David C. Polashek, 70, Oconto Falls, died suddenly of natural causes Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, at a second residence in Hartford, Connecticut. He was the oldest son born to Gerald E. and Rosaline L. (Trubl) Polashek on Jan. 20, 1948, in Grand Island, Nebraska. The family moved to Protivin, Iowa, where David attended Rudolphinum School, graduating in 1966. He attended the University of Northern Iowa (UNI), where he earned a degree in secondary education in political science. On Aug. 10, 1968, he married Susan E. Pedersen, and they had four children together, Angela, Timothy, Matthew, and Nicholas. They divorced in 2004. David married Kim T. Davis on July 18, 2015, and gained two stepchildren, Jessica and Christopher. David spent the last few years before his death traveling between homes in Wisconsin and Connecticut.

After graduating from UNI in 1970, David taught middle school and coached at the Windom, Minnesota, school district and at Peet Junior High School in Cedar Falls, Iowa. While teaching middle school, he earned a master’s degree in Educational Administration from UNI in 1978. In August 1978, David was hired as the school superintendent in Wauzeka and served at Wauzeka Public Schools until 1993. He then accepted a position as the superintendent for the Oconto Falls School District and served until retiring in 2015. Throughout his work career, David served in a variety of professional and community positions. He served in the Lions Club, chamber of commerce, Friends of the Library and was active in state-level educational organizations. He also wrote a weekly column for the Oconto County Times Herald, “The Path around the Falls.” After his retirement, he remained an active advocate for education in Wisconsin by remaining active in the Wisconsin Public Education Network and serving on the board of the Wisconsin Alliance for Excellent Schools.

David is survived by his wife, Kim Davis; four children, Angela O’Connor, St. Joseph, Missouri, Timothy (Roseann) Polashek, Lexington, Kentucky, Matthew (Charity) Polashek, Nicholasville, Kentucky, and Nicholas Polashek, Golden, Colorado; seven grandchildren, Zephan and Nolan O’Connor, Amelia and Dashiell Polashek, Gerald Polashek, Mason Melendez and Alina Polashek; two stepchildren, Jessica Plaunt, Charleston, South Carolina , andChristopher (Candice) Plaunt, Shawano; his siblings, Catherine (Stephen) Berry, Eau Claire, Mary (Bill) Cummings, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Eloise (Paul) Whiffen, Tomakin, NSW, Australia, Betty Weaver, Mount Vernon, Iowa, Susie (Dan) Martinek, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Martha (Michael) Shoemaker, Norwalk, Iowa, Emil (Mary Kay) Polashek, Ames, Iowa, Caroline (Jon) Thompson, Mundelein, Illinois, Anthony (Gail) Polashek, Goldsboro, North Carolina, and Francis (Dina) Polashek, O’Fallon, Missouri; numerous nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, and cousins.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald E. and Rosaline L. Polashek; two brothers, Jerry Richard and William Polashek; and daughter-in-law, Stacie Polashek.

Visitation will be held after 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, at the Oconto Falls Area Performing Arts Center with urn present, 210 N. Farm Road, Oconto Falls, followed by a memorial service at 12:30 p.m. Saturday.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, the David Polashek Memorial Fund has been established at any Wells Fargo Bank to further education.

Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls is serving the Polashek family.

Walter “Wally” Schenkoski, 81, Gillett, died suddenly of natural causes Monday morning, Dec. 10, 2018, at the emergency room of St. Clare Memorial Hospital. The youngest of nine children was born May 22, 1937, in Degantown to Emil and Emily (Schindel) Schenkoski. Wally grew up on the family farm in Degantown where he attended school and developed his mechanical skills.

On July 14, 1956, he married Lenora “Dolly” Jaeger in Oconto. Following their marriage the couple lived in Green Bay where Wally worked in maintenance for Liebman Meat Packing Co. He then entered the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany during the Berlin Crisis. Following his discharge from the military, he returned to Green Bay and was employed by the Press-Gazette for 35 years. While living in Green Bay, he was an active member of First Assembly of God Church and helped with their prison ministry. In 2002, the couple retired to rural Gillett and he attended Hillside Assembly of God Church in Gillett. Wally enjoyed rabbit and pheasant hunting with this family and friends. Wally and Dolly also enjoyed annual skiing trips to Vail and Aspen, Colorado, and taking rides in their ’64 blue Corvette (P.S. already sold). Known for his abilities to fix almost anything, he will be fondly remembered as always lending a helping hand to anyone who needed it.

