Erma Elaine (Braunsdorf) Schroeder passed away on Oct. 11, 2018, at home. Erma was born Jan. 3, 1932, on a farm on the shores of Lake Michigan, just south of Sturgeon Bay, to Adeline and Ernest Braunsdorf. The oldest of three children, Erma was both a caretaker and very independent.

At age 13, Erma moved alone to Sturgeon Bay to attend high school, as there was no bus service to where she lived. After high school, Erma worked in Green Bay at Cohen’s Department Store and, later, at Naph-Sol Refining – a period in her life which provided many fond memories. It was during this time she met her future husband, James Schroeder. After Jim was drafted, he and Erma moved to El Paso, Texas, and were married in April 1954. They were married for 61 years. Jim and Erma planned on making their home in El Paso, but plans changed when Jim was called to Korea. Erma returned to Green Bay and continued her career at Standard Oil.

When Jim returned from Korea, he and Erma began a family in the upstairs apartment of a small house next to Jim’s family’s cheese factory in Frazer Corners, just south of Pulaski. In 1959, Erma and Jim moved their small family, now including two small boys, Jerry and Denny, to a farm just east of Gillett. The family grew here including three more children: Dawn, Diane and Randy. Erma’s independence presented itself again, raising five children while Jim worked seven days a week, hauling milk. As many women did in the 1970s, Erma returned to work, employed as a legal secretary in Gillett, first for attorney Leon Reimer, and later for attorneys Brown and Everson. Erma became known as the fastest typist in Gillett. Erma also became an active member of the Gillett community, teaching Sunday school at St. John’s Lutheran Church, joining Gillett Homemakers and later Gillett Woman’s Club, and bowling competitively with her team at the local American Legion bowling alley. Erma also enjoyed crossword puzzles and a good game of Scrabble, able to outscore almost any opponent.

Jim preceded Erma in death in 2015. Like Jim, Erma will be missed immensely by her family. Also preceding Erma in death were her parents, her mother- and father-in-law, Weimer and Marie Schroeder, sister Marlene Rabideau, in-laws Joan and Bob Krause and Joanne Schroeder and a baby daughter. Erma is survived by her brother Darrell (Sandy) Braunsdorf and brother-in-law Howard (Dawn) Schroeder. She is further survived by her children and grandchildren: Jerry (Gail) Schroeder; Denny (Mary) Schroeder – Kim, Eric and Alissa; Dawn (Ed) Giamarino – Ben and Matt; Diane (Jamie) Hubbard – Nick; and Randy Schroeder. Erma also is survived by several great-grandchildren: Grant and Cole Gruetzmacher; and Gwendalyn, Geanie and Lennon Schroeder and her step-great-grandson, Hendrix.

Friends and family may gather to honor Erma at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Main Street, Gillett. Visitation began Tuesday, Oct. 16, from 4-8 p.m. with a prayer service at 7 p.m., with Pastor Bill Kamke officiating. Visitation continues on Wednesday, Oct. 17, from noon until the funeral service at 2 p.m., with pastors Kent Wallace and William Kamke officiating. Erma will be laid to rest next to her husband in Wanderer’s Rest Cemetery in Gillett. Gruetzmacher Funeral Home, Suring, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com

Erma’s family would like to thank those who provided her comfort: Ruby Hinkfuss from St. John’s Lutheran Church, Dr. James Jerzak and his staff at Bellin Family Medicine, and nurses Erin and Kristen from SouthernCare Hospice Services.

Kathryn A. Firgens, 96, of Shawano, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018. Kathryn was born on July 11, 1922, in the Town of Underhill to the late Paul and Helena (Wilke) Dicke. She was baptized and confirmed at Christ (Christus) Lutheran Church, Hintz.

After graduating from high school, she moved to Milwaukee and was employed by the telephone company. She married Clarence Firgens in Milwaukee on Oct. 9, 1948. They continued to live and work in Milwaukee, while making frequent trips to visit family and friends in the Gillett and Suring areas. Kathryn started working for Briggs and Stratton engines in the 1950s and retired from there in 1984. She enjoyed playing the piano, cooking, gardening, entertaining guests, “Get good home,” and reading her daily devotions.

Her husband, Clarence, died in 1999. In 2002, she moved to Shawano and lived there until 2014. Since then, she has lived in Bonduel and Suring. The family wishes to thank Meadow View Estates and Woodland for the excellent care and attention they provided her.

In addition to her husband Clarence, she was preceded in death by her brother, Martin (Elvira) Dicke; her twin sister Marie (George) Frank; Lance Frank; Norman Buhrandt; Melvin and Shirley Menger. Also, all of Clarence’s siblings and their spouses: Adeline (Dewey) Menger, Ruben (Dorothy) Firgens, Doris (Roger) Gerndt, Verona (Kevin) Klawitter and Beatrice (Joseph) Wojkiewicz.

