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Obit: Dick, Bernard V. Sr. (1935- 2024)

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

Surnames: Dick, Fischer, Gliniecki, Christiansen, Sitko, Mueller, Becker

----Source: Marshfield News-Herald (Marshfield, Wood Co., WI) 2/7/2024

Dick, Bernard V. Sr. (9 March 1935 – 30 January 2024)

Bernard V. Dick Sr. 88, Mosinee, passed away on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital, with his family by his side.

Bernard was born on March 9, 1935, son of the late Jacob and Marion (Fischer) Dick. He married Geraldine Gliniecki on Oct. 25, 1958, at St. Adalbert Catholic Church in Little Rose; she preceded him in death on August 6, 2014.

Yes, you read his easy to pronounce last name correctly and as Bernie would boom , “I’m the only walking, talking one you’ll ever see!”. Though that’s not quite correct. He was born the third of 17 children: Gerald, Alice, Barbara Joy, John (Hunts), Mary, Lawrence, Frances, Margaret, Teresa, Virgeen, Jacob, Daniel, Kathy, Joseph, Lorraine, Robert.

Bernie traveled across the US as a “Highway Transportation Engineer”. Driving semi for Glendenning, Haupt Contract Carriers, and SNE. As much as he enjoyed his adventures on the road, the best part of his week was coming home to our cartwheels and cheers as he rolled down the driveway.

Many will remember Bernie’s quick wit, mischievous grin, and infectious laugh. And we can’t forget all the Bernie-isms shared throughout the years … pee pumpkin (watermelon), dog nuts (donut holes), Granty (grandma), munkus boys/girls (his grandkids), brother long nose (collie dog) … to name a few. To know Bernie was to get a nickname. All who met him were blessed with one. Bernie loved the outdoors, deer hunting, and holding court at deer camp. His echoing, opening day, call of “Daylight in the swamp, poys!” will hit differently this year. He enjoyed his horses and owned a few Arabians along with a Percheron/Quarter horse he trained to skid logs out of the woods where his tractor couldn’t go.

Dad, you’ve taken us on one heck of a ride. Thanks for all the memories and life lessons. Your values and creative, straight forward way of seeing the world lives in us. We love you. It’s time for you to make your final drive home to cartwheels and hugs from Mom, Logan, and the rest of your family who have been waiting patiently for you. Rest easy. 10-4. We’ll see you on the flip side.

Survivors include one son, Bernard (Angie) Dick Jr, Marathon; three daughters, Valerie (Rick) Christiansen, Ringle, Linda (Randy) Christiansen, Weston, and Michele (John) Sitko, Kronenwetter; grandchildren, Lindsey, Jenna and Sam Dick, Raymond, Royce and Rueben Christiansen, Radney, Ross and Rock Christiansen and Jesslynn and Jayde Sitko; great grandchild, Paige Mueller.

Bernard was preceded in death by a grandson, Logan Dick, 4 brothers, Gerald, John (Hunts), Dan, Robert and 1 sister, Lorraine.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday, February 16, 2024, at St Paul Catholic Church, Mosinee, at 10:30 a.m. The Rev. Aaron Becker will officiate. Visitation will take place from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service all at the church. Beste Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be directed to the family at www.bestefh.com.

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Obit: Dick, Lawrence E. “Larry” (1940- 2024)

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

Surnames: Dick, Fischer, LaSee, Vigueras

----Source: Life Tributes Funeral Home (Spencer, Clark Co., WI) 2/8/2024

Dick, Lawrence E. “Larry” (11 April 1944 – 6 February 2024) With Flag

Lawrence “Larry” E. Dick, 83, passed away February 6, 2024, at the House of the Dove in Marshfield under the care of Compassus Hospice.

Larry was born April 11, 1940, to Jacob and Marion (Fischer) Dick in Marshfield. Larry attended St. John’s and Columbus Catholic High School, graduating Class of 1958. He then enlisted and served in the US Navy until his honorable discharge. On February 16, 1963, he was united in marriage to Donna LaSee at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Marshfield. They were married for 60 years. Larry worked as a pipe fitter employed by Local 434, Plumbers and Pipe fitters.

Larry was a lifetime member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Marshfield as well as a member of the American Legion Post 54 in Marshfield.

