In Loving Memory of Alvin F. Abegglen

Family and friends mourn the loss of Alvin Abegglen, of Stetsonville, age 90, who peacefully passed away at home on Sunday, May 21, 2023, while under the loving care of his daughter and son in-law, International Quality Home Care, VA/ Home Based Primary Care, St. Croix Hospice, and Nicolet Staffing for the past 4 months.  Alvin was a devoted father, husband, and grandfather whose warm heart touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Service of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday May 27, 2023 at Zion Lutheran Church in Stetsonville with Pastor Richard Russow officiating.  Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetry ll in Medford WI. 

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until time of service at  11:00 a.m.  Pallbearers are Kayla and Doug Albrecht, Joshua and Nicole Brown, Jacob and Jennifer Brown, Danial Brown and Katie Gjelhaug. 

Born on July 26, 1932, in Deer Creek, Alvin was the son of the late Alfred and Lydia Abegglen. He attended Pleasant Valley School and graduated from Medford High School. From an early age, he developed a deep connection with the land, fostering a passion for farming that would define his life. Alvin embraced the challenges and rewards of agricultural life, embodying the true spirit of a farmer. He owned and operated a Registered Holstein Dairy Farm with his brother Donald from 1957 until retirement in 1990.

Alvin served his country from Oct. 6, 1953  until Sept. 24, 1955 with honor and valor during the Post Korean War.  He bravely answered the call of duty, displaying remarkable courage and selflessness in the face of adversity with his  service in the U.S. Army for protecting the freedoms we hold dear. His details included quartermaster field equipment repairman, and parts clerk.  Metal honors received in the National Defense Service, United Nations and a Korean Service Ribbon.

Alvin's dedication to his work was matched only by his commitment to his family. On May 14 1960 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Colby he married his beloved wife, Genevieve Apfelbeck, who preceded him in death on Jan. 7, 2022.  Alvin and Genevieve were blessed with three children—Dawn (Paul) Klingbeil, Diane (James) Brown, and Debra Abegglen (deceased). Grandfather of Kayla (Doug) Albrecht, Joshua (Nicole) Brown, Jacob (Jennifer) Brown, Daniel Brown and  Katie Gjelhaug.  Great Grandfather of Iaasc Albrecht, Sylas Brown and third Great Grandchild on the way. 

Alvin was a proud member of the American Legion, where he found camaraderie among fellow veterans. He recognized the importance of honoring and remembering the sacrifices made by those who served. He served military honors at funerals and Memorial Day celebrations. He was a member of the Registered Holstein Association and hosted a Twilight meeting at the dairy farm. 

Faith was also a significant aspect of Alvin's life. He was a devout member of Zion Lutheran Evangelical Church, finding solace and strength in his spiritual beliefs. Alvin actively participated in church activities, supporting his fellow congregants and contributing to the growth and well-being of the church community. He served the church council, cemetery committe and ushering duties.

He enjoyed woodworking,welding, planting trees, his wetlands, John Deere tractor and in later years driving his Bob Cat. He also enjoyed family, friends and his good buddy John Pfaff.

Alvin is survived by daughters: grandchildren: great grandchildren: sister Janet (Jim) Steinbruecker: Sister in-law Ivadene Abegglen. He was preceded in death by parent’s Albert and Lydia Abegglen: and siblings Adeline (Lester) Schoenike, Gordon Abegglen, Donald (Mildred) Abegglen, brother in-law Marvin Schrader and nephew’s Gary Schoenike and Gregory Abegglen.

The family of Alvin would like to express sincere gratitude to the staff of St. Croix Hospice and VA Home Base Primary Care.  Special Thanks to Karen Staples, Frankie the dog, Sue Olson, John Pfaff, David and Therese, Kelsy, Kristy, Nova the dog, Kreklau, John Oliver, Kathy Trimner, and Rebecca Hein.  

Hemer-Pickerign Funeral Home of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family.  Online condolences can be left at www.hemer funeralservices.com.

David P. Armbrust, 86, of Medford, died Sunday, May 21, 2023.

A memorial mass will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, May 26 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Medford with Fr. Patrick McConnell officiating.  Military honors given by the Medford Area Military Honors Team will immediately follow the service at the church.  Burial will be at Holy Rosary Catholic Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. Friday at the church.

David was born October 6, 1936 in Medford to William and Agnes (Strachota) Armbrust.  He graduated from Medford High School in 1955. 

Following high school, David enlisted in the U.S. Navy serving from January, 1955 until his honorable discharge in December, 1958.