Kathryn is survived by nieces and nephews, Bette (Russell Jr.) Lasch, Barbara (Dennis) Manthei, Linda (Harold Jr.) Burrack, Carol (Gary) Heise, Ronald (Pat) Klawitter, Tim (Linda) Klawitter, Sue Klawitter, Jerry Klawitter, Joe (Cindy) Wojkiewicz, Gary (Jean) Frank, Wanda (Noel) Nienstedt, Jane Frederick, Paula Buhrandt, Lynn (Mike) Kaufman and many great- and great-great-nieces and nephews and several first cousins. Kathryn was the greatest aunt in the whole world and will be missed dearly by all.

A memorial service for Kathryn will be held at Christ Lutheran Church, 6905 Red Bank Road, Gillett, on Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, at 5 p.m. with Rev. Michael Paholke officiating. The family will receive condolences starting at 4 p.m. Kathryn will be laid to rest in Christ Lutheran Church Cemetery beside her husband. Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established.

William C. Wilke, 88, a resident of the Village of Mishicot, entered into eternal rest Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018, at the Aurora BayCare Medical Center in Green Bay surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born Dec. 27, 1929, in Shawano to the late William and Edna Zieroph Wilke. He was a graduate of the Gillett High School. Bill served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He was a commercial artist his entire life, and he also owned and operated Ad Innovations, which was an advertising agency. He was a professional baseball player for the New York Yankees. Bill was an avid Green Bay Packers and Chicago Cubs fan. He enjoyed going fishing, polka music and doing water colors. Bill also enjoyed being with people and making them feel happy and comfortable.

He is survived by two sons and one daughter-in-law, Christopher Wilke, of Wausau, Timothy and Denise Wilke, of Hatley; and his partner, Lila Dvorak, of Mishicot, with whom he made his home. He is further survived by two brothers, Allan Wilke, of Gillett, James (Murial) Wilke, of Gillett; one sister, Marilyn (Lyle) Bloedorn, of Shawano, and by his nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at the Lambert-Eckert Funeral Home, 344 S. State St., Mishicot, with the Rev. Raymond Connor officiating. Relatives and friends may call after 9 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home, until the time of service at 11 a.m.

Louis J. Kobylarczyk, 95, Sobieski, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, Oct. 8, 2018. The son of Joseph and Mary (Trabka) Kobylarczyk was born July 17, 1923, in Sobieski, where he lived his entire life on the family farm. On June 25, 1949, he married his sweetheart, Helen Mae Pioro, at St. John Cantius Church in Sobieski.

He was an avid hunter, fisherman and trapper, and he raised canaries. Up until the day he died, Louis maintained three thriving gardens, his last being his most bountiful. He was an active and dedicated member of his local parish, St. Maximilian Kolbe in Sobieski, where he had served on the parish council and was a longtime usher. Louis was recognized for his outstanding commitment to farmers through the Farm Service Agency.

He is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Helen Mae; daughters: Josephine (Dana) Solberg, Beverly (Steve) Sterrett, Diane Kolosso and Carol (John) Turknett. He was the proud grandfather of seven grandchildren: Daniel (Sarah), Joshua (Kimberly), Eric, Christine, Anthony (Nicole), Caitlin (Brett) and Nicholas; 10 great-grandchildren: Alexis, Brandy, Kenya, Trever, Isabelle, Sawyer, Margaret, Claire, Violet and Lexi; nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, Louis was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Sissy, and his seven siblings: Victoria (Frank) Budz, John (LaVerne) Kobylarczyk, Helen (Al) Bonkowski, Bernice (Stanley) Ladowski, Elizabeth (Marion) Godowski, Frank (Pauline) Kobylarczyk and Rose (Peter) Kroll.

The Funeral Mass was celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 12, 2018, at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, Sobieski, Fr. Antonio De Los Santos presiding. Burial took place in St. John Cantius Cemetery. Marnocha Funeral Home, Pulaski, served the Kobylarczyk family.

Marsha Mina Malueg Burgess, 75, died Saturday evening, Sept. 29, 2018, at her home in Nashville, Tennessee. Born in Shawano, Marsha grew up on a dairy farm in Suring with her parents and 10 brothers and sisters. She brought the ethos of working on a farm to Machesney Park, Illinois, where she independently and successfully raised two daughters Liz and Gina with immense love, passing on her strong work ethic. Marsha worked most of her life in the field of mental health care and focused her efforts on the care of many people in need in her community. She lived in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, for 27 years, where she had many friends who she cherished and who adored her. She was a strong, kind woman who loved to comfort and support those around her who were in need. She was a wonderful woman.

