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Obit: Plunkett-McCarty, Alice A. (1931 – 2023)

Transcriber: Stan

Surnames: Plunkett, McCarty, Evangelista, Magee, Wildes, Christiansen, Frain

----Source: TRG (Abbotsford, Clark Co., Wis.) 26 Apr 2023

Plunkett-McCarty, Alice A. (9 Oct 1931 – 16 Apr 2023)

Alice Ann Plunkett-McCarty, 91, Escondido, Calif., passed away peacefully, in her sleep on April 16, 2023.

Alice was born on Oct. 9, 1931, the beloved daughter of Harry and Francis (Evangelista) Plunkett in Chicago, Ill. She was one of seven siblings. When she was a young girl her family moved from the Chicago area to Greenwood, during the Great Depression. There she attended a Catholic grade school and Greenwood High School. She was the prom queen; enjoyed music, playing the French horn and piano; and was the drum majorette, leading the band in high school. She enjoyed many friendships in high school which carried on into her adult life.

After high school she moved to La Crosse to study nursing. After completing nursing school, she enjoyed a very long and rewarding career, which included working at several veterans’ administration hospitals including the VA Medical Center, Tomah, where she retired from in 1996. She was involved in industrial nursing, which included the Ford Motor Company in Chicago Heights, Ill. She enjoyed working with people and using her skills, providing comfort and care to her patients and their families. She was a lifelong scholar and always continued her education. She loved reading and learning new things.

It was while she was employed at the veteran’s administration hospital in Madison that she met and fell in love with Dennis McCarty, a handsome young airman who swept her off her feet. They married on Oct. 2, 1954, and quickly grew their family, blessing him with four daughters, who were their pride and joy. They moved to Marion, Ill., where they spent the first several years of their marriage and then moved to the St. Louis, Mo., area. They then planted deep roots in the suburban Chicago area, raising their daughters to adulthood. While being married, they enjoyed life working and raising their children. Alice and Dennis enjoyed a lifelong friendship until he passed on June 13, 2016, at the age of 85. Ironically, she passed on Dennis’ birthday.

Though she moved from her roots in Wisconsin, she returned with her family often to Greenwood and Warrens, where many tight bonds with extended family were established and nurtured.

After her retirement from a career of nursing, she enjoyed time with her family, whom she loved dearly. She was actively involved with her faith family at both the St. Mary’s and Warrens Catholic churches. She then moved from the Tomah/Warrens area to come full circle, finding herself, again, in La Crosse, settling near St. Joseph the Workman Cathedral, where she again was actively involved. She also volunteered at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

She enjoyed extended time living with her daughter, Kay and family, for a few years in Marshfield, Mo. There she quickly made friends in the Catholic community and was again active in Bible studies and social activities. She enjoyed attending rodeos and watching her grandson team rope. She also enjoyed a sisters’ reunion bash and was blessed with being able to have all of her daughters in one place, at one time, with several of the grandchildren also in attendance. She enjoyed travel to weddings of grandchildren and was so proud of all her grandchildren’s talents and accomplishments. She particularly enjoyed when they dropped in for surprise visits to her and gave her impromptu phone calls.

Leading up to her final days, she enjoyed living with her daughter Liz and family in San Diego, Calif. She was extremely sharp and in good health. She loved doing puzzles and Sudoku, and everyone loved doing them with her. She did Sudoku in pen and never had any errors. She loved animals and had several dogs and cats. She adopted all the pets as her own, no matter where she happened to be, either residing somewhere or even just visiting. She did not let days slip by and reached out to family and friends, always ensuring cards were sent out and special times were remembered and cherished, despite the different lives and events that captivated the families she helped to create.

Most importantly, she dearly loved her family in her own way, through all times, thick or thin, and it was evident she loved Jesus above all. As a practicing Catholic, Alice had but one framed picture on her wall in her bedroom: that of the Divine Mercy Jesus, so it was fitting that she died and received her last rites on Divine Mercy Sunday.