He loved football, softball and hunting as well as going up north and staying at their lake cottage. He also enjoyed attending the steak dinners with his friends and comrades at the American Legion Post 54 in Marshfield.

Larry is lovingly survived by his wife, Donna; his children, Russell, Amy, and Christopher (Meghan); his daughter-in-law, Dawn and his grandchildren, Tyler (Ana), Ryan (Anne), Melissa, Ashley, Kacey and Molly; his great-granddaughter, Brinlee. He is further survived by his brothers, Jake and Joe and his sisters, Alice, Joy, Mary, Franny, Margaret, Teresa, Jeanne and Kathy along with many other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jacob and Marion Dick; his son, Gregory; his grandson, Kyle; his brothers, Jerry, John, Dan and Bernard and two infant siblings.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Marshfield with Rev. Arturo Vigueras officiating. A private committal service will be held at a later date. Following the Mass, full military honors will be conducted by Larry’s comrades from American Legion Post 54 of Marshfield. Family and friends are invited to gather for a time of visitation at the church on Tuesday from 9:30 A.M. until time of service.

Larry’s arrangements are under the care of Life Tributes Funeral Home-Spencer. To share a memory or offer condolences, please visit www.lifetributesfuneralhome.com. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lawrence "Larry", please visit our floral store.

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Obit: Flora, Brett D. (1952 - 2024)

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

Surnames: Flora, Bivans, Arnold

----Source: Plombon-Funeral Service (Stanley, Chippewa Co., WI) 2/8/2024

Flora, Brett D. (12 June 1952 – 5 February 2024)

Brett D. Flora, 71 of Stanley, died Monday, February 5, 2024, at Turner Integrity Care-Thorp of natural causes.

He was born on June 12, 1952, to the late Clayton and Laurel (Bivans) Flora. When Brett was about 6½ years old he had a stroke and had to re-learn everything basically starting from scratch. He attended McDonough School for the Handicapped in Eau Claire through 7th grade and then was able to finish up schooling in Thorp following that with 2 years at River Falls for college.

Brett spent a lot of time with his grandparents, Loran & Muriel Bivans, helping out on the farm by driving tractor, haying, filling silo, threshing and other things as needed until he got his full-time job. He worked for nearly 30 years at the Blue Moon Cheese Factory in Thorp and then for Saputo Cheese in Almena, WI until his retirement.

Brett loved cars and was able to identify what make/model was driving toward him on the road. He especially enjoyed the muscle cars of the 50’s through the early 70’s. Brett also had a deep interest in guns, and would sometimes just show up at a friend’s house asking if they wanted to go shooting. He enjoyed traveling, sometimes with friends and sometimes to visit friends and enjoyed their surprise when he just showed up with no warning.

He is survived by his brother, Kent (Theresa) Flora of Medford and his sister, Michelle (Loyed Arnold) Flora of Stanley and his nephews Jason (Anna) Flora and Justin (Liz) Flora along with 4 great nieces and nephews with another on the way.

A memorial service officiated by Rev. Loyed Arnold will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at Grace Community Bible Church-Stanley. Visitation will begin at 10:30 a.m. with the service at 11:30 a.m. followed by a lunch. Burial will take place at a later date.

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Obit: Spaeth, Gerald R. (1946 - 2024)

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

Surnames: Spaeth, Knoeck, Nikolai, Greenwald, Luepke, Schoenherr, Cole, Plaskey, Connor, McCumber, Saylor

----Source: Rembs Funeral Home (Marshfield, Wood Co., WI) 2/3/2024

Spaeth, Gerald R. (25 September 1946 – 7 February 2024) With Flag

Gerald R. Spaeth, age 77, Spencer, passed away on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at House of the Dove, Marshfield.

Gerald was born on September 25, 1946, in Stratford, to Alphonse and Alvina (Knoeck) Spaeth and was a 1964 graduate of Stratford High School. He married Lorraine A. Nikolai on October 19, 1968, at St. John’s Catholic Church, Marshfield. She died on October 14, 1992. He later married Donna M. Greenwald Cole on June 8, 2002.

