20900, Clark County, Wisconsin History & Genealogy

----Source: Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home (Abbotsford, Clark Co., WI) 11/4/2024

Emily Pauline Bellendorf, age 80, of Colby and formerly of Medford, went to her Heavenly home to join Jim, her loving husband of 60 years, on Friday November 1, 2024, at VitaCare Living in Abbotsford under the tender care of Heartland Hospice.

Emily was born May 19, 1944, and raised alongside her three sisters on the family farmstead near Unity, attending and graduating from Colby High School in 1962, where she met and fell in love with her future husband. Soon afterward, they married and began a new life together in central Florida where she worked several jobs including business bookkeeping and bank clerk, before the arrival of Cathy and Bill. In the mid-1970s the family returned to the Colby area where Brian and Shawn were born. In 1991, the couple retired from farming and moved to rural Medford where Emily established a successful home daycare business, caring for many local children until 2008 when she was no longer able due to health issues. She later continued in the workforce for several years at Black River Industries. Throughout her lifetime she was a meaningful contributor to society, known for her boundless energy and strong work ethic, applying this to everything she set her mind to. Whether it be in the barn, the farm fields, or the kitchen cooking for a family of 6, she was the epitome of a strong, resilient, and ambitious woman.

Emily was extremely thoughtful and considerate of others, taking special joy in sending many cards and letters over the years and remembering and celebrating the birthdays of everyone she loved. Her many hobbies included creative arts like crafting and decorating, cooking and baking, quilting and sewing, and photography. She also enjoyed many camping trips with her family, and travel to places like Hawaii, California, Nashville, Branson, and Las Vegas where she was always lucky at the slots. A true Packer fan through and through, she never missed a game whether it was watching on tv or from the stands at Lambeau. She was especially passionate about country music, enjoying many years of country line dancing with friends and attending many Country Fests. Along with her husband, music was her constant and lifelong companion, and the radio her best friend.

We find comfort in knowing that Emily’s legacy lives on through the love she shared with us all, her unwavering generosity and service towards others, her authentic and relatable sense of humor, and her undying commitment to her husband and family. Her hugs were strong and warm, her beaming smile like a ray of sunshine, her laughter contagious. She was tough as nails when she needed to be and at the same time embodied adaptability, grace, and selflessness. Her kind nature and tenacious spirit live on in each of us as we remember her now and forever.

Emily will be missed dearly by her children: Cathy (Jeff) Litscher of Merrill, Bill (Nancy) Bellendorf of Medford, Brian Bellendorf of St Paul, MN, Shawn (Michelle) Bellendorf of Colby; grandchildren: Kaylin (Jessica) Felix, Adrian Felix, Olivia Felix, Gabe Felix, Terry Bellendorf, Ashley Bellendorf, Kendra (Robin) Weiss, and Riley Bellendorf, and several great-grandchildren; sisters: Elaine (Bob) Ruprich and Gloria (Ben) Klabunde and other family. She is preceded in death by her parents, a sister Rochelle, and her husband Jim.

A Memorial Service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 8, 2024, at Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford. Rev. Teri Hanson will officiate. A Celebration of her Life and a luncheon will follow immediately after at the funeral home.

Douglas Charles Braun was born in Marshfield, on November 13, 1934, to Herbert and Jessie (Hanson) Braun of Abbotsford where the family resided until 1944 when they moved to a farm south of Granton. Doug helped farm until age 17 when he moved to Milwaukee and worked as a cheesemaker. He returned to Granton and worked at Lynn Dairy for a time until his employment at Nelson Filter in 1971. He retired in 1995.

Doug was a volunteer firefighter for the Granton Fire Dept. for 16 years. He tilled gardens and enjoyed playing softball. He enjoyed cooking and liked to do woodworking projects. Doug was a member of St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Neillsville.

Doug is survived by his nephew, Dennis Braun of Slinger; his great nieces, Amanda Braun and Stephanie (Chad) Trezecinski, his great nephew, Ryan Braun and his 12 great, great nieces and nephews.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Neal Braun, who died May 11, 1981.

Doug had many friends and caregivers who helped him maintain his independence in the years after his retirement.

A Memorial Service for Doug will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 8, 2024, at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Neillsville, WI. Pastor Timothy Biebert will officiate. Interment will be in the Abbotsford City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., Friday at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Neillsville.

Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com. The Gesche Funeral Home is assisting Doug's family with funeral arrangements.

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

Ruth A. Fravert, age 64, of Loyal, passed away on Friday, November 1, 2024, at Three Oaks Health Services in Marshfield, surrounded by family.

Ruth Alma Fravert was born on December 8, 1959, in Marshfield, to Arthur H. and Kathryn E. (Hintz) Fravert. She was raised and received her education in Loyal, graduating from Loyal High School in 1978. After high school, Ruth worked at Greenwood Milk Products and later became employed at Lynn Dairy, where she worked for many years, retiring in November 2023. Ruth was a lifelong resident of Loyal.

She had many interests, but especially enjoyed creating a variety of crafts, which she gave to family members, was an avid reader, and a big “Lucille Ball” fan.

Ruth is survived by her brother: Frederic (Mary) Fravert of Merrill, two nieces: Charity (John) Anderson of Bowler and Katrina (Scott) Terrance of Merrill, two nephews: Clint Wiater of San Fransico, CA and Quentin (Kelly) Fravert of Appleton, other relatives and friends. Ruth will be sadly missed by her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Arthur and Kathryn Fravert; her sister: Sue (Chester) Wiater; and her nephew: Derrick Fravert.

A Celebration of Life for Ruth will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the American Legion in Loyal, WI.

William A. Kopperud, 69, of Willard, died on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at his home.

William “Bill” Anglemire Kopperud was born on February 19, 1955, in California the son of William and Dorothy (Anglemire) Kopperud. He was raised in Naperville, IL where he attended Joliet Junior College, graduating with a degree in agricultural business studies. He and his wife, Carol (Erlandson) then settled in west-central Wisconsin, where they raised their two children. Bill was known for his love of the outdoors and his infectious hearty laugh. Often, he could be found telling stories to any and all who would listen. Bill was also known as being an exceptionally generous person and always looked for ways to help others. The community will surely feel the loss of this man who touched so many lives.

He is survived by his wife, Carol of Willard, a son, Clay (Hailie) Kopperud of Eau Claire, and a daughter, Elly (Devin) Edwards of Helechal, Puerto Rico, sisters, Maryanna Parson, Nancy Masterson and a brother, David Kopperud.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Sunday, November 10, 2024, at his son’s home, 1030 City View Dr., Eau Claire, WI 54701.

Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com. The Gesche Funeral Home is assisting Bill’s family with funeral arrangements.

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

Marion Paul passed away on November 1, 2024, at the age of 92 at Colby Senior Care in Colby. Born on January 4, 1932, in the Town of Little Black, Marion was married to Robert Paul on October 14, 1953, at St. Bernards Catholic Church in Abbotsford.

Marion is survived by a loving family including her sons Mark (Laura), Randy and Tom (Deb); her grandson Tyler Paul (Nicki) and great granddaughter Ember; her grandson Logan Paul (Cheyanna) and great grandchildren Shayla and Jayden.

She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents, Edward and Louise (Fountain) Habermeyer; stepmother, Doll Habermeyer; and siblings: Emery, Bill, Pat (Melvin) Gebert, Ruth (Wayne) Bischel and Dorothy (Ev) Sonsalla.

Marion’s life was defined by her devotion to her faith and her commitment to her family.

A private celebration of Marion’s life will be held at a later date. The family appreciates expressions of sympathy and asks that any contributions in her memory be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Catherine A. Rainey, age 72, of Loyal, passed away at Marshfield Medical Center, in Marshfield, on Tuesday, October 22, 2024.

Catherine Ann Hansen was born on December 29, 1951, in Libertyville, IL to Henry W. and June V. (Petersen) Hansen. he was raised and received her education in Chicago. After completing her education, Cathy held various jobs, but most of her working years were as a bartender, which she enjoyed greatly. She was united in marriage to David E. Rainey on October 16, 1994, in Chicago. They moved to Loyal, in 2004, and have resided there since.

She was a former member of the American Legion Auxiliary Post #252 in Chicago. Cathy had many interests, but especially loved spending time with her family and friends, her cats, car rides, driving people around, and taking care of people.

Cathy will be dearly missed by her husband, David, of Loyal; 2 sons: Paul Prusinski of Oshkosh, Stanley Prusinski of Marshfield, 4 stepsons: Mark Cross of Iron Mountain, MI, David Cross of Elmwood Park, IL, Michael Cross and William Cross, both of Fayetteville, TN; 11 grandchildren; 6 step grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; 5 step great-grandchildren; one brother, Bobby (Claudia) Hansen of Twin Lakes, one sister, Cindy Hansen of Chicago; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Barbara Kitelinger; and 3 brothers: Ronald, Michael, and Thomas Hansen.

Funeral services will be held at Cuddie Funeral Home, in Loyal, on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at 12 p.m., with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until time of service.

Emmalee Empey from Abbotsford, a student studying economics at the UW-Whitewater, is among the scholarship recipients for the 2024–25 academic year.