Marsha was preceded in death by her parents, Charles Emil Malueg and Rose Elizabeth Otradovic Malueg; her brothers Spencer and Charles Jr. Malueg; her sister Myrna Wacker and her twin sister Margo Julun. Marsha is survived by two daughters, Gina Perez, Nashville, Tennessee, and Elizabeth (Dennis) Buck, Rockford, Illinois; three sisters, Mona Redman, Edgar; Sonia Naiman, Agoura Hills, California, and Goldie Lattimore, Calumet City, Illinois; three brothers, Gary Malueg, Shawano, Gregory Malueg, Beloit, and Dale Malueg, Florida; her dearest brother-in-law Robert Julun, Chicago; her grandchildren Natasha (Ryan) Petterson, Denver, Nicholas Howard, Monterey Bay, California; Joseph Beechem, Knoxville, Tennessee, Lauren Buck, La Grange Park, Illinois, Bryan Buck, Chicago, Arron Buck, Waukegan; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, Oct. 21, at Grace Funeral and Cremation, 1340 S. Alpine Road, at Colonial Village, Rockford, IL 61108. The gathering will begin at 11 a.m. and service at noon.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center for research on Small Cell Lung Cancer at https://www.vicc.org/giving/donor . Please specify your gift for Small Cell lung cancer research.

Monica Theodora Hodkiewicz (Styczynski), 87, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Monday, Oct. 8, 2018. Monica was born April 4, 1931, in Pulaski to the late Albert and Theodora (Domkowski) Styczynski. The youngest of nine children, Monica graduated from Pulaski High School in 1949 and was a member of St. Anne Catholic Parish in Lena.

On Sept. 12, 1951, she married Norman Hodkiewicz at Assumption BVM Church, Pulaski. They operated a bakery on Ninth and State streets in Manitowoc before building their own bakery in Lena, which they operated together from 1954-1972. After selling the bakery, she served as the head cook at St. Charles Grade School in Lena alongside her close friends Mary June Valley and Barb Kushner. She continued working at Kugel’s Cheese Mart until the day prior to her passing. She enjoyed gardening, reading, canning, bowling, polka music, Aaron Rodgers, birthday club and, most importantly, spending time with her children and grandchildren. Blessed with a gregarious and fun-loving personality, Monica gladly opened her doors for all family gatherings and holidays.

Survivors include six sons: Michael (Mary Ann), Mark (special friend Bonnie Tousey), Myron (Cathy), Pat (Cindy), Kevin (Sandi) Hodkiewicz, all of Lena; Don (Barb) Hodkiewicz, Green Bay. Two daughters: Mary Lou (Roman) Wos and Paula (Eric) Blazek, both of Lena, 18 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter. She is further survived by brothers-in-law John (Pat) and Leonard (Evelyn) Hodkiewicz, Green Bay, and sisters-in-law Grace (Bob) Kanugh, Suamico, and Adeline Berg, and brother-in-law Jim Mulloy.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 52 years, Norman; a son, Murray “Pudge”; one granddaughter, Kyrie Eleison; two great-grandsons, Kyle Ervin and Braxtin Damion; brothers Tony, Stanley, Fred, Frank, Roman and Norbert, and sisters Agnes, Anna and Susan (Sister Arlene).

The family greeted relatives and friends Saturday, Oct. 13, at St. Anne Catholic Church, Lena from 9 a.m. until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with Father Felix Abano and Father Nonito Barra officiating. Monica will be placed to rest at St. Charles Catholic Cemetery. Please visit RhodesCharapata.com to express online condolences.

The Hodkiewicz family would like to extend a special thank you to the Kugel family for its friendship and love over the years. Our family would like to thank Jim, J.J. and family at Kugel’s Cheese Mart for keeping Monica busy, occupied and employed all these years, right up to the last day of her beautiful life. Monica’s warm smile, infectious laugh and open-armed generosity will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

June C. Braun, 97, Oconto Falls, went to be with Jesus early Sunday morning, Oct. 14, 2018, at Atrium Post Acute Care of Oconto Falls with her family present. The youngest of 10 children of Charles and Mary (Nelson) Gilbertson was born Jan. 7, 1921 in the Town of Gillett and grew up there on the family farm and was confirmed at Bethel Lutheran Church. She moved with her parents to Oconto Falls in the eighth grade.

On Sept. 10, 1938, she married Herbert Braun at St. Jacobs Lutheran Church in Oconto Falls. The couple made their home in Oconto Falls, where they raised three daughters. June was always supportive and dedicated to both her children and grandchildren’s education and activities. As one of the most continuous and active members of Grace Lutheran Church, she stayed involved in numerous ways as her Christian faith was very important to her. She was also very involved on the election board. June enjoyed flower gardening, music and writing prose and poetry.

Survivors are her three daughters, Diane (Tom) Malcomson, Oconto Falls, Connie Wenzel, St. Germain, and Wendy (Don) Vogt, Atlanta; five grandchildren, Larry (Annette), Bart (Becky) and Todd (Yumay) Malcomson, Michael (Michelle) Wenzel and Irina Vogt; six great-grandchildren, Abbie (Ben) Nuthals, Brittney, Brady and Brynn Malcomson, and Marshal and Mason Wenzel; two great-great-grandchildren, Luci and Everly Nuthals; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Herb, son-in-law Tom Wenzel, three sisters, Florence Rice, Eleanore Krause and Irene Walske and six brothers, Clarence, John, Oren, Edmen, Myron and Norman Gilbertson.

