Helen D. Haizel, age 97, passed away on Wednesday, May 27, 2020 at her residence under the care of Hope Hospice and Palliative Care and surrounded by her loving family.

Cremation rites have been accorded and a private family only burial will take place at a later date.

Helen was born on September 10, 1922 to the late Frank and Theresa Marie (Olsen) Hierlmeier in Wisconsin. She attended Larson School. On May 21, 1942, Helen was united in marriage to Rudolph Haizel in Reno, Nevada. He preceded her in death on June 29, 2009. They eventually settled down in the Town of Holway, ran a dairy farm, and raised their children.

In her free time, Helen enjoyed farming, gardening, holding babies, spending time with her family, cards, specifically solitaire, cooking, and baking, both of which she was doing up until her final days.

Helen is survived by her children – Linda (Gary) Tomaszewski of Fairbanks, AK,  Vince (Bev) Haizel of West Bend, Joanne (Larry) Gowey of Lindsey, Bev (Rick) Duesing of Medford, Jim (De) Haizel and Roger (Lori) Haizel, both of Withee; 16 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; 14 great-great-grandchildren; nephew: Gordy (Mary Ann) Dietzler; along with many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Helen was preceded in death by her son, Ray, on November 3, 1977, and her brother Lindy Hierlmeier.

Pearl V. Sackmann, 96, of Medford passed away on Saturday, May 30, 2020 at Our House Senior Living.

Pearl was born to Emil and Julia (Janko) Lekies on January 30, 1924 at the home in the town of Browning. She attended Cloverdale School in the town of Browning until 8th grade. Pearl married Vincent Sackmann on June 10, 1942 in Medford; he preceded her in death on July, 11 2013.

Pearl worked in Columbia, South Carolina at Robinson Laundry sorting the clean, pressed clothes for customers. She also worked at Krege Dime Store as a clerk in Columbia. She worked at Gem Shoe Factory in Rib Lake for one and a half years. She worked alongside Vince on the mink ranch in Rib Lake from 1955 until 1986. She was also on the election board in Rib Lake for 12 years. She lived in Rib Lake for 32 years until she moved to Stetsonville in 1987.

In her spare time Pearl enjoyed embroidery, crocheting, fishing, playing card games, especially “Aggravation”, gardening, and making firewood with Vince.

Pearl is survived by her children, Sandra (Gene) Rizzi of Rib Lake, Sherryl (Edward) Scheller of Tomahawk, Randall (Linda) Sackmann of Westboro, and Lori (David Winter) Sackmann of Snohomish, Wash.; 9 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; sister, Mable Brehm. Pearl is further survived by many other family and friends.

In addition to her parents and husband, Pearl is preceded in death by her brothers, Walter Lekies and Roy Lekies.

Per Pearl’s request, cremation rites have been accorded and no services will be held.

Robert W. Krueger, 87, of Medford, passed away on Friday, May 29, 2020 at Deerview Meadows, surrounded by family, under the care of Hope Hospice.

Robert was born to Christian Sr. and Elsie (Sachse) Krueger on August 11, 1932 in the Township of Hammel. He married Shirley Schaefer in 1953; they were later divorced.

Robert worked as a logger for many years and then worked at Weather Shield until his retirement. In his spare time he enjoyed woodworking, fishing, watching Brewer games, reading, and doing crossword puzzles.

Robert is survived by his children, Joe Krueger of Medford, Sue (Phil) Tom of Westboro, Lori Krueger, and Kenneth Krueger of Medford; grandchildren, Heather (Logan) Dums, Stacy Rudolph, and Joseph Verdone; great-grandchildren, Rose and Violet Dums; brother, John (Geneva) Krueger of Medford. Robert is further survived by many other family and friends.

In addition to his parents, Robert is preceded in death by his brothers, Christian Jr. and Keith Krueger.

A public visitation will be held at Hemer Funeral Home – Medford Chapel on Friday, June 5, 2020 from 9:00 AM until – 11:00 AM followed by a private family service with Pastor David Clements officiating. Burial will take place at Medford Evergreen Cemetery II.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Robert’s name may be given to the family for use at a later date.

Eugene J. Prien, age 91, of Colby, passed away surrounded by his loving family at the Colonial Center in Colby on Friday, May 29, 2020 under the tender care of Hope Hospice.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:15 p.m. on Sunday, May 31, 20 at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Riplinger with Military Honors provided by the Colby VFW Post #2227. Rev. Mark Neumann will officiate. Family and friends are welcome on Sunday from 12:00 until 12:45 p.m. at the Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford.

Eugene was born on June 20, 1928, the son of Joseph and Ella (Thielke) Prien in Marshfield. He graduated from Colby High School. Gene was united in marriage to Darlene Molle on April 20, 1949 at Saint John’s Lutheran Church in Riplinger. She preceded him in death on August 11, 2019.

Gene served in the U. S. Army during the Korean War. After his service, he worked as an auto mechanic before buying the Gambles Hardward Store in Colby. Gene was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Colby where he sang in the choir. He also enjoyed playing the saxophone, snowmobiling and working on old cars.

Gene is survived by his daughter, Peggy (Daniel) Kraschnewski of Medford, three grandsons; Ryan (Robin) Kraschnewski of Medford, Lucas (Rebecca) Kraschnewski of Green Bay and Jeffery (Kimberly) Kraschnewski of Medford, great-grandchildren; Ryder, Restyn, Rylan, Shaelyn and Daxton, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Darlene; a brother, Milton and a sister, Arlene Radtke.

The family requests memorials to Zion Lutheran Church or Colby VFW Post #2227.

Dorothy Dora Schug, 105, formerly of Athens, put on her angel wings and returned to her heavenly Father in the early morning hours of Tuesday, May 19, 2020 at Abbotsford Healthcare Center, Abbotsford, WI.

Dorothy was born July 19, 1914, in Bern Township, 9th child of the late Sebastian Sr. and Margaret (Gilles) Weiler. On September 6, 1933 she married George Werner Schug at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Athens, WI. They celebrated 66 years together, prior to George’s passing on October 7, 1999.

Dorothy was a dedicated farmwife and devoted mother. She loved to milk cows, raise chickens, and unload hay bales; always setting an example of the value of hard work for her family. Together, George and Dorothy farmed for nearly 40 years. Dorothy loved to garden, always sharing the bounty with family, friends, and neighbors. She was always ready for an intense game of Sheepshead, a spirited game of Trouble with the grandkids, or just guessing answers while watching game shows on television. She stayed healthy with her daily glass of wine. Her cooking and baking skills were evident in the best potato salad, banana bread, and Red Devil’s Food cake in the world.

Her Catholic faith was very important to her, as well as teaching her family the same. She attended mass and honored our Blessed Mother by praying her rosary (which was always within reach), morning and night, for as long as she could.  

Dorothy loved to party. Of course, reaching 105 years of age, many of those parties were for her. She thrived on all of the love and attention that her ever growing family lavished on her, not to mention the cake and cupcakes to satisfy her sweet tooth. She was the life of the party! She had a wonderful and warm sense of humor.

Dorothy leaves behind a legacy: 7 daughters; Marcella Whaples, Caroline Beran, Dorothy (Lawrence) Gajewski, Sherry (James) Literski and Pearl (Lyle) Guralski, all of Athens; Joan (Clements) Hargraves of Stratford, Patricia (Norbert) Boesl of Brookfield and 3 sons; George (Jean) Schug, Robert (Joanne) Schug, Sr. and Delmer (Charlotte) Schug, and daughter-in-law, Joline Schug, all of Athens; and 52 grandchildren, Claude (Sue) Kreft, Glen (Florence) Kreft, Gary (Sharon) Kreft, Frank (Cindy) Beran, Norman (Sharon) Beran, Michael (Cindy) Beran, Cary (Linda) Beran, Robin (Debra) Beran, Gerald (Kathy) Hargraves, Rhonda (Vern) VanDerLeest, Kimberly (Brian) Baasch, Perry Boesl, Linda (Duane) Literski, Brian (Kimberly) Boesl, Brenda Boesl, Tracy (Samuel) Giordano, Troy (Jill) Boesl, Terry Schug, Timothy (Barb) Schug, Todd (Karen) Schug, Kristi Schug, Jodi Kraft, Jeffrey Gajewski, Dale (Lori) Gajewski, Wayne (Annette) Gajewski, Debbie Gajewski, Gary (Michele) Gajewski, Sandy Neubauer, Robert Schug Jr., Julie (James) Drinka, Lisa (Peter) Kroening, Paul Schug, Scott Schug, Kenneth (JaNae) Schug, Jennifer (Cory) Mauer, Jessica Sommer, Roy (Carrie) Schug, Karen (Tim) Miller, Dawn (John) Clausnitzer, Lori Schug, Connie (Natt) Zuleger,  William (Jenna) Schug, Tina (Mark) Scott, James (Sheila) Schug, Heather (John) Peters, Ginger (Richard) Urmanski, Marsha (Craig) Groshek, Jill (Matthew) Dahlke, Amy (Jeffrey) Maxwell, Rossell Literski, Valeri (Shannon) Wenzel, and Katy (Kevin) Yessa, 127 great grandchildren, 16 step great grandchildren, 81 great, great grandchildren, and 28 step great, great grandchildren. Also surviving are her brother, William Weiler, Abbotsford; sister Mary Bina, Viroqua, sister-in-law Delores Weiler of Wausau and many nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, George; son, Delbert and son-in-laws, Howard Whaples and Frank Beran. Grandchildren Duwayne Gajewski, Cindy Schug and granddaughter-in-law, Tonya Schug; great grandchildren, Marissa and Tabitha Gajewski; step great grandson, Coltyn Emmerich; step great, great grandson, Dylan Woller and great grandson-in-law Sal Sinha also preceded her in death.  Further preceding her in death were sisters, Anne, Helen (Rudy) Schreiner, Christine, Margaret, Rose (Melvin) Gilbertson, Theresa (Donald) Kreft and brothers Sebastian Jr., Sebastian Buddy Jr. (Anna), Charles (Sophie), Nicholas (Helen), Henry (Rachel) and Clarence.

Due to COVID- 19 restrictions, a private Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday June 19, 2020 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Athens, at 11:00 AM with Reverend George Graham officiating. Mass will be live streamed on Facebook, or for later viewing at www.petersonkraemer.com. Interment will follow in St. John Cemetery, Wuertzburg.  Public visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 PM Thursday June 18, 2020 at St. Anthony’s Church. CDC guidelines must be followed.

Online condolences may be shared at www.petersonkraemer.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church Window Campaign or to St. Anthony’s Catholic School.

Our family wishes to extend our sincere appreciation to all who made Dorothy happy with their love, their visits, their cards, letters and gifts, and all of their tender care through all the stages of Mother’s long and beautiful life. Mother was a gift to us all! We were so blessed to have her for so long. What a life well-lived! As she said in her last days on this earth, she loved us all, and that we could visit anytime. Always warm, always welcoming!  

Patricia M. Schultz, 79, of Medford, passed away on Wednesday, May 27, 2020 at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau.

Patricia was born in Thorp on September 16, 1940 to Edward and Gertrude (Lee) Schultz. She attended Gilman area elementary schools and graduated from Gilman High School in 1958. She then went to Taylor County Teacher’s College and then on to UW-Steven Point to earn her Bachelor’s Degree.

Patricia taught elementary education for 35 years. She started in Rusk County, before working for the Mosinee School District for 28 years until her retirement in 1995.

In her spare time, she enjoyed gardening, volunteer work, various outdoor activities, and she was an avid Packer fan. She volunteered for the Little Store in Medford. She was a member of NER, WEA, and Taylor County Historical Society.

Patricia is survived by her sister, Margaret (Harold) Helgerson of Cornell. She is further survived by nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

In addition to her parents, Patricia is preceded in death by her brother, James Schultz and good friend, Susan Meager.

Per Patricia’s request, cremation rites have been accorded and no services will be held.

Tammy Jo Karaba, age 59, of Owen, passed away on Monday, May 25, 2020 at Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire.

Family and friends are welcome at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2020 followed by a Time of Celebration and sharing of memories for Tammy Jo at 11:00 a.m. all at Riverside Cemetery in Withee.

Tammy was born on March 4, 1961, the daughter of Joseph and Shirley (Smith) Karaba. She graduated from Owen-Withee High School in 1979. Tammy worked as a mail carrier for many years until a few years ago she fulfilled her lifelong passion of animals and started her own business: “Barks & Meow Boutique”.

Tammy loved animals and had many including horses, St. Bernards, and birds just to name a few. Most importantly, she cherished her family.

Tammy is survived by her son, Jay Jay (Korina) Colliver of Holcombe; two grandchildren: Jaxon and Brielle; three brothers: Rod (Pat) Karaba, Randy (Kris) Karaba and Robbie (Marie) Karaba; five sisters: Joan (Mitch) Karaba-Zegers, Jana (Mark) Fortuna, Peggy (Al) Goerlitz, Sharon (Lenny) Bauers and Bonnie (Larry) Rassmussen. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Shirley and a sister, Donna Karaba.

