Mauston, WI
Obituaries
Heitman, Kenneth D. Age 97 of Adams
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Kenneth D. Heitman, age 97, of Adams, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Villa Pines Living Center in Friendship, Wisconsin.
A funeral service to honor and celebrate Kenneth’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 7, 2025, at St. John Lutheran Church in Quincy Township, with Rev. Dean Dummer officiating. Interment will follow at Quincy Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation at the Church on Friday, February 7th, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.
Kenneth was born on January 23, 1928, in Quincy Township, Adams County, Wisconsin, to Charles and Katherine A. (Schroeder) Heitman, the youngest of 14 children. He attended White Creek Elementary and graduated from Adams-Friendship High School before continuing his education at UW-Madison. A dedicated and hardworking man, Kenneth played a role in constructing the Castle Rock and Petenwell Dams and spent his life maintaining a farm in Quincy. However, his true passion was carpentry. His craftsmanship left a lasting impact throughout Dane County and beyond, contributing to numerous residential, commercial, and state projects.
Kenneth found joy in the simple yet meaningful aspects of life—hunting, working in his workshop, and lending a helping hand at church. A devoted member of St. John Lutheran Church and the Wood Carpenters Union, he was a man of faith, integrity, and quiet generosity.
Memorials in Kenneth’s memory may be directed to St. John Lutheran Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Katherine Heitman; his brothers Albert, Adolph, Charles, Alfred, Edward, Ervin “Jim,” and Arnold; and his sisters Esther Freeck, Alvina Mikoda, Ruth Pease, Clara Heitman, Dorothy Wood, and Katherine Barich.
Kenneth leaves behind a cherished legacy and is survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. For online condolences and additional information, please visit www.roseberrys.com.
Wojtowicz, James F. Age 83 of Elroy
5 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
James F. Wojtowicz, age 83, of Elroy, Wisconsin, passed away on Thursday, January 30, 2025 at Gundersen St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hillsboro.
He was born on December 21, 1941 in Mauston, the son of Stanley and Winifred (Mullen) Wojtowicz. He graduated from the Elroy High School.
On February 24, 1962, James was united in marriage to Betty Skailand.
They have lived in the Elroy area, farming until 1976 and then having other various jobs. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing cards. He was a member of the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Elroy and the Knights of Columbus.
Survivors include his wife, Betty; son, Michael (Michelle); daughter-in-law, Lynelle; grandchildren, Travis (Emily), Ashley (Logan), Casey, Arnold, Diana, Matthew and Kristin; and great grandchildren, Weston and John.
He was preceded in death by his Parents; son, Gary; and siblings, Agnes Galle, Robert Wojtowicz, Marie Zingshiem and Margaret Vieth.
A private family funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Elroy, with Father John officiating. Burial will be in the St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery.
The Picha Funeral Home in Elroy is assisting, for online information go to www.pichafuneralhomes.com
Britzman, Phyllis Mae Age 90 of New Lisbon
5 months
by WRJC News
in Obituaries
Phyllis Mae Britzman, 90 of New Lisbon and formerly of Clifton passed away on Monday, January 27, 2025, at Crestview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, New Lisbon.
A Funeral Service will be held on Sunday, February 2, 2025, 2:30 PM at St. John Ev. Lutheran Church, 297 E. South Railroad, Kendall. Pastors Conrad Prell and Zachary Meier will officiate. Burial will be at a later date in Glendale Cemetery.
Relatives and friends are invited for a time of visitation on Sunday at the church from 1:30 PM until the time of the service. Smith-Nelson/Sonnenburg Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be offered by visiting www.sonnenburgfamilyfh.com
McCue, Audrey Ann Age 94 of Grand Marsh
5 months
by WRJC News
in Obituaries
Audrey Ann McCue, age 94, of Grand Marsh, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Roseberry Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin.
Audrey was born on May 2, 1930, in Waukesha, Wisconsin, to Louis and Gladys (Clough) Klicko. She graduated from Waukesha High School and grew up alongside her three younger siblings. During her teenage years, she worked as a companion and housekeeper and later at a local drugstore. On August 7, 1948, Audrey married the love of her life, Kay McCue, a blond-haired, blue-eyed sailor. Shortly after their wedding, they moved to Maryland while Kay was stationed with the Navy. After his discharge, they returned to Wisconsin to build their life together.
Between 1950 and 1961, Audrey and Kay welcomed five children. They made their home in Kenosha before moving to North Tonawanda, New York, in 1971 for Kay’s job. In 1976, they settled in Grand Marsh, where Audrey remained for the rest of her life.
Audrey held various jobs throughout her lifetime, including positions at Jockey Menswear in Kenosha, Grants Department Store in North Tonawanda, and Potato World in Grand Marsh.
She found great joy in time spent with her grandchildren, who cherished summers at “Bumpa and Grams”—whether at home in Grand Marsh or at the family cottage in Winneconne. Together, they created memories of pontoon rides, fishing, swimming, and celebrating the Fourth of July.