While on military leave, David met JoAnn Faude.  The two were united in marriage on June 10, 1961 and together had three children. 

David worked as a butcher at his family’s meat company, Armbrust Meats for 30 years.  He then went to work for Weather Shield until his retirement.  He also was a fireman for the Medford Fire Department for 23 years.

He was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. Due to JoAnn’s influence as a county music singer and guitarist, he also grew to enjoy listening to county music. 

He is survived by his wife, JoAnn of Medford; children, Judy (Dave) Westermeier of Tomahawk, Peter Armbrust of Stetsonville, Debra Armbrust of Scottsdale, AZ; six grandchildren, Amanda and Mathew Raster, Megan (Bryan) Gusman, Adam Westermeier, Camren (Kylee) Armbrust, Gabrielle Halopka; seven great-grandchildren, Bryan Jr., Chandler and Denzel Gusman, Madeleine and Wyatt Raster, Emmett and Myles Armbrust; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers, and one sister.

Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice.com.

Scott H. Ogle, 64 of Perkinstown, passed away at his home on Friday, May 19, 2023 from natural causes surrounded by his family.

He was born on September 16, 1958 in Milwaukee to Gerald and Elloise (Mengel) Ogle. Scott’s family moved to the Perkinstown area when he was young and he graduated from Gilman High in 1976. Scott married Cheryl Eckstrom on December 1, 1979 in Sheldon.

Scott worked for OK Towers for a year before starting in road construction for Payne and Dolan for 38 years. He enjoyed hunting, wood working, making maple syrup, spending time with his family, fishing, skiing, and helping neighbors.

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Sherry, his mother, Elloise Zach of Perkinstown, his children, Ben (Alicia) Ogle of Stanley, Samantha McConnell of Black River Falls and Sara Ogle of Medford, five grandchildren, Alida, Hunter, Collin, Lydia and Evelyn and three brothers, Jeff of Medford, Paul (Pam) of Withee and Roger (Cheryl) of Medford.

He is further survived by his brothers and sisters in law and many nieces and nephews. Scott is preceded in death by his father, Gerald, his grandparents and godparents.

A funeral service will be held at 1PM on Saturday May 27, 2023 at the Gilman Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Perkinstown Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11AM until time of service.

Christine Marie Eldred, 77 of Westboro, passed away on Sunday, May 21, 2023 with her family by her side.

She was born on June 12, 1945 to the late George and Marcella (Jackels) Mielke. Christine grew up in the Appleton area and graduated from St. Mary’s Catholic High in Menasha. She married Allen Eldred on June 20, 1964 in Sherwood, WI.

Christine worked in administration for St. Elizabeth’s Hospital and Monte Alverno Retreat Center for many years. The couple moved to the rural Jump River area in retirement. She enjoyed being up north in the woods and to see the wild animals in the yard and the many birds who came to visit. Christine also enjoyed her flower beds around the yard; she had a green thumb that worked well for her over the years.

She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Allen, her son, Tim (DeAnn) Eldred of Sherwood and her daughter, Tammy (Mike) Eldred of Kaukauna, 3 grandchildren, Amanda (Wes) Pompa, Tyler (Hayley) Eldred and Carissa Goero, her siblings, Ruth Ann Gorski, Shirley Majeski, Mary Lou Nushart, Marge Hartman, Janice (Jim) Lamers, Pat (Al) Lisowe and Don Mielke, in laws, Anita (Bob) Carney, Janice (Ray) Carney, Bob (Pauline) Eldred, Jeanne Stuber, Sharon Eldred, Donny (Paul) Eldred and Dave (Sue) Eldred and many nieces and nephews.

Christine is preceded in death by her parents and sister, Georgie Spietz.

A memorial mass will be held at 2PM on Thursday, May 25, 2023 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church-Jump River with Father Vijay Kumar Madani officiating. Visitation will take place at the reception following mass. Plombon Funeral Service assisted the family with arrangements. 

June Ann Doubek, 87, of Rib Lake, died Friday, May 19, 2023 at Rib Lake Health Services and while under the care of Hope Hospice.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, May 25 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Rib Lake with Rev. Daniel Iwinski officiating.  Burial will follow at Lakeview Cemetery in Rib Lake.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. Thursday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated and may go to St. John’s Lutheran Church.

June was born June 1, 1935 in Milwaukee to Jerry and Marie (Krushat) Doubek.  She grew up in Rib Lake and graduated from Rib Lake High School in 1953.  Following high school, she moved to Chicago where she worked at Illinois Bell Company.  Starting as a secretary, she worked her way up in the company, retiring at age 50 as a supervisor. 