Visitation will be held after 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Grace Lutheran Church in Oconto Falls until the time of services. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Saturday at the church with Pastor Gary R. Olson officiating. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, Oconto Falls. Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls is serving the Braun family.

The Braun family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Atrium Post Acute Care of Oconto Falls, her fellow members of Grace Lutheran and many friends for the care, concern and visits given to June.

Gary R. Effenberger, 60, of Shawano, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday evening, Oct. 16, 2018, at St. Clare’s Hospital in Weston.

Gary was born March 4, 1958, to Robert and Betty (Pawlak) Effenberger in Oconto Falls. He graduated from Oconto Falls High School in 1976. On Sept. 29, 1978, he married the former Julie Rasmussen. The couple lived in Oconto Falls for several years while Gary worked at Jim Kane Chevrolet. They moved to Shawano in 1984 with their son, Josh. Gary was first the manager, then the co-owner of Rollmann Homes Inc. until its closing in 2011. He then retired and spent a lot of free time fishing, attending dirt track races, riding bicycles with Julie, following the Badgers, and coaching years of youth soccer with his wife. The summer of 2018, Gary and Julie coached both of their grandchildren’s soccer teams. Gary loved to spend time with his grandchildren, Emma and Levi, whom he adored. He was also the proudest father to sit in the stands for years, watching his son, Josh, flagging stock car races, including the World of Outlaws. Gary was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Shawano.

Survivors include his loving wife of 40 years, Julie, of Shawano; his son, Josh (Heather) Effenberger, of Shawano; his grandchildren, Emma and Levi; his sisters, Kaye Effenberger, of Oconto Falls, and Karen Fehling, of Phoenix, Arizona; his brother-in-law, Wayne Rasmussen, of Oconto Falls; his sisters-in-law, Mary (Jeff) Goldberg, of Lake St. Louis, Missouri, Rose Westenberger, of Howard, and Ruth (John) Thielen, of Racine; and his uncle, aunts, nieces, nephews, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Arnold and Gloria Rasmussen; his brother-in-law, David Rasmussen; and several aunts and uncles.

A funeral service for Gary R. Effenberger was held on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, at Zion Lutheran Church of Shawano. Pastor Scott Ludford will officiate. Interment will be in the Lake Drive Cemetery, Town of Wescott. Visitation began on Friday, Oct. 19, 2018, at Mickelson Funeral Service in Shawano and resumed at the church on Saturday morning before the hour of service. In lieu of flowers and plants, the family prefers memorials in his name.

Mickelson Funeral & Cremation Service of Shawano is assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences at www.mickelsonfs.com.

A sincere thank you to the Good Samaritan who stopped by to assist, the EMS personnel, and all the caring staff in the ER at St. Clare’s Hospital.

Richard A. Baumann, 90, of Watertown, passed away on Nov. 3, 2018, at his home.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018, at 11 a.m. at Hafemeister Funeral Home in Watertown with the Rev. Jeffrey Meyer of Christ United Methodist Church in Watertown officiating. Relatives and friends may gather at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will follow at Glenview Memorial Gardens in Ixonia. Memorials would be appreciated to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Hafemeister Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Watertown is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.hafemeisterfh.com.

Richard Alvin Baumann was born on Dec. 20, 1927, to Alvin and Eunice (Benton) Baumann in Milwaukee. On Sept. 24, 1940, he married Helen Roehl in Lake Mills. Richard worked for Wisconsin Electric for 36 years. He was a member of Christ United Methodist Church in Watertown and the Watertown Moose Lodge.

He is survived by his son Gary Baumann of Watertown; two granddaughters: Jessica (Andrew Athens) Matz and Jayme Mundy, both of Watertown; six great-grandchildren: Ricky Mundy, Jara Mundy, Brandon Miller, Cameron Matz, Shylar Mundy and Ashton Mundy; a brother Donald Baumann of Milwaukee, as well as other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Helen, daughter Gail (Chuck) Mundy, son Ricky Baumann, brother Harvey Baumann and sister Eunice Schlueter.

Lulabelle Jane (Braun) Drath, 80, of Gillett, who loved Jesus, went to be with our Lord on Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018.

She was born in Shawano on June 29, 1938, a daughter of the late Walter and Nora (Dumke) Braun. Lulabelle attended local schools and was a graduate of Gillett High School. She married Leon James Drath on Feb. 10, 1962, and together they raised two daughters. The family made their home in Brookfield before retiring to Gillett in a home that Lulabelle herself designed.

Lulabelle had the deepest heart for God and for her children, grandchildren, family, friends and everyone she met. Her greatest mission in life was to share her love of God and that others would also follow and love Jesus. Her legacy will be treasured in every prayer she said and every wonderful sweet memory. She was creative and talented in all areas of life. Her greatest joy in life was to be home with her loved ones. She was a loyal member of Hillside Assembly of God Church in Gillett. Lulabelle was the kindest and most precious woman of faith her entire life.