Audrey had a deep love for her community and devoted many years to volunteering. She was active in S.H.A.R.E., Relay for Life, the Adams County Fair, and, most dear to her heart, the Exceptional Citizens of Adams County. She worked tirelessly to prepare meals, purchase gifts, and organize festivities for their annual Christmas party. She also stood alongside her husband in service to the Easton-White Creek Lions Club, helping with their annual Chic-Nic since its inception in 1988. In 2015, the Lions honored Audrey with the Citizen of the Year Award—a testament to her unwavering dedication. Many times, her children and grandchildren proudly volunteered by her side.
Audrey was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Gladys Klicko; her siblings, Yvonne, Gordon (Helen) Klicko, Douglas (Georgie) Klicko, and Dennis (Koz and Gloria) Klicko; her beloved husband, Kay McCue; her son, Rolondo “Randy” McCue; and daughter-in-law, Doris “Dee Dee” McCue.
She is lovingly remembered by her sister-in-law, JoAnn Thorsen; her children, Annette McCue, Keith McCue, RickeyLee (Brenda) McCue, and Kevin (Barb) McCue; her grandchildren, Heather Shaw-Theisen, Josh (Sarah) McCue, Randi (McCue) Berwick, Cody (Alex) McCue, Amanda (Corey) Johnson, and Rickey Lee McCue; and her bonus grandchildren, Shandi (Mike) Taylor, Kalani (Jade) Cheung, Tim Hatcher, and David Clark. Audrey’s love and legacy also live on through her great-grandchildren, great-great-granddaughter, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many cherished friends.
Audrey’s kindness, generosity, and love for her family will never be forgotten. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Ruet, Susan Jean Age 77 of Necedah
5 months
by WRJC News
in Obituaries
Susan Jean Ruet, age 77, of Necedah, WI, passed away at her home on Monday, January 27, 2025.
Memorial Services will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Necedah. Family and friends are invited for visitation on Friday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home. The Torkelson Funeral Home of Necedah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
Barribeau, Gordon J. “Tush” Age 84 of Adams
6 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Gordon J. Barribeau, lovingly known as “Tush,” passed away peacefully at his home in Adams, Wisconsin, on Sunday, December 22.
Born in Hermansville, MI on October 29, 1940, he was the son of the late Harvey and Irene (Ayotte) Barribeau. He was also preceded in death by his three brothers, Ronald, Lloyd, and Gary.
Gordon was a dedicated worker in the construction trades, specializing in cold storage buildings which he retired from in 2000. Upon retirement, relocated from St. Francis, WI to their part-time home in Adams, WI, where many years were enjoyed living amongst nature of Sand County. Gordon worked seasonal jobs at Chula Vista and Wagner & Alsum Farms as a truck driver harvesting potatoes for the past eight years.
Gordon was proud of his achievements playing the position of guard for his high school basketball team, winning the 1957 district championship and U.P. class E championship. A lover of nature, enthusiast of his scooter, tractors, ATV, and especially Peterbilt potato truck. He enjoyed the camaraderie of coworkers and easily made all those around him laugh. He was a member of United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America Local UBC 344 and a member of St. Joseph Parish in Friendship, WI.
Gordon is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Maria; his son Mitchell Barribeau (Lisa); his daughter MarnieAnn Polkky (John); and six cherished grandchildren: Joe, Jenah, Riley, Makenzie, CamrynLee, and Conner, brothers Harlan (Marian) and Roland (Laurel), brother-in-law, Bob Bembenek, Sr. and many loved nieces and nephews, and beloved companion dog, Fannie.
A memorial Mass and celebration of life will be held at a later date in Hermansville, MI.
The family is being assisted by Roseberry’s Funeral Home. Online condolences and further details can be found at roseberrys.com
Bilek, Barabara A. Age 70 formerly of Mauston
6 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Barbara A. Bilek, 70 formerly of Mauston passed away Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at Wellington Place in Wisconsin Rapids.
Barbara was born on September 14, 1954 in Hillsboro, Wisconsin, the daughter of Martin J. and Betty Bilek.
At the age of three she lost her vision due to a surgical error which left her blind. In spite of all the trials that she endured, Barbara still enjoyed being with her family and friends. She also loved traveling, visiting Hawaii, Graceland, Nashville, Branson, Lambeau Field to watch her beloved Green Bay Packers on more than one occasion. She even had the opportunity to dip her toes into the Atlantic Ocean on her travels.
Barbara is survived by her siblings Gary Bilek of Norfolk, VA, Carol (Dennis) Schrank of Reedsburg, Steven Bilek of Loganville, Anthony “Tony” (Virginia) Bilek of LaFarge, her nieces and nephews Rhonda (Keith) Kelly, Thomas (Teresa) Davis, Stephen (Andi) Bilek, Aaron (Anna) Bilek, Jason (Melissa) Bilek, Jeremy Bilek, Jennifer Bilek, Kayla Bilek,and Britta Deaton (Stephen McNelly), many great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews. She is also survived by many close cousins.
In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by one brother David (Bugsy)Bilek.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, December 28, 2024,at St. Theresa Catholic Church, Union Center where friends may call from 10:00 a.m. until time of service.
