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Bio: Bittorf, Paul Gerald (Birth - 1963)

Contact: stan@wiclarkcountyhistory.org 

Surnames: Bittorf

----Source: Tribune/Phonograph (Abbotsford, Clark Co., Wis.) 09/19/1963

Bittorf, Paul Gerald (Birth - 14 SEP 1963)

Mr. and Mrs. Fred Bittorf of Tomahawk announce the birth of a son Saturday, Sept. 14, 1963. He weight ten pounds, seven ounces and was named Paul Gerald. They have another son, Brand. The Bittorfs were Abbotsford residents while Mr. Bittorf taught at the high school.

2

News: Granton - Dairy Breakfast Held at Robin Ridge Farm (2024)

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

Surnames: Cook, Kleiman, Walz, Brookhart, Van Dyke, Porter, Byrne

----Source: Clark County Press (Neillsville, Clark Co., WI) 6/5/2024

Granton-Dairy Breakfast Held at Robin Ridge Farm (2024)

By June Thompson

Clark County dairy breakfasts attract hundreds of visitors every year. One of the first dairy breakfasts was the Granton
FFA Alumni Dairy Breakfast. It was held the first Sunday in June at Robin Ridge Farms, June 2.

The hosts of the dairy breakfast were Shelly Cook and Marshall Kleiman. Shelly Cook’s parents bought the acreage in 1958 and built Cook Farm. She took over the farm business in 1992. The farm is now called Robin Ridge Farms.

One of the many volunteers, Missy Walz, has lived in Granton since 1975. She has helped with the dairy breakfasts since 1980. “We cooked 230 dozen eggs,” Walz said. “We planned for 1000 people, though we’ve had as many as 1500 people attending. We’ve run out of eggs before, but not for a while,” she said. Breakfast included pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, cheese curds, applesauce, ice cream, and milk/coffee.

The dairy breakfasts bring members of the community together, working to make the annual dairy breakfast a success. It takes many volunteers to make it happen.

“The kids are great at volunteering. 90% of the kids in school are in Future Farmers of America (FFA),” said Walz. “I always help with the food. I think I’ve done every job.”

Sonya Brookhart of Granton has helped on and off for 15 years. Her daughter is in FFA. “I enjoy working with the community— the family-farm connection,” she said.

Brianna Van Dyke, from Uncle Pancake, (a business from Mishicot), was flipping pancakes from a huge griddle, and serving three pancakes to guests. Three generations of her family have been in the business of making pancakes for dairy breakfasts and special events.

“My dad’s been in the business for 30 years. I’m taking it over,” she said. The motto of Uncle Pancake is “You throw the event; we throw the food!” Van Dyke tossed pancakes to the kids who caught them on their plates.

The dairy breakfast might not be such a popular event if it weren’t for members of the community who came out early Sunday morning to have breakfast on the farm.

Ty and Brooke Porter, residents of Granton, came to the dairy breakfast. “It’s our first time,” said Ty Porter. He and his wife, Brooke, enjoyed the petting zoo. They held the baby kittens. “I like animals,” said Ty Porter.

The next dairy breakfast will be held June 9 at Terry and Becky Byrne Farm, Chili Road.

3

News: Neillsville - History Present in Homes, Landmarks (2024)

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

Surnames: O’Neill

----Source: Clark County Press (Neillsville, Clark Co., WI) 6/5/2024

Neillsville History Present in Homes, Landmarks (2024)



Judge James O’Neill’s house was built in the late 19th century for $6,000. The home was used for private residence, hospital and nursing home. It is currently a private residence.

June Thompson/Clark County Press

This history series of stories will feature a historic home or landmark each month during the summer, honoring local heritage.

May is National Historic Preservation Month. With plenty of history present in the town of Neillsville, visitors don’t have to look far to see historical homes and landmarks. Many of those structures are over one hundred years old and built in the late 19th century.

People who aren’t familiar with the local history may not know Neillsville was named after its founder, James O’Neill. Born in 1810, O’Neill came to Neillsville in 1844 and established a lumber mill. He came from New York and was of Irish descent. He was later elected to the State Legislature.

O’Neill’s many endeavors include building a hotel, The O’Neill House in 1858. The site is currently the Neillsville Post Office. James O’Neill’s house was located south of the former American Legion Hall. His home was razed in the 1980s. O’Neill passed away in 1882.