Lulabelle is survived by her daughters: Karla (Terry) Price of Sussex and Judy (Chuck) Truax of Bonduel; her grandchildren: David, Kari (Paul), Daniel, Kristina (Shay), Melissa (Drew), Jessica, Nathan and CJ (Jilane); her great-grandchildren: Jaxson, Noah, Kinslee, Zeeten, Naj, Elijah and Ezra; her special niece, Jody; her sisters: Muriel (Jim) Wilke of Gillett and Charitee (Joe) McKenna of Cecil; a sister-in-law Dolores (Clay) Juno of Brookfield; and her aunt Edna Miller of Coleman. She is further survived by cousins, nieces and nephews as well as other relatives and friends.

Lulabelle was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband Leon of over 52 years, her siblings: Harold (Eleanor) Braun, Virginia (Eddie) Patzer, Llewellyn “Buddy” Braun and Charmaine Stewart as well as her infant siblings Walter, Norvellus and Arbutus. She was also preceded in death by her grandson, Alex Truax.

Family and friends called on the family on Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018, from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at Hillside Assembly of God Church, 5890 State Highway 22 West, Gillett. A funeral service was held at 1 p.m., with interment in Wanderer’s Rest Cemetery.

The family sends special thanks to family and friends including their church family, Holly Spletzer and Dr. Richard McNutt for their love and prayers.

For information, please visit LegacyFuneralChapels.com or call 920-855-2144.

John S. Kowalczyk Jr., 68, Oconto Falls, died peacefully Thursday evening, Nov. 1, 2018, at Atrium Post Acute Care of Oconto Falls with his family present. He was born Aug. 17, 1950, in Milwaukee to John and Mary (Karpeck) Kowalczyk. John moved with his family to a farm in the Abrams area when he was 9 years old and attended school, graduating from Oconto Falls High School with the class of 1968. Following graduation, he went to work for Packerland Woodworking in Peshtigo as an industrial painter.

On June 23, 1969, he married Patricia Greetan in Oconto. The couple haved lived all of their married lives in Oconto Falls, where they raised two children. John was employed at Magna-Graphics in Oconto Falls before working for Robinson Metal in Green Bay, from where he retired. He was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church. John was an avid hunter and fisherman who especially enjoyed taking vacations with his family.

Survivors are his wife of 49 years, Pat Kowalczyk, Oconto Falls; two children, John J. Kowalczyk, De Pere; Dana (Donald) School, Howard; four grandchildren, Hannah and Maxwell Kowalczyk, Taylor and William School; one sister, Dolores (Jim) Van Dornick, Oconto Falls; three godchildren, James Van Dornick Jr., Jennifer Tilot and Jacob Greetan; a very special nephew, Roger (Melissa) Van Dornick; many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother Tom (Patti) Kowalczyk, in-laws, John and Christine Greetan and six brothers-in-law.

Visitation with the urn present will take place after 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, at Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls until the time of service. A prayer service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home, with the Rev. Fr. Bob Karuhn officiating. Interment will follow in St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery.

The Kowalczyk family would like to thank Dr. Amy Romadine-Kratz, Unity Hospice and Atrium Post Acute Care of Oconto Falls for their care and concern shown John during his illness.

Ruby Dorothy Nelson, 96, of Watertown, was taken to her Savior’s side on Friday morning, Nov. 2, 2018.

She was born on Dec. 25, 1921, in the town of How, Oconto County, the youngest child of Alvin and Henrietta (Yakel) Schuettpelz. On June 20, 1943, Ruby married Edward John Nelson. The two were blessed with 75 years of marriage. E. John preceded Ruby in death on July 7, 2018.

Ruby was a loving wife, mother and homemaker, raising eight children and two foster children. She was an active member of her church and also very active with the ARC and at Bethesda. In 1991, the family was named the International Special Olympics Family of the Year. Ruby was a hard worker and always ready to help anyone in need.

Surviving Ruby are five sons, Jon (Shirley), Paul (Susie), David (Nancy), Joel and Tim. She is further survived by her brother Marion “Bud” Schuettpelz, 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and other relatives and friends. Four children preceded Ruby in death — Steven, Mark (Jan), Gail and Beth, who died in infancy.

Funeral services for Ruby will be held on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018, at 4 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church in Watertown with the Rev. Seth Hoeppner officiating. Family and friends may gather at the church on Thursday from 2 p.m. until the time of the service. A funeral service will also be held on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, at 1 p.m. at Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Suring, with the Rev. Seth Hoeppner and the Rev. Michael Paholke officiating. Family and friends may gather at the church from 11 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Suring.

Hafemeister Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Watertown and Gruetzmacher Funeral Home of Suring are serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.hafemeisterfh.com.

