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It is with deep sympathy that we post these area deaths.
Previous obituaries are at these links:
 

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Junior Cooley

Junior Lewis Cooley, 89, passed away on August 25 at Prairie Maison Nursing Home in Prairie du Chien. 
He was born on July 5, 1921, to Fredrick and Melcena (Riddiough) Cooley in Little Grant.  He spent most of his life around the Little Grant and Mt. Hope area.
On October 26, 1946, he married Mildred Mae Lenzendorf.  During his lifetime, Lewis worked for Badger Ammunition, Wauzeka Box Factory, Eastman Lumber and retired from the Village of Wauzeka as manager of the waterworks.  He enjoyed fishing, playing cards gardening, bird-watching and his grandchildren.  Dad/Grandpa will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
He is survived by three daughters, Betty Hurda of Edmund, Janet (Tom) Klein of Bagley and Carol (Kevin) Olsen of Wauzeka; four sons, Phillip (Barb) of Columbus, Dennis (Karen) of Wauzeka, Gary (Lisa) of Milton and Ralph (Aloysia) of Wauzeka; 18 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by one brother, Keith of Madison. 
He was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years; an infant son, Christopher; granddaughter, Melissa Cooley; grandson, Bobby Cooley; two brothers, Raymond and Frederick and a sister, Maxine Sutton.
Funeral services were held Friday, August 27, 2010 at the Beeman-Patchak Funeral Home in Boscobel; Pastor Lynn Schreck officiated.  Burial was at the Wauzeka Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the family.

Collin Giddings

Collin Arthur Sherman Giddings, 68 of Lynxville, and formerly of Beloit, died Wednesday, August 25, 2010 at his home surrounded by his family.
He was born April 5, 1942 in Marietta Township, the son of Bealis and Ella (Jones) Giddings. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was involved in the reformation in Korea. He married Donna Stagman on October 15, 1971 in Prairie du Chien. He was a member of Local’s 836 and 1143 Carpenter’s Union. He was an active member of the Judson Memorial Baptist Church in Beloit, and later the Seneca United Methodist Church in Seneca. He loved his family dearly and enjoyed being a grandfather. His hobbies included woodworking, hunting and rock collecting.
"He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Donna Stagman of Lynxville; his daughters Tracey (Bob) Eaton of Delavan, Consuela (Epifanio) Munoz Jr. of Union Grove, Katrina (Darrin) Owens and Melinda Giddings both of Lynxville; his son Collin (Heidi) Giddings of Ridgeway; three brothers; four sisters; seven grandchildren and one great grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and two sisters.
Funeral services were Saturday, August 28, 2010 at the Garrity Funeral Home Chapel, Prairie du Chien; Reverends’ Lori Betz and Roger B. McCarty officiated. Interment was in the Dickson Ridge Cemetery in Lynxville, with Military Honors by the McCormick Rose American Legion Post 308. The Garrity Funeral Home in Prairie du Chien assisted the family. www.garrityfuneralhome.com

Michael O'Brien

Michael W. O’Brien, 70 of Prairie du Chien passed away Sunday, August 29, 2010 at the Prairie du Chien Memorial Hospital.
He was born October 29, 1939 in Prairie du Chien the son of James and Marjorie (Backes) O’Brien. He served in the U.S. Army. He married Jane Lechnir on August 12, 1967 at St. John’s Church in Prairie du Chien. He worked for Mara Construction on the curb and gutter crew. Mike later became a salesman for the Trausch Baking Company where he retired after over 30 years of service. He was the manager for Sports Unlimited and also worked for Rickleff Plumbing and Heating in Prairie du Chien. Mike was a very active member of the Prairie du Chien Country Club, Ducks Unlimited and the PdC Booster Club.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Jane O’Brien of Prairie du Chien; his daughters, Cassie (Steve) Rickleff of Prairie du Chien and Katie (Eric) Myhre of Sun Prairie, his son Daniel (Amy) of Prairie du Chien; brothers, Jack (Mary) of Eaton, Md., and Pat (Judy) of Clermont, Fla.; his grandchildren Luke, Paige, Kathryn, Joshua, Jacob, Thomas, Nicole and Joseph.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A Memorial Mass of Resurrection will be Wednesday, September 1, 2010 at 11 a.m. at St. John’s Catholic Church, Prairie du Chien, with Rev. James Weighner officiating. Military rites will be accorded by the Prairie du Chien Honor Guard. Interment will be at a later date in the Calvary Cemetery in Prairie du Chien. Friends may call on Tuesday, August 31, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Garrity Funeral Home in Prairie du Chien, where there will be a wake scripture at 8 p.m. Friends may also call at the church on Wednesday, September 1, from 10 a.m. until the time of services.
In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to the Prairie Catholic Schools. www.garrityfuneralhome.com

Dennis Goody
Dennis G. “Denny” Goody, 71, of rural Coon Valley, died at his home on Saturday, August 21, 2010.
Denny was born on October 19, 1938, at Mercy Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa, to Clifford G. and Vivian E. (Heiser) Goody. He grew up in McGregor, Iowa and graduated from Mar Mac High School in 1956. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served three years.
After serving in the army, he got involved in the utility business. He was hired by Northern States Power Co. in 1965, where he worked until his retirement in 1997.  Denny married the former Jeanne Hansen on May 23, 1987, in Cashton. 
Denny loved the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and especially enjoyed bow hunting. He served as a bow hunter education instructor and was a member of the Coulee Archers, Wisconsin Bow Hunters Association, Ducks Unlimited, the National Rifle Association, and the Pope & Young Club. Dennis took many hunting trips out west to Colorado and Wyoming and had one trophy whitetail donated to the Pope & Young Club.
Denny is survived by his wife, Jeanne; his children, Eleanor Herrick (Todd Sobkowiak) of Onalaska, and Glenn (Teresa) Goody of Hinesville, Ga.; his grandchildren, Rachel (Adam) Grise and Benjamin Heebl, both of St. Paul, Minn., and Trevor and Taylor Goody of Hinesville, Ga.; and one great grandchild, Liam Grise, of St. Paul. He is further survived by his sister, Susan (Hank) Heine of Janesville; two aunts, Ella Harris of Iowa City, Iowa, and Edith Swails of Coralville, Iowa; sisters-in-law, Elaine (James) Schleichert of St. Paul, Minn., Ruth (Donald) Dolan of La Crosse, Judith Riggins of Stevens Point, Mary (Gary) Weber of Cashton, and Delores Hansen of Cashton; many nieces, nephews, and cousins, and his faithful retriever, Sami. 
Denny was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Vivian; two uncles, Dale Harris and Daryl Swails; one aunt, Joyce Stone; and brothers and sisters-in-laws, Donald and Kathryn Hansen, Jerome Hansen, and Margaret Stellpflug McKnight.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, August 24, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, St. Joseph Ridge. Rev. Francis Abuah Quansah officiated. Burial, with military honors, took place in Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Cashton.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Coulee Archers, c/o Barry Truog, PO Box 164, Holmen, Wis., 54636, or the organization of the donor’s choice.  Online condolences may be sent to schumacher-kish.com.
Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home, 200 West Avenue So., La Crosse, WI 54601, 608 782-1252.