Alice was preceded in death by her brother, Leroy (Butch), who referred to her as “Sis” Four. She was also preceded in death by twin brothers, Patrick and Joseph, and her brother, Harry. She was also preceded in death by beloved son-in-law, Kevin Magee.

Alice is survived by her four daughters, Mary Magee of Highlands Ranch, Colo.; Katherine Wildes, of Marshfield, Mo., (Wendell Wildes); Elizabeth Christiansen of Escondido, Calif., (Mark Christiansen); and Patricia Frain of Naperville, Ill., (Michael Frain). Alice is survived by two brothers, George Plunkett of Nelma and Tim Plunkett of Warrens; many nieces and nephews, 15 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, 11 a.m. at Queen of the Apostles Parish in Tomah. Monsignor David Kunz officiated. Burial followed in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Tomah. Family and friends were invited for a visitation on Tuesday from 10 a.m. until the time of service at the church. The Torkelson Funeral Home, Tomah, assisted the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com  If you’d like to make a contribution to a charity in memory of Alice, please make contributions to www.murphslifefoundation.com.

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Obit: Severson, Carl (1937? - 2023)

Transcriber: Stan

Surnames: Severson, Vollrath, Bruno, Pehlke, Zaller, Backus

----Source: TRG (Abbotsford, Clark Co., Wis.) 26 Apr 2023
 

Severson, Carl (1937? - 13 Apr 2023)

Carl Severson, 86, Broomfield, Colo., passed away on Thursday, April 13, 2023. Services were held on Friday, April 21, 2023, in Broomfield, Colo.

Carl attended Willard State Grade School, graduated from Greenwood High School in 1954, and attended college in Chicago, Ill. He worked at Bell Telephone and retired from AT& T.

Carl is survived by one daughter, Janet; and three sisters: Tootie Vollrath, Willard; Vonnie Bruno, Milwaukee; and Virjean Pehlke, Willard.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Eva (Zallar) Severson; one son, Jim; one sister, Edith Backus; and one brother, John Severson.

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Bio: Schmitz, Paetyn – SHAPE America Award (2023)

Transcriber: Stan

Surnames: Schmitz, Stephenson

----Source: TRG (Abbotsford, Clark Co., Wis.) 26 Apr 2023

The SHAPE America Conference was held in Seattle, Wash., from March 28 through April 1. Paetyn Schmitz of Greenwood, daughter of Chris and Jana Schmitz, was awarded the SHAPE America Major of the Year Award.

The award celebrates outstanding undergraduate students in the field of health and physical education. Professors nominate one outstanding student and Paetyn was unanimously chosen by her advisors and professors. Paetyn will graduate from the College of Science and Health at the University of La Crosse with a double major in health education and physical education with an adapted physical education minor on May 14.

“(The double major plus a minor) was a choice to stay extra years to make herself more marketable as well as a higher quality teacher within our field. While juggling all three content spaces, she maintained a 3.74 GPA,” wrote Paetyn’s professor and program director, Dr. Rachyl Stephenson.

To be eligible for the award, a student must be on track toward a degree in health and physical education or a related field, be a junior or senior, have a grade-point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale, and provide a service to school or community (three to five contributions) for a minimum of two years during their undergraduate career.

Paetyn has completed numerous community service hours, including helping with the following: the UW- La Crosse Motor Development Program, Adapted Sports League and Winter Sports Camp; “Fit Kids” Saturday morning exercise club for kids; the Fourth of July concession stand; volunteering at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Marshfield with cleaning, organizing and outdoor work; United Church of Christ Christmas decorating; Clark County Dairy Breakfast volunteer; painted the viewing gallery at Marieke Gouda; helped with kids’ games at Neillsville Heritage Days; Dairy Days/End of Summer Fest cleanup; and setup for the Clark County Relay for Life.

She has also earned a resiliency certification that she earned through a company called EmpowerU, which is an 18-lesson program on social emotional learning, as well as her Mental Health Literacy Certification.

“Her amazingly positive demeanor, hard work ethic, service to the community and collaborative outlook on approaching teaching within a professional learning community make her an incredible asset to our profession,” wrote Stephenson.