Marvel Ann (Kahler, Schaal) Elbe, 97, passed away on Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018. She was born Jan. 30, 1921, in Gillett to the late Walter and Olanda (Piepenberg) Kahler. She was raised on the family farm where hard work ethics were instilled. She said she always enjoyed the farm life, the work and the animals.

Marvel enjoyed music her whole life and in high school played in the school band, but also played with her brother, Harold, in a band. Music was a big part of most of her life. She was musically gifted and could play any instrument by “EAR.” Marvel was stone deaf in one ear. Her big Hammond organ was her joy, and the music was amazing. We could hum a tune, and she could play it.

She married Clarence Schaal, and they had two children, Nancy and Richard.

Marvel worked at the Gillett Telephone Co., which was run by her dear friend and sister-in-law, Liz Schaal. Marvel had a huge garden and enjoyed doing many projects for their home. She was one of those special beings that if she put her mind to doing something, she would accomplish it. Their home needed new cupboards, she built them, and when it needed a new roof, she put it on. They needed to add a bedroom, she did it. Marvel took the hardwood flooring from the old Gillett Grade School and put it in their living room. She was a master of many trades.

Clarence and Marvel moved to Green Bay in 1956, and she started work at Green Bay Clothing. The owner soon saw her potential, and she climbed the ladder fast to become a leader. She always shared that she would not ask anyone to do anything that she would not do herself. She was loved and respected. Marvel was an avid Packer Backer, and the owner of Green Bay Clothing, Mr. Fogel, had gifted her with season Packers tickets. She could scream along with the rest of them.

Marvel was then asked to be supervising manager of North Trail Sportswear in Green Bay, and ran the factory which employed between 40 and 50 people. They produced outerwear for companies like London Fog. She also taught at NWTC in the construction of snowmobile suits.

Her husband died in 1962. A few years later, she married Robert Elbe, who said he was waiting for her. He treated her like a princess. They enjoyed dancing and had joined dance clubs and went where the Big Bands played. They were amazing dancers. Marvel also enjoyed snowmobiling with family and friends, and for many years she enjoyed riding her moped.

Bob and Marvel had the ELBE CHRISTMAS TREE FARM out of Mountain, where they had retired. Many families have fond memories of going to the farm and picking out their special tree and then cutting it down.

She loved the animals and birds, and by May 9 each year, she would wait for the hummingbirds to arrive. Marvel would feed about 40 each year and would joyfully make the syrup two times a day. A momma skunk would bring her babies on the deck, and it got so tame that Mom would feed her out of her hand.

Anyone who entered her home got coffee and cookies and probably left with cookies. A wooden plaque above her dining room door read “Life is short – Eat cookies.” Once a delivery guy hit it just right when Mom had just finished a big kettle of chicken soup; he was asked to stay, and he did. He told his pastor of this kindness.

True wisdom was shared by Marvel that had been passed down from her mom, Olanda Kahler. She would say if you cannot say anything nice, it is best not to speak. Or don’t let bitterness out of your mouth, as you may have to eat it. She lived her life with this thought: “IN EVERY SITUATION YOU CAN FIND THE POSITIVE, SO DON’T PONDER ON THE NEGATIVE.”

Marvel was asked in her retirement years to name one thing in her life that was a true highlight and she said, with a sparkle in her blue eyes, that it was the day her dad brought home a horse for her. He knew she loved animals and especially horses. He paid $14 for it, which was a lot of money in those days. She named it Specky and she would go to the fence, call Specky and it would come a-running. She would jump on bare back and off they would go. She shared that was how her dad showed her he loved her, as they did not speak it then.

She also had a period of time that she enjoyed going to the casino with her daughter-in-law, Helen Schaal. A good time was had.

In her retirement, Marvel loved the challenge of putting together puzzles and was really good at it.

One story that Mom liked to tell was about her son-in-law, Donald Vandenput. Every fall, Don would call her when the geese would be migrating south and going over in their long V’s. They would sit out on the deck together and watch and listen. Don passed in 2000.

In September 2016, Marvel asked her children to find her her next home. We realized that she was lonely for social connections with people her own age. We contacted “A Place for Mother,” and they taught us to go with our heart and when you enter the right home, you will know that it is right for your mom. After viewing many assisted living homes, we found the one, which she confirmed and she was moved into Birch Creek in De Pere on Feb. 15, 2017. She transformed with the help of the wonderful staff, good food, socializing and additional love. Mom NEVER complained about anything.

Her husband Bob died March 14, 2014.

Marvel is survived by her son, Richard Schaal (wife, Helen); her daughter Carrie (Scott); and her daughter, Nancy; granddaughter, Stacy; great-grandchildren, Sage, Raven and Jade; great-great-grandchildren, Haylem and Belle. She is further survived by two sisters-in-law, Betty Perschbacher and Hazel Connors; many nieces, nephews and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Harold; her sister, Laurene Thielke – with whom she enjoyed many fun summer trips together.

Friends and family gathered at Tabor Lutheran Church, 14153 Church Road, Mountain, from 9-11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 6. A memorial service was held at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the church. To send online condolences, please go to www.BlaneyFuneralHome.com.

We thank the staff at Birch Creek, especially Vianney and Karen, for the care and love they gave Mom.

Dick and Nancy feel very honored to have had this special little lady as their mom. When people say that they had the best mom … WE DID!!!!!!!

Erwin E. Bonatz, 85, of Mountain, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, with his family by his side. Erwin was born on Oct. 9, 1933, to the late Ernest and Margaret (Martens) Bonatz. On June 27, 1983, Erwin married Erika Zimmer. Erwin was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, brother-in-law and uncle.

Erwin is survived by his wife of 35 years, Erika; five children from Erwin’s previous marriage to Irene Ahrens Bonatz, Erwin (Su) Bonatz Jr., Fred Bonatz, Linda (Edward) Swanson, Eric (Donna) Bonatz and Ralph (Mary) Bonatz; former daughter-in-law, Karen Bonatz; nine grandchildren, Michael, Carol (Colin), David, Julia, Kyle, Stuart (Alina), Kurt, Lisa and Grant; eight great-grandchildren, Robert, Daniel, Felicity, Natalie, Alexandra, Greta, Karl and Elsa; and a sister, Eleanor Pascher. He is further survived by his in-laws in the Zimmer family and many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents; father- and mother-in-law, Stefan and Josefina Zimmer; four brothers-in-law, Frank Pascher, Stefan Zimmer, Mathias Zimmer and John Robertson; sister-in-law, Elsa Sheridan.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Erwin on Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, at The Weatherwood (12898 State Highway 32, Mountain, WI 54149) from noon to 3:30 p.m. Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com.

A special thanks to Anna, Leni, Monika, Slavko, Sofija, Stefi and Ray. Further thanks to the Unity Hospice nurses, CNAs, social workers and chaplains, especially Achsah and Larry. All his helpers were God sent and appreciated.

Catherine “Cathy” M. Cudnohoski, 86, of Coleman, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2018, at The Woodlands of Gillett. She was born to the late Albert and Margaret (Bissell) Giese Dec. 12, 1931, in Pound. Cathy married Eugene Cudnohoski Sr. Dec. 2, 1949.

Cathy enjoyed snowmobiling, camping, country line dancing, gardening and spending time with her grandchildren, special friend Jenna and her kitty. She was a member of St. Anne Catholic Church, Coleman.

Surviving are three children, Eugene Jr. “Butch” Cudnohoski, Green Bay; Barbara (John Stodola) Cudnohoski, Coleman; Patricia “Pattie” (Mark) Francois, Oconto Falls; seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and special friend Jenna Coutley.

Cathy was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Eugene Sr., two brothers, Albert and Leonard Giese, and one sister Jessie Schwan.

The family will greet relatives and friends Monday, Nov. 19, at the Rhodes-Charapata Funeral Home, 235 E. Main St., Coleman, from 4 – 7 p.m. with a Vigil Service at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue Tuesday, Nov. 20, at St. Anne Catholic Church, Coleman from 10 a.m. until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with Father Felix Abano officiating. Cathy will be placed to rest at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Cemetery. Please visit RhodesCharapata.com to express online condolences.

Jack Keenan Bailey, 64, of Lakewood, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2018. Jack was born in Laona on Nov. 16, 1953, to Janet M. (Challoner) and Ralph S. Bailey. He graduated from Wabeno High School. Jack served our country in the U.S. Air Force and was discharged in 1977 as a Vietnam-era veteran. He was also a member of the Paul Bunyan Trail Snowmobile Club.

Jack is survived by two sisters, Susan (LeRoy) Ostrowski of Tennessee and Beth (Russell) Cammelot of Tennessee; brother, David Bailey of Denver. He is further survived by several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Michael (Patricia), James A. (Kerry), Steve (Jean) and Daniel (Jennifer).

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com.

The Bailey family would like to thank the Kari Antigo Cancer Center Hospice staff, especially Nurse Rita.

Wayne Trudell, 75, Mountain, died Wednesday morning, Nov. 21, 2018, at St. Vincent Hospital with his family by his side. Born July 6, 1943, in Oconto Falls, to David and Emma Trudell. He grew up in Oconto Falls and attended Oconto Falls public schools, graduating with the Class of 1961. Wayne served faithfully in the U.S. Navy from 1963-1967. On April 20, 1968, he married Sandra Baldwin in Oconto Falls. The couple has lived most of their married life in the Mountain area where Wayne had been employed at Even-flo in Suring for 24 years.

Wayne is survived by two daughters, Robin Womble and Kari Trudell; four grandchildren, Marquise, Bryson and Justin (Dana) Womble, and Amber Trudell; one great-grandson, Kaysin Womble; sister, Doreen Senn; brother, Gerald Trudell; many brothers and sisters-in-law.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra; parents; Father and mother-in-law, Michael and Helen Baldwin; two brothers, David Trudell Jr. and Patrick Trudell.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Skinny Dave’s, Hwy 32-64 in Mountain, on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, at 1 p.m. with Military Honors at 2:30 p.m.

Simply Cremation, Green Bay, is serving the family. Visit www.simplycremationgb.com to share a condolence with the family.

Wayne’s family extend a special thank you to the caring staffs of St. Vincent Hospital and Unity Hospice.

Beth A. Birr, 52, of Pound, passed away peacefully Nov. 21, 2018, at home with her loving family by her side. She was born to the late Ron and Charlotte (Dryja) Salnik on Oct. 5, 1966. She married Gary Birr on Aug. 18, 1983. The couple owned and operated Birr’s Concrete and Masonry until they were forced to retire due to health. They also enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening together, as well as their involvement with their children’s sporting events, especially wrestling. Gary preceded Beth in death Oct. 25, 2017, after 34 loving years of marriage.

Beth is survived by four sons, Chad (Karleen), Chris, Chase (Samantha) and Chett (Danielle); six grandchildren, Dakota, Tailor, Alexus, Skylynn, Cayden and Remington; one brother, Ken Salnik; and a nephew, Billy. Beth was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and her grandparents, Irene and Henry Dryja and Frank and Pearl Salnik.

The family will greet relatives and friends at the Rhodes-Charapata Funeral Home, 235 E. Main St., Coleman, on Sunday, Dec. 2, from noon until the time of the funeral service at 2 p.m., with Pastor Mark Kostreva officiating.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Green Bay Oncology, especially Dr. Volk, and the staff of Unity Hospice for their compassionate care.

Melvin Dale Haffeman, 84, of Lena, passed away suddenly Thursday, Nov. 29, 2018, at St. Vincent Hospital, Green Bay. He was born to the late George and Anna (Mleziva) Haffeman on Nov. 22, 1934, in Hawkins. Melvin served in the United States Army; upon completing his service duties he married Janet Ann Valenta Nov. 30, 1957, in the Town of Brazeau.

Melvin enjoyed woodworking, fishing with his children at Kelly Lake, attending his kids sporting events and sharing stories about his youth. He was a member of St. Anne Catholic Parish.

Melvin worked hard to provide for his large family of eight children.

Surviving are Linda (Terry) Hinds, Lena, Debbie (Paul) Stello, Peshtigo, Annette (Bryan) Behringer, Oconto Falls, Craig Haffeman, Colorado, Curt Haffeman, Abrams, Kay Johnson, Colorado, Cheryl (Kevin) Jagiello, Lena, and Donna Haffeman, Green Bay; 16 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and one brother, George (Bernice) Haffeman, De Pere.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Janet; one grandson, Jeremy Jagiello; a daughter-in-law, Shelby Haffeman; a son-in-law, Peter Guth; two sisters, Violet Althaus and an infant twin sister; and five brothers, Donald, Richard, Robert, Gordon and an infant brother.

The family greeted relatives and friends Tuesday, Dec. 4, at St. Anne Catholic Church, Lena, from 9 a.m. until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Nonito Barra officiating. Melvin will be placed to rest at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Cemetery. Please visit RhodesCharapata.com to express online condolences.

Through these last years, a special thank you to Terry and Linda, Cheryl and Donna, and his buddy, Angel.

Loretta M. Shehow, 87, of Pound, passed away on Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. Loretta was born on June 20, 1931, to the late Robert and Viola (Lemke) Robenhorst. On Jan. 7, 1950, Loretta married John Shehow at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Breed. For many years, Loretta worked with John at the Flying Goose Game Farm. While at the game farm, Loretta also worked as a factory worker at Coleman Products in Coleman. Loretta enjoyed fishing, gardening, quilting, cutting wood with her grandson, and spending time with grandchildren. She also greatly enjoyed donating her time to cut out the blocks for quilts at Emmanuel Lutheran Church. Loretta was a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Breed.

Loretta is survived by her daughter, Linda (Toby) Stank of Pound; four grandchildren, Leon Stank, Julie (Jim) Kaminecki, Michelle (special friend Keith Smet) Stank, and Lynn Stank; seven great-grandchildren; sister, Betty (Jim) Wegner; two sisters-in-law, Jean Robenhorst and Sandie Robenhorst. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John, on June 16, 1998; an infant daughter, Edna; and four siblings, Herbert Robenhorst, Hubert Robenhorst, Arlene Shehow, and Roger Robenhorst.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Breed from 9 a.m. until the funeral service at 11 a.m. with Pastor Paul Scheunemann officiating. Loretta will be interred in Breed Union Cemetery beside her husband. Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com.

The family would like to thank Dr. Luz Balmadrid and the staff of Atrium Post Acute Care of Oconto Falls for the care and compassion offered to Loretta and her family.