David Zinkle
David Zinkle, 81, of Steuben passed away on Thursday, August 19, 2010 at the Golden Living Center in Muscoda.
He was born on May 30, 1929, in Eastman, the son of Aloysius and Gertrude (Schmidt). He married Patricia Moran on April 12, 1955, at St. Phillips Catholic Church in Rolling Ground.David worked at Borden's in Boscobel and moved to Beloit, where he worked at a foundry and at Chevrolet in Janesville. He returned to the Steuben area where he farmed until he retired.
He is survived by two brothers A.P. (Katie) Zinkle of Wauzkea, Jerome (Kathy) Zinkle of Carnation, Wash.; two sisters Jeanne Neis of Plano, Texas and Diane (Ronnie) Bird of Seneca; several nieces and nephews; five sisters-in-law, Lois Zinkle of Seneca, Sue Zinkle of Steuben, Kathleen (Jim) Vogt of Cassville, Mary (Ron) Halverson of Stouhton, Betty (Art) Masshardt of Madison; two brothers-in-law, Tom (Sandy) Moran of Boscobel, Robert (Donna) Moran of Boscobel.
He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Robert Zinkle, Dick Zinkle, Bill Zinkle; two sisters and four brothers-in-laws, Lois and Jack McKendry, Eileen and Kermit Groom, Glenn Neis, Dale Kuenster; father and mother-in-law Bernard and Ruby Moran.
A Mass of Christian burial was held on Monday, August 23, 2010 at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Boscobel. Father Peter Auer officiated. Burial was in St. Patrick's Catholic Church Cemetery in Seneca.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church memorial fund. On line condolence may be sent to www.kendallfuneralservice.com

Larraine Crowley
Larraine M. Crowley, of Wauzeka and formerly of Steuben passed away Friday, August 20, at the Prairie Maison Care Center in Prairie du Chien.
She was born May 5, 1928 in Prairie du Chien the daughter of Wallace and Violet (Ziel) Valley. She married James Crowley on January 22, 1949 at St. Patrick’s Church in Seneca. He preceded her in death on September 25, 2005. She worked as a certified nursing assistant for Prairie Healthcare and later for Homeward Bound in Prairie du Chien.
She is survived by a son Gary (Karen Strunk) Crowley of Prairie du Chien; daughters Sheila (Ron) Jones, Dodgeville, and Connie Christoph, Prairie du Chien; her sister Norma Panka, La Crosse, along with five grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two daughters Sandra and Sheryl; an infant son Ron and a brother Eugene Valley.
A Mass of Christian Burial was Monday, August 23, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Seneca, Rev. Eugene Wolf officiated, with burial in the church cemetery. The Garrity Funeral Home in Prairie du Chien assisted the family. www.garrityfuneralhome.com

Gene McManamy

Gene (Geno) Francis McManamy, 73, passed away on August 16, 2010, at his home surrounded by his family after a prolonged illness.
He was born on March 27, 1937 in La Crosse, to Alice (Rosson) and Francis McManamy.
He married Marilyn Ann Fortney on October 26, 1957 at Luther Memorial Church. They moved to Gays Mills where Gene worked briefly for Fortney Hardware until going to work for the Crawford County Highway Department in 1962. Gene worked for the highway department for thirty-seven years, retiring in 1999. After retiring he often reminisced about how much he missed plowing snow and his great fondness for his fellow “county boys.”
Gene was an avid outdoorsman and loved fishing, mushroom hunting, duck hunting and deer hunting. There are endless stories of past hunts with the “old boys,” including Vick, Turk, John and Bud, to name a few. He was always happy to share his secrets and helped several youngsters learn to hunt and fish over the years, including his grandson, Kyle.
He also had fond memories of deer hunts near Readstown with his son and nephews, Greg and Randy. More recently he hunted with the boys out at “the farm” and shot a wall hanger only a few years ago. Despite his hunting prowess he was always an easy mark and the target of a  lot of friendly ribbing and jokes from the rest of the group.
Gene also loved to play cards and was a regular participant in the afternoon euchre games at Halver’s Town Tap with the boys. To supplement these games he took the occasional trip to Liberty or Barnes with Ken and Byrd. Very little money changed hands, but “compliments” flowed like water.
Gene loved his children, grandchildren and nieces and nephews. He especially liked watching wrestling with his grandson Tyler. Despite him and grandson Todd being diehard Packer fans, he always managed to stay neutral during football season when grandsons Kent and Tom would be cheering for the Vikings. He had only one granddaughter, Ellyn, though he no doubt would have liked many more just like her. Grandson Preston has inherited his grandpa Gene’s love of fishing and was always quick to bring his trout or Kickapoo cat’s right into the house to show grandpa and tell him the story. And despite his struggle with his illness, he was determined to make the four hour trip to Osceola to celebrate grandson Calvin’s high school graduation last spring.
He is survived by his wife of fifty-two years, Marilyn (Fortney); his sisters, Nancy Schoville (Bob), Annette Hutchison (Bill); sister-in-law Marlene Meier (Othmar); his children Cheryl Foley (Steve), Julie Bell (Craig); Steve McManamy (Michelle); and eight grandchildren: Kyle, Kent, Ellyn, Tom, Todd, Tyler, Calvin and Preston; and one great-grandson, Noah.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Alice Glass; his brother, Kent McManamy, his sister, Karen Black and his brother-in-law, Kenny Morkrid.
Geno was loved by his family and friends and will be dearly missed.
There will be a visitation at the Sime Funeral Home in Readstown on Thursday, August  19, from 4 to 8 p.m. There will also be a visitation from noon until 1 p.m., followed by a memorial service on August 20, at the Readstown Advancement Building in the park at the corner of Highway 131 and Highway 14. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Vernon Memorial Hospice. Condolences may be sent to simefuneralforum.com.