“On behalf of the UW-Whitewater Foundation board of directors, I extend heartfelt congratulations to this year’s scholarship recipients,” said Katie Kuznacic, president of the UW-Whitewater Foundation. “Since 1962, thousands of individuals, families, friends, and organizations have generously contributed to make these financial awards possible. Their unwavering support plays a vital role in the success of our students and the lasting impact UW-Whitewater alumni have on the economy.

“Each year, the significance of their contributions is felt through the life-changing scholarships awarded. We are grateful to all of our donors for their continued commitment to UW-Whitewater students.”

The UW-Whitewater Foundation awarded more than $2.5 million in scholarships to students this academic year.

Zander Engel from Colby is among the student musicians who are part of the University of Wisconsin (UW)-Whitewater Warhawk Marching Band for the 2024–25 academic year.

Engel, who is studying history education at UW-Whitewater, is part of the trombone section in the marching band.

The Warhawk Marching Band performs at all UW-Whitewater football regular season home games and other select campus and community events during the fall semester. UW-Whitewater hosts the annual Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) State Marching Band Championships every October.

Last season, the Warhawk Marching Band performed at halftime of a Green Bay Packers game at Lambeau Field.

The marching band is one of several musical ensembles at the university. In addition to Lambeau Field, UW-Whitewater’s ensembles perform in other famous venues around the world, including Carnegie Hall in New York City, the Symphony Center in Chicago, and at venues in Germany, Poland and England.

The Warhawk Marching Band is directed by Glenn “Doc” Hayes, a professor of music in the university’s college of arts and communication who has also held the role of director of bands since 1987. He is the second person in history to be inducted into the WSMA Marching Band Hall of Fame. Tobie Wilkinson, senior lecturer of music in the college, leads UW-Whitewater’s percussion studio and serves as associate director of the marching band.

The Minnesota Beef Expo awarded 11 heifers to youth through the Minnesota Youth Beef Experience Program (MYBEP) Oct. 19. From a pool of 77 applications, each recipient was selected based on their “passion for agriculture, commitment to raising a heifer, financial need and willingness to learn.”

Recipients are responsible for raising, breeding and maintaining records on the care of the animal, while providing progress reports to their mentor, breed representative and Minnesota Beef Expo staff. Donors of the heifers will serve as mentors to MYBEP recipients.

Since the start of the program 20 years ago, MYBEP has awarded a total of 180 heifers.

One of the 2024 MYBEP heifer recipients was Tatym Travis of Greenwood, who received a Simmental heifer donated by Oak Meadow Farms, Dr. Lynn, Barb, Matt, Jessica, Hunter and Garrett Aggen of Harmony, MN, on behalf of the Minnesota Simmental Association.

The recipients will compete for the MYBEP Achievement Award at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair.

For further information on the Minnesota Beef Expo and MYBEP, visit mnbeefexpo.com or contact Karmen Sperr at karmen.sperr@mnstatefair.org.

Just over 1,300 students received doctoral, bachelor’s, master’s and professional degrees in August 2024 from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, such as Erin Voss of Dorchester, college of letters and science, with a bachelor of science degree in biology.

Thomas J. Haacke, to Rachel L> Miles, both of City of Neillsville, Oct. 28, in Wood County.

Joshua L. Stuber, to Katrina E, Daly, both of City of Greenwood, Oct. 25, at the City of Abbotsford.

Volunteering is a noble thing. To help others in need is something small town community folks do willingly. When people volunteer, they encourage others to volunteer, then many hands can get a lot of work done. With so many available helpers, many elderly/disabled people in the community can receive the help they need.

On Saturday Oct. 26, the Fall Change of Seasons Volunteer Event brought out about 30 volunteers. Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers of Clark County, St. Mary’s Catholic Church Justice and Peace Committee, local churches, organizations and individuals gathered at United Church of Christ in Neillsville. They enjoyed breakfast and later visited area residents to help rake leaves and clean gutters.

A long-term helper, Ray Pagenkopf, helped blow leaves and clean gutters. “I look forward to being able to do this,” he said. Pagenkopf has been helping with the Fall Change of Seasons for 20 years. “People are very appreciative. I couldn’t imagine myself not doing it.”

Pagenkopf wasn’t alone. He teamed up with Jim Heck. Together, they got the work done.

“It’s nice being able to help,” said Heck. “Folks come to the door and smile.” Heck realizes as people age, they need assistance. “As a guy gets older, he might need some help,” he said. Heck brought his leaf blower to remove leaves and debris from residents’ gutters.

The next Change of Seasons volunteer day will be held in the spring. For more information on Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers of Clark County, contact Judy Morrow 715-503-1005.