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Obit: Miller, Pamela Kay (1953 – 2023)

Transcriber: Stan

Surnames: Miller, Boyer, Ketter, Rau, Weber, Beck, Ertl

----Source: Tribune/Phonograph (Abbotsford, Clark Co., Wis.) 26 Apr 2023

Miller, Pamela Kay (26 Feb 1953 – 20 Apr 2023)

Pamela Kaye Miller, 70, of Suamico, passed away on April 20, 2023, at home after a brave year-long battle with ovarian cancer.

Pam was born on February 26, 1953, to Harold and Juanita Boyer of Unity. After graduating from Colby High School, she married her high school sweetheart, Norman Miller, on October 22, 1971. Together they built a life that they loved, and they had three daughters: Stacy, Stephanie and Shana.

After doing secretarial work for a number of years, Pam decided to pursue her passion for travel, enrolling in coursework in Milwaukee, and landing a tour director position for Holiday Travel in Eau Claire. Eventually, she chose employment closer to home, continuing as a tour director for Progressive Travel in Spencer, where she continued for many years until retirement.

Pam and Norm were happily married for 51 years and lived in Colby until February 2016, when they moved to the Green Bay area to be closer to family and their beloved Packer team. They loved going to various Packer shows, practices and games, and this was a highlight of their retirement. Additionally, Pam’s competitive nature was obvious in her daily Scrabble challenges with Norm. For many years they enjoyed at least three Scrabble games a day so they could declare a champion. Another favorite of theirs was spending time at their cabin in Holcombe. Pam enjoyed pontoon rides and spending time with family. She was also the best cheerleader at her grandchildren’s various events, and she enjoyed watching them grow and develop.

Pam excelled as a leader and this was especially evident when she took one of her loves, traveling, and fostered a career around that passion. She loved planning and leading tours all over the world. One of her favorite destinations was Australia. Another passion of Pam’s was sewing. She was a master seamstress, and even made her own wedding dress.

She continued to sew and create throughout her life, and in retirement, she sold her creations at craft shows. Eventually, Pam found a love for quilting as well. Not only did Pam enjoy creating, but she also had a love of learning. Because of this, she continually enrolled in classes through UW-Green Bay’s Lifelong Learning Institute (LLI) once they moved to Green Bay. Through LLI, Pam cultivated many new friendships, and she especially loved line dancing with her friends. Through her example, Pam taught her girls and grandchildren to be strong, confident and dependable people. She had the mentality that one needs to live in the moment and do what brings you joy now, and that belief system served her well in life.

Pam is survived by her husband Norman Miller, and daughters: Stacy (Kevin) Ketter, Stephanie (Patrick) Rau and Shana (Neal) Weber. She also leaves behind her stepmother, Mary Ann Boyer; her brother, Kevin (Denise) Boyer, and step-siblings: Steve Ertl, Scott Ertl, Shari (Jim) Beck and Todd (Jessica) Ertl. Seven grandchildren also survive Pam: Kailey and Jordan Ketter, Brooklyn, Sydney and Elyanna Rau, and Emily and Jake Weber.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Juanita Boyer.

Friends and family will gather at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 2736 Glendale Ave., Green Bay, from 1-3 p.m. on Saturday, April 29, with the memorial service to follow at 3 p.m. To send online condolences, please go to www.BlaneyFuneralHome.com.

We would like to extend a special thank you to Peggy, Cheryl, Lee and the LLI girls. We would also like to thank Unity Hospice for their outstanding care.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the NEW Community Shelter or Veterans 1st of Northeast Wisconsin.

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Obit: Kieffer, Rhonda M. (1970 - 2023)

Contact: Dolores (Mohr) Kenyon
E-mail: dolores@wiclarkcountyhistory.org 

Surnames: Kieffer, Smith, Martin

----Source: Hansen-Schilling Funeral Home (Marshfield, Wood Co., WI) 4/29/2023

Kieffer, Rhonda M. (28 November 1970 – 27 April 2023)

Rhonda Kieffer age 52, of Colby, passed away late Thursday April 27th, 2023, at Marshfield Medical Center in Marshfield.