Jean Hamann

Jean M. Hamann, 79, of Prairie du Chien died Saturday, August 14, 2010 at the Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse.
She was born September 16, 1930 in Prairie du Chien, the daughter of Herman and Anna (McCarthy) Hamann. Jean worked at Hamann’s Variety Store and later at the Coast to Coast Store in Prairie du Chien. She was a well known local photographer for wedding, school and family portraits. She was a lifetime member of St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church in Prairie du Chien.
She is survived by her brother Bill (Rita) Hamann of Prairie du Chien; her dear nieces and nephews, Jeff (Pam) Hamann of Minneapolis, Minn. and their children Jason, Jasmine, Jaret, Jeremy and Ashley, Mark Hamann of Prairie du Chien, Gary (Kelly) Hamann of Seneca, and their children; Gabriel and Reid, Barb (Jim) Welsch of Prairie du Chien and their children Daniel, Becky and Katy, Dianne (Kevin) Bay of Hartland, WI and their children Willie, Matthew, Maria, Michael and Joseph along with Tom (Nicky) Hamann of Manitowoc, and their children Jacob and Laurin.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
A private family funeral service will be held at the Garrity Funeral Home with Rev. Paul Fagan officiating, with burial in the Evergreen Cemetery both in Prairie du Chien. www.garrityfuneralhome.com

Michael Matteson

Michael Eugene Matteson passed away quietly in his sleep at home surrounded by family.
He joins his father Ivan, mother, Eunice and second born son, Matthew.
Michael is survived by wife, Susan and children James, Ithiel, Rachael, Flo, Ben, Beth, Sam, Asher, Hannah, Isaac, Eunice, Rebekah, Michael Andrew, Rei and Justus Ivy.

Marian Balk

Marian E. Balk, 80, of Prairie du Chien passed away Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at the Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse.
She was born October 19, 1929 in Glen Haven, the daughter of John and Alvina (Krogman) Ackerman. She married Virgil Cardine on January 10, 1950 and he preceded her in death on December 12, 1975. She later married Robert “Bob” Balk on June 9, 1979. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend who will be sadly missed by all.
She is survived by her husband Bob of Prairie du Chien; her children, Gregory Cardine of Sextonville, Randolph Cardine of Orlando, Fla. and Linette Cardine of Sun Prairie; her step-children, Belinda (Jay Droz) Balk of Columbus, Sheila (Kent) Meyer of Stevens Point, Benjamin Balk of Peking, China and Cathy (Dan) Heath of Delavan; her brother Gene (Mary Lou) Ackerman of Prairie du Chien; five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband and two sisters, Wilma Leamy and Doris Oates.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held Friday, August 13, 2010 at 11 a.m. at St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church, Rev. James Weighner officiating, with burial in the Calvary Cemetery both in Prairie du Chien. Friends may call at the church on Friday, August 13, 2010 from 10:30 a.m. until the time of services. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Prairie Catholic Schools. The Garrity Funeral Home of Prairie du Chien is assisting the family. www.garrityfuneralhome.com

Leo Mullarkey

Leo James Mullarkey, 91, of Lansing, died Wednesday August 11, 2010, at Prairie du Chien Memorial Hospital in Prairie du Chien.
Leo James Mullarkey, known as ‘Grandpa’ to everyone, was born May 23, 1919, in LaFayette Township. He was the son of Michael and Mary Brennan Mullarkey. Leo received his education at the Wexford Country school and played catcher on the Wexford Baseball Team. On April 24, 1944, he was united in marriage to Marcella Manning at the Wexford Catholic Church. He spent his life long career doing what he enjoyed, farming in the Wexford area. Leo loved playing cards.
Survivors include his five daughters, Peggy (Leonard) Gebhardt of Cedar Falls Iowa, Mary Lou (Jerry) Chapin of Waterloo Iowa, Rita (Roger) Ludwig of Waterloo Iowa, Joanne (Ronald) Prew of Eastman and Jeanne (Curtis) Palmer of Lynxville; son-in-law Gary Larson, Waterloo, Iowa; three sisters, his twin Leonette (Francis) Kernan of Lansing Iowa, Eleanor O’Neill of Waukon Iowa, Catherine Dowd of Waterloo Iowa; one brother, Carl (Mona) Mullarkey of Lansing Iowa; seventeen grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Marcella in 1993; daughters Alice Larson and Marie in infancy; brother William Mullarkey; sisters Evelyn Delaney, Marguerite Manning; brothers-in-law Steve O’Neill, Dan Dowd, James Delaney, Joe Manning and longtime friend Robert Whalen.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m., Tuesday, August 17, 2010 at the Wexford Catholic Church in rural Lansing. Father Donald Hawes and Monsignor Cletus Hawes will officiate at the service. 
Friends may call Monday August 16 from 4 to 8 p.m., at the Thornburg-DeVries Funeral Home in Lansing, where a 4 p.m. Scripture Service will be held. Interment will be at Wexford Cemetery in rural Lansing.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.thornburg-devries.com.

Edward Mezra

Edward J. Mezera, 73, of Prairie du Chien, devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend died unexpectedly Tuesday, August 10, 2010.
He was born November 6, 1936 in La Crosse, the son of Vincent and Catherine (Mittereiter) Mezera. He served in the U.S. Air Force. He married Janice Schneider on June 25, 1966 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He retired from Local 263 Sheet Metal Workers Union. His hobbies were his neighborhood garage, pontooning, fun loving sense of humor and his daily inspections of Prairie du Chien.
He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Janice of Prairie du Chien; his daughter, Cathy Fitzhugh of Waukesha, Kay (Doug) Hayes of Baltimore, Md., Wanda (James) Condoluci of Minneapolis, Minn. and Audrey Jones of Madison; a sister Dorothy Luckason of Lannon, eight grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren; nieces, nephews and dear friends Joe Flottmeyer and Junior Sconyers.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Rosemary Malin.
A Mass of Christian Burial was Monday, August 16, 2010 at St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church, Rev. James Weighner officiating, burial was in the Calvary Cemetery both in Prairie du Chien. Military rites will be accorded by the Prairie du Chien Honor Guard. A rosary and a wake scripture was held at the Garrity Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to the American Diabetes Association. www.garrityfuneralhome.com

Floy Fisher

Floy J. Fisher, 102, of Eastman, died Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at Prairie Maison Care Center in Prairie du Chien.
Floy was born September 22, 1907, the daughter of Hubert and Mary Brady Kramer. She received her education in the Eastman area. On October 31, 1934 she was united in marriage to Anthony Fisher at the United Methodist Church in Eastman.
Survivors include two daughters, Gloria (Carl) Harvat of Menomonee Falls, Elaine Stussy of Tucson, Ariz.; three sons, Gary (Joyce) Fisher of Pleasant Prairie, Kenny Fisher of West Bend, Calvin (Penny) Fisher of Tucson, Ariz.; one sister, Rillia Oppriecht of Eastman; 16 grandchildren; 37 great grandchildren and 12 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Anthony on April 15, 1963; ten brothers and sisters; a daughter, Shirley at birth; two grandsons and one great-grandson.
Funeral services were Saturday, August 14, 2010 at the Eastman Wesleyan Church in Eastman. Pastor Channing Bogle officiated. Interment will be at National Cemetery in Eastman. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.thornburg-devries.com. The Thornburg-DeVries Funeral Home in Prairie du Chien assisted the family.