Gerald served in the National Guard from 1964 - 1970. He prided himself on being a hard worker, evident by his 50 years with the Stratford Co-op. In addition, he kept the family farm going, first raising beef cattle and then milking cows for a number of years. He was an avid sports fan and proudly passed that passion onto his children and grandchildren. His favorite teams were the Stratford Tigers and Minnesota Twins, but he loved any ballgame and played fast-pitch softball himself until he was 42, stepping off the field to be at the fields where his kids played. He followed football, was at the infamous Ice Bowl, always wore his Badger cap, “bowled a few games” in men’s and mixed couples leagues and picked up the golf clubs on occasion. Aside from sports, his greatest pastimes were a lawn chair, his grill, and his AM radio - static and all. He enjoyed camping and anything that involved his family.

He is survived by his wife, Donna of Spencer, and his children, Kristine (Dan) Luepke, Kurt Spaeth, Kari (Tim) Schoenherr and Kevin Spaeth, all of Stratford, and a stepdaughter, Michelle Cole of Spencer. He is also survived by seven grandchildren, Darrin (McKenzie) Luepke, Lorrie Luepke, Drew (Tori) Spaeth, Sadie (fiance – Alex) Spaeth, Brooke Spaeth, Dylan Schoenherr and Dalton Schoenherr, two step grandchildren Kaydence and Danica Plaskey and two great grandchildren, Reese and Emmett Spaeth. He is further survived by a brother, Gilbert (Lois) Spaeth of Marshfield and a sister, Ellen Connor of Rothschild.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Lorraine, a sister, Lorraine in infancy, brothers, Harold and Larry Spaeth and a sister, Joanne McCumber.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at Christ the King Catholic Church, Spencer, where there will be a gathering for family and friends from 9:00 a.m. until service time. Rev. Barry Saylor will officiate. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Town of Eau Pleine, Marathon County. Rembs Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Memorials may be designated to House of the Dove.

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Obit: Wren, Amy R. (1975 - 2024)

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

Surnames: Wren. Bollom, Bentancur, Klawiter, Sedevic, Reigel, Erdmann, Bauer

----Source: Apfel-Ehlert Funeral Home (Edgerton, Rock Co., WI) 2/7/2024

Wren, Amy R. (26 December 1975 – 1 February 2024)

Amy R. Wren, age 48, of Edgerton, passed away on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at home surrounded by her family.

She was born on December 26, 1975, in Eau Claire, the daughter of Larry and JoAnn (Bollom) Wren. She was a 1994 graduate of Neillsville High School.

Amy attended Northland College where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in environmental science in 1997. She worked as a scientist and project manager at ECCI, an environmental consulting agency. Amy then decided to change careers and received her BSN from Edgewood College in 2009. She began her nursing career at Oakwood East in Madison, WI. She transitioned to part-time at Oakwood, while accepting an RN position in the emergency room at Edgerton Hospital. Amy jumped right into her new role and took on other jobs, including interim manager, night shift lead, nurse preceptor, and CPR instructor. She cross trained in several different departments and shared her knowledge with others while volunteering at charity events.

Amy married Joseph R. Bentancur on August 28, 2010, at Edgerton United Methodist Church. They remained in Edgerton, building their life and adding twin girls in 2012. She became active in the Edgerton United Methodist Church as well as the Yahara Community Club. She shared her love of camping, hunting, and fishing with her family. Amy will be remembered as a truly fierce woman. She was brave and kind, funny and selfless – A rock to all who knew her. Amy was a loving wife, mother, daughter, aunt, friend, and the best big sister.

Amy is survived by her husband, Joseph; twin daughters: Ella and Marie; mother, JoAnn Wren (Bollom) of Neillsville; 3 sisters: Sheri Wren of Cambridge, Michelle (Bryan) Klawiter of Milton, and Janel (Mark) Sedevic of Chicago; nieces: Abby, Allison, Mary, and Angelica; nephew: Christian; in-laws: Robert and Georgine Bentancur, Patrick and Elizabeth Bentancur, Michael Bentancur, Jennifer Bentancur; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her father Larry Wren; niece: Olivia Reigel; aunts: Patsy Wren, Barbara Erdmann (Bollom), and Judy Wren; uncle: Fred Bauer; and grandparents: Ellsworth and Rose Bollom and Gilbert and Louise Wren.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at APFEL EHLERT FUNERAL HOME, 315 Lord St. (Hwy 51) Edgerton. Visitation will be held on Friday, March 15, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home and again on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the family for the care and future education of her beloved daughters and would be appreciated. For on-line condolences: www.apfelfuneral.com.

