center from 10:00 AM until the time of service. Rev. Lucy Hardie presiding. Lunch will be served following the memorial service. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com