Carl Stickfort

Carl F. Stickfort, 61, of Garnavillo, died Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at Gundersen Lutheran Hospital in      La Crosse.
Carl was born October 21, 1948 in McGregor, the son of Verni and Helen Lestina Stickfort. He was a 1966 graduate of Garnavillo High School. Carl was an organic farmer and was a former employee of the Iowa Capri. In his youth he was an avid hunter and fisherman. He had a special and unique sense of humor and above all was a loving father. Carl was a lifetime member of the NRA.
He is survived by his wife Kathy of Garnavillo; his mother, Helen Stickfort; four daughters, Megan Stickfort, Chelsea Stickfort, Erica Stickfort, all of Garnavillo and Delta Stickfort of Prairie du Chien; a grandson, Christian Stickfort; a sister, Cynthia (Lester) Engler of Cedar Rapids; step-children, Kimberly Hull of Gratiot, Kip Groom of Monroe, Bob Carlson of La Crosse, and six step grandchildren, Alyson, Owen, Nathan, Nicholas, Kylie and Elijah and his Border Collie grandson, “Sam.”
He was preceded in death by his father Verni and a step-son, Kyle Groom.
Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Friday, August 13, 2010 at the Bible Baptist Church in Prairie du Chien. Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m., Thursday at the Bible Baptist Church in Prairie du Chien. Pastor Andy Doll will officiate at the service. Interment will be at the Garnavillo Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.thornburg-devries.com The Thornburg-DeVries funeral home of Prairie du Chien was in charge of arrangements.

Ella Burkhart

Ella B. (Heisz) Burkhart of Prairie du Chien, died Saturday, August 7, 2010 after 89 years of selfless devotion to her family and community.
Ella was born near Eastman, to Charles and Bertha (Messling) Finney, the eldest and only girl of six children.  She privately claimed January 2, 1921 as her birth date although, with the assistance of some long forgotten functionary, her official birth date ended up being January 1, 1921.
Ella started high school at Prairie du Chien Public High School, but like many others, particularly during the depression, elected to forego completion in order to wed.  Always resolute in attaining her goals, she was proud of her subsequent graduation from Wauzeka High School.
Ella married Frank L. Heisz on September 18, 1939.  Together they farmed at a number of locations until they purchased their family farm near Eastman where they farmed and raised their three children, Jimmy, Leonard and Janice.  During the long and difficult years of Frank’s final illness, Ella was a devoted and tireless caretaker.  Following Frank’s death on September 15, 1973, she sold the farm and moved to Eastman.
Prior to Frank’s death, Ella went to work for the Community Action Program (CAP) of Crawford County.  She became the CAP director and served in that capacity until her retirement.
On June 16, 1984, Ella married Russell D. Burkhart.  Together they enjoyed traveling, gardening and spending time with their combined families and friends, always with their beloved dog, Spike, at their side.   Russell died on March 17, 2005, leaving Ella widowed for a second time.  Ella moved into a small apartment in Prairie du Chien where she remained substantially independent until July 14, 2010, when she was taken to Prairie du Chien Memorial Hospital where she suffered a stroke from which she never recovered.  She peacefully and mercifully joined her Lord on August 7, 2010.
 Ella’s family would like to express their sincere thanks and gratitude to the Prairie du Chien Memorial Hospital health professionals for their compassion and support during Ella’s final days.  They particularly thank her doctors, nurses, and the devoted hospice nursing staff.
Surviving Ella are her three children; Jimmy (Inge) Heisz of Dallas, Texas, Lenny (Karlen) Heisz of Wisconsin Dells, Janice (Jim) Kalvin of Madison; seven grandchildren; Laura (Paul), Deborah (Katie), Stephen (Kayri), Jeff (Missy) Jeremy, Karen and Leah (Ben); eleven great grandchildren; Sarah, Jacob, Megan, Hunter, Molly, Brooke, Brianna, Ivan, Ava, Zachery, and Emma; two step children; Becki (Ron) Daly of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Elaine (Dan) Dubray of Overland Park, Kans.; five step- grandchildren; Ryan (Beth), Rachel, Emily, Kelly and Leah; her three surviving brothers; Ivan (Florence) Finney of Prairie du Chien, Gaylen (Verna) Finney, of Wauzeka, and Wayne (Katie) Finney of Dubuque, Iowa; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.  In addition to Charles and Bertha Finney, her parents, Frank and Russell, Ella was preceded in death by two brothers, Arnold and Dale Finney, and by a great-grandson, Brett Hafke.
Ella will be deeply missed by her family and friends.
Memorial services will be at 11:30 a.m. Friday, August 13 at the Salem United Methodist Church, Eastman, with Rev Lynn Schreck officiating.  Family and friends may call at the church for visitation beginning at 10 a.m. on Friday. Interment will be at National Cemetery in Eastman. Memorials may be given to Faith in Action.
The Thornburg-DeVries Funeral Home of Prairie du Chien was in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.thornburg-devries.com

Marian Balk

Marian E. Balk age 80 of Prairie du Chien passed away Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at the Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La  Crosse, WI. She was born October 19, 1929 in Glen Haven, WI, the daughter of John and Alvina (Krogman) Ackerman. She married Virgil Cardine on January 10, 1950 and he preceded her in death on December 12, 1975. She later married Robert "Bob" Balk on June 9, 1979. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend who will be sadly missed by all. She is survived by her husband Bob of Prairie du Chien, her children; Gregory Cardine of Sextonville, WI, Randolph Cardine of Orlando, FL and Linette Cardine of Sun Prairie, WI, her stepchildren; Belinda (Jay Droz) Balk of Columbus, WI, Sheila (Kent) Meyer of Stevens Point, WI, Benjamin Balk of Peking, China and Cathy (Dan) Heath of Delavan, WI, her brother Gene (Mary Lou) Ackerman of Prairie du Chien, 5 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband and two sisters; Wilma Leamy and Doris Oates.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, August 13, 2010 at 11:00 AM at St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church, Rev. James Weighner officiating, with burial in the Calvary Cemetery both in Prairie du Chien. Friends may call at the church on Friday, August 13, 2010 from 10:30 AM until the time of services. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Prairie Catholic Schools. The Garrity Funeral Home of Prairie du Chien is assisting the family. www.garrityfuneralhome.com

Opal Key

Opal A. Key, 98, of Prairie du Chien, passed away on Monday, August 2, 2010, at Prairie Maison in Prairie du Chien.
She was born on April 13, 1912, in Soldiers Grove, the daughter of Theodore and Effie (Whitney) Turben. She married Virgil Key on January 1, 1930, in Prairie du Chien. He preceded her in death on November 22, 1978.
She is survived by four sons, James (Anita) Key of Prairie du Chien, Gilbert Key and special friend Trish Heer both of Prairie du Chien, Fred (Sandra) Key of Prairie du Chien, Ivan (Janet) Key of Prairie du Chien; two daughters, Eloise Key-Fischer of Prairie du Chien, Peggy (Eloy) Ortiz of Tampa Fla,; 22 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter Karen Key, one brother James Turben.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 6, 2010, at 11 a.m. at St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church in Prairie du Chien, Pastor Joe Irvin officiating. Burial will be in the Patch Grove Cemetery,  Patch Grove.  Friends may call  on Friday August 6, 2010, from 9 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. at St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church in Prairie du Chien.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church in Prairie du Chien.  The Garrity Funeral Home in Prairie du Chien is assisting the family.