Rhonda was born November 28th, 1970, the daughter of Glenn and Vickie Smith. Rhonda was united in marriage to the love of her life Dennis Kieffer in Marshfield, September 27th, 1997.

In her spare time, she enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, and she especially enjoyed being a grandmother. Those that knew Rhonda best will miss her laughter, sweetness, hugs, and her love of Jesus.

Rhonda is lovingly survived by her husband Dennis and daughter Zoe’ Martin (husband Jason) and her grandson JJ. She is further survived by her parents Glenn and Vickie Smith.

Rhonda will truly be missed.

Everyone is invited to come to her celebration of life.

Funeral/Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 A.M. until 12:00 P.M. (with a luncheon to follow) on Wednesday May 3rd, 2023, at Hansen-Schilling Funeral Home, 1010 E Veterans Pkwy, Marshfield WI. A visitation will be held at the same location Tuesday May 2nd 4:30 to 8:00 P.M. and again on Wednesday one hour prior to service.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rhonda M. Kieffer, please visit our floral store.

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Obit: Meinhardt, Vera Verda (1920 - 2023)

Contact: Dolores (Mohr) Kenyon
E-mail: dolores@wiclarkcountyhistory.org 

Surnames: Meinhardt, Bredlow, Buchholz, Casiano, Laupan, Rajaofera

----Source: Cuddie Funeral Home (Greenwood, Clark Co., WI) 4/30/2023

Meinhardt, Vera Verda (24 August 1920 – 22 April 2023)

Vera Verda Meinhardt, 102, formerly of Marshfield and Greenwood, died at The Legacy at St. Joseph’s in Kenosha on April 22, 2023.

Vera was born in Kendall, on August 24, 1920, to Daniel and Sarah (Bredlow) Buchholz. They moved to Wilton, then to Loyal where she received her education, graduating from Loyal High School as valedictorian in 3 years. Following graduation, she worked at the Clark County Jail (now Museum) in Neillsville, and at Citizens State Bank in Loyal. On December 5, 1945, she married Clarence Meinhardt, and they had one son, Ronald. They operated 2 dairy farms in the Greenwood area for 17 years. After selling the farm, Vera was the head bookkeeper at Greenwood Milk Products Coop for almost 13 years, and also worked at the WCCN Wisconsin Pavilion in Neillsville. She and Clarence were both very active, and held several offices, in many military organizations both locally and in several states. She was a longtime member of Immanuel UCC in Greenwood where she helped start, direct, and accompany their men’s chorus for many years. She was an avid piano player and played for many services both in Greenwood and Marshfield. As a musician, she loved the Big Bands and dancing, doing a Polish Hop polka at age 93. In recent years, word search puzzles were her favorite pastime.

She is survived by her son, Ronald (Patricia) of Pleasant Prairie; three grandchildren: Heather (Jesse) Casiano of Munster, IN, Aprille (Scott) Laupan of Chagrin Falls, OH, and Daniel Meinhardt of New York City. She is also survived by four great-grandchildren: Robert and Tristan Casiano, and Quentin and Evelyn Laupan. Vera was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Clarence, and two sisters: Arlene Buchholz, and Lorraine Buchholz in infancy.

A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at Immanuel United Church of Christ in Greenwood. Rev. Asafa Rajaofera will officiate, and burial of cremains will follow in West Side Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church, on Saturday, from 12:30 p.m. until time of service.

A special thanks goes to the fabulous caring staff at St. Joseph’s in Kenosha which was Vera’s home the last 7 years.

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School: Greenwood Native Wins SHAPE Award (2023)

Contact: Dolores (Mohr) Kenyon
E-mail: dolores@wiclarkcountyhistory.org 

Surnames: Schmitz, Stephenson, Starck

----Source: Clark County Press (Neillsville, Clark Co., WI) 4/26/2023

Greenwood Native Wins SHAPE Award



Paetyn Schmitz, middle, attended the Society of Health and Physical Educators America Conference, held in Seattle, WA, March 28-April 1. Schmitz was recommended by UW-LAX professors Rachyl Stephenson (left) and Jenna Starck (right). Submitted photo

By Edward DuBois

The Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) America Conference was held in Seattle, WA on March 28–April 1.