After her retirement, June moved back to Rib Lake, where she was an active member of St. John’s Lutheran Church; she worked as a sub secretary for the village of Rib Lake; and was involved with the American Legion.  She enjoyed bowling and won many trophies over the years, flower gardening, and traveling.  She was always “on the go” and had many travel buddies…often times leaving without knowing the destination but always loved the adventure!

She is survived by two sisters-in-law, EmyLou Doubek of Stone Lake and Julia Doubek of West Dundee, IL. June was known as the “cool aunt” and is furthered survived by her nieces and nephews:  Bill (Fayola) Doubek, Dennis (Mary) Doubek, all of MN, Jerry (Deb) Doubek, Gary Doubek, all of WI, Merrie (Brad) Becker, Terri Doubek (Barry), all of MN, Kathy (Scott) Stimpfl of PA, Barb (Dan) Wood, John (Kelli) Doubek, all of IL; and many great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded by her parents and three brothers, Marvin, Jerome and Bob Doubek.

Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice.com.

Florence Ann Carlisle, 80, of Medford, Wisconsin passed away peacefully on May 15, 2023 with her family by her side. Florence is the daughter of Floyd and Florence (Touchton) Carlisle, and was born on November 4th, 1942 in Elsmere, Delaware.

As a child the family moved to Elkton, Maryland.. As a young adult she married, had her children and relocated to Chicago, Illinois. There she worked various jobs and ran her own business.

In 1978, she moved to Gilman, WI, and worked on the family farm. For a short time she returned to her home state of Maryland and then returned to Wisconsin to be nearer to her children and grandchildren.

She returned to work, working as a kitchen aid at various Medford Schools. She retired  in 2022. She was a hard working woman, an active member of the American Legion Post, Rising Sun, Maryland, VFW Medford Wisconsin, Lioness Club Gilman Wisconsin, and Classy Ladies Bowling League, Medford Wisconsin.

Florence is survived by her four children,  Buck (Jan) Charles, Fall Creek WI, Rhonda (James) Lis Thorp, WI, Midge (Roy) Wisniewski Medford WI and Daniel (Sarah Palmer) Santoro of Jackson, MI.

Her children blessed her with her grandchildren, Christopher Charles, Brittany (Josh) van Gorkom, Robyn Charles, Brandolyn Charles, Kelly (Zmuda) Reeves, Kristina Zmuda, Samantha (Bill) Lis, Sally Lis, Jamie (Matt) Lis, Nicole (Terry) Viegut, Corey(Trisha) Lis, Dane (Heather) Wisniewski, Blake Wisniewski, and Angela Tierney.  In addition, she has 35 great grandchildren.

She is further survived by her sisters, Wanda Jackson, Joan (Al) Clemente, and Floydette (Ted) Reburn and brother in-law Ralph Sprout.

Florence is preceded in death by her grandchildren, Blake Wisniewski, Angela Tierney, her parents Floyd and Florence Carlisle, her younger sister, Linda Sprout and brother in law Richard Jackson.

A memorial service for Florence will take place at 4:00 PM on Sunday, May 21, 2023 at Hemer-Pickerign Funeral Home, Medford, with Pastor Josh van Gorkom officiating. Visitation will take place at Hemer-Pickerign Funeral Home from 1:00 PM until the time of service at 4:00 PM.  Memorial meal to follow services at Roy and Midge Wisniewski residence, N4788 Cara Ln, Medford WI

Rose M. Themar, 91, of Medford passed away on Monday, May 8, 2023 at her home, surrounded by family, under the care of Hope Hospice.

A memorial mass for Rose will take place at 11:30 AM on Thursday, May 18, 2023 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, with Father Patrick McConnell officiating. Burial will follow at Holy Rosary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will take place at Holy Rosary Catholic Church on Thursday, May 18, 2023 from 10:30 AM until the time of service at 11:30 AM.

Rose was born on November 14, 1931 to Charles and Rose (Deml) Hoffman in Cudahy, WI. The family moved to Medford when Rose was 14 and she attended Medford High School. She married Peter Themar on July 7, 1951 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church and they were married for nearly 70 years; he preceded her in death in 2021. Together they raised their children and operated a mink ranch and sheep farm. They also hosted a prolife garage sale for many years, until it outgrew their property and were involved in many church activities. They also enjoyed traveling together.

Rose loved celebrating and hosting birthdays and holidays, especially Christmas Eve. She also loved getting together for family outings and picnics. She was also an avid gardener and enjoyed growing flowers and vegetables.

Rose is survived by her children, Therese (Jack) Freudenthal, Carol Jahsman, Marilyn (Larry) Matyka, all of Medford; grandchildren, Jim (Jenny) Freudenthal, Laura (Mitch) Peters, Jerry Freudenthal, Joe (Katie) Freudenthal, Jeremiah (Marie) Jahsman, Jennifer (Taka) Kuvaoga, and Matthew and Sarah Matyka; step-grandson, Jason Jahsman; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Rose was preceded in death by her parents, husband; daughter, Yvonne Themar; siblings, Dolores Goerg, Charles Hoffman, and George Hoffman.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Rose’s name may be given to either Holy Rosary School or Abiding Care.

Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice.com.

William Michael Zirngibl (Bill), 65, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, January 23, 2023. He was surrounded by loved ones.

Bill was born on March 28, 1957 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was the third of five children of Ray and Carol (Kreger) Zirngibl. Bill loved spending time at his grandpa’s farm in Medford raising chickens, including his favorite, Gertrude. He went on to graduate from Saint Frances de Sales Seminary and later University of Wisconsin. Bill’s love for donuts started early when he was a baker at Mr. Donut. Shortly into his tenure as a baker, he met Susanne Barranco, and they married on March 17th, 1979. They went on to welcome four daughters Jean (John) Baker, Therese (Mike) Constable, Gwen Zirngibl (Thomas O’Neil), Michelle (Jason) Taylor, in addition to Sue’s two daughters Laura (John) Emanuelson and Lynn Mautner.

After moving to Michigan, Bill spent over 25 years working in the Detroit Public Schools. From a biology teacher to Planetarium Director at the Detroit Children’s Museum, he spent his years passing his love of animals and science onto anyone who would listen. It was in Michigan where he also got his master’s degree from Wayne State University. In 2001, Bill married Dena (Becker) and welcomed another daughter, Ashley (Dan) Raveau into the family.

There are no words to describe Bill’s eclectic nature and how much he did in his life. He was an amazing man of many traits. These included building the first family home in Superior, Wisconsin and restoring his grandpa’s tractor. He was always tinkering with something and also spent his days outside, hunting with his siblings, fishing, or camping. He set up a maple syrup operation at his farm in Medford, Wisconsin where the family loved spending weekends tapping trees and laughing around the evaporator. He had a love for the sky, teaching about the stars and later obtaining his pilot’s license to fly on his own. After learning to fly, he taught himself to sail, and eventually sailed solo across Lake Michigan and later down the Mississippi. During a two-year span, he hiked over 2000 miles of the Appalachian Trail from Georgia, making it into Connecticut before a motorcycle injury and Lyme disease moved him to his next adventures. A cross-country trip to Alaska van camping for 8 weeks, 3 weeks traveling across Russia and China on a Trans-Siberian train adventure, and a German countryside road trip were just a few of the experiences he loved to reflect on.

Those who most enjoyed hearing about Bill’s adventures were his beloved grandchildren. The favorites, most of which were almost always true, were about bears, deer hunting, fishing, and how nature works. These stories were told over a glass of fruit punch or hot chocolate (with unlimited refills) and many other sugar-filled treats (much to their parents’ chagrin).

Bill was always a phone call away to answer questions pertaining to a broken AC, flooded basement, car that wouldn’t start, and was there when you needed his support. We will miss our husband, dad, grandpa, brother, son, and friend more than words can express. Bill was preceded in death by his father Ray, wife Sue and brother David.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, May 20 at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in the town of Little Black, Medford, Wisconsin.  Following the committal service, please join the family for a luncheon reception & a toast to Bill at High View Inn, W7766 Perkinstown Ave, Medford.

Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice.com.

Richard C. “Dick” Yanke Jr., 71, of Ogema, died Friday, May 5, 2023 at his home surrounded by his family and while under the care of Compassus Hospice.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, May 20, at Ogema Baptist Church.  Military honors will follow the service at the church.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. Saturday at the church.

Dick was born January 14, 1952 in Michigan to Richard Sr. and Joyce (Middleton) Yanke.  Because Sr. was in the military, the family resided in many states during Jr.’s childhood.

He served honorably in the U.S. Navy during Vietnam where he earned several medals as a combat veteran.

Dick earned a degree in Electrical Engineering and worked as a Master Electrician for most of his life.

On May 26, 2006, Dick married Sue Bergeron.  They had a lot in common and enjoyed fishing, hunting, and “rendezvousing” which brings pre-1840’s history to life. They traveled all over Wisconsin and Michigan doing demonstrations and giving history lessons at various festivals.

He is survived by his wife, Sue of Ogema; “adopted son” Jimmy (Jennifer) Counts and his children, Rebecca, Katie and Dustin; several siblings; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his stepmother; a sister; and a brother.

Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice.com.

Kelly Sue Wussow, age 53, of Edgar, passed away on Monday, May 8, 2023.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 13, 2023 at the Hope Lutheran Church in Edgar. Family and friends are welcome from 11:00 a.m. until time of service on Saturday and from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. the night prior, Friday, May 12, 2023 at the church.

Kelly was born on July 7, 1969, the daughter of Dennis and Doris (Stafford) Seefeld in Marshfield. She graduated from Colby High School in 1987. On August 29, 1987, Kelly was united in marriage to the love of her life, Troy Wussow, at the High Steeple Church in Edgar.

Kelly kept busy and enjoyed helping wherever she could. She worked at AbbyBank and Mid-Wisconsin Bank. She farmed in the town of Frankfort with her husband and also had an in-home daycare. She worked in the floral department at County Market for a number of years. She was the Clerk for the Township of Frankfort and worked as a valuable member of the Pac Knife Sales Team, serving as an Office Manager.

Kelly’s favorite “career” was being a wife, mom, and grandma. Her family will miss her loyalty and feisty spirit, and her grandchildren will miss their “finally Fridays” with Grama. Kelly was the most genuine, loving, selfless person who was a friend to all and will be missed by so many. She truly was one-of-a-kind. Her family is sure she is enjoying her “blue smoothie” with her dad in heaven.

Kelly is survived by her husband of 35 years, Troy; children: Jennifer K. (Mitch Becker) Wussow of Colby, Derek T. (Kelsey) Wussow of Spencer, Jonathon D. (Rachel) Wussow of Stratford, and Katelynn D. (Hjalmer Johnson) Wussow of Colby; grandchildren: Abram Derfus, Denver Wussow, River Wussow, Paisley Wussow, Skyler Wussow, Hattie Wussow, Demi Becker, and Daxon Becker. She is further survived by her mother, Doris Seefeld; brother, Rick (Debbie) Hardrath of Abbotsford; and sister, Robin (Larry) Hederer of Curtiss.

She is preceded in death by her dad, Dennis Seefeld, and her brother, Randy Hardrath.

Family and friends may express condolences online at www.maurinaschilling.com.

Joan D. (Holmes) Gerke, 83, passed away peacefully into the arms of her Savior Jesus Christ at her daughter’s home in Chelsea, WI at 2:30 PM on April 30, 2023, under the wonderful, loving, tender care of Hope Hospice.

A memorial service will take place at 11:30 AM on Saturday, May 13, 2023 at The Baliwick in Medford. Visitation will take place at the Baliwick on Saturday, May 13, 2023 from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 11:30 AM. A private burial will take place at Perkinstown Community Cemetery at a later date.

Joan was born on September 11, 1939 to Clyde and Bernice Holmes in Perkinstown. Joan married Steve Kalmon on June 6, 1959. They divorced in June 1980. They had 8 children. Joan married Glen Gerke on August 18, 1982. He preceded her in death in August 2015.

Joan’s greatest day was accepting Jesus Christ as her personal savior 30+ years ago. The second was bringing 8 children into this world and loving and raising them to her last breath. Joan worked for Tombstone Pizza for many years. Joan worked for a time at Tomahawk Nursing Home, while her mother-in-law resided there.

Joan enjoyed gardening and canning her bounty. All of her children inherited her love of cooking. She loved feeding and watching birds and all kinds of wild life. Joan was a one shot mama with a rifle.

Joan is survived by her children, Steve (Deana) Kalmon of Marshfield, Charles Kalmon of Bruce, Melanie (Mark) Olson of Chelsea, Clayton Kalmon of St. Paul, MN, Jackie Kalmon of Jacksonville, FL, John (Trudy Brooks) Kalmon of Jump River, Calvin (Kristine) Kalmon of Perkinstown, and Marilyn Frank of Medford, step-daughter Teri (Ray) Pender of Kettle River, MN; 22 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 21 great-great-grandchildren. Joan in further survived by her siblings, Shirley Poyda, Gary Holmes, Clyde Holmes Jr., sister-in-law, Arlene Zimpel-Bablick, many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Glen, siblings, Harvey Holmes, Kenny Holmes, and infant brother, William Holmes, nephew Tom Holmes, and mother and father-in-law George and Clara Gerke.

Should God lay it on your heart, all memorials can be made to Hope Hospice, 537 W Broadway Ave. Medford, WI 54451

Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice.com.