Mark Moore & Brenda Moore

Mark C. Moore, age 53, and Brenda M. Moore, age 48, both of Wauzeka, died on Saturday, July 31, 2010, as a result of an automobile accident in Bloomington Township. 
Mark was born on May 3, 1957, in Prairie du Chien, the son of Norbert and Marjorie (Kress) Moore.  Brenda was born on February 25, 1962, in Prairie du Chien, the daughter of Lyle and Helen (Purkapile) Potter.  They both graduated from Bloomington High School.  In 1980, Mark began his employment with 3M in Prairie du Chien. On December 22, 1984, Mark and Brenda were united in marriage at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Brenda was previously employed at Cabela’s in Prairie du Chien and enjoyed being a homemaker.  They loved traveling, hunting, fishing, and camping.  Mark and Brenda enjoyed anything that involved being together as a family. Mark also enjoyed antique cars and playing the drums and Brenda loved to cook and care for her family.
Survivors include their children, Kurt (Janet Dudak) Moore, Manchester, Iowa; Tanya (Robert Carr) Moore, Wauzeka; Mark’s parents, Marge and Norb Moore, Bloomington; Brenda’s mother, Helen Potter, Bloomington; Brenda’s siblings, Bev Teasley, Cabot, Ark.; Mike (Karen) Potter, Potosi; Dave (Janice Beall) Potter, Cassville; Betty (Jerry Cromwell) Nelson, Cassville; Trudi Cromwell, Lancaster; and several nieces and nephews.
Mark and Brenda were preceded in death by a son, Jim Moore, Brenda’s father, Lyle Potter, and Brenda’s nephew, Clint Potter.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 6, 2010, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Bloomington with Reverend Mary Ann Floerke officiating.  Burial will be in Linden Cemetery, Linden. Family and friends may call on Thursday, August 5, 2010, from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Bloomington and from 9:30 a.m. until time of services on Friday at the church. In lieu of plants and flowers, a Mark and Brenda Moore memorial fund has been established.  Martin Funeral Home in Bloomington is assisting the family.
Online condolences:   www.martinschwartzfuneralhomes.com

Robert Osterhaus

Robert M. Osterhaus, 49, of Burnsville, Minn. died Saturday, August 7, at his parent’s home in Prairie du Chien.
Bob was a devoted family man, known for his love of a good story. Bob worked for Farmland Foods and was an avid baseball fan. Bob was active in the Apple Valley Youth Baseball program, using his talents to organize several large tournaments.
Bob is survived by his wife, Joanne (Rodden) and three children Melissa, 19, Michael, 17, and Christopher, 15. He is further survived by his parents, Don and Mary Alice Osterhaus of Prairie du Chien; a sister, Diane (Thomas) Neefe of La Crosse, John (Tina) of Eastman, David of Sterling, Ill., Rodney (Lori) of Dalton, Greg (Stephanie) of Burnsville, Minn and Brian (Emily) of Oregon.
He will be missed by his father-in-law, Barney Rodden of La Grange, Ill; sister-in-law Mary Beth Costello (Kevin) Park Ridge, Ill; a brother-in-law, Jack (Vicki) Rodden of La Grange, Ill; Jackie Osterhaus of Paynseville, Minn; fifteen nephews, five nieces, family and friends.
Friends may call Wednesday, August 11 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the White Funeral Home, 14560 Pennock Ave, Apple Valley, Minn. 55124. Funeral services will be Thursday, August 12 at 10 a.m. at the Church of the Risen Saviour, 1501 Cty Rd 42 E. Burnsville, Minn. Visitation is at the church one hour prior to services.

Betty Meyer

Betty J. Meyer, 82, of Prairie du Chien passed away on Thursday, August 5, 2010, at Gunderson Lutheran Hospital in La Crosse Wisconsin.
She was born on March 22, 1928, in Waukon, Iowa the daughter of Louis and Ella (Anderson) Burseth. She married Glenn Meyer on September 27, 1946, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Waukon, Iowa. He preceded her in death on June 6 2008.  Betty was a long time member of St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church in Prairie du Chien and also a member of the Prairie du Chien VFW ladies Auxiliary.
She is survived by three sons, Robert (Lois) Meyer of Prairie du Chien, Dennis (Jane) Meyer of Branson, Mo, Terry (Ann) Meyer of Prairie du Chien; one daughter  Gwen Treu of West Salem; Five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren and a niece Trudy Bunge of McGregor Minn.
She was preceded in death by her parents, along with three brothers and one sister.
Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, August 10, 2010, at 11 a.m. at St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church in Prairie du Chien. Pastor Nick Barootian officiating. Burial in the Evergreen Cemetery in Prairie du Chien. Friends may call on Tuesday, August 10, from 9 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. at St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church in Prairie du Chien.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church in Prairie du Chien or to the VFW memorial fund in Prairie du Chien.  The Garrity Funeral Home in is assisting the family.