Paetyn Schmitz of Greenwood, daughter of Chris and Jana Schmitz, was awarded the SHAPE America Major of the Year Award.

The award celebrates outstanding undergraduate students in the field of health and physical education. Nominees must be on track toward a degree in health and physical education or a related field, be a junior or senior, have a grade-point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale and provide a service to school or community (3-5 contributions) for a minimum of two years during their undergraduate career.

University of La Crosse (UW-LAX) professors nominated one outstanding student, Schmitz, unanimously.

Schmitz will graduate from the College of Science and Health at UW-LAX with a double major in health education and physical education with an adapted physical education minor May 14.

The letter of recommendation UW-LAX professor and undergraduate program director Rachyl Stephenson submitted for Schmitz praised her in the multiple undergraduates the professor had taught Schmitz in and her 3.74 GPA, as well as her humility and flexibility within the classroom.

For her service to her school or community, Schmitz chose the Motor Development Program, Adapted Sports League, Winter Sports Camp, Fit Kids, Fourth of July concession stand volunteer, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Marshfield, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Marshfield “A Round for the House” golf outing, United Church of Christ Christmas decorating, Clark County Dairy Breakfast (Neillsville and Greenwood breakfasts), painting the Marieke Gouda viewing gallery, Heritage Days Kid Games, Dairy Days/End of Summerfest Clean Up and the Clark County Relay for Life.

Motor Development Program

“On Thursday nights,” Schmitz said, “UWL hosts a program where students ages 3-21 are able to do activities for a few hours. I had the opportunity to work with students with disabilities and help them with their psychomotor development. Together we were able to work on skills in aquatics, fitness, and object control/manipulative skills.”

Adapted Sports League

“During the summer,” Schmitz, “UWL held a program where I was able to work one on one with a student with a disability. While volunteering the students were able to use their skills in which they would use once they become involved in their High School Adapted Sports League.”

Winter Sports Camp

“During Christmas break,” Schmitz said, “UWL held a program where students were able to come to UWL. I was able to work with the youngest group (kindergarten–first grade) and helped them be active in dance, sports related skills, and the traverse wall.”

Fit Kids

“Members of the PASHE club and I went to a gym where groups of students came in a were active for an hour on select Saturday mornings,” Schmitz said. “I created lessons for second and third grade students that focused on heart health and the importance of moving their bodies.”

Fourth of July Concession Stand Volunteer

“I helped serve food, drinks, process orders, cashier—any task needed during our annual community softball tournament,” Schmitz said. “Last year was the 50th year for this event. This event raises money for the community park, softball facilities, playground, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and shelter. We also raise money for our annual fireworks display.”

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Marshfield

“As a volunteer for this charity,” Schmitz said, “I was able to organize their storage rooms, update their pantry area, restock cleaning supplies, and any task that was needed. I also helped do laundry, clean rooms, and common spaces to ensure a safe and clean environment for families staying at the house. Last summer I was able to scrape and repaint their raised garden beds. I was also able to plant their garden in early summer. Other projects that I was able to complete were staining the pergola and outdoor furniture, weeding, and planting flowers.”

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Marshfield “A Round for the House” golf outing

Schmitz helped the staff and other volunteers prepare and set up for the outing.
“On the day of the outing, I helped with setting out the hole games, registration, and organization of teams” Schmitz said. “Prior to the event, I helped secure donations, hole prizes, and auction items from area businesses.

United Church of Christ Christmas decorating
“Carried the decorations up from the basement and storage area,” Schmitz said. “I helped decorate the church and tree for the holidays. I also helped take down and put away all of the decorations once the holidays were over.”

Clark County Dairy Breakfast (Neillsville, Greenwood breakfasts)

“I helped set up the tables and other sections needed for food preparation,” Schmitz said. “Assisted with selling raffle tickets. I also helped with cleaning off tables as people leave so others have seating. After the breakfast, I would help take down and clean up the shed. These events raise money to support the dairy industry, scholarships, 4-H clubs, and FFA.”

Painting the Marieke Gouda viewing Gallerg

Schmitz painted the viewing gallery at Marieke Gouda, a company that makes gouda cheese. Families are able to watch the cows being milked. The viewing gallery is a learning opportunity for those touring the farm to see where their milk comes from before it is made into cheese.

Heritage Days Kid Games

Schmitz helped kids aged 2-15 participate in many different games in the local park. This event is a community festival that is used to help raise money for community park improvements.

Dairy Days/End of Summerfest Clean Up

“I helped clean up all of the garbage and equipment set out for both events,” Schmitz said. “These events were done to raise money for community improvement and scholarships for high school students.”

Clark County Relay for Life

“I helped set out decorated luminary bags family members donated for loved ones who are fighting or have fought cancer,” Schmitz said. “I also helped with the concession stand to serve food to those who attended the event. This event is done to raise money for cancer research.”

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Obit: Gehrke, Beverly Ann (1962 - 2023)

Contact: Dolores (Mohr) Kenyon
E-mail: dolores@wiclarkcountyhistory.org
 
Surnames: Gehrke, Chadwick

----Source: Cremation Center (Madison, Dane Co., WI) 4/30/2023

Gehrke, Beverly Ann (7 September 1962 – 21 April 2023)

Beverly Ann Gehrke, age 60, crossed to the other side after 37 years of braving ovarian cancer on April 21, 2023.

Beverly (Bev) was born to Jeannette and Robert Chadwick in Neillsville, on September 7, 1962. She attended UW-Eau Claire, and afterwards moved to Madison where she met and married Michael Gehrke on September 5th, 1987. Less than a year later, she was diagnosed with stage 3-4 ovarian cancer. At the time, she was given 6 months to a year to live. Coincidentally, an acquaintance mentioned reading a medical magazine featuring a new treatment for cancer called argon coagulator, which is now a common treatment. With nothing to lose, she gave it a shot and it was a success in buying her much more time, along with advancements for cancer treatment. Throughout the years, she had another 8 operations along with heavy doses of chemotherapy and radiation, none of which slowed her down. She never complained and at times insisted on driving herself to treatments. She continued to earn two more degrees from UW Madison for radiology and ultrasound technician, and she developed a passion for exercising, moving her body, and building strength. She competed in the Boston Marathon in 2012 and the Ironman in Madison in 2007, the latter in which she completed only seven months after an operation and chemotherapy regimen. She also worked full time as an ultrasound tech for Saint Marys and Group Health Cooperative in Madison where she made many friends.

Bev made an impact on everyone she met with her infectious smile and laughter. She always made a point to show up for family and friends through her love and support and had a knack for making everyone around her feel comfortable in her presence. She was a friend to animals, and they were friends to her. Throughout the years, Bev and Mike traveled the world together, and had a love for one another that stood the test of time and cancer.

Special thanks to friends and family for their support, particularly most recently, and to our friends with Hospice who made the journey easier.

A casual celebration of life will be held at Lussier Family Heritage Center, 3101 Lake Farm Rd, Madison, WI, on June 10, 2023, from 2-6 pm. In lieu of flowers you can make a donation to Hospice or a charity of your choice in Bev’s name.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Beverly Ann Gehrke, please visit our flower store.

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Obit: Opelt, David A. (1955 - 2023)

Contact: Dolores (Mohr) Kenyon
E-mail: dolores@wiclarkcountyhistory.org 

Surnames: Opelt, Milkey, Spindler, Hornback, Eddy, Tews, Schuld

----Source: Crematory of Wisconsin (Altoona, Eau Claire Co., WI) 5/1/2023

Opelt, David A. (9 June 1955 – 21 April 2023)

David A. Opelt, age 67 of Neillsville, passed away on Friday, April 21, 2023.