Burial will be at St. Theresa Catholic Cemetery.
Her family is finding comfort in the fact that even though she spent her life in the dark she’s now able to see the Light.
Sedevic, Richard John Age 67 of Arkdale
6 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Richard John Sedevic, age 67, of Arkdale, Wisconsin passed away Friday, December 20, 2024 at Marshfield Medical Center Weston, Wisconsin.
A Celebration of Life Gathering will be 12 Noon to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at the Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin.
Richard was born May 16, 1957 in Chicago, Illinois to Frank and Margaret (Vanoskey) Sedevic Sr. He grew up in Chicago and worked for the City of Chicago for 18 years before moving to Adams County in 1993. Richard worked as a security guard for Best Power and Rainbow Casino until his retirement.
Richard married Jan 25, 1978 to Suzanne Sliwa in Chicago, IL. This marriage was blessed with six children before ending in divorce after 26 years. Richard enjoyed working on and rebuilding cars, motorcycle rides, and working on remodeling projects.
Richard was preceded in death by parents: Frank and Margaret; brother, Frank Jr.; and in-law, Frank and Susan Sliwa; his dog, “baby” Nicky.
Survivors include his former wife, his children, 2 brothers, and two sisters. Further survived by many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.
Klentz, Donna L. Age 84 of Necedah
6 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
Donna L. Klentz, age 84, of Necedah, WI, passed away on Thursday, December 19, 2024 at Meriter Hospital in Madison surrounded by her children and their spouses. She was born on December 10, 1940 in Mauston, WI to Elmond and Rose (Tatzel) Wright. She married Harold Klentz on November 21, 1998 in Mauston.
A true family woman, Donna cherished the holidays, with Christmas holding a special place in her heart. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the scent of freshly-baked cookies during the festive season. Her happy-go-lucky attitude brought light to everyday moments, making them memorable.
Donna’s generosity knew no bounds. She gave selflessly, always putting others before herself. Her love extended to all creatures great and small, as she had an unwavering affection for animals.
She is survived by her children, Jeff (Mary) Ritchart of Necedah, Greylan Ritchart of Necedah, Robyne (Kevin) Freber of Juneau, WI and step-daughter, Kim (Dale) Deibert of Burnett, WI; grandchildren, Greg Ritchart, Jamie Ritchart, and Josh Ritchart, Kyrsten and Gavin Smith, Beth Ritchart, Jeff Ritchart, Amber Kittleson, Mason and Jenna Deibert; great grandchildren, Kegan, Kendra, and Kiera Kittleson, Benjamin Eastman, and Braxton Smith; along with her brother, Charles Wright of Mauston; and her loyal companion and cat, Neptune.
Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Elmond and Rose; husband Harold L. Klentz; a sister, Sharon Downing; and her special Chihuahua, Cricket.
A Memorial Service for Donna will be held on Monday, December 30, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Necedah. Family and friends are invited for visitation from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home on Monday. A private burial will be held in the Mauston Cemetery.
The Torkelson Funeral Home of Necedah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com
Van Dusen, Robert William Age 62 of Mauston
7 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Obituaries
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert William Van Dusen on December 15, 2024, at the age of 62. Robert was born on May 1, 1962, and leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories.
Robert was a proud 1980 graduate of Mauston Area High School. An avid outdoorsman, he spent countless hours enjoying one of his greatest passions: deer hunting. He took great pride in his hunting success, carefully crafting custom mounts of the antlers from every buck he got. Robert was also a lifelong Green Bay Packers fan, cheering for his team through thick and thin. He expressed his creativity through building and flying RC model airplanes, a hobby he greatly enjoyed.
Robert lived much of his life on the family homestead on Johnson Road in Mauston, a place that always held a special meaning for him. He enjoyed the years he spent working alongside three of his brothers at Ultra Tool and Manufacturing in Milwaukee. Even though he worked in Milwaukee during the week, his heart always led him back home to Mauston every weekend.
In 1989, Robert faced a life-altering motorcycle accident. With resilience and determination, he recovered and went on to lead a life that made him happy, comfortable, and fulfilled. His strength and positive outlook inspired those around him. Over the years, many people lent their support to Robert as he navigated life after the accident, and his family would like to extend heartfelt appreciation to everyone who helped him along the way.
Robert was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Orville and Yva (Onsager) Van Dusen, as well as his brothers, James Van Dusen and John Van Dusen (Juana). Though he is deeply missed, his memory lives on in the hearts of his surviving siblings: Ann (Van Dusen) Harkness, Ronald Van Dusen (Betty), Roberta (Van Dusen) Endres (Rick), Dean Van Dusen (Edie), and his twin brother, Richard Van Dusen (Lisa). He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Robert will be remembered as a devoted family member, a source of steadfast support for those he loved, and someone who cherished the simple joys of life. His kind heart and gentle spirit touched all who knew him.
A Memorial Gathering will be held Saturday, December 21, 2024 from 3:00 pm until 6:00 pm at the Crandall Funeral Home, Mauston.