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Obit: Boss, Betty Jean Marie (1929 - 2024)

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

Surnames: Boss, Karsten, Kraut, Timmerman, Petersen, Lampi, Keller, Schultz, Bruce

----Source: Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home (Abbotsford, Clark Co., WI) 2/12/2024

Boss, Betty Jean Marie (30 July 1929 – 10 February 2024)

Betty Jean Marie Boss passed away peacefully Saturday, February 10, 2024, at the age of 94 under the tender care of St. Croix Hospice. The Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford is entrusted with the arrangements.
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Betty Jean was born July 30, 1929, to Elsie (Karsten) and Franklin Kraut. Born at just 3 pounds, the size of a cigar box not expected to live. Her Mother and Grandmother cared and nursed her to health. Betty grew to be quite a survivor.

As a young girl Betty Jean lived in Curtiss, above the Deer View Tavern with Grandparents, parents, and aunts. Franklin and Elsie moved to Medford, where Betty went to grade school. The war broke out and the family moved to a farm near Owen, where Betty Jean attended High School, graduating in 1947. Betty Jean continued her education at Teacher College in Medford. After completing her training she taught in a one room school house where she had to carry water and tend a fire to stay warm.

September 29, 1951, Betty Jean married Ernest C. Boss of Abbotsford. They made their home on a farm just outside Abbotsford where they worked side by side and raised their four children. Betty Jean stayed on the farm until November 2021. Betty took a job at DHIA in Colby in 1979 where she retired from.

Betty Jean has been a long time member of Christ Lutheran Church in Abbotsford. She loved her petunias in the summer, enjoyed sewing, reading and baking the perfect batch of bread.

Betty Jean is survived by her children: Susan (Harley) Timmerman of Hudson, Sandra (Dan) Petersen of Cross Plains, Donald Boss of Abbotsford, Jean Ann (Matt) Lampi of Owen. Her grandchildren: Tyler (Valerie) Petersen of Burlington, Quinten (Megan) Petersen of Wauwatosa, Courtney (Lucas) Keller of Waukesha, Ryan Lampi of Owen, and five great-Grandchildren. She is further survived by a sister, Bunee (Kraut) Schultz of Rice Lake. Betty was preceded in death by husband, Ernest in November of 1979; her parents; her sister, Beverley Kraut in 2021 and many other loved ones young and old.

Funeral service will be held in honor of Betty Jean at Christ Lutheran Church in Abbotsford on Monday, February 19, at 11:00 a.m. with visitation starting at 10:00. The Reverend Donald Bruce will officiate. A luncheon will be served at the church after interment, all are welcome.

Memorials given in Betty’s name will go to Christ Lutheran Church.

The family would like to thank the caring and compassionate staff of Colby Senior Care and those visiting with Mom from St. Croix Hospice these last few months.

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

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Obit: Reierson, Kristin J. (1974 - 2024)

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

Surnames: Reierson, Fullerton, Rivera

----Source: Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home (Abbotsford, Clark Co., WI) 2/13/2024

Reierson, Kristin J. (21 July 1974 – 8 February 2024)

Kristin J. Reierson, age 49, of Dorchester, passed away unexpectedly on February 8, 2024, at her home.

Kristin was born on July 21, 1974, the daughter of Robert and Pauline (Fullerton) Reierson, in McHenry, IL. Kristin is survived by her two sons: David Rivera and Dylan Reierson of GA; her parents: Robert and Pauline Reierson of IL; her two brothers: Timothy J. Reierson and Jeffrey R. Reierson of IL; and, her sister, Kathleen M. Reierson, of NC.

Friends may send online condolences to www.maurinaschilling.com.  The Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford is entrusted with the arrangements.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Kristin, please visit our Tree Store.

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Obit: Vandeberg, John Hale “Jack” (1940 - 2024)

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

Surnames: Vandeberg, Altenburg, Dietz, Friemoth, Duerr, Sydel, Mayer, Huth, Zimmerman, Niskanen

----Source: Gesche Funeral Home (Neillsville, Clark Co., WI) 2/12/2024

Vandeberg, John Hale “Jack” (25 April 1940 – 10 February 2024)

John "Jack" Vandeberg, age 83, of Granton, died Saturday, February 10, 2024, in the Palliative Care Unit of the Marshfield Medical Center in Marshfield.