Survivors are his wife of 61 years, Dolly Schenkoski, Gillett; three sisters-in-law, Bella Volk, Waukesha, Shirley (Phil) Mathis, Oregon, and Florence Schenkoski, Gillett; special niece and nephew, Stephanie (Dean) Conway and daughter Courtney, and Robert Volk; other nieces and nephews; and his very good friend, Gary Brainard.

He was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers and three sisters.

Visitation will be held 4-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14, 2018, at Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls. Visitation will continue after 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018, at Hillside Assembly of God Church in Gillett until the time of service. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Saturday at the church with Pastor Paul Carlson officiating. Burial will take place in Woodlawn Cemetery, Oconto Falls.

Mary Louise Heimerman Myers passed away in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on Nov. 26, 2018, after a second very difficult battle with cancer.

She was born on April 18, 1952, the third child of Georgiana Schmidlkofer Heimerman and Florian Heimerman. She began her life in the Fox Valley area surrounded by beloved grandparents, numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. The family moved to Oconto in 1956 where they operated the Tangiers Supper Club for many years. She was a 1970 graduate of Oconto High School and attended McConnell Airline School in Minneapolis where she met her BFF, Linda Schliebe Wood.

Mary Lou married Robert Myers on June 21, 1975, in Oconto. Mary Lou cherished being a mom to her two sons, Nicholas and Joseph; she considered them her greatest blessings. Mary Lou was an extremely talented photographer and was the owner of Camera Arts Photography Studio in Oconto for many years. She had a true gift for making people feel special and at ease. Her keen eye for detail helped her capture important moments and memories for countless people. She also enjoyed beading and was a talented home decorator and cook. She had an infectious laugh, sparkly eyes, a truly uplifting smile and a loving and giving heart.

Mary Lou was an avid fan of The Moody Blues band and, along with her sister Susie, whom she affectionately called Sushi, was able to enjoy a cruise featuring the band and to attend their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.

In 2001, the Myers family moved to the Tulsa area where Mary Lou worked at Key Personnel and opened Lulubelle Photography Studio. In the fall of 2013, Mary Lou returned to Wisconsin for cancer treatment and to be loved and cared for by family and friends. Regrettably cancer returned in 2018. Words fail us at trying to depict the beautiful essence of Mary Lou’s person. She will ever be greatly missed by those who knew and loved her.

Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents and other dear family members.

Mary Lou is survived by her husband, Bob, of Tulsa; her two sons: Nick, of Tulsa, and Joey, (girlfriend Cat Mocha) of Chattanooga, Tennessee; three sisters: Judy (Tom) Garot, of Neenah, Sue (Dick) Meseberg, of Madison, and Ann (John) Hardginski, of Appleton; four brothers: Steve (Patti) Heimerman, of Oconto, Ken Heimerman, of Wausau, Don Heimerman, of Buford, Georgia, and John (Tina) Heimerman, of Green Bay. She is also survived by 13 beloved nieces and nephews, three great-nieces, three aunts, numerous cousins, Bob’s siblings, nieces and nephews and so many wonderful friends.

A Celebration of Life for Mary Lou will be held on Saturday, Dec. 15, at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior St., in Appleton. The family will receive guests beginning at 10 a.m. and continuing until the time of service at noon. A memorial fund has not yet been decided. Mary Lou will rest beside her parents and maternal grandparents at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Kaukauna.

The family would like to send special appreciation to the staff at Clare House Hospice in Tulsa, to Mary Lou’s friends from Key Personnel for meals for the family, and to her BFF, Linda Wood, who showed such dedication and care during Mary Lou’s illness.

Enid Blythe Tousey, 86, passed into eternal life peacefully in her granddaughter Jennepher’s home in Weyauwega surrounded by her family on Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018. She was born on Feb. 27, 1932, and raised in Wausaukee, daughter of the late Ralph and Winnie (McRae) Rishel. She attended Wausaukee High School and graduated with the Class of 1950. Enid Rishel met and married Ervin “Smokey” Tousey on Sept. 9, 1950. Together they owned numerous businesses including Tousey’s Restaurant in Suring. Upon retirement they enjoyed traveling and spending their winters in Texas.

Enid is survived by her children, Michael Tousey, of Gillett, William “Bill” Tousey, of Oconto, Winnie Souza, of Lathrop, California, Paul (Wendy) Tousey, of Castile, New York; 21 grandchildren; and 29 great-grandchildren. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ervin “Smokey” Tousey; her two sons, Gene “Bud” and John Tousey; her brother, Ralph Rishel; and her sister Ardith Biernasz.

Visitation will be held at Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring on Saturday, Dec. 22, 2018, from 9 a.m. until the funeral service at noon. Enid will be laid to rest next to her husband in Woodlawn Cemetery in Shawano. Online condolences can be left at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com
Special thank you to ThedaCare at Home Hospice and its staff for the excellent care offered to Enid during her time of need and also to her caregiver and dear friend Laurette Hatfield.

John F. “Jack” Bostedt passed away Dec. 10, 2018, at Kalispell, Montana. He was born Oct. 31, 1928, in Oconto, Wisconsin, the son of Earl W. and Palmy (Jilot) Bostedt. Since 1971, he resided in Bigfork, Montana. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Bostedt, and six children: John Bostedt of Montana; David Bostedt, Marci Bostedt, and Jane Bostedt of California; and Terri Anderson and Connie Ganz of Montana.

Herbert Gard Jr., 84, Lena, was called home to God’s merciful presence on Monday, Dec. 17, 2018, at Unity Hospice, surrounded by his family.

Herb was born on Dec. 1, 1934, in Wauwatosa to Herbert and Edna (Pelczynski) Gard, grew up in Oconomowoc and was one of 16 children. Herb graduated high school from St. Francis Seminary and attended two years of college at the Seminary. Herb volunteered for the U.S. Navy and served the United States in the Navy for four years from 1954-58. He served aboard two destroyers, the USS De Haven and USS Frank E. Evans, which served extensively in the Pacific.

Herb deeply loved his wife, Dixie, whom he married on Aug. 19, 1961. Herb and Dixie lived in Milwaukee until they chose to raise their family on a farm in a small town and moved to Lena in December 1969. Herb and Dixie raised their eight children on their farm.

Herb absolutely loved fishing, especially with his kids or grandkids whom he taught many skills and life lessons about catching the big one. He was a deeply loving husband, incredible dad and joyful grandpa. Herb had a larger than life sense of humor and always wanted people to smile.

Survivors include Herb’s eight children, Kathy (Tom) Delwiche, John (Cate) Gard, Joe (Karen) Gard, Fred (Julie) Gard, Marie (Thad) Rezin, Ed (Michelle) Gard, Paul (Debbie) Gard and Deacon Peter (Sarah) Gard. Herb had 19 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren. Siblings Thomas (Linda) Gard, Jerome (Kim) Gard, Loretta (Mike) Repp, Claudia (Robert) Mooney, Gregory Gard, Theodore (Glenda) Gard, Daniel (Nora) Gard.

In addition to his loving wife Dixie Gard early this year, Herb was preceded in death by his father and mother and siblings Norbert Gard, Sr. Jane Marie Gard SSND, Clare Matteson, Dennis Gard, Johannetta Millot and three infant siblings.

Visitation was held at Rhodes-Charapata Funeral Home, 438 W. Main St., Lena, from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 20, with a prayer service at 7 p.m. Visitation continued at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Lena on Friday morning from 9 a.m. until time of service. Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. Friday morning at the church with Fr. Celestine Byekwaso officiating with numerous priests concelebrating and the assistance of his son Deacon Peter Gard. Herbert will be placed to rest at St. Charles Catholic Cemetery in Lena, where military honors will be given. Please visit RhodesCharapata.com to express online condolences.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask memorials be offered to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Good Help in Champion. Dad loved the Shrine, and a statue of the Sacred Heart of Mary from the Shrine was his guiding image on his final journey. Dad repeatedly prayed the Hail Mary and prayed for Mary’s intercession.

The family would like to thank Dr. Cynthia Lasecki and Dr. Saied Assef for their many years of exceptional love and care. Herb believed Dr. Hassan Tahsildar is one of God’s greatest gifts to him and that God gave dad extra years through these doctors love and care. We would also like to express our heartfelt love and respect to the staff at the Unity Hospice – some of God’s guardian angels on earth.

Thomas R. Bourassa, 87, of Oconto, passed away at home on Dec. 18, 2018. He was born to the late Edmund and Celia (Belongia) Bourassa on Oct. 1, 1931, in Oconto. He graduated from Oconto High School in 1949. After school, Tom served in Japan during the Korean War until returning home to work on his family farm. He married the love of his life, Viola (Mortier) Bourassa, on Oct. 4, 1958, at St. Anthony’s Church in Oconto Falls. Tom loved sports and the outdoors. He enjoyed making wood and spending time with his family and friends. He was a collector of Oconto memorabilia and antiques as well as collecting rocks. Tom was the owner of Bourassa Construction, a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Lena Lions Club, the American Legion, and a member of Holy Trinity Church in Oconto serving for 17-plus years in Jail Care Ministry.

He is survived by his loving wife, Viola; four children, James (Violet) Bourassa, Jerry (Darlene) Bourassa, Paul (Sue) Bourassa and Theresa (Pat) Blazer; nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, one sister Barb (Jerry) Van Hulle and one brother Byron (Judy) Bourassa.

He is preceded in death by one son Joey, brothers Clifford, Francis, Robert, William and sisters Bette, Jean and Marilyn.

The family greeted relatives and friends at the Rhodes Charapata Funeral Home in Oconto on Thursday, Dec. 20, from 3:30-7 p.m. The Prayer Service was at 7 p.m. with Kathy Schroeder officiating. The visitation continued at Rhodes Charapata Funeral Home on Friday, Dec. 21, from 8-10 a.m. The Closing Prayers were at 10 a.m. with Father Joel Sember officiating before going to Holy Trinity Church for Mass of Christian burial at 11 a.m. The burial will be at Oconto Catholic Cemetery with Military Rites. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been set up for the Holy Trinity Church, St. Anthony School and the Lena Lions Club.

Raymond Gilbert Gruetzmacher II, 69, of Suring, entered into eternal rest surrounded by his family at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center in Neenah on Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2018. Raymond was born in Shawano on Sept. 7, 1949, to the late Raymond and Maybelle (Crow) Gruetzmacher. He graduated from Shawano High School with the Class of 1968 and married Sue Ashenbrenner on May 26, 1973, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Leopolis. Ray obtained an Associate Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and then went on to attend Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science to obtain his degree in Mortuary Science.

In 1975, Ray and Sue made Suring their home, raising two children, Brent and Kim, while Ray was employed at Soulek Funeral Home. In 1983, Ray purchased Soulek Funeral Home, which is now known as Gruetzmacher Funeral Home. Ray operated Gruetzmacher Funeral Home until 2016 when he retired and transitioned the business to his son, Brent Gruetzmacher, who currently operates the business.

Growing up near Shawano Lake he enjoyed boating and water skiing. He loved to bird and deer hunt with his family and friends. Ray had a passion for grilling and could cook as well as most chefs. He especially enjoyed making dill pickles. His other hobbies included cooking maple syrup, cutting firewood, woodworking, and riding his John Deere lawn mower. He enjoyed retirement, riding around in his old pickup truck that he acquired from his best friend. Most recently he enjoyed cruising the neighborhood in his golf cart and taking his grandsons for rides.

Ray is survived by his wife of 45 years, Sue; daughter, Kim (Jeff) Kinsler of Nashville, Tennessee; son, Brent (Kimberly) Gruetzmacher of Suring and their sons, Grant and Cole. Ray is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Visitation was held at Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring on Friday, Dec. 21, 2018, from 4-8 pm. Visitation continued on Saturday, Dec. 22, 2018, at Mount Olive Lutheran Church (Suring) from 2:30 p.m. until the funeral service at 5 p.m. with Pastor Michael Paholke officiating.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com

The family would like to thank Ryan, a very special RN, with Thedacare Regional Medical Center in Neenah’s ICU Department for his compassion and care shown to Ray and his family.

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

William “Bill” Wolf Sr., 62, of Green Valley, was called home to Heaven on Friday, Dec. 21, 2018. Bill was born on April 24, 1956, to Frederick and Shirley (Paige) Wolf of Green Valley. Bill will be remembered for his love of life. His biggest pleasures included spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, and the outdoors. Bill’s two grandchildren, Kota and Hunter, were the light of his life, bringing him many smiles and such joy. He was an avid hunter and loved deer hunting especially. Most recently, Bill went on the bear hunt of his life, bagging a Wisconsin record-setting black bear. He also loved to go fishing often, including ice fishing in the winter on Cecil Bay, catching his favorite perch. Bill was a man with a great heart, sharing his passion to live and love with all he met.

Bill held many different jobs all over the Shawano County and Oconto County Area. He grew up in Green Valley on a farm with his two siblings. Bill later worked with his father running an excavating company: Wolf & Sons Excavating. Years afterward, he began work for Green Valley Elevator, hauling feed and seed for local farmers. Bill was a welder for a few years for 3D of Shawano building fire apparatus, as well as Tarcon of Pulaski. His most recent employment was with WCS of Bonduel, where he was a semi-tanker driver. He was so proud of the work he was able to do. Bill was a man of great strength and compassion in all he did.

Bill leaves behind his wife, Cheryl (Loseby) Wolf, of Green Valley; his five children, Jodie (Arquimides) Arias Hernandez, of Krakow, Jenny Wolf, of Seymour, Michael Wolf, of Pulaski, William “Billy” Wolf Jr., of Krakow, and Jonathan Wolf, of Krakow; stepson, Nick Loseby, of Ironwood, Michigan; two grandchildren, Kota and Hunter; brother, Rick (Becky) Wolf, of Abrams; sister, Holly (Buck) Tuell, of Howard; and mother-in-law, Bernice Grams. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Bill was preceded in death by his late wife, Martha (Filipiak) Wolf; infant brother, George Stikl Jr.; infant sister, Jody Lynn Wolf; his parents; grandparents, Fred and Frieda Wolf and Cleve and Mabel Chivell; uncle, Kenneth Chivell; and best friend and partner in shenanigans, Mike Presel.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 19, 2019, at Wanderer’s Rest Cemetery in Gillett at 1 p.m.

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 the staffs of the ninth floor at St. Vincent Hospital and Green Bay Oncology for the exceptional care offered to Bill and his family during their time of need. Also, further thanks to Unity Hospice for the care offered to Bill.

Roger Allen Konop, 74, Gillett, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 27, 2018, surrounded by his family at the Unity Hospice Meng Residence of De Pere following a brief illness.

Roger was born in Lena on March 12, 1944, a son of the late Joseph and Angeline (Svejda) Konop. Roger married Shirley A. (Bader) on May 11, 1963, and together they raised four children. Roger formed RAL Cement Contractors with his two business partners and friends until his retirement. Roger was an avid hunter and enjoyed gardening with Shirley. He also liked woodworking and socializing. He will be greatly missed.

Roger is survived by his children: Lisa (Bob) Johnson of Greenleaf, Jeff (Jackie) Konop of Woodbury, Minnesota, Deb (Jeff) Edler of Maribel and Jodi (Josh) Tousey of Green Valley. He also leaves his grandchildren: Alex (Courtney) Konop, Jared (Heather Collin) Edler, Jordan Johnson (Alison Agnes), Meghan Konop, Dylan and Taylor Tousey; his siblings Wilbur, Leonard (Mary Ann), Larry (Luella) and Judy. He is further survived by other relatives and friends.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife Shirley, his brother Ronald Konop and his sisters Jeanette Neveau, Marian Rost, Rose Marie Krejcarek, Mildred Grooms and Sharon LaFond.

Memorial visitation will be on Saturday, Jan. 5, 2018, from 9-10:45 a.m. at Legacy Funeral Chapel (108 E. Main St., Gillett, WI 54124). A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Burial will be in St. John’s Catholic Cemetery.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Unity Hospice and the Meng Residence for their kind and compassionate care of Roger.

Harold J. Horn Sr., 66, of Gillett, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 3, 2019, surrounded by his family. Harold was born on Sept. 10, 1952, to the late Charley and Nellie (Coughron) Horn in Oklahoma. He attended high school and graduated from college in Oklahoma. In his youth, Harold was an experienced rattlesnake catcher and enjoyed riding bulls. In the early 1980s, Harold moved to Wisconsin. Harold worked as a welder at numerous locations throughout the area over the years. In 2001, Harold and Sherry Struble started their life together. Harold greatly enjoyed fishing, karaoke, spending time in nature and spending time with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren.

Harold is survived by his fiancée, Sherry; four stepchildren, Christine Winkler, Willie Winkler, Tina (fiancé Dallas Christensen) Winkler and Leon Criss; three grandchildren, Kassie Horn, Charles Winkler and Isaac Horn; three step-grandchildren, Daybreanne Winkler, William Winkler Jr. and Dakota Winkler; many brothers and sisters. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his son, Harold Horn Jr.; his parents; numerous brothers and sisters.

Visitation was held on Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2019, at Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring from 3 p.m. until the funeral service at 6 p.m., with Pastor Bill Krauss officiating. Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com.

Marian J. Schaut, 97, died Friday, Dec. 28, 2018, at The Waterford, an assisted living facility in Wisconsin Rapids. She died peacefully in her sleep. She was born March 9, 1921, to Heinreich and Bertha (Adams) Kopitzke in Hintz. She had 11 siblings.

After graduating from eighth grade, she attended the Green Bay Seventh-day Adventist Academy for one year. She was then needed in the cook shanty at her father’s logging camp where she helped cook for the lumberjacks. She met her future husband, Lloyd “Bud” Schaut, at the camp. After marriage, Marian and Bud moved to Mountain. They were married 48 years until his death in 1991.

Marian was involved with all the family businesses as bookkeeper for the excavating business, the feeder route for the school buses and selling Christmas trees, strawberry and vegetable produce for a local market. She was active in 4-H as an activities leader, a member of the Mountain VFW Auxiliary, an Election Inspector and assisted with yearly garage sales in Oconto Falls for the Gillett Seventh-day Adventist Church. She enjoyed traveling abroad and in the U.S.

She is survived by her three children, Lyle (Okki) Schaut of Mountain, Jane (Don) Gerndt of Wisconsin Dells, and Susan Woods of Marco Island, Florida; seven grandchildren, Sony (Bret) Jensen of Freedom, Buddy (Cindy) Schaut of Mountain, Heather (Randy) Magray of Altamonte Springs, Florida, Grayson (Melanie) Gerndt of Oconto Falls, Amanda (Rob) Steinhauser of Carlsbad, California, Sarah (Francisco Gonzalez) Woods of Berwyn, Illinois, and Rebecca Woods of Renton Washington; 11 great-grandchildren, Tyler, Dustin, Austin and Ashley Jensen, Ellie and Emilie Magray, Athena, Graylynn and Evolet Gerndt, Mason and Layla Steinhauser.

Marian was preceded in death by her husband, Bud, her parents, three brothers and eight sisters and their spouses.

The memorial service for Marian will be Friday, Jan. 11, at 11 a.m. at the Lena Seventh-day Adventist Church, Lena, with Pastor Rick Binford officiating. Visitation will be before the memorial service from 10-11 a.m. A luncheon will follow the 11 a.m. service. Burial will be in the Mountain Cemetery, Mountain, after the luncheon.

Marian will be greatly missed. We are grateful for her strong belief in God and in the Second Coming of Christ when we will get to spend eternity with her.

Elaine E. (Barkhaus) Kohls, 94, Fond du Lac and formerly of Gillett, was born Dec. 4, 1924, in Bonduel to Albert and Adela (Graf) Barkhaus. She passed on to the Lord on Jan. 3, 2019.

Elaine attended St. Paul Lutheran School and graduated salutatorian from Bonduel High School. She attended business college in Green Bay and worked at a bank and Dehn’s Ice Cream in Bonduel. She met Oscar Kohls at a wedding dance and swept him off his feet. They were married for 59 years before his passing. They had three children as they worked one of the largest dairy farms in Oconto County in the 1950s and ’60s. Elaine was Gillett Town clerk for 10 years. She was devoted to her faith in the Lord and was privileged to be the first woman member of the church council at Immanuel Lutheran Church. She was active in LWML and Ladies Aid, as well as Homemakers and other volunteer activities.

Elaine always said when Oscar proposed, she asked, “Will you take me traveling?” In their retirement, they traveled to 50 states, Germany and Israel. Oscar and Elaine wintered in Texas for 27 years. Later, she wintered in Florida.

She loved to read, play sheepshead and dominoes and visit with her great-grandchildren. She was completely devoted to her family.

Elaine was preceded in death by her husband Oscar and her brother Louis Barkhaus. She is survived by her sister Doris Buchholz, daughter Jean (Don Timpel), Carol Petty and Charles (Tami) Kohls, grandchildren Troy (Shannon) Timpel, Tara (John) Collingwoood, Ben (Sarah) Kohls, Bill (Krista) Kohls, Jeff (Lizzie) Petty and Amy Petty. She loved her seven great-grandchildren: Basil Gidus, Levi Gidus, Griff Kohls, Harper Kohls, Fox Petty, Felix Petty and Baylor Kohls.

Friends and relatives called on the family from 10-11:45 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 7, 2019, at Faith United Lutheran Church (11465 Old U, Gillett, WI 54124). A funeral service followed at noon with Pastor John Laatsch officiating. Interment will be in Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery.

The family sends special thanks to the staff of Crossroads, Kindred Hearts and Generations Homecare and Hospice.

For those wishing, memorials are appreciated to Faith United Lutheran Church at the above address.

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

Gordon “Gordy” E. McMahon, 87, Gillett, passed away at St. Mary’s Hospital in Green Bay in the evening hours of Monday, Dec. 31, 2018, following a period of declining health. He was surrounded by family.

He was born in Gillett on Dec. 27, 1931, a son of the late Ross and Mildred (Hodgins) McMahon. Gordon was a 1950 graduate of Gillett High School and was an enthusiastic student of history. He joined the U.S. Air Force soon after and proudly served as a staff sergeant with the 941st Forward Observers during the Korean Conflict. He married Mavis J. (Gilbertson) McMahon on June 4, 1960, and together they raised five children.

For many years, Gordon and Mavis owned and operated McMahon’s Foods before selling the store in 1976. He would go on to work as a custodian for the Gillett School District and as a rural letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service, retiring in 1994. Gordon was an avid gardener and also loved decorating his home for Christmas. He took an interest in his ancestry, in particular his Irish heritage. He was a caring father and grandfather and will be sadly missed.

Gordon leaves his children: Gary (Jacqui) McMahon of Suamico, Glen McMahon of Gillett, Sharon (Brian) Powell of Brillion and Michael McMahon of Brillion. He also leaves a son-in-law, Jim Baranczyk, and his brother James (Florence) McMahon. Gordon will also be remembered by his grandchildren: Jesse (Brenda) Baranczyk, Matthew (Shamra) Baranczyk, Amanda (Bill) Delfosse, Krista (Dalton) Jacobs and Abbie (fiancée John) McMahon; three great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

Gordon was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife Mavis of over 58 years, and his daughter Constance “Connie” Baranczyk. He was also predeceased by his sister Donna (Carroll) Rehn and his brother Robert McMahon.

Friends and relatives called from noon to 1:45 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 6, 2019, at Legacy Funeral Chapels (108 E. Main St., Gillett, WI 54124). A funeral service was held at 2 p.m. Burial with full military honors followed in Wanderer’s Rest Cemetery.

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

John “Jay” Daul, 66, Oconto Falls, died suddenly Sunday morning, Jan. 13, 2019, at St. Vincent Hospital Cardio-Vascular-Intensive-Care-Unit (CVICU), following complications from open heart surgery Jan. 4. The second-oldest of nine children was born Feb. 6, 1952, in Oconto to Francis and Joyce (Makos) Daul Sr. Jay or “J.J.” as he was known by those close to him, grew up in the Cream City area, Gillett and Oconto and attended school, graduating from Oconto High School with the class of 1970. Following graduation, he attended Mercy Medical Center School of Nursing in Oshkosh, graduating with his BSN degree. Jay furