Joanne M. (Ludwig/Brandner) Emmerich, 92, of Medford, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 24th at Aspirus Care and Rehab under the care of Hope Hospice.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Joanne will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 11th at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Medford with Fr. Patrick McConnell officiating.  Burial will follow at Holy Rosary Catholic Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. at the church.

Joanne was born on October 6, 1933, at home in the town of Little Black to Ferdinand (Fred) and Margaret (Hurth) Ludwig. She was the third of twelve children. She attended Liberty School in Little Black and graduated in 1951 from Dorchester High School. Joanne married Melvin J. Brandner in Dorchester on September 5, 1951. They resided in the City of Medford their entire married life. Melvin preceded her in death on June 1, 1994. On September 24, 1999, Joanne married Earl L. Emmerich, a lifelong family friend. In 2001 Joanne and Earl moved to the Willow Lake property and lived there until May 2022, spending much of their time fishing. Earl preceded her in death on August 16, 2022.

Joanne moved back to Medford in August of 2022 reconnecting with many former co-workers and friends. She was a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Medford, St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church at Pier-Willow, the Medford Curling Club and Medford’s BPW.

Joanne was honored at the annual Taylor County Volunteer Recognition Banquet in 1997 for the many hours spent volunteering with the Taylor County Women’s Alliance and the Wisconsin Women’s Cancer Control Program. She also spent numerous hours volunteering with the religious education program at Holy Rosary Parish and distributing communion to the nursing home. Since the early 70’s, Joanne and Melvin loved spending their weekends during the summer at Wil-O-Acres, on Willow Lake. During the winter months they enjoyed curling, participating in many bonspiels across the state. They were very active members of the Medford Curling Club, where Joanne became the first female president. Joanne was also an avid sports fan. You could always find her watching and cheering on the Brewers, Packers, Bucks and Badgers.

In her earlier years, Joanne worked at Heimerl’s Department Store which later became Hoffman’s Ben Franklin. She then worked for Time Federal Savings and Loan and later the State Bank of Medford/Mid-Wisconsin Bank, retiring from the bank in February 1994. After her retirement and the death of Melvin, Joanne worked for several years at Uncommon Ground, for her nephew and niece, Jeff & Barb Ludwig.

Joanne is survived by her four children, Greg (Anita) Brandner of Victoria, MN, Pat (the late Barb) Brandner of Eau Claire, Randy (Joan) Brandner of Merrill; and Kathy (Steve) Strebig of Medford; nine grandchildren, Kristin (Brian) Witte, Joanna (Nathan) Steinbauer, David Brandner, Stephanie (Mac) Devitt, Erik (Tiffany) Brandner, Jason (Kalei) Brandner, Matthew Brandner, Robbie Strebig and Ryan (Megan) Strebig, 12 great-grandchildren, Carson, Evan, Kaitlin, Owen, Flannery, Mallory, Kelley, Eloise, Collette, Esmé, Lincoln, Milina, Lake, Huxley and Hawkens; siblings, Norma Meier, Marlene Hermans, Loretta Kranz, Dale (Kay) Ludwig, Sandy (Dave) Bruesewitz and Robert (Nancy) Ludwig; in-laws, Helen Ludwig, Roberta “Tuts” Ludwig, Mary Jane Ludwig, Connie Ludwig, Mary Lou Brandner, Lucille Brandner, Darrell (Nancy) Brandner, Mary Schumacher and Monica (Tom) Danen. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces & nephews and friends.

She is further survived by Earl’s family: in-laws Glen (Eileen) Emmerich, Roger (Sue) Emmerich, Virginia Emmerich, and Rita Emmerich. Stepchildren, Sharon (Bruce) Wells, Starla (Brad) Ruesch, Danny (Peggy) Emmerich, Gayle (Bill) Thums, Elaine Emmerich, Rusty (Barb) Emmerich, DiAnn (Tom) Rindt, Connie (John) Hemmer, Randy (Tammy) Emmerich, Brian Emmerich, and Terry (Tammy Erl) Emmerich.

In addition to her parents (Fred & Margaret Ludwig), her first husband (Melvin Brandner), second husband (Earl Emmerich), Joanne was preceded in death by her daughter-in-law Barb Brandner, siblings: Jerome Ludwig, Merlin Ludwig, Glendon Ludwig, Duane “Duke” Ludwig, Germaine Imler, in-laws: Dora Ludwig, Alfred Meier, Darrel Hermans, Patrick Kranz, Richard Seidel, Robert Imler, Norbert Brandner, Bernard & Beulah Brandner, Leon Brandner, Norbert Schumacher, Vernon Emmerich, Kenneth Emmerich, Lorraine Clarke and step-son Wally Emmerich.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Joanne’s name may be given to Holy Rosary Catholic School, St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church at Pier-Willow, or St. Mary’s Catholic School in Tomahawk. 

Walter M. Anderson, 86, of Medford, passed away on Sunday, June 14, 2026 at his daughter's home in Winter, under the care of Regional Hospice.

A memorial service for Walter will take place at 10:00 AM on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at the First Baptist Church with Pastor Mike Barnhart officiating. Visitation will take place at the First Baptist Church on Saturday, July 18, 2026 from 9:00 AM until the time of service at 10:00 AM.

Walter was born on March 15, 1940 to Elmer and Grace (Clarkson) Anderson in Medford. He married Norma Duesing on July 12, 1958 in Medford. He worked for the Taylor County Highway Department for over 30 years. He also worked part time for Weather Shield and Fur Foods.

In his spare time he enjoyed playing softball for CJ’s Bar, which he passed down to his kids and grandkids and mowing the lawn. He also enjoyed making hay with his father-in-law, Ervin Duesing.

Walter is survived by his wife, Norma; children, Rod (Mary) Anderson of Medford, Bradley Anderson of Prentice, Audrey (Keith) Homer of Medford, Vickey (Mark) Glenzer of Winter, Valerey (Larry) Roiger of Medford, Shelley (Dean) Skabround of Jump River; 25 grandkids, 56 great-grandkids, and 1 great-great-grandson; brother Russell Anderson.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Grace Anderson; siblings, Paul Chet, Carl, Betty, Ruth, Mary, and Margaret

Arlene D. Barts, age 89 of Abbotsford passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at The Waterford at Colby.

A memorial service will be held 7:00pm on Wednesday July 8, 2026 at New Life Church in Medford, Wisconsin. Reverend James Rider will officiate. Family and friends are welcome to greet the family from 6:00pm until the time of services Wednesday at the church. The Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.

Arlene was born on January 29, 1937, in Abbotsford, the daughter of Chris and Beatrice (Mitzlaff) Jensen. She received her education and graduated from Colby High School. Arlene was joined in marriage to Raymond Barts on June 18, 1955 at Christ Lutheran Church in Abbotsford. They were married 62 years until Raymond’s passing in 2018.

She was an avid walker; she found joy in spending time outdoors and creating lasting memories around the card table with loved ones. Arlene was a faithful member of New Life Church and was among the first members of its congregation. She spent many years as a nurse’s aide at Clark County Rehabilitation and Living Center, where she provided compassionate care and support to countless residents. Arlene especially enjoyed driving members of the Mennonite community to appointments and other destinations, valuing the friendships she formed along the way.

Arlene is survived by her children: Kevin (Vicki) Barts of Owen, Susan (Rod) Schoelzel of Texas, Tammy (Cory) Ford of San Diego, CA and Lynn (Frank) Ellner of Wainae, HI; she is further survived by eight grandchildren: 8 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, one son; Duran and six siblings; Sylvia, Birdelle, Louis, Gordan, Marvin and Karen.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John “Jack” Komanec, 71, of Gilman, WI, on June 19, 2026. Jack passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Jack was born to John and Nora (Smith) Komanec on June 4, 1955, in Gilman. He graduated from Gilman High School in 1973 and married his high school sweetheart, Sue Wells, on December 4, 1976. Jack was a hardworking man who spent many years driving semi over the road as well as gravel and log trucks. In his 49-year career, he was just short of 7,000,000 driving miles, an accomplishment he was very proud of. He was known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and willingness to do whatever it took to provide for his family. Jack built a life centered on love, dedication and faith in God.

Above all else, Jack loved his family. He was a devoted husband, a caring father, and an incredibly proud papa. His grandchildren brought him endless joy, and he treasured every moment spent with them. Whether he was watching the Game Show Network or American Idol, supporting them at sporting events, or simply enjoying time together, Jack cherished every moment.

Jack will be remembered for his infectious laugh, warm smile, and the way he could light up any room. His kindness, humor, and steady presence made those around him feel welcomed and loved. He had a way of making people laugh and leaving lasting impressions wherever he went. He leaves behind a family who loved him deeply and who will miss him every day. He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Sue of Gilman, his children, Janelle Komanec of Gilman, John (Janice) Komanec of Gilman, Stacy (Justin) Lehr of Medford, and Bob (Katrina) Komanec of Medford and 9 grandchildren: Brynn, Hope, Brody, Brantley, Hadley, Landree, Finley, Lane, and Tilly.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Loretta and Dorothy, his brother Bob; his father-in-law Harold Wells; and a grandson Jackson Komanec.

Though our hearts are broken, we take comfort in the memories, laughter, hugs, and love he gave so freely. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and in the countless lives he touched.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, June 27th at the Gilman Park Pavilion. Visitation from 9 until 11:30 AM with a brief dedication at 11:30 AM. Food and fellowship to follow.

“A life well lived, a man well loved.”

June K. Brandner, 87, of Medford, passed away on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at Vita Care Living, under the care of Hope Hospice, surrounded by family.

A funeral mass for June will take place at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 at OLPH Catholic Church, with Father Patrick McConnell officiating. Burial will follow at OLPH Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will take place at OLPH Catholic Church on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 from 9:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM.

June was born in Whittlesey to Robert and Meta (Thompson) Klemm on June 24, 1938. After her education, June married Delbert Brandner on July 28, 1956. She worked various jobs throughout her life, but she was mainly a wonderful homemaker. Together June and Delbert owned and operated the Loon Pay Resort in Phillips.

June spent most of her time planning the most fabulous holiday events and get togethers for her family and friends, always putting others first. She also loved traveling and taking road trips with her husband.

June is survived by her children, David (special friend Donna) Brandner, Susan Werner, Tim (Jenny) Brandner, Wendy (Scott) LaBrec; 14 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren. June is further survived by her brother Emery Klemm; sisters-in-law, Virginia Leah Klemm and Bea Klemm.

June was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Delbert; daughter, Cindy Lekies; daughters-in-law, Sandy Brandner and Cheryl Brandner; son-in-law Terry Werner; siblings, Fred, Ralph, Earl, Eugene, Hazel, Virginia, Oliver, and Myrnabelle

June will be remembered most for her love of God, love for her husband and family, and her endless generosity to others.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to family for use at a later date.

Gordon “Gordy” Bach, 83, of Little Black, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Gordy will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 12, 2026 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, with Father Patrick McConnell officiating. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church on Friday, June 12, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at 11:00 a.m. 

Military Rites will be performed by the American Legion Post #519

Gordy was born on July 28, 1942, in Medford to Alfred and Frances (Rindt) Bach. Following his education, he proudly served his country in the United States Navy as an electrician. On April 15, 1967, he married the love of his life, Sandra “Sandy” Zenner, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Medford.

After completing his military service, Gordy joined Bach Electric in 1968. Through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to quality craftsmanship, he built a respected career and successfully operated the business until his retirement in 2018, marking 50 years in the electrical trade.

Throughout his career, Gordy was deeply committed to serving his community. His work could be found throughout the area on numerous commercial and community projects, including McDonald’s and the Aspirus Dialysis Center. Even after retirement, Gordy continued to share his talents, generously volunteering his electrical expertise at Holy Rosary Catholic Church whenever needed.

Gordy is survived by his children, Michelle Ellebecker of Abbotsford and Marc Bach of Eau Claire; his grandchildren, Riley Bach, Trevor Ellenbecker, Alex Ellenbecker, Jessica Fleming, Eli Fleming, and Ethan Fleming; and his siblings, Mary Smock, Delores Bohn, and Joe Bach.

Gordy was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Frances Bach; his beloved wife, Sandy; his brother, John Bach; and his sister, Linda Cypher.

Dorothy Joan Ness, “Joan” age 93, of Medford, passed away of natural causes on May 28, 2026 at the Waterford in Colby.

She was born June 1, 1932 in Medford to Louis and Clara (Gruny) Hirt.  She graduated from Medford High School in 1949.

In 1957, Joan married Dewey James Oehler of Dorchester.  Together they had six children and made a home together in Withee where Joan worked as secretary at a local real estate office and a bank teller.  They enjoyed snowmobiling, Friday fish fries with a brandy old-fashioned, and camping with friends.  They divorced in 1992.

Once her children were grown, Joan moved back to her hometown of Medford and continued work as a bank teller until her retirement. 

In 1998, she married Robert M. Ness “Bob”, a retired farmer from Gilman, who she stayed with for the rest of her days.  She enjoyed genealogy, doing research on the computer, reading newspapers, playing cards with friends, an occasional trip to the casino, and just being with Bob. For 10+ years they were snowbirds, migrating to Texas every winter where they enjoyed living in a senior camper community; first in New Braunfels and then in Raymondville. Joan was a loyal Catholic throughout her life and was a member of the Holy Rosary Catholic Churches in both Owen and Medford. 

She is survived by her husband, Robert of Colby; her six children, Julie (Wade) Cullen, Jane (David) Handel, Jerold Oehler, Jill Liebergen, Jodi (Mark) Johnson, James Oehler (Jennifer Deenik); step-children, Phillip Kubisak, Mark Kubisak, Lisa Bauer, Ken Ness, and Kurt Ness; sister, Rita Jakel; 11 grandchildren, 13 step-grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Lester Hirt; a sister, Patricia George; and a son-in-law, Todd Liebergen.

A memorial mass will be held at 11:30 AM on Friday June 5, 2026 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Medford with Fr. Julian Druffner officiating.  Interment will follow at Holy Rosary Catholic Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 9:30 AM until the time of service at 11:30 AM.

Memorials are appreciated and will go to Taylor County Moving for a Cure, which raises funds to support cancer patients living within Taylor County.

Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford is serving the family.

Please visit www.hemerfuneralservice.com to share condolences online.

David P. Feddick, age 84, of Abbotsford, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Saturday May 30, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, and friendships.

Please join the family for a Mass of Christian Burial that will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 8, 2026 at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Abbotsford. Inurnment to follow at Abbotsford Public Cemetery. Father Keith Kitzhaber will officiate. 

David was born on June 22, 1941, the son of Paul and Margaret (Kellnhofner) Feddick in Medford. He graduated from Medford High School. On September 11, 1961, David was united in marriage to Ruth Freudenthal.

For over 50 years, David took great pride in building and operating Feddick Ford in Abbotsford, where he became well known not only for his dedication to his work but also for the relationships he built within the community. His work ethic and commitment earned the respect of countless customers, friends, and colleagues. David was a true jack of all trades whose hard work, skill, and determination were evident in everything he did.

He had a deep appreciation for life's simple pleasures. Whether spending time at local establishments visiting with friends, enjoying a day of duck hunting, or relaxing on the deck with his brothers sharing stories and telling jokes, he treasured the moments spent with the people he loved most.

David was known for his larger-than-life personality and a laugh that could never be forgotten. His sense of humor, quick wit, and ability to make others smile brought joy to everyone around him. He loved life, embraced every day, and made lasting memories wherever he went.

Above all, David will be remembered for his kindness, his hard work, his love of family and friends, and the laughter he shared so freely. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the countless memories he leaves behind. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

David is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Ruth; three children: Debbie Feddick (Jim Miller), Julie (Mike) Bruesewitz and Donald Feddick; nine grandchildren: Jennifer Schueller, Jami Kunze (fiancé, Corey Schmidt), Brittni (Justin) Krzanowski, Jason Bruesewitz, Derek (Kelsey) Feddick, Dustin (Emilie) Feddick, Jordon (Robin) Miller, Justin Miller and Dalton Feddick (fiancée, Olivia Hammel); eight great-grandchildren with two on the way. He is further survived by his brother Ray; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; three brothers: Jim, Dick and Bob and his sister, Rowena.

Daniel Ray Brost

December 14, 1955 – May 28, 2026

How do you sum up a man who touched so many lives in just a few paragraphs?  Dan lived a full and spirited life.

Dan graduated from Medford Area Senior High School in the class of 1974. He earned the Degree of Bachelor of Science from the University of Wisconsin – Madison on December 23, 1987, the Degree of Master of Science, Social Work, on May 15, 1988 with distinction, received his Licensed Clinical Social Worker certification from the State of Wisconsin on September 27, 1993, received his Independent Clinical Social Worker certification from the State of Wisconsin on December 6, 1993, and The Academy of Certified Social Workers certification from the State of Wisconsin on June 9, 1997.

Dan worked at Medford Area High School as a Guidance Counselor from 1990 to 1992. From there he went on to support the Taylor County Human Services Department as a Clinical Services Coordinator from 1992 to 2006. He made a career change in 2006 and began working at Taylor Credit Union as a Branch Manager until he retired in 2016.

When he walked into a room, Dan became the light and energy of the whole place. His jovial laugh could be heard from miles away. He had a way of bringing people together, finding common ground for all. He was kind, thoughtful, and selfless. He took exceptional care of his family, who he was so proud of. He was connected to nature, mimicking bird sounds until the back yard was full of life. Dan had a need for speed. Whether he was driving his sports cars, snowmobiles, or even his lawnmower, it was “WFO”, aka, top speed. He and his family spent countless weekends at the lake where they would fish, sit around campfires, listen to music and join in singing with an ice cold Pabst Blue Ribbon in hand. He learned to golf and cross-country ski with his family, and actually wasn’t too bad at either.  He was known for being the jokester, the funny guy, with a heart of gold. He could get a chuckle out of anyone he met. Dan will be greatly missed.

Survived by: his wife Carol Brost, his daughters Shanon Brost-Ployhart, Anna Brost, his beautiful granddaughter Lauren Wildes, sister Kathy (Jeff) Hemer, brother Doug (Debbie) Brost, nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.

Preceded in death by: parents Leon and Yvonne Brost, Brother Dale Brost, in-laws Bob and Peg Anderson.

There will forever be a Dan-sized hole in our hearts. If you knew Dan, you can confirm that it’s impossible to summarize his impact in just a few paragraphs.  If you have stories of Dan that you would like to share, please send them to MemoriesOfDanBrost@gmail.com where they will be shared with his family and loved ones. A celebration of Dan’s life will be held at the Medford VFW on Thursday, June 4th from 2-6 pm.  As Dan would say, PEACE.

Gregory S. Hamlet, 64, of Medford, passed away peacefully at home with his wife by his side on Saturday, May 30, 2026, while under the care of Aspirus Hospice.

Greg was born June 5, 1961 to George “Ken” and Patricia (McMurdie) Hamlet in Mount Clemens, Michigan.  He attended school in Michigan and graduated from Albion in 1979.  He worked for his parents training racehorses in Ohio.  He then worked for Super Valu for 30 years.  He married Tammy Lynch in 1984 and they later divorced.

On June 5, 2019 (his birthday), he married Lynette (Pagel) Sanders.  They resided in Medford where Greg worked for Marathon Cheese until he retired in July 2025.

He is survived by his wife Lynette Hamlet of Medford; his mother, Patricia Hamlet of Medford; in-laws, Gary and Dorothy Pagel of Abbotsford; two children, Kyle (Amy) Jones of Waynesville, OH, Chelsea (Sam) Hoium of Sabina, OH; two stepchildren, Tyler (Val) Sanders of Colby, WI, Dallas Sanders of Tyler, MN; five grandchildren, Ian, Holden, Philip, Nakia and Kylie; siblings, Cyndi McCormick of Ft. Myers, FL, Deborah Hamlet of Janesville, WI, Missy (Tim) Chapman of Woodbury, MN, and Eric (Lori) Hamlet of Twinsburg, OH.  He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Ken and his brother, Jim.

A Celebration of Greg’s life will be held from 1-5 p.m., Saturday, June 6, 2026 at BS Bar & Catering, W4792 Hwy 64, Medford. 

Ronald L. Wiese, age 80, of Stetsonville, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at his home under the tender care of Hope Hospice.

A private graveside service will be held at Stetsonville Public Cemetery with Military Honors provided by Stetsonville American Legion Post #519. 

Ronald was born on February 15, 1946, the son of Irwin and Lorna (Yokers) in Pecatonica, IL. He graduated from Pecatonica High School. Ronald was drafted into the military and served in the Marine Corps in Vietnam where he was awarded the Purple Heart. Ronald was united in marriage to Lana Bruning in Pecatonica, IL on August 24, 1966. Ron and Lana moved to Stetsonville in 1972. Together, they farmed until 1991. He also worked construction, drove a milk truck and worked at a commercial recycling center.

Ronald was an avid woodworker and liked to build things. He also restored tractors and vehicles. Most days you could catch him tinkering in the shop or mowing the lawn. Ronald was also an avid reader and especially enjoyed reading books from Clive Cussler, Louis Lamour, or John Grisham, just to name a few. Before Lana passed away, they liked to take weekend get-a-aways, which included rummage sales and wineries.

Ronald is survived by his four sons: David Wiese of Wisconsin Rapids, Bradley (Wendy) Wiese of Curtiss, Jeremy (Annette) Wiese of Dorchester, and Jason Wiese of Stetsonville; 14 grandchildren: Katie (Nate) Bachman, Kelly (Floyd) LaBar, Zackry Wiese, Dereck Wiese, Jared Wiese, Alex (Vanessa) Wiese, Brady Grata, Issaic Wiese, Lucas Wiese, Sarah (Hunter) Brandt, Jasmine Wiese (Robby Feint), Keith Wiese, Michael Hackbarth (Kandis Fieber), and Misty Wiese; eight great-grandchildren: Elliot, Lorraine, Ryon, Jackie, Leon, LilyAnne, Vivian and Adam. He is further survived by other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Lana and his brother, Myron (Karen) Wiese.

The Wiese family would like to send a special thank-you to the staff at Hope Hospice for the compassionate care they received.

Bonnie Ellen Hoernke, age 74, of Colby Wisconsin, entered her heavenly home Thursday, May 28, 2026 surrounded by her loving family at Marshfield Medical Center.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, June 5, 2026 at Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford. Reverend Teri Hanson will be officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:00am until the time of service. The Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford is entrusted with the arrangements. The family kindly requests that guests wear their best pink attire.

The daughter of Herbert and Virginia (Woodkey) Hederer, Bonnie was born on April 22, 1952 in Lacrosse, Wisconsin. She graduated from Colby High in 1970. In 1972 she was united in marriage to Gerald Baumann Sr. From that union they were blessed with three children, Daniella, Gerald Jr and Michelle. In 1994 she was united in marriage to Dale Hoernke. Bonnie continued her education at the University of Wisconsin Centers – Marshfield/Wood County where she obtained her associate’s degree in arts and science in 1992.

Bonnie’s life was defined by hard work, dedication and care for those around her. At just twelve years old, she began working alongside her father doing carpentry. She devoted herself to dairy farming, being a foster parent, then became a valued and dedicated employee of the Taylor County Housing Authority. Later in life, her love for children inspired one of her greatest accomplishments, opening her own daycare in Colby where she cared for many children in the community as well as all eight grandchildren during her career.

Bonnie was deeply patriotic, with enormous respect for those who served. With a strong and abiding love for her community she faithfully served for many years through the Jaycees, Girl Scouts, 4-H, and Colby Cheese Days, always willing to help wherever she was needed. Her gentle spirit reflected in her love for the color pink, ANTYHING chocolate, seasonal decorating, wind chimes, and admiration for Lily of the Valley, gardening and shenanigans “with the girls”.

Above all, Bonnie’s greatest love was her family, especially her cherished grandchildren and great grandchildren, who brought her deep joy and were truly her sunshine.

Bonnie is survived by her three children: Daniella (Brian) Schauer, Gerald (Carrie) Baumann Jr., and Michelle (Shawn) Bellendorf; nine grandchildren: Brett (Michaela Nowacki) Schauer, Brendan (Megan Mahl) Schauer, Hailey, Lucas, Lily and Ella Baumann, Kendra (Robin) Weiss, Riley Bellendorf and Anika Miller. She is further survived by three great-grandchildren; Peyton and Vivian Weiss and Bryer Leu, and one sister; Ellen Larson.

She is preceded in death by her grandparents: Elizabeth and Henry Hederer and Cecila Woodkey, her parents and sister Colleen Dayton.

Dorothy Joan Ness, “Joan” age 93, of Medford, passed away of natural causes on May 28, 2026 at the Waterford in Colby.

She was born June 1, 1932 in Medford to Louis and Clara (Gruny) Hirt.  She graduated from Medford High School in 1949.

In 1957, Joan married Dewey James Oehler of Dorchester.  Together they had six children and made a home together in Withee where Joan worked as secretary at a local real estate office and a bank teller.  They enjoyed snowmobiling, Friday fish fries with a brandy old-fashioned, and camping with friends.  They divorced in 1992.

Once her children were grown, Joan moved back to her hometown of Medford and continued work as a bank teller until her retirement.  In 1998, she married Robert M. Ness “Bob”, a retired farmer from Gilman, who she stayed with for the rest of her days. 

She enjoyed genealogy, doing research on the computer, reading newspapers, playing cards with friends, an occasional trip to the casino, and just being with Bob. For 10+ years they were snowbirds, migrating to Texas every winter where they enjoyed living in a senior camper community; first in New Braunfels and then in Raymondville. Joan was a loyal Catholic throughout her life and was a member of the Holy Rosary Catholic Churches in both Owen and Medford. 

She is survived by her husband, Robert of Colby; her six children, Julie (Wade) Cullen, Jane (David) Handel, Jerold Oehler, Jill Liebergen, Jodi (Mark) Johnson, James Oehler (Jennifer Deenik); step-children, Phillip Kubisak, Mark Kubisak, Lisa Bauer, Ken Ness, and Kurt Ness; sister, Rita Jakel; 11 grandchildren, 13 step-grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Lester Hirt; a sister, Patricia George; and a son-in-law, Todd Liebergen.

A memorial mass will be held at 11:30 AM on Friday June 5, 2026 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Medford with Fr. Julian Druffner officiating.  Interment will follow at Holy Rosary Catholic Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 9:30 AM until the time of service at 11:30 AM.

Memorials are appreciated and will go to Taylor County Moving for a Cure, which raises funds to support cancer patients living within Taylor County.

Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford is serving the family.

Please visit www.hemerfuneralservice.com to share condolences online.