Mary Betzle

Mary Elizabeth (White) Betzle, 87, a lifelong resident of Prairie du Chien peacefully went home to God on Sunday morning, July 25, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer.
Mary was born in Seneca, on September 11, 1922, the first of seven children, to Oliver and Kathryn (Fleeman) White. She was very proud of her Irish heritage and Catholic Faith. She was a graduate of St. Mary’s High School in Prairie du Chien. She worked at the Woolen Mill in Prairie du Chien prior to, and after, her marriage to Martin W. Betzle, on February 12, 1942. She prayerfully and patiently awaited his return from his European tour of duty during World War II. Upon his return, they lived, loved, and worked together for 42 years and raised four children.
Mary was a loving wife to Marty, mother of four, grandmother to seven and great-grandmother to eleven. For over 25 years she and Marty owned and operated the Hi Way Market. She was an active member of St. John’s Parish. She was honored to be a Eucharistic Minister for the Homebound of her parish. She enjoyed her weekly Bible Study sessions. For over 22 years she was a devoted Hospice volunteer. She loved sewing, fishing, and to her family, was one of the biggest Milwaukee Brewers’ fans ever. She loved listening and watching all sports from her own childrens’ and grandchildrens’ events to the local high school, college, and national events. She could talk “stats” with the best of them. She was an endless source of information, love, prayers, and she will be sadly missed by her family and many friends.
Mary is survived by her son, John (Ellie) Betzle, of East Moline, Ill.; her daughters, MaryLou Wintczak of Chicago, Ill., and Shirley (Michael) MacEachern, of Prairie du Chien; seven grandchildren, Susie (Shawn) Boeke, Marty (Kim) MacEachern, Ellie (Jim) Krantz, Steve (Heidi) MacEachern, Bill Wintczak, Tom Wintczak and Christopher Betzle; eleven great-grandchildren, Brooke, Cody, Brea, Tyler, Claire, Colin, Clayton, Kyle, Seth, Jack and Lennon; a brother, Tom (Sally) White of Prairie du Chien, a sister, Catherine Henderson, of Monona, Iowa, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Mary White, of Prairie du Chien, GinnyLou White, of Monona, Margaret (Walter) Schmidt, of Overland Park, Kan., Marian Schloegl, of West Allis, Frieda DuCharme, of Milwaukee, Donna (Paul) Geraghty, of Waterloo, Iowa, Michael (Diane) Schloegl, of Indianapolis, Ind. and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Marty Betzle, a son, William (Bill) Betzle; her parents, Oliver and Kathryn White; two brothers, Bernard (Bun) White and Edward White; and two sisters, Lillian Coorough and Dorothy Halverson.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, July 28, 2010 at St. John Nepomuc Catholic Church in Prairie du Chien. Rev. James Weighner and Father Paul Fagan will officiate. Friends and relatives are invited for visitation Tuesday, July 27, 2010 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Garrity Funeral Home in Prairie du Chien where there will be a rosary at 4 p.m. and a wake scripture at 7:30 p.m. Private burial services will be held at a later date in the Calvary Cemetery in Prairie du Chien.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Prairie Catholic Schools, Prairie du Chien Hospice, or in care of Father Paul Fagan, Roads to Life Tanzania, 1015 S. 14th St., Prairie du Chien, WI, 53821, http://www.roadstolifetanzania.org/. For on line condolences, www.garrityfuneralhome.com

Beverly Daniels

Beverly Ann Daniels, 73, of Janesville passed away quietly at her home on Sunday, July 25, 2010, surrounded by her family.
Bev was born in Prairie du Chien, on October 7, 1936, the daughter of the late Clair and Hazel (Stender) Reed. Bev moved to Elkhorn, after she married Donald Daniels, later moving to Janesville. Bev was an active member of First Christian Church in Janesville, where she enjoyed baking for various fundraisers. Bev  was always helpful to those who were less fortunate. She also enjoyed playing bingo. Her life revolved around her daughter, two granddaughters and one great-granddaughter, whom she was very proud of.
She is survived by her daughter, Hope Ruiz; two granddaughters, Jessica and Tiffany; and great-granddaughter, Kylie. She is further survived by two brothers, David (Anne) Reed of Janesville, and Del (Jean) Cota of Ellenton, Fla.; her four sisters, Betty deLorimier of Janesville, Frances (Peter) Dohse of Prairie du Chien, Lois Lucas of New Castle, Wyo. and June (Bill) Linzenmeyer of Mayville.
In addition to her beloved parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Jim Cota and her sister, Cheri Cota.
Memorial Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 27, 2010 at the First Christian Church, 1909 Highland Ave., Janesville with Rev. DeeAnn Woods officiating. Interment will be at Evergreen Cemetery in Prairie du Chien at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family. Bev wanted to be remembered as "I did it my way!"
Whitcomb - Lynch - Albrecht Funeral Home, Janesville 15 N. Jackson St. (608) 752-2444 www.whitcomb-lynch-albrecht.com

Dick Jelle

Raymond Bauerle

Raymond J. Bauerle, Jr, 72, of Milton, and Streamwood, Ill. passed away on Tuesday, July 20, 2010 at Mercy Hospital in Janesville, after a courageous battle with heart disease and diabetes. 
He was born on January 21, 1938 in Chicago, Ill., son of the late Raymond and Alice (Peck) Bauerle. Raymond served in the US Army stationed in Germany from 1956 until he was Honorably discharged in 1959. Throughout his life, the Military was so important to him. Upon his return, Raymond met and married his wife, Dolores Stluka, on May 12, 1962, in Prairie du Chien.
Raymond worked as a maintenance electrician at GTE in Northlake, Ill., retiring in 1994, after more than 29 years of service. His greatest pleasure was his time at Hidden Valley RV Resort in Milton, from 1996 until present. He found there, a great place, with many people who were like extended family.
He is survived by his wife, Dolores; his pets, Flynn and Chelsea; three sisters, Lois (Clet) Davis of Sandwich, Ill., Alice (Steve) Burgin of Strawberry Point, Iowa, and Marie Stainfield of Winston Salem, N.C. He is further survived by his sister-in-law, Henrietta Schmidt of Plano, Ill.; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Jim Schmidt and his sister, Dianna Schuldt.}Funeral services were held Saturday, July 24, 2010 at the Whitcomb/Lynch/Albrecht Funeral Home, Milton. Full Military Rites will be provided by VFW Kienow- Hilt Post  #1621. Private interment will be held.
Whitcomb - Lynch - Albrecht Funeral Home, Milton, WI828 S. Janesville St.         (608) 868-2542 www.whitcomb-lynch-albrecht.com

Mary Alderson

Mary J. Alderson, 74, of Prairie du Chien, died Friday, July 16, 2010 at Manor Care in Platteville.
Mary Janet Whitish was born July 24, 1935 in Werley. She was the daughter of Alfred and Hazel Smith Whitish. She received her education in the Lancaster area. On March 21, 1952 she was united in marriage with Keith Alderson at Nashua, Iowa. Mary lived in Mt. Hope for twenty-four years. In 1994 she moved to Gratiot, and in 2001 she move Prairie du Chien.
Mary worked at Loudspeaker components in Lancaster, served as supervisor at Advanced Transformer in Boscobel and Platteville for twenty-five years, worked as a CNA for Harmony Manor in Monroe and finally worked at Dick’s Supermarket as a hostess and demonstrator. Mary enjoyed fishing, camping, flowers, crafts, gardening and sewing. She loved her family and had a great fondness for animals. She was a member of the Red Hats and a former member of Peace Lutheran Church in Platteville.
She is survived by one daughter, Cindy (John) Hromadka of Gratiot; one son, Kelly ( Diana) Alderson of Mt. Hope; one sister, Joretta Blum of Withee; one brother, Howard Whitish of Utah; special friend, John Schautz; four grandchildren, Dustin (Alison) Hromadka, Adrianna Hromadka, Kirsten (James) Martin, Kelli (Ronnie) Brooks and four great grandchildren, Brice Martin, Austin Martin, Aiden Martin, Kiley Brooks and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Keith on March 5, 1989 and three brothers, Alvin, Richard and Walter.
Funeral services will be 1 p.m., Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Prairie du Chien. The Rev. Bruce Hanson will officiate at the service. Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m., Tuesday at the Thornburg-DeVries Funeral Home in Prairie du Chien and one hour before services at the church. Interment will be at Prairie Cemetery in Fennimore. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.thornburg-devries.com