Shirley A. Arnold, 84, Rib Lake, died on Friday, May 22 at her residence in the Town of Rib Lake under the loving care of her family and Aspirus Comfort Care Hospice.

Private family only services will be held for Shirley in the future at their residence in the Town of Rib Lake with Father Hrudaya Raju Sunkara officiating. There will be no public services.

Shirley was born on October 10, 1935 at Waukesha, WI, the daughter of Erwin E. & Hattie M. (Gastrow) Miller. She received her education in Menomonee Falls, WI schools. Her marriage took place on November 3, 1956 at St. James Catholic Church, Lannon, WI to Edward H. Arnold and he survives.

Prior to her marriage, she clerked at her family grocery store in Lannon, WI. After their marriage, they farmed in the Germantown and Slinger areas before moving to the Town of Rib Lake in 1994 where they farmed until retirement. She enjoyed gardening, cooking, watching the stock market, trips to the casino, watching the G. B. Packers and Milwaukee Brewers. She was a member of Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Rib Lake.

Surviving are her husband of Rib Lake, children, Jeffrey (Michele) Arnold of Athens & Jeanne (Otto) Tiegs of Bryant, WI, grandchildren, Bryan Arnold, Brenda (Travis) Punke, Kim Galarowicz, Karen (Nate) Hintz, Eric (Kim) Tiegs, along with 7 great grandchildren. Also surviving is a sister, Joan (Ken) Zahnow of Menomonee Falls, WI. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Donald Miller.

Leo J. Jauernig, age 73, of Medford passed away on Monday, May 18, 2020 at his residence surrounded by his loving family.

Leo was born on March 7, 1947 in Medford to the late Julius and Mildred (Kautman) Jauernig. He attended Medford Area Schools, after high school, Leo served in the National Guard for a number of years. On August 23, 1969 Leo was united in marriage to Blanche Dietze at Zion Lutheran Church, Stetsonville. Together, they raised two daughters. Family was very important to Leo. He was very proud of his children and grandchildren, and enjoyed spending time with them. Leo worked various jobs, most recently as a custodian at Medford High School, a job in which he took great pride in.

In his free time, Leo enjoyed fishing, gardening, bird feeding, hunting, and attending family events, especially those of his grandchildren. He was an active member of Zion Lutheran Church in Stetsonville as well as caretaker of the church and church grounds.

Left to cherish in his loving memory is his wife, Blanche; daughters – Stacy (Tony) Ungerer and Nikki (Phil) Meyer; grandchildren – Teah, Brinley, Jaedin, Hailey, McKinley, Cole, and Tenley; siblings – Donna Faude and Dorothy “Jo” Synol; and mother-in-law Velma Dietze; Leo is further survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Leo was preceded in death by his parents; Julius and Mildred and his father-in-law Roland Dietze.

A private family only Memorial Service will take place at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church on Friday, May 22, 2020 at 11:00 AM. Public visitation will be at the church from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM. Honorary Pallbearers will be Norm Miller, Mark Miller, Tim Miller, Dale Miller, Corey Nazer, and Gary Budimlija.

Mark E. Metz, 74, of Medford, died on Monday, May 18 at his residence in the Town of Medford under the loving care of his family, special friend and Hope Hospice.

There will be a public “celebration of life” open house at the Metz Hunting Shack, at the N/W intersection of Gibson Drive and Pine Avenue (N1633 Gibson Drive) in the Town of Little Black. This will run from 12 noon until 4 PM on Saturday, May 30 with food and beverages provided.

Mark was born on June 23, 1945 in the Town of Little Black, the son of Charles I. and Beulah D. (White) Metz. He went to elementary school in the Town of Little Black and was a 1963 graduate of Medford High School. On February 8, 1969 he married Sharon Swenson at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Medford and they were later divorced.

After his education, Mark entered the US Army and was a veteran of the Vietnam War. After the service, he worked as a bartender at Tombstone Tap in Medford and later became one of the first route salesmen for Tombstone Pizza. Then he worked road construction for James Peterson & Sons and drove concrete truck for Peterson Concrete until retirement. In retirement, he worked part time for Jensen & Son Asphalt. Mark enjoyed golf, softball, hunting, fishing, bowling, basketball, socializing, spending time with his family and friends. He was a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Medford, Medford VFW Club & the Stetsonville American Legion Club.