John "Jack" Hale Vandeberg was born on April 25, 1940, to Chris and Florence (Altenburg) Vandeberg. He was united in marriage to Marjorie Dietz on November 5, 1960, at the Methodist Parsonage in Neillsville. They were married 60 years until her passing on June 4, 2021.

Jack loved to go fishing and hunting, during which he got a deer with a recurve bow in 1966. He also loved to go riding on his motorcycle with the Huth boys, and hear the stories they would tell. After he bought the farm, he enjoyed going snowmobile riding on a Saturday night.

In his early years, Jack hauled can milk for Harold Mayer, and also rented a farm in the Town of Levis. He later worked at the Nelson Muffler Factory as a welder until they bought the family farm in Granton, where they raised their five children. He was a proud farmer, working from sunrise to sunset.

After he retired from farming, he started another chapter in his life, working with the Amish hauling tin for E-Jay. And, as if he didn't have enough to do, he bought a grain truck and started hauling wood for the Amish until very recently, when his health wouldn't allow him to continue. He truly enjoyed his time with his extended Amish family. When Jack did have down time, he loved to watch western movies. Truly a life well-lived.

He was a member of the Zion American Lutheran Church in Granton. He was also a former member of the Granton FFA Alumni.

He is survived by his children, Jim (Donna) Vandeberg of Granton, Barb (Brian) Friemoth of Neillsville, Debbie Vandeberg of Granton, and Bob (Jenny) Vandeberg of Granton, 7 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, two sisters, Dolly (Jim) Duerr and JoAnn (Monty) Sydel both of Athens, and a special friend, E-Jay.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marjorie, a son, Terry, a grandson, Ryan Vandeberg, his parents, Chris and Florence Vandeberg and a sister, Gloria.

A special thank you is given to the doctors and nurses at Marshfield Medical Center in Marshfield.

A Memorial Service for Jack will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 17, 2024, at the Zion American Lutheran Church in Granton. Pastor Daniel Zimmerman will officiate. Music will be provided by Shelby Niskanen, organist. Visitation will be from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., Saturday at the church. A livestream of Jack's memorial service can be viewed at www.geschefh.com  beginning at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 17th.

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

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

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Obit: Hodges, Judith Ann (1941 - 2024)

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

Surnames: Hodges, Schultz, Ehlers, Fletcher, Burkard, Weisenthal, McGivern, Rasmovicz, Stacy, Black, Ziehr, Johnston

----Source: Marshfield News-Herald (Marshfield, Wood Co., WI) 2/21/2024

Hodges, Judith Ann (12 June 1941 – 20 February 2024)

Ishpeming- Judith Ann Hodges, age 82, longtime Ishpeming, MI resident, passed away on Tuesday February 20, 2024, at UP Health System Marquette.

Judith was born in Neillsville, WI on June 12, 1941, daughter of the late William and Lois (Shultz) Ehlers. She grew up in the Marshfield, WI area and graduated from Marshfield High School with the class of 1959. She married James Hodges on August 16, 1960. Judith worked briefly at the Marshfield Clinic before the family relocated to the Ishpeming area where she owned and operated Rollies Furniture store until she was 81 years old.

Judith was a member and volunteer at Bethel Lutheran Church in Ishpeming, she volunteered for the Bell Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, and was a member of the DDA for the city of Ishpeming. She enjoyed quilting, doing ceramics in her younger years, going to camp and going for pontoon boat rides on the Dead River, gardening, canning, and feeding her family. Judith’s greatest joy in life was taking care of her family.

Judith is survived by her son- Kevin (Shawn) Hodges, 6 grandchildren- Ben (Janine Cece) and Clarissa (Crystal Fletcher) Hodges, Allissa (Brett Burkard) and Marcus Hodges, Jordan and Isaac Hodges, 3 great grandchildren- Liam, Grace, and Noah Bogart brother- Robert Ehlers, brother-in-law- Bill Weisenthal, 2 sisters-in-law- Judy McGivern and Cristel Hodges, 2 daughters-in-law- Tracy Rasmovicz, and Goldie Stacy, along with several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband- James Hodges, son- Kenton Hodges, sister- Janis (Col. Edward Ret.) Black, sisters-in-law- Joyce Weisenthal and Shirley Ziehr, brother-in-law- Kenneth Hodges, and granddaughters- Camilla and Daniella Hodges.