Beverly Mezera

Beverly A. “Bev” Mezera, 72, of Wauzeka passed away Saturday, July 17, 2010 at the Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse, after a brief illness.
She was born February 23, 1938 in Wauzeka, the daughter of Donald and Mildred (Blazek) Bird. She married James Mezera on March 4, 1957. He preceded her in death on November 17, 1976. She enjoyed hunting, fishing, reading, bingo and country music. She was a charter member of the Wauzeka First Responders. Most of all Bev loved the Christmas season, with all the gatherings of family and friends. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend and will be sadly missed by all.
She is survived by three sons, Richard (Retta Sue) and Robin (Vicky) both of Wauzeka, and Ron (Julie) of Kenosha; two daughters, Kim (Mark) Doll and Kit (Jeff) Haines both of Wauzeka; three brothers, Dale (Jean) Bird of Dubuque, Iowa, Tom (Betty) Bird of Beloit, and David Bird of Denver, Iowa; two sisters, Marge LoBianco of Dubuque and Pat Bird of Wauzeka; 15 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; her brothers and sisters-in-law; Bill and Caryl Miller Pat Lenzendorf, Mary and Dave Arneson, Al and Linda Mezera, Joyce and LeRoy Macke, Barb and Ron Havlik and Sandy Sanders.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Paul and Gary Bird along with one grandchild.
Funeral services were Monday, July 19, 2010 at Century Hall in Wauzeka, with burial in the Wauzeka Cemetery. The Garrity Funeral Home of Prairie du Chien is assisting the family. www.garrityfuneralhome.com

Sandra Schlaugat

Sandra K. Schlaugat, 56, of New Berlin, was called home to be with our Lord while in the presence of her loving family on Wednesday, July 14, 2010 at Waukesha Memorial Hospital.
She was born on October 19, 1953 in Prairie du Chien to the late Walter and Mary Ellen (Kieckhafer) Schlaugat. Sandra attended high school in Prairie du Chien and graduated in the class of 1971. Following high school, Sandra attended the University of Wisconsin Whitewater and earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology. In her free time, Sandra was a Ham radio operator holding the call sign KC9EPA and was a member of the Milwaukee Radio Club.
Sandra’s own struggles with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis led her to be a strong advocate for disability awareness. It also led her to be a long time volunteer for the Arthritis Foundation as an intake receptionist. Even though Sandra had many struggles herself over the years, it was her strong faith in the Lord that sustained her.
Sandra is survived by her two brothers, Allan W. (Donna) Schlaugat of Chippewa Falls and James (Laura) Schlaugat of Mt. Hope; her sister, Mary Ann (Jeff) Klongland of Verona; seven nieces and nephews, Jamie and Jeremy Schlaugat of Chippewa Falls, Veronica, Renee, and Thomas Schlaugat of Mt. Hope, and Jeffrey and David Klongland of Verona; a very special friend, Carol McAdam of New Berlin; and many other close relatives and dear friends.
Sandra was preceded in death by her parents and her infant brother David.
A memorial service in honor of Sandra will be held on Saturday, July 24, 2010 at 12 p.m. at the Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home in West Bend. Rev. Cheryl Hardegen will officiate and burial will follow in Washington County Memorial Park. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Saturday from 10 a.m. until the time of service at noon.
Online guest book and condolences may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com. Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service, 1315 W. Washington St.West Bend, WI 53095, (262) 334-2776.

Gerald Knapp

Gerald F. Knapp, 87, of Bloomington, died on Friday, July 16, 2010, at his home in Bloomington. 
He was born on March 28, 1923, in Beetown Township, the son of Miner and Helen (Mason) Knapp. He graduated from Bloomington High School with numerous awards. On June 17, 1947, Gerald was united in marriage to Evelyn “Skip” Schleicher at the First Presbyterian Church in Lancaster. After their marriage, they farmed on the Knapp Century Farm in Beetown Township.  Gerald served on the Bloomington School Board, the Blakes Prairie Fair Board and Grant County Farm Bureau.  He was the president of Farmer’s Telephone Company for many years, helped organize and develop Bloomington Farmer’s Co-op and Nova Directories.  Gerald also served as the Chairman of Beetown Township.  He enjoyed sports, playing cards, and dancing. 
Survivors include his wife, Evelyn “Skip” Knapp, Bloomington; two sons, James “Jim” (Donna) Knapp and John (Betty) Knapp, both of Bloomington; six daughters, Sandra (Mike) Kabele, Lancaster, Vicki (Howard) Sanborn, Lancaster; Debra “Debbie” (Mark) Bierman, Bloomington, Cherie (Mike) Mozuch, Oregon, Bonnie (Tom) Gross, Reedsburg, and Kristine (Bill Blatterman) Arsenault, Madison; son-in-law, Dan Nies, Patch Grove; twenty-six grandchildren; thirty-one great-grandchildren; two sisters, Shirley Ronan and Virginia Ward, both of Bloomington; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
In addition to his parents, Gerald was preceded in death by a daughter, Rebecca L. Nies and two brothers-in-law, James Ronan and Earl Ward.
Funeral Services were held on Monday, July 19, 2010, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Bloomington. Burial was in Dodge Cemetery, Beetown Township. According to Gerald’s wishes, there was no visitation. In lieu of plants and flowers a Gerald F. Knapp memorial fund has been established. Martin Funeral Home in Bloomington is assisting the family. Online condolences:  www.martinschwartzfuneralhomes.com.