Surviving Mark are his special friend, Delores “Dee” Habeck of Medford, daughters, Sarah (Matthew) Brown of Park Falls, Shelly (Keith) Purdy of Medford & Jaime Johnson of Medford. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Rory, Trista & Tucker Brown, Jace (Jessica) & Jared Purdy, Hailey & Riley Johnson and a great grandson, Aaron Purdy. Also his siblings, Mona (Kayo) Pope of Stetsonville, Jim (Bev) Metz of Medford, Paul Metz of Medford, Dan “Boone” (Jeneane) Metz of Stetsonville and Steve (Kate) Metz of Medford. His bonus family, Lynn (Keith) Becken and family & Jeannie (Mike) Pardo and family. His sisters-in-law, Linda and Deb Metz, both of Medford, along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a grandson, Brandon Johnson, siblings, Charles “Chuck” Metz and Phillip “Fuzz” Metz.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be given to the family for a future designation. Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com.

Thomas F. Kopp, age 71, of Owen, died on Friday, May 15, 2020 at Marshfield Medical Center.

A Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2020 at Norwegian Lutheran Cemetery on Willow Road in Curtiss. Family and friends are welcome from 10:00 a.m. until time of service Saturday at the cemetery. Rev. Ken Schmidt will officiate. Military Honors provided by the Colby VFW Post #2227 and the Thorp American Legion Post #118.

Tom was born on April 19, 1949, the son of Harry and Rosie (Buss) Kopp on the family farm in Curtiss. He graduated from Owen-Withee High School in 1967. Tom was drafted into the U.S. Army and served in Viet Nam from 1969-71. He worked for J & L Construction in Chicago until moving back to Wisconsin in 1979. Tom worked as a meter reader and locator for Xcel Energy until his retirement in 2007.

On March 30, 1996, Tom was united in marriage to Doris Singer. He was known for his love of hunting, fishing and the outdoors. Tom also enjoyed canning and making sausage. He especially loved visiting with family and friends, family celebrations and the coffee gatherings every day at his kitchen table.

Tom is survived by his wife, Doris; five children: Paul (Cindy) Kopp of Owen, Michelle (Tim) Mueller of Milan, Milissa (Hector) Gonzalez of Wausau, Melissa (Al) Siikarla of Athens and Tom (Martha) Hoffmann of Curtiss; 16 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He is further survived by three siblings: Connie (Duke) Ludwig, John (Chris) Kopp and Suzie (Tim) Schmitt; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Barbara Davis; two sons: Leonard “Weasel” Hoefferle, Jr. and Matthew Hoefferle.

Daniel Charles McCluskey, age 89, of Rib Lake, WI, formerly of Rochelle, IL, died unexpectedly on May 8, 2020. Dan was born on February 20, 1931 on the same property in Rib Lake, WI, that he returned to in his retirement. Dan was united in marriage to Joan G. Roiger on June 25, 1953 at St. Ann's Church in the Township of Greenwood, she preceded him in death in 2015. In addition to his wife Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Agatha McCluskey.

  Dan will be lovingly remembered by his children; Daniel (Pam) McCluskey Jr. of Sturgeon Bay, Dennis McCluskey of Medford, WI, Jeffrey (Cindy) McCluskey of Rochelle, IL, Susan (Edward) Worley of Chana, IL, and JoAnn (Danny) Martinez of Schaumburg, IL; grandchildren: Matthew McCluskey, Katie (Dustin) Long, Tawnee McCluskey, Denny (Tiffany) McCluskey, David McCluskey, Niki (Chris) Bonnell, Kristi McCluskey, Shaine McCluskey, Danielle Worley, Michael (Kristen) Worley, Benjamin (Lauren) Worley, Gabrielle Martinez, Stephanie Martinez, Danny Martinez, Jr.; eight great-grandchildren; his beloved brother Keith McCluskey; as well as several brother-in-law’s and sister-in-law’s who were all a special part of his life.