Judge James O’Neill, born in 1847, was the nephew of James O’Neill, the founder of Neillsville. Judge O’Neill came to town in 1873 to visit his uncle. He stayed and practiced law and was appointed District Attorney for Clark County. He had a long, distinguished career in law.

Judge O’Neill’s home, built in 1876, was originally Italianate style. The wrap-around porch was added in 1917. The O’Neill home was the community hospital from the early 1930s – 1950s. It served as a nursing home from the mid- 1950s until early 1960s. Judge O’Neill passed away in 1929. His home still stands today and was renovated a few years ago.

For more information on the history of Neillsville, visit The History Room on Hewett Street in downtown Neillsville Tuesday, or Thursday.

Historical sources: “The Pioneer Spirit of Early Neillsville: Men of Courage, Men of Hardship” by Pat Lacey 2013.

4

News: Neillsville - Memorial Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Shop (Celebrates 70 years - 2024)

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

Surnames: Charlton, Ingold, Reed, Tlusty, Gross, Kennedy, Hammond

----Source: Clark County Press (Neillsville, Clark Co., WI) 6/5/2024

Neillsville Memorial Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Shop (Celebrates 70 years - 2024)



Kristin Charlton (middle, left) accepted a $50,000 donation from Memorial Hospital Auxiliary officers (l-r) Mary Ann Ingold, Jeanne Reed, Debbie Tlusty, Marcia Gross, Karen Kennedy and Theresa Hammond towards the Marshfield Medical Center – Ma3rshfield Neonatal Unit.

Submitted photo

In May 2024, the Memorial Hospital Auxiliary in Neillsville celebrated 70 years in service.

The Memorial Hospital Auxiliary was organized May 12, 1954. Eighty people joined at that time. June 11, members adopted the first written constitution and bylaws of the Memorial Hospital Auxiliary. In July of 1945, the volunteer group had grown to 137 charter members, with each paying $1 in annual dues. A chairman and core of officers were elected. Regular meetings were held in various locations on the second Friday of the month. A hospital auxiliary “collect,” written in prayer form, was recited at each meeting.

The dedication of Memorial Hospital was held Oct. 1–3, 1954. At that time, money had been raised by the sale of vanilla, bake sales, a white elephant sale, the performance of a play, a Christmas ball and a cart with gifts to sell at the hospital. In addition, thrift sales were held every Friday at various locations. Realizing how profitable these sales were, in 1958 the auxiliary purchased the Ed Gall house on the corner of Sixth and Clay streets for $3,578.86. That two story white house became the Auxiliary Thrift Shop.

Moving forward to 1974, the recorded list of charter members numbered 38. Volunteers worked diligently to continue to sell the unwanted, yet usable donated goods back to other members of the community. It was a win-win proposition which was “exemplary.” After 20 years, the last payment was made on the thrift store March 6, 1986. It remained under auxiliary ownership until 2007, when the decision was made to bestow the building to the hospital. Upkeep—including remodeling, major repairs, improvements and some of the bills—were retained as the responsibility of the auxiliary in an effort not to be a burden with expenses unrelated to the hospital.

Efforts had been made in the last 12 years to not only to improve, but also promote the Auxiliary Thrift Shop as a respectable and economically viable business. The endeavors have included improving the appearance, attention to organization and increasing the ways that the shop can benefit the community. Auxiliary guest speaker engagements were arranged at other local organizational meetings. Fashion shows drew attention to the wide array of quality clothing available for purchase. The models enjoyed the shows as much as the audiences at St. Mary’s Mother’s Day Banquet, the Marshfield Medical Center (MMC) volunteer dinner at Fannies Supper Club and for the Red Hat Society. Several Christmas “open houses” were also offered at the Auxiliary Thrift Shop along with hosting bingo at the annual Optimist family Christmas event.

Privy benefits to the community include clothing vouchers which the auxiliary has made available through the social services department. They also have obliged the New Start program, in which parolees are able to receive free clothing if needed, house fire victim needs, backpacks and clothing for the school nurse, baseball shoes for the Neillsville Recreation Department, and items shared with the Department of Aging in Clark County.