Joseph Cipra

Joseph P. Cipra, 52 of Wauzeka, died unexpectedly Wednesday, June 30, 2010 at his home.
He was born October 31, 1957 in Prairie du Chien, the son of Joseph and Josephine (Check) Cipra. He was currently employed at Cabela’s in Prairie du Chien. He worked at Quality Wood in Prairie du Chien from 1979 to 2005. Joe was an active member of the community; he assisted with the Wauzeka Summer Recreation Program, belonged to the Wauzeka Village Board and was involved with the Wauzeka Athletic Booster Club. He enjoyed hunting deer and mushrooms, playing softball and bowling.
He is survived by two daughters, Amanda Cipra of Middleton, and Olivia Cipra of Merrill; his mother Josephine Cipra of Wauzeka; six sisters, Carol (Robert) Mullikin, Janet (Terry) Neisius, Sandra (Dennis) White and Rita (Robert) Kazda all of Prairie du Chien, Patricia (Gregory) McCullick of Steuben, and Mary (Allen) Stuckey of Wauzeka.
He was preceded in death by his father.
A Memorial Mass of Resurrection was held Saturday, July 3, 2010 at 12 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Wauzeka. Interment will be at a later date in the Calvary Cemetery in Prairie du Chien. The Garrity Funeral Home in Prairie du Chien assisted the family with arrangements. www.garrityfuneralhome.com

Dale Carlson

Dale R. Carlson, 65, of Prairie du Chien, died Saturday, July 3, 2010, at Memorial Hospital in Prairie du Chien. 
He was born on August 8, 1944, in Beloit, the son of Robert and Lucille (Roberts) Carlson. Dale graduated from Beloit Memorial High School. He also graduated from University of Wisconsin-Platteville in 1967.  In that same year he was employed at the Greendale School District. Dale was united in marriage to Judy A. Hinderman on August 25, 1971 at St. Rose of Lima in Cuba City.  In 1976, he was employed by the West Grant School District, as an art teacher, which later became River Ridge High School.  Dale retired in 2007. 
Dale had a strong desire for the success of his students.  He had a lifelong passion for the quality of our environment, and the preservation of its ecosystems.  Dale will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, artist and teacher.
Dale is survived by his wife, Judy Carlson, Prairie du Chien; two sons,  Aaron Carlson, Platteville and Erik Carlson, Spring Green; his mother, Lucille Carlson, Beloit; a sister, Marjorie Jackson, Beloit; father and mother-in-law, Francis and Charlene Hinderman, Cuba City.
He was preceded in death by his father and a brother-in-law, Ed Jackson.
A private family funeral will be held at a later date.  Friends may call from 4 until 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 8, 2010 at Martin Funeral Home in Bloomington. 

John Whetzal

John L. Whetzal Jr., 84, of Arena and formerly of Broadview, Ill. passed away on Saturday, July 10, 2010 following an illness.
He was born on March 25, 1926 in Chicago, Ill. the son of John L. Sr. and Flora Whetzal. John was married to the former Bette Schenck on September 27, 1946 and she preceded him in death on September 24, 1985. He was then married to the former Donna Lauten on October 28, 1988. John was a veteran of WWII, in the Navy and Coast Guard, the first lifetime member of the Warrenville VFW, a business agent for the local 257 for three years and a member of the local 803 which he considered his “extended family” for over 50 years. He farmed from 1971 to 1987 in Richland Center and was a police officer for the Warrenville, West Chicago Police Department for three years.
Survivors include, his wife Donna Whetzal of Broadview, Ill.; ten children, Diane (Frank) Gombash of Ill., Marie (Vern) Wyatt of Prairie du Chien, SMS John (Pamela) Whetzal III of Iowa, Janelle (Gary) Williams of Arena, Mary Roberts of Lafarge, Patti (Dan) Stauffer of Eau Claire, Robin (Bob) Wilt of Prairie du Chien, Lori (Dean) Rinehart of Sextonville, Karen (Dave) Schumacher of Mauston, Bob Whetzal of Oshkosh, 53 grandchildren; 87 great- grandchildren; seven great, great-grandchildren; a brother, William A. (Donna) Whetzal of Warrenville, Ill., two sisters, Marcia Siebert of Fla., Marilyn (Paul) Higgens of San Raphael, Calif.; a step-daughter, Donna (Tony) Salerno of Ill.; nieces, nephews, cousins and his dog, Bennie.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Bette Whetzal; a daughter, Judy Wentz; two grandsons; one stepson; and a great- granddaughter.
A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, July 31, 2010 at the Stafford Funeral Home in Richland Center from 10 a.m. – 12 noon with burial in the Richland Center Cemetery where military graveside rites will be conducted by the Richland Center local Veterans Military Memorial Honors Unit.
Online condolences available at www.staffordfuneralhomes.com. The Stafford Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements. 

Diane Jones

Diane “Kay” Jones, 70, of Prairie du Chien passed away Wednesday, July 7, 2010 at her home following a courageous battle with cancer.
She was born June 14, 1940 in Waupun, the daughter of Joseph and Ariel (Janney) Jones. She worked for Roundy’s Grocery and later at the Round Barn Restaurant in Spring Green. She is survived by her brothers, W.J. “Jim” (Beverly) Jones and Jerry Jones Sr. both of Prairie du Chien; her sister Alice Rossing of Mineral Point, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother John Robert Jones and a sister Rhea Schuetz.
Funeral services were held Saturday, July 10, at the Garrity Funeral Home in Prairie du Chien, burial was in the Fancy Creek Cemetery in Gillingham. www.garrityfuneralhome.com

Betty Donald

After years of taking care of others, which she loved doing, Betty Donald passed away surrounded by her children all of whom had the chance to say “Thanks for everything mom” and tell her how much they all loved her.
Betty was born and raised in Winona and will be remembered as the Winter Carnival Queen who had to step down because she was only seventeen. However she did go on the Miss Minnesota Contest later that year and she placed second. Betty was a beautiful woman on the inside as well. She loved gardening and her back yard was a constant source of joy and happiness to her. Betty was a hard worker all her life from raising her children, to working at Watkins, Linahan’s, Randall’s and finally going on to vocational school and getting her beautician’s license. Betty was a proud member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary Post 1287, where she served as junior vice president. Betty also loved to play bingo and enjoyed an occasional outing to the casino.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents Walter and Selma (Iverson) Glende; husbands, Wilfred Gau and Richard Donald; children, Bill Gau and Nancy Gau; sisters, Kathleen (Charles) Keeley, Vivian (Pat) Burke; and brothers, Brice Glende, and Morrie Glende.
Betty is survived by her special friend and companion Reuben (Ted) Fenske; her sister Marlys (Alton) Morken; brothers Leo and Walter Glende; daughters, Carol (George) Borzyskowski, Kathleen (Clifford) Kramer, Barbara Vogel, Lisa Donald, Valerie (John) Degnan, Jill Donald, sons, Richard (Lisa Glenzinski) Donald, Jay (Renee) Donald; special family friend Alison Costello and many nieces and nephews. Betty leaves a wonderful legacy of love to her ten grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren who were the brightest flowers in her garden of love.
The arrangements will be at Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home on Thursday July 8. The visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. with a memorial service at 6 p.m. There will be a reception at the VFW Club following the internment at Woodlawn Cemetery.

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