  Dan graduated from Rib Lake High School in 1948 and served proudly in the United States Navy from 1948 to 1952 with the Patrol Squadron Thirty-Four, USNAS Norfolk, VA. He started his career with Standard Oil as a truck driver in Chicago, IL. He went on to serve as the Amoco Oil Terminal Manager in Rochelle, IL and Madison, WI where he worked until his retirement in 1991.  Dan was a loving husband and father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was an avid fisherman and hunter and loved being outdoors. His greatest joy was spending time with his five children and their families. With the tip of his hat you knew he had a story to tell and it didn’t matter if he was passing along the history and knowledge of his heritage, entertaining his grandchildren, or simply trying to distract his family from day to day worries, he had a story. His memory will live on through the telling of those stories for generations to come, he will be deeply missed.

  Due to COVID-19 restrictions only immediate family will be able to say goodbye in person, but many family and friends will mourn his loss.

  A private service and burial will be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Whittlesey on May 15, 2020. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
 

  Hemer Funeral Homes of Medford and Rib Lake assisted the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to his family to be designated at a later date in Dan’s name.
 

  For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com.

James “Jim” A. Prell, 85 of Medford, died on Saturday, May 9 at Aspirus Medford Hospital, where he had been a patient for the past 1 day.

A private family only graveside service will be held at Our Saviours Lutheran Cemetery, township of Holway with Pastor Amy Heinz officiating. Grandchildren will be serving as pallbearers. A celebration of life gathering will take place and announced at some time in the future.

Jim was born on May 28, 1934 at Medford, the son of Arthur T. and Erma L. (Moore) Prell. He attended Immanuel Lutheran Day School, Medford and was a 1952 graduate of Medford High School. His marriage took place on August 29, 1953 at Curtiss to Charlotte N. Krug and she preceded him in death on September 28, 1991.

After his education, he farmed in the township of Little Black for many years. While farming, he also drove milk truck, owned his own milk route, worked at Post Mfg. in Owen and at Foremost Foods in Medford for periods of time. He also drove school and coach bus for the Krug family for many years until retirement. He was a member of Our Saviours Lutheran Church, township of Holway.

He is survived by a special friend, Virgen Thiel of Medford, children, Frederick Prell of Eau Claire, Linda (Leo “Cliff”) Dyer of Stetsonville, Janet (Jerry) Cypher of Medford, Mary (Steve) Henrichs of Medford, sons-in-law, Michael Bertsinger of Stetsonville and Mark (Tammy) Lammar of Wausau. Also survived by 22 grandchildren, 45 great grandchildren, and sisters, Marilyn Krueger of Green Bay and Nancy Nelson of Medford. Surviving in-laws include – Gene (Gloria) Krug of Medford, Patty Prell of Bullhead City, AZ, Juanita Krug of Owen, Marian (Ken) Nernberger of Medford, Judy Nowak of Medford and Lavonne (Bernie) Dums of Holway.

Jim was preceded in death by his children, Judith Bertsinger in 2004 & JoEllen Lammar in 1997, along with his siblings, Dorothy Bach, Jerry Prell and Carol Krug.

Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com.

Lavern F. Richert, 96, of Medford, passed away on Monday, May 4, 2020 at his home, surrounded by family, under the care of Hope Hospice.

Lavern was born on May 17, 1923 to Henry and Ida (Thies) Richert in Illinois. He married Betty Schultz on March 13, 1943 in Elgin, IL; she preceded him in death on April 24, 2014.

Lavern was a dairy and chicken farmer in Crystal Lake, IL and in the Township of Molitor. He also worked at a foundry in Crystal Lake. He was a janitor in the school system of Crystal Lake. He returned to Medford and was a janitor at the Centennial Hall Apartment Complex until his retirement.

Lavern was a member of Community United Church of Christ, in his spare time he joyed listening to Polka Music and playing cards and bingo at the senior center, where he was known as “Sparky”.

Lavern is survived by his daughter, Judy (Roy) Acker of Medford; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife and parents, Lavern is preceded in death by two daughters, Joan Richert in infancy and Bonnie Fleming; a son Marvin Richert; a granddaughter, Paula Feaster; a great-grandson, Jacob Potocnik; and siblings, Evelyn, Norma, Harvey, and Gladys.

Cremation rites have been accorded and no services will be held.

Hemer Funeral Home of Medford and Rib Lake have been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice.com.

Alfons “Mitch” F. Mitchell, Jr., 81 of the village of Rib Lake died on Wednesday, April 29 at his residence under the loving care of his family and Hope Hospice.

A private family service will take place on Saturday, May 2 at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Rib Lake with Father Hrudaya Raju Sunkara officiating. Burial will follow at Lakeview Cemetery, Rib Lake. Serving as pallbearers will be Barbara, Jeff & Talan Mitchell, Becky and Rick Stuczynski. A celebration of life gathering will be held and announced in the future.

Mitch was born on November 26, 1938 in Lublin to Alfons and Lillian (Prokop) Mitchell, Sr.. He attended Gilman and Berlin, WI elementary schools and was a 1957 graduate of Rib Lake High School. He then attended Taylor County Teachers College in Medford for 2 years. On November 5, 1966 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Rib Lake he was married to his one and only true love, Jacqueline “Jackie” K. Hein and she survives.

Mitch was a US Army veteran having served from 1962-1963 stationed in Colorado. Later, he became employed for 31 years at Weather Shield Mfg. in Medford until retirement. In retirement, he stayed busy by helping Jackie with her daycare. Mitch thoroughly enjoyed fishing daily and he supplied many in the community and beyond with the fish he caught. He loved taking anyone and everyone fishing and Josh Probst of Rib Lake was often part of that crew and his righthand man. He also enjoyed hunting, watching sports, attending Brewer games, lawncare, bird watching, catching a good Western on TV and spending time with his family and friends. He was a member of Good Shepherd Catholic Church of Rib Lake, NRA and was a true avid sportsman.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years – Jackie Mitchell of Rib Lake, children – Barbara and Jeff Mitchell both of Rib Lake and Becky (Rick) Stuczynski of Amherst Junction, WI, grandchildren – Autumn & Talan Mitchell both of Medford, sisters – Phyllis Guetzloff of Poynette, La Vern Mitchell of Rib Lake and Alice (Bill) Barton of Poquoson, VA, along with many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings – Lucille Konwinski, Dolores Sikora, Jerri Gideon and Raymond Mnichowicz.

The family of Mitch would like to thank the staff at Aspirus Medford Hospital and the staff at Hope Hospice for their excellent and compassionate care during his last hours. Hemer Funeral Service of Rib Lake and Medford is serving the family. For online condolences to the family, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com.

Wayne G. Widmer, 90, of Medford, passed away on Wednesday, April 29, 2020 at his residence under the care of Hope Hospice, surrounded by family.

Wayne was born on July 13, 1929 to Gottlieb and Amanda (Ruesch) Widmer in Milwaukee. He attended Township of Browning School and graduated from Medford High School. He served in the US Army from 1953 – 1955 and was stationed at Camp Carson and Fort Knox. He married Betty Frischmann on June 17, 1961 at the United Church of Christ in Medford; she survives.

Wayne worked for his father at Widmer Construction. Later, he bought and operated the business with his brother, Donald “Bud” Widmer, until his retirement.

In his spare time, Wayne enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, wood crafts, reading, camping, and traveling.

In addition to his wife, Wayne is survived by his children, John (Jenni Picard) Widmer of Menomonee Falls, and Vicki (Gary) Brey of Appleton; grandchildren, Kevin Brey of Little Chute, Kelly Brey of Minneapolis, and Dylan, Nolan, and Logan Widmer, all of Menomonee Falls; sisters-in-law Joyce (Ken) Balciar of Medford and Peggy (Mike) Brehm of Marshfield, and Phyllis Widmer of Medford. Wayne is further survived by nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

A private service will take place for Wayne and a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.

Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake have been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be left www.hemerfuneralservice.com

Nancy Ann Kroll, age 75, of Rib Lake, passed away on April 23, 2020 at Care Partners where she had resided for the past 2 ½ years, most recently under the care of Hope Hospice and Palliative Care.

Nancy was born on August 7, 1944 to the late Stanley and Sophie (Gacek) Kroll in South Milwaukee. When Nancy was 10 years old, the family moved to Rib Lake and she graduated from Rib Lake High School. She attended college for one year. After graduation, she moved back to the Milwaukee area and worked for Milwaukee Mutual Insurance Company.  She then returned to the Rib Lake Area, where she married Dale Strobach on May 22, 1965, they were later divorced. She worked for Klinner Insurance, ran the restaurant at the Little Bohemia for a year, and then opened Dale’s Supermarket in 1967. After the divorce, she took over the operation of the store and changed the store name to Nancy’s Family Store. She also worked for Primerica Life Insurance for a period of time. After she closed Nancy’s Family Store, Nancy worked at Medford County Market in Medford and Rib River Bar and Grill. She also served as an EMT for the Rib Lake Ambulance service for a period of time, and as a trustee on the Rib Lake Village Board. She was a member of Good Shepherd Catholic Church.

In her free time, Nancy enjoyed going for car rides, making plastic canvas crafts, puzzles, the Brewers, and going to her grandkids’ events. She loved people, and Elvis Presley. She hated winter but would always eat a bowl of ice cream while sitting on the heater.

Cremation rites have been accorded and a Memorial Service for Nancy will be held at a later date. Honorary Pallbearers will be her grandchildren, Trevor, Tyler and Troy Komarek, Christopher and Austin Strobach, and Julia and Selena Hallstrand.

Left to cherish in Nancy’s memory is her special friend, Gene Title of Medford; her children— Carrie (Scott) Komarek of Ogema, Dale “Butch” (Darcie) Strobach of Eau Claire, and Connie (Mark Jackson) Hallstrand of Rothschild; 7 grandchildren – Trevor, Tyler, and Troy Komarek, Christopher and Austin Strobach, Julia and Selena Hallstrand, and several grandpuppies, grandkitties, and great-grandpuppies; siblings – Kathy (Darrell) Bohm of Merrill and Debbie (Dennis) Komarek of Rib Lake; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, and cousins.

Along with her parents, Nancy is preceded in death by her brother Stanley “Sonny” Kroll, and sister Carol Marschke.

In lieu of flowers, monetary donations can be made to the family for a future donation.

Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake have been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice.com.

Harvey A. Mann, 71, of the Township of Greenwood, passed away unexpectedly at home on Tuesday, April 21, 2020.

Harvey was born to Andrew Jr. and Florence (Thums) Mann in Medford. He worked most of his career as a superintendent overseeing bridge construction at Zenith Construction. He married Sandra A. Steinman on February 16, 1974 in Rib Lake; she survives.

In his spare time Harvey enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and spending time with family.

In addition to his wife, Harvey is survived by his daughters, Carry (Jeremy Gill) Jerdee and Stacey (Jon Jeske) Lea, both of Watertown, grandchildren, Alyssa (Jacob Held) Jade, Bryson Jeske, and Maceo Gill, siblings, Clifford (Tammy) Mann, Wayne (Nancy) Mann, and Donna (Dave) Lind; sister-in-law Velma Mann. Harvey is also survived by his fur baby Dottie Rose, nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

In addition to his parents, Harvey is preceded in death by his brother, Lester, son-in-law, Kevin Jerdee, and grandson, Joseph Jerdee.

Cremation rites have been accorded and a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.

Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake have been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be left www.hemerfuneralservice.com

Father Carroll Houle

1935 - 2020

Carroll Houle, age 85, of Norfolk, Virginia passed away on Easter morning under the care of Hospice.  Memorial masses will take place at a later date in Minnesota and Virginia.

Carroll was born January 26, 1935 to Loyd and Kathryn Houle at Fort Ripley, Minnesota.  He went to high school at St. Nazareth's hall, and then went to St Paul's Seminary.  He then attended Maryknoll Seminary, in New York.  After his ordination in 1962 he was assigned to Tanzania and Kenya Africa.  He spent the next 37+ years working with the poor, and for peace in these areas.

In 1999 he was assigned to the United States.  He worked for the the Maryknoll Office of Global concerns; and was the Maryknoll Representative to the United Nations.  He was also involved with helping the homeless in New York City. 

In 2009 he retired to Charlottesville,, Virginia where he again worked with the poor helping in food pantries and soup kitchens.

Because of his health in 2019 he moved to Norfolk, Virginia and lived in a home run by the Catholic workers.  Whenever he could he served breakfast to the homeless Veterans..

Carroll is survived by 4 brothers; James (Barbara) and Thomas (Mary) all of Medford, WI, Robert (Rebecca) of Brainerd, Minn, and Richard (Doreen) of Coon Rapids, Minn.  Also one sister Julie Williams of Grand Rapids Mich.  Also many nieces and  nephews, and many great nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 2 brothers, David and Donald, 1 brother in law, Earl, and 1 nephew, Bradley.

Carroll considered Medford his home.  He was very grateful for the friendships and support he received for Africa through the many generous people of Medford.

Carroll will be missed by many communities world wide.

If anyone wishes to donate towards Carroll's memorial, please give to the local food pantries.