Judith’s family will greet relatives and friends at the Bethel Lutheran Church on Saturday February 24, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. with Rev. Tim Johnston officiating. A luncheon will follow in the church hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to UPAWS in memory of Judith.

Judith’s obituary may also be viewed at www.bjorkandzhulkie.com  where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.

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Obit: Jacobson, Alene F. “Ellie” (1948 - 2024)

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

Surnames: Jacobson, Barna, Filut, Seaman, Boecker, Jensen, Tadych

----Source: Rembs Funeral Home (Marshfield, Wood Co., WI) 2/20/2024

Jacobson, Alene F. “Ellie” (2 August 1948 – 17 February 2024)

Alene “Ellie” F. Jacobson, age 75, Pittsville, passed away peacefully, with family at her side on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at Marshfield Medical Center.

Ellie was born on August 2, 1948, in Vesper, to Leonard and Mary (Barna) Filut. She was a 1966 graduate of Lincoln High School, Wisconsin Rapids, and later attended Mid State Technical School in Marshfield. She was united in marriage to Jerry J. Jacobson on October 24, 1970, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Pittsville.

Ellie served as Clerk for the Town of Sherwood from 1983 until 2023. She was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Town of Sherwood, and the Ladies Aid. Ellie also farmed with her husband Jerry. She had a love for all animals, but her cats were her favorite. She also enjoyed spending time with family, playing cards, bingo, puzzles, and was gifted with a green thumb in gardening.

She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Jerry, and their children, Lance (Trina) Jacobson, Jarvis (Heather) Jacobson and Angela Jacobson, all of Pittsville. She is also survived by eight grandchildren, Joshua (Andy), Brandon (Jenny), Alexis, Delaney, Madalyn, Aiden, Kaylie and Holly and four great grandchildren. She is further survived by twin siblings, Leonard (Lorene Seaman) Filut of Madison, and Charlotte (Greg Jacobson) Filut of Scandinavia, and sisters, Jean (Ed Boecker) Filut of Appleton, and Suzanne (Peter Jensen) Filut of Rio. She was preceded in death by her parents, and a sister and brother-in-law, Marilyn and Paul Tadych.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date and burial will be later in St. Paul’s Lutheran Cemetery, Sherwood.

Ellie was a special person who will be missed by all of us lucky enough to have known her. May she rest in peace.

“Each tear I shed for you holds immeasurable love.”

Condolences may be sent online to www.rembsfh.com.

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Obit: Meihack, Roger William “Rog” (1940 - 2024)

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

Surnames: Meihack, Barton, Effinger, Chamberlin, Zimdars, Kohner, Rogers, Buchsteiner, Storm

----Source: Clark County Press (Neillsville, Clark Co., WI) 2/21/2024

Meihack, Roger William “Rog” (30 April 1940 – 8 February 2024) With Flag

Roger William Meihak, affectionately known as "Rog", passed away peacefully on February 8, 2024, at the age of 83. He was surrounded by his loving family at his home in Forest Lake, Minnesota.

Roger was born on April 30, 1940, in Neillsville, to William and Clara Meihak. Growing up on a farm, Roger developed a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He was baptized at Pine Valley Lutheran Church. He attended Hillside School and later graduated from Neillsville High School. Roger's passion for electronics led him to pursue further education in the field. Rog proudly served in the United States Air Force Reserve. He studied propeller repair and was honorably discharged after six years of service.

Roger’s first job was at Fullerton Lumber Company where he hauled coal for $1 an hour. In his professional life, Roger found fulfillment as a Xerox technician. For 28 years, he dedicated his time and expertise to the Xerox industry. Colleagues remember him for his unwavering commitment and willingness to go above and beyond to help others.

Beyond his professional achievements, Roger was a devoted family man. In 1968, he married the love of his life, Lois Barton. They met during a dance at Schlief’s Little City. Always quick witted, when Lois introduced herself, Rog replied by telling her “On the farm, I had a cute Guernsey cow named Lois.” They built a beautiful life together, residing in their cherished home in Forest Lake, Minnesota, surrounded by five acres of serene landscape. Roger and Lois shared countless treasured memories and adventures, but their most prized possession was their unwavering love for one another.

Throughout their lives, Roger and Lois had a passion for travel. Exploring the scenic wonders of different states and countries brought them immense joy. Travel adventures to Mexico, The Caribbean, China, Alaska, Scandinavia, Morocco, and Turkey created lasting memories.