Currently, there are 31 volunteer auxiliary members. All are required to fill out a state background check. The group has a constitution, bylaws, core of officers, pledge and meets quarterly. The auxiliary’s mission is to support the initiatives of MMC while providing a needed service to the community.

For several decades, the continued success of the Auxiliary Thrift Store has enabled the purchase of essential equipment for the Memorial Hospital. More recently, as part of the MMC system, the volunteer group was able to donate $50,000 towards the initial building campaign of the MMC-Neillsville. Once completed, the auxiliary funded two colon scopes for the new hospital. Then, in January of 2024, the group donated $50,000 towards construction of a new neonatal unit in the MMC-Marshfield.

“Ultimately, the Auxiliary Thrift Shop is an indispensable gathering place for the community to source low cost clothing, treasures and friendships while providing much needed resources,” Marcia Gross said. “The success of the store has been proven for decades thanks to loyal shoppers, donated goods and dedicated volunteers. Much pride has been taken in serving our hospitals for seventy five years.

“Located on 317 Clay St., open Fridays 8:30 to 4:30 and Saturdays 8:30 to noon, the community has a gem to rely on.”

Article submitted by Marcia Gross, Memorial Hospital Auxiliary president.

5

Obit: Andruszkiewicz, Marlys Rae (1942 - 2024)

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

Surnames: Andruszkiewicz, Butler, Mayenschein, Hempleman, Lorenz, Abramczak, Leonard, Gulcynski, Grajkowski, Bottlemy, Hughes, Felix

----Source: Cuddie Funeral Home (Thorp, Clark Co., WI) 6/6/2024

Andruszkiewicz, Marlys Rae (30 April 1942 – 1 June 2024)

Marlys R. Andruszkiewicz, age 82, of Thorp, passed away peacefully at Aspirus Stanley Hospital on Saturday, June 1, 2024, with family by her side.

Marlys Rae Mayenschein was born on April 30, 1942, in the Town of Butler, rural Thorp, to Curtis J. and Laura A. (Butler) Mayenschein. She was raised on the family farm, attended grade school in the Town of Butler, and graduated from Greenwood High School in 1960. She then went to work as a waitress at the Dairy Bar and Thorpedo Restaurant, both in Thorp. Marlys met Francis V. Andruszkiewicz, and they were united in marriage on April 8, 1961, at St. Hedwig Catholic Church in Thorp. They raised their family in Thorp, where they lived and farmed for many years, retiring in 2004.

Marlys had many interests, but especially enjoyed playing cards, gardening, canning, crafting/sewing, bowling, and cooking. But most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was well known for being a joyful person and her knack for all children. If there was a child to be found in a room, you could leave it to her to seek them out and try to snuggle with them. Her caring demeanor is one of the many things that will be missed by all.

She will be dearly missed by her husband, Francis, of Thorp; two daughters: Pamela (Richard) Hempleman of Thorp, Gail Andruszkiewicz (significant other, Mel Lorenz) of Thorp; five grandchildren: Patrick (Kristin) Hempleman, Deanna Abramczak, Jason (Jennifer) Leonard, Sarah (Loren) Gulcynski, Jesse Leonard; nine great-grandchildren: Bradley, Riley, Mackenzie, Ashlyn, Tanner, Taylon, Emma, Logan, Sammy, Bryce, and Alyssa; two brothers: Norman (Rita) Mayenschein of Greenwood, and David (Marilyn) Mayenschein of Thorp; two sisters: Mary Lynn (Matt) Grajkowski of Thorp, and Carol (Doug) Bottlemy of Withee; two brothers-in-law: Marion (Sheila) Andruszkiewicz and Louis Andruszkiewicz, both of Thorp; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Marlys was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Leland Mayenschein; one niece, Sherri Hughes, three sisters-in-law: Sharon Mayenschein, Judy Bauer- Mayenschein, and Marie Andruszkiewicz Peetz; and one brother-in-law: Leo Andruszkiewicz.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, June 28, 2024, at St. Bernard-St. Hedwig Catholic Church in Thorp, with Rev. William Felix officiating. Visitation will be held at the church, on Friday, from 9am until time of service.

6

Obit: Erpenbach, William Peter (1928 - 2024)

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

Surnames: Erpenbach, Yndogliato, Fitzsimmons, Anderegg, Skallerup, Balazs, Becker, Bergemann, Bourget, Giles, Mathiason, Zimmerman, Gross, Hemp, Koepp, Zukowski, Michaud

----Source: Gesche Funeral Home (Neillsville, Clark Co., WI) 6/6/2024

Erpenbach, William Peter (24 March 1928 – 4 June 2024) With Flag

William P. Erpenbach, age 96, of Neillsville, died on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at home.

William Peter Erpenbach was born on March 24, 1928, in Riplinger, (that's what his mother told him, and she would know because she was there) the son of Anton and Margaret (Yndogliato) Erpenbach. He attended Riverside country school and graduated 8th grade from St. Mary parochial school. He attended high school for one year and decided that was enough and went to work at B & F Machine Shop. He enlisted into the Army Air Corp at age 17 and was trained as one of the first jet airplane mechanics. While in the service, he played baseball for the Phoenix Thunderbirds, a Giants MLB organization. He served from 1946 until his honorable discharge in 1948.

On February 20, 1950, he was united in marriage to Cecelia M. Fitzsimmons in Stanley. They raised 5 children and for the next 44 years he worked at several area car dealerships, (Urbans, Bethke, Svetlik, Fel-Gross, Gross Motors) and retired from Gross Motors as the Service Manager in 1994. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Neillsville and the American Legion Post 73.

He was fortunate to meet Dorothy Anderegg who shared the last 12 years of his life. Together they did all the things that Bill loved like fishing, playing cards, polka dancing and having breakfast with all of their friends. He lived a good life and lived it to the fullest. Wherever the action was, that's where he wanted to be. He never met a stranger or forgot a face and he always had a smile for everyone.

He is survived by his long-time friend Dorothy Andregg, his 4 children; Sylvia (John) Skallerup of Muskegon, MI, Paul (Natalie) Erpenbach of Neillsville, James Erpenbach and John (Mary) Erpenbach both of DeForest, WI. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren: Anne Skallerup, James (Amanda) Skallerup, Erin (Jon) Balazs, Denise (Jeremy) Becker, Holly Erpenbach, Emily and Ashlyn Erpenbach and one great-grandchild Jocelyn Skallerup. He is further survived by sister's in-law, Delores Fitzsimmons and Mary Fitzsimmons, nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife Cecelia in 2012, son William (2014), his parents and siblings; Martha (John) Bergemann and Donald (Karen) Erpenbach, his in-laws Jeannette (Howard) Bourget, John (Jeanette) Fitzsimmons, Florence (Hubert) Giles, Leo Fitzsimmons, Hubert (Bernice) Fitzsimmons, Ken (Gloria) Fitzsimmons, Betty (Andy) Mathiason, Otto Fitzsimmons, Clarence Fitzsimmons, and Mary (Harry) Zimmerman.

Serving as casket bearers for William will be Lucas Bergemann, Jerry Gross, Wayne Gross, Jon Hemp, Jason Koepp, and David Zukowski.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for William at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, June 8, 2024, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Neillsville, WI. Rev. Greg Michaud will be the celebrant. Providing music will be St. Mary's organist and Choir. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 pm on Friday, June 7, 2024, at Gesche Funeral Home, 4 S Grand Ave, Neillsville WI, and from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., prior to the service on Saturday June 8, 2024, at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Interment will be in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery.

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

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

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School: NHS - Grads Start Next Step in Life. (2024)

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

Surnames: Anderson-Ruskin, Adamski, Ashton-Black, Barth, Boyer, Bryan, Campbell, Carteron, Castillo, Crillo, Dickinson, Doyle, Dux, Elmhorst, Erickson, Faucett, Featherston, Gross, Gurney, Hale, Hamm, Harris, Hayes, Henseler, Hericks, Jorgenson, Kennedy, Koepp, Kopf, Koprek, Kreitlow, Kummer, La Barge, Magnuson, McDonald, McFarlane, Melvin, Miller, Moll, Moseid, Opelt, Pekol, Pozega, Sampson, Schoen, Schoolman, Schultz, Shields, Slone, Stephens, Subke, Swita, Vance, Voigt, Walter, Wampole, Waters, Zoschke

----Source: Clark County Press (Neillsville, Clark Co., WI) 6/5/2024

NHS-Grads Start Next Step in Life (25 May 2024)



The Neillsville High School Class of 2024 celebrated their graduation during the May 25 graduation ceremony in the Neillsville High School field house by way of the traditional cap-toss.

Edward DuBois/Clark County Press

The Neillsville High School held its graduation ceremony for the Neillsville High School class of 2024 in the Neillsville High School field house May 25.

After the graduates’ procession, high school principal Craig Anderson-Ruskin gave his introduction.

“I have the privilege of being the principal here at Neillsville High School,” Craig Anderson-Ruskin said. “This is a big day. Not just for our graduates, but for many of you in the audience today as well, because you are connected to these young men and women, in some cases on a daily basis.

“Our lives are filled with a lot of interactions—millions of them—that help define us. But there’s only a handful of moments that can rise to the occasion of a day like today.”

Craig Anderson-Ruskin talked about remembering “vividly” his own graduation, and the importance of remembering.

“Days like today should not be taken for granted,” Craig Anderson-Ruskin said, “and their importance cannot be understated. It’s a milestone event, as I said, not only in their lives, but the lives of their families as well.

“After today, these young men and women are going to scatter, go their own directions, forever altering the course of their lives.”

Craig Anderson-Ruskin said it was important to also celebrate those who supported the graduates in their growth and journey to this milestone.

The first student address went to the class president, Nataly Harris.

Harris spoke about the troubles and tribulations of attending school during Covid, which forced the students to adapt, such as during prom. She also talked about the seniors’ Homecoming parade route changing to the school grounds, and how the class overcame the challenge.

Harris spoke on fellow graduate Abigail Koepp’s cancer diagnosis during their junior year.

“It was heart wrenching for us,” Harris said.

Harris talked about the community unity and support for Koepp.

Harris moved on to fonder memories, giving anecdotes going as far back as the fifth grade, including a few mishaps she described as “you had to be there.” Then, there was the time Cameron Kennedy tried to braid a bunch of girls’ hair on a field trip, and the time a boy tried to score enough points to win a date with a classmate.

Harris also praised fellow graduates for their accomplishments, like Paris Opelt and Braylon Boyer.

After Harris had spoken, Craig Anderson-Ruskin praised her for giving her speech while being nervous.

The high school concert choir performed Michael’s Bolton’s “Go the Distance,” (arranged by Ed Lojeski) often remembered for its appearance in the Disney movie “Hercules,” sung by Roger Bart.

The second student address came from Jace Pekol, elected as speaker by his class and the high school’s faculty.

“Today is a day of success,” Pekol said, “the combination of hard work, that we’ve all spent years working towards.”
Pekol said it was important to take a step back and celebrate what had been accomplished.

He said it was important not to “jump the gun,” and there was much yet to do with their lives. He reminded his fellow graduates not to forget what he and his classmates had learned.

Pekol talked about the impact of those close to the graduates.

“It’s hard to do everything by yourself,” Pekol said. “Allow yourself to rely on the people around you, but also make sure the people around you can rely on you.”

Pekol expressed a hope his fellow graduates would find a path in life fulfilling to them.

Once the diplomas were presented to the seniors and the graduates had switched their tassels from the right to left side of their caps, the class threw their caps into their air.

The choir performed Billy Joel’s “Vienna.”

Lastly, Craig Anderson-Ruskin closed the ceremony.

“Seniors, on behalf of our entire school community, congratulations,” Craig Anderson-Ruskin said. “I’ve been able to watch this crew grow up for the last 13 years. It’s my 13th year at Neillsville as principal and I was fortunate enough to be their middle school principal years ago and have been their high school principal for the last four years.

“It’s a good group.

“To the parents in the audience: I have a graduate this year, as well. I share in your happy and sad sort-of mixed emotions today. As a parent myself, it is truly a joy to be able to come to work every day and work with your children.
“In my occupation, sometimes there are certain occupational hazards, as when you have to tell people ‘no’ or things that they don’t like, but I always use this opportunity to try to tell our community how grateful we are that you send us your children.

“Even when disagreements happen, we always try to do what we believe is in the best interest of every single student here. It’s a job that we take very seriously.”

Craig Anderson-Ruskin thanked several people in the faculty, as well, before thanking the community.

The Neillsville High School class of 2024 graduates were Savannah Adamski, Sella Christine Anderson (cum laude), Addison Emarie Anderson-Ruskin (summa cum laude), Hunter Ashton-Black, Taylor Ashton-Black, Gavin David Douglas Barth, Braylon J. Boyer, Alexander J. Bryan, Kaden I. Campbell (unable to attend the presentation), Alanna J. Carteron, Itayetzi Castillo, Cody Crillo, Macey Estelle Dickinson (summa cum laude), David Doyle, Mary Ellen Dux, Macci Lee Elmhorst, Bryce Douglas Erickson (summa cum laude), Tehra Fausett, Ashton Featherston, Austin R. Gross (summa cum laude), Jada L. Gurney (summa cum laude), Dominic Hale, Kylee E. Hamm (summa cum laude), Nataly Jonay Harris, Samuel Hayes, Gavin Henseler, MaKendri Eva-Marie Hericks, Mark A. Jorgensen (summa cum laude), Cameron M. Kennedy, Abigail Koepp (summa cum laude), Jonah L. Kopf, Olivia Margaret Lee Koprek (summa cum laude), Max Kreitlow (magna cum laude), Landon Kummer, Draven M. LaBarge, Sydney Magnuson (summa cum laude), Reese McDonald, Gavyn A. McFarlane, Nolyn McFarlane, Skylar Melvin, Ava Violet Miller (summa cum laude), Willa Moll, Cali Mary Beth Moseid, Lilly Elaine Opelt (summa cum laude), Paris L. Opelt (summa cum laude), Jace W. Pekol (summa cum laude), Keegan Pozega, Damian Sampson, Niah Schoen, Seth V. Schoolman, Ashten Schultz (summa cum laude), Elida Keilani Shields, Grant Ryan Slone, Jeremiah J. Stephens, Eliana Isabella Subke (summa cum laude), Wesley Swita (cum laude), Joseph James Vance (summa cum laude), Paige Suzanne Voigt (magna cum laude), Parker Timothy Voigt, Ellie Marie Walter (summa cum laude), Adam James Dean Wampole, Cameron Waters (summa cum laude) and Micah Zoschke (summa cum laude).

8

Obit: Cypher, Agnes A. (1946 - 2024)

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

Surnames: Cypher, Feldbruegge, Baxter, Anagnostos, Strange, Decker, Hedricks, Amundson, Kitzhaber

----Source: Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home (Abbotsford, Clark Co., WI) 6/7/2024)

Cypher, Agnes A. (28 September 1946 – 6 June 2024)

Agnes A. Cypher, age 77, of Abbotsford, passed away on Thursday, June 6, 2024, under the tender care of Hope Hospice.

Agnes was born on September 28, 1946, the daughter of Frank and Mary (Cypher) Feldbruegge in Marshfield. She graduated from Dor-Abby High School in 1964. Agnes worked at DHI and then at Welcome Dairy for many years. She was united in marriage to Patrick Cypher on June 28, 2000, at Belleville, IL. He preceded her in death on August 8, 2015.

Agnes enjoyed crocheting, word puzzles, feeding geese in the park and nature. She enjoyed her life and loved spending time with her family and loved to brag about her grandchildren
.
Agnes is survived by her four children: Lori Baxter of Dorchester, Katie Anagnostos of Chicago, Mark Baxter and Trudy Baxter, both of Dorchester; two grandchildren: Andreas Anagnostos and Savannah Baxter. She is further survived by her eight siblings: Ginny (Peter) Strange, Judy (Joe) Decker, Richard (MaryAnn) Feldbruegge, James Feldbruegge, Mary (Jerry Hedricks) Feldbruegge, Joseph (Karla) Feldbruegge, Gerald (Carla) Feldbruegge and Ann Amundson; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Patrick.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 14, 2024, at St. Louis Catholic Church in Dorchester. Father Keith Kitzhaber will officiate. Family and friends are welcome from 9:00 a.m. until time of service Friday at the church.

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

9

Obit: Harycki, Donna Jean (1936- 2024)

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

Surnames: Harycki, Abbott, Fitzl, Jasper, Stone, Tuggle, Antony

----Source: Cuddie Funeral Home (Thorp, Clark Co., WI) 6/7/2024

Harycki, Donna Jean (18 September 1936- 1 Jun 2024)

Donna Jean Harycki, 87, of Chippewa Falls, died peacefully with her family beside her, on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in Chippewa Falls.

Donna was born on September 18, 1936, in Cornell, to Edward and Bonnie (Abbott) Fitzl and grew up in Stanley. She married Conrad Paul Harycki on August 18, 1953. Donna was a godly woman who lived her faith moment by moment. There was no mistaking her priorities: God, Conrad, family, and all others. Of her many roles in life, her passion was caring for her family and providing a beautiful homelife for them. We, and surely many others, will always remember the taste and aroma of her cinnamon and caramel rolls and endless pots of soup.

At every opportunity Donna exercised her gift of hospitality and made everyone feel special and welcome. Her time seemed to time stand still for people to share a story, a laugh, a burden, or a tear. How she enjoyed camping with family and friends and her hobbies of crocheting exquisite vintage dolls, searching here and there for antique teacups, and reading. But what could compare to an evening out dancing the polish hop with her husband Connie?

In 1959, Donna and Connie moved from their home town to Green Bay and continued to raise their growing family. Donna worked part-time as a waitress at the Stratosphere Supper Club, a famous hangout for many of the Green Bay Packers. She had many football stories to share from their early championship years!!

In 1970, the family relocated to West Bend and expanded to include welcoming new grandchildren, and making many new friends. Donna became a certified nursing assistant at Cedar Lake Nursing home. They traveled to many places during those years, Donna’s favorite trip was the Hawaiian Islands.

In 1978, they settled at Otter Lake in Stanley. Donna became an entrepreneur and opened “The Family Shoe Store” on Main Street in Stanley, and continued to serve her family and her community.

1984 was a move to Austin, TX. How she cherished those years spent with her children and grandchildren. What a mentor and support she was to all of us.

1990 began the retirement years in Chippewa Falls, once again to be near family. Some of the things they enjoyed were gardening, canning, bird watching, and berry picking – the simple things in life. After Conrad died, she received her precious little German Schnauzer, Jeena, who brought comfort and so much joy to her and others.

Donna completed her journey on earth at the Wisconsin Veterans Home continuing to fulfill God’s purpose for her. She brought great joy, wisdom, and humor by sharing her lifetime stories. A heartfelt thank you to all the people at the Veterans home and Lily Hospice who compassionately cared for her until the Lord called her Home. To God be the glory forever and ever.

Donna is survived by her children: Marilyn (Jerry) Jasper of Chippewa Falls; Tom (Renee) Harycki of West Bend; Ginger (Ron) Stone of Austin, TX; David (Susan) Harycki of Bayfield; Steve (Veronica) Harycki of Burnet, TX; and daughter-in-law, Sandy (Gale) Tuggle of Pagosa Springs, CO; grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren. She is further survived by brother-in-law, Vernon Harycki, of Thorp.

Donna was preceded in death by her beloved husband Conrad of 62 years; son, Michael Harycki; parents, Edward and Bonnie (Abbott) Fitzl, and her brother and sisters.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, St. Bernard-St. Hedwig Catholic Church in Thorp. Rev. Stanislaus Michael Antony will officiate, and burial will take place in New St. Hedwig Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church on Wednesday, from 9:30 a.m. until time of service.

10

Obit: Oelberg, Chris (1955 - 2024)

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

Surnames: Oelberg, Schultz, Biddle, Schneider, Meeker, Larson. Panek, Brunn, Nusbaum

----Source: Cuddie Funeral Home (Thorp, Clark Co., WI) 6/6/2024

Oelberg, Chris (9 April 1955 – 31 May 2024)

Chris Oelberg, age 69, of Thorp, passed away at home May 31, 2024, after a 10-year struggle with multiple cancers and Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia.

Born April 9, 1955, in Oak Park, IL, to Henry and Betty (Schultz) Oelberg, Chris grew up in River Grove, IL, graduating from East Leyden High School in 1973. Chris met his future wife and best friend, Penny, at Leon and Lil’s (Cindy’s) on April 1, 1995; they later married and resided in Thorp.

Always a hard worker, Chris held many jobs starting at a very young age with a paper route. After earning his CDL, he began driving truck for his uncle’s company followed by driving for the U. S. Postal Service. Ultimately, he decided to follow in his father’s footsteps as an electrician, being self-employed under C. Oelberg Electric in California. In 1994, he moved to Thorp and joined the IBEW Local 14 as a journeyman electrician until illness forced his retirement in 2016.

Chris enjoyed spending time up North at the cabin, relaxing, cooking, 4 wheeling, snowmobiling, boating and tipping a few back; specialty beers were his favorite. He also enjoyed going to the local bars in Webb Lake and Thorp where he loved great conversations with friends; he was so knowledgeable, you could talk to him about anything, Chris was also a great chef; he loved cooking or grilling for friends and family for holidays or just for fun. Pool, darts, golf, and skeet shooting were great past times for him as well where he was a part of many teams in Thorp and Webb Lake. He was also a huge Bears and Cubs fan! “Fly the W!”

Above all else, Chris enjoyed being with family and had a very special place in his heart for Walker, helping him in any way that he could and making great memories fixing stuff or just hanging out.

He will be dearly missed by his wife Penny (Biddle) of Thorp, sister Claudia Schneider of Madison, sister-in-law Linda Biddle of Eau Claire, sister-in-law Candy (Jeff) Meeker of Thorp, grandson Walker Larson of Eau Claire, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Chris is preceded in death by his parents Henry and Betty (Schultz) Oelberg, stepmother Marge (Panek) Oelberg, sister Karin Bunn, brother-in-law Terry Biddle, mother-in-law Marvel Biddle, father-in-law Leland Biddle, Penny’s children Shanda Nusbaum and Trent Nusbaum, and his beloved dog Sampson.

Much appreciation is extended to the staff of Mayo Hospital in Rochester and Eau Claire and Mayo Hospice. And to all of our family and friends, thank you so much for your thoughts and prayers and support.

There will be a remembrance gathering at Cindy’s Hall in Thorp on Friday June 14, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.; honoring Chris at 6:00 p.m.

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Ed was a graduate of Loyal High School, class of 1969. He liked to fondly recall his younger years attending elementary schools at Veefkind and Heathville. Upon graduation, he farmed with his father and later took over farm operations at the Veefkind homestead. He also had various jobs over the years, including hauling canned milk, construction and running a logging business. He was a member of the Chili Lions Club and Sexton of the Veefkind Cemetery. In his younger years he was in softball and bowling leagues. He was a Supervisor in the Town of Sherman and later Chairman of the Town of Fremont.

On May 11, 1974, Ed married Yvonne (Von) Kottke at St. Anthony’s in Athens. They recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Together, they raised four daughters. In 1976, Ed & Von built a beauty salon in Chili, where Von ran Yvonne’s Golden Curl for several years. In the 1990’s, Ed & Von operated the Chili Mini Mart. Ed enjoyed spending time with family and friends, playing cards, fishing and snowmobiling. He liked to tell stories of their many shenanigans from the 70’s and 80’s. He was passionate about his upbringing and family history, in recent years connecting with extended family. He loved to spend time with his grandkids. In retirement he enjoyed woodworking, creating many pieces for his family.

Ed was predeceased by his parents & father-in-law Roy Kottke, his sister, LaVonne Zoellner, brother-in-law Bob DeFries, sister-in-law Carla Goetz, brother-in-law Jeff McNeely, and goddaughter Amanda Schellinger. He is survived by his wife Yvonne; his daughters, Amy (Pete) Schultz, Sara (Nic) Schmitt, Arlee (Frank) Stevens, and Jodi (Mike) Kluczinske; his nine grandchildren, Trenton, Waylon, Taylor, Addie, Lexi, Evie, Tyson, Parker and Bryce; his siblings John (Evelyn) Schultz, Mary (Gary) Schellinger, Rebecca DeFries, Scott (Dee) Schultz and sister in law Pamela Schultz; his mother in law Carolyn Kottke, his in-laws Brad Goetz, Kim Kottke, Kelly Kottke and Ken Kottke; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A mass to celebrate Ed’s life will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, located at 215 South Washington Ave, Medford, WI, with Father Julian Druffner officiating. followed by lunch. Visitation will be held prior to the mass from 9:30 to 11:00 A.M. Private interment will be held at Veefkind Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the Schultz family kindly requests donations be made to the Veefkind Cemetery Association.

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

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

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