He was born on June 9, 1955, in Neillsville to the late Rudolph and Marcella Opelt.

David was a simple man who loved simple things. He had a heart of gold and enjoyed being with his family and friends. His enjoyments were going on wheeler rides with his dog Gunner, watching the Brewers, Packers and Badgers, fishing, camping, horseshoes and a good corn roast. In his downtime, he enjoyed good music and the peace and tranquility of being at home with Gunner.

David was an expert cabinet maker. He made many over the years, some of which were placed in homes around Lake Arbutus.

He is survived by his children: Ryan (Penny) Milkey, Alison (Brian) Spindler, Amy Opelt and Brittany Opelt; grandchildren: James, AustynRose, Zoey, Mariyah, Cleo, Beau, Alfred, Stetson and Pearl; brothers: Richard, Bruce (Barb) and Randy (Michelle); sisters: Rosemary (Larry) Opelt and Susie Hornback; brother-in-law Hap Eddy. David was blessed with many aunt, uncles, cousins, and good friends. Preceding him in death are his parents; sister Cheryl Eddy; and his good friend Scott Tews.

A special thanks to Breanna Schuld with St. Croix hospice for the amazing care that was given.

A celebration of life will be held on Dave’s Birthday Friday, June 9 from 3:00 p.m. until - ? at the Snyder Lake Park in Neillsville.

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Obit: Sundermeyer, Sue Rita (1934 - 2023)

Contact: Dolores (Mohr) Kenyon
E-mail: dolores@wiclarkcountyhistory.org 

Surnames: Sundermeyer, Hendricks, Rolfing, Kowalski, Foster, Hurd, Grammer, Anderson

----Source: Gesche Funeral Home (Neillsville, Clark Co., WI) 5/1/2023

Sundermeyer, Sue Rita (29 March 1934 – 27 April 2023)

Sue Rita (Hendricks) Sundermeyer died peacefully on April 27, 2023, at the Neillsville Retirement Community in Neillsville.

She was born to Harry and Eva Hendricks in Rinard, Iowa, on March 29, 1934. Her family moved to Fort Dodge, Iowa, when Sue was 10 years of age, later graduating from Fort Dodge High School in 1951.

Sue worked as a nurse's aide at Mercy Hospital in Fort Dodge in the OB Nursery and Pediatrics Center and served as a teller at Fort Dodge Bank before marrying Leonard Harlan Sundermeyer in 1956. The couple then moved to Pensacola, Florida, where Harlan was stationed in the U.S. Navy, later moving back to Fort Dodge following his military service. Sue worked at a local radio station as a clerk and the couple farmed in both Bode and Humboldt, Iowa.

They started a family and moved to Wisconsin in 1961 to continue their love of farming in Dorchester and Curtiss. She worked as an aide at the Clark County Hospital in Owen, and then moved to Neillsville in 1977 where Sue worked as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) at Memorial Medical Center. In 1981, the family moved to Thermopolis, Wyoming, where she worked at the local nursing home and the Pioneer Home doing general housekeeping duties.

The family returned to Wisconsin in 1989 and Sue resumed her duties as a CNA for Memorial Medical before retiring. During her retirement she loved to knit, work on crafts and jigsaw puzzles, play cards, attend church services, and visit with her many friends and family members.

Sue and Harlan had six children: Steve (Barb Rolfing); Brenda (Mike Kowalski); Julie (Mark Foster); Richard (Kara Hurd), Karen; and Daniel (Erin Grammer). There are 14 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren, and she loved every one of them, often telling friends how proud she was of her wonderful family.

A celebration of life will be held at Calvary Lutheran Church in Neillsville on June 10, 2023, at 11 a.m. Pastor Chad Anderson will preside over the service, which includes a private interment at the Town of Holton (Christ Lutheran) Cemetery near Abbotsford. A visitation will be held prior to the service, beginning at 10 a.m.

Online condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com . Gesche Funeral Home and Cremation Service is assisting Sue's family with funeral arrangements.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Sue Sundermeyer, please visit our flower store.