Roger's zest for life extended beyond his personal endeavors and into his community. He was a beloved figure in his neighborhood, known for his selflessness and kind-hearted nature. Always ready to lend a helping hand, Roger’s neighbors fondly referred to their community as “Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood”. His compassionate acts and unwavering generosity touched the lives of many, making him an inspiration to all who knew him.

In reflecting on his life, Roger expressed gratitude for surviving heart surgery at the age of 75. He considered it a second chance to help others and make a difference in the lives of those around him. His mission in life was clear: to selflessly serve the community until the very end.

Roger will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Lois, who was his rock and soul mate throughout their 55 years of marriage. He leaves behind his cherished memories with his devoted sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Connie (Kent) Effinger, nieces, Carol (Wendell) Chamberlin, Jeanene (Denny) Zimdars, Kathy (Ron) Kohner, Kelly (Luke) Rogers; nephews, Rick Buchsteiner, Brian (Chris) Storm, Kyle (Tina) Effinger; and many other family and friends who admired him greatly. He is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Evelyn Buchsteiner, Margaret Rockwood, Lorraine Storm; nephews, Gary Buchsteiner, Denny Buchsteiner.

A private family service will be held with interment at Grace Bible Church Cemetery, Silver Lake, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a favorite charity of your choice: Folds of Honor, or Union Gospel Mission.

Roger William Meihak's life was one of compassion, celebration, and a deep commitment to helping others. His presence touched many lives, and his legacy of kindness will continue to inspire generations to come. He has now embarked on his final journey, leaving behind a trail of beautiful memories that will forever remain in our hearts.

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

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Obit: Smock, Michael Lawrence (1942 - 2024)

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

Surnames: Smock, Bender, Free, Henchen, Krejci, Boon, Schneider, Schmidt

----Source: Gesche Funeral Home (Neillsville, Clark Co., WI) 2/20/2024

Smock, Michael Lawrence (27 September 1942 – 17 February 2024) With Flag

Michael Smock, age 81, of Neillsville, died Saturday, February 17, 2024, at the Marshfield Medical Center in Neillsville.

Michael Lawrence Smock was born on September 27, 1942, at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Youngstown, Ohio the son of Lawrence and Hildegard (Bender) Smock. When Michael was young, he and his parents moved to Appleton, where he graduated from high school in 1960. Mike served in the United States Army from May 13, 1964, to May 12, 1966, and was decorated as a sharpshooter. When he returned home from the service, he bought a tavern in Oshkosh. It was here that he met Sandy Free; they were united in marriage on June 5, 1968. They moved to Oconto, and Mike began his career selling boats for Cruisers Inc. They moved to Neillsville, Sandy's hometown, to raise their two children, Mandy and Thomas. Mike continued selling boats, and he helped Brian and Judy Schmidt out at the White Horse Restaurant bartending and entertaining with magic tricks. He lost his wife, Sandy in 2005, and later, he united with his life-partner, Bonnie Henchen.

Mike was a member of the Haugen-Richmond American Legion Post #73, the Winx Conservation Club of Wisconsin and the Neillsville Country Club, where he was long referred to as the "club pro". For many years at the Club, he taught lessons, worked with the youth golf program and helped out in any way he could, often with his beloved, well-trained, labs by his side. Mike enjoyed taking pictures of almost anything, but especially sporting events, senior pictures and nature pictures. He also enjoyed playing Texas Hold'em with the guys on Wednesdays.

He is survived by a daughter, Mandy (Ron) Krejci of Neillsville; a son, Thomas (Cindy) of Appleton; six grandchildren, Derek, Sabrina, Serina, Emily, Aubrey and Hannah, sisters-in-law, Cindy (Melvin) Boon of Neillsville and Lori (John) Schneider of Marshfield, one brother-in-law, Thomas (Konnie) Free of Menasha, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sandy, his parents, Lawrence and Hildegard Smock, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Robert and Betty Free, and his beloved dogs, Shelly, Shadow, Bear, Cody, Luck and Jack.

A Celebration of Life for Mike will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., Saturday, April 13, 2024, at the Gesche Funeral Home in Neillsville. A final salute and Military Honors will be performed by the Neillsville Veteran's Council at 3:00 p.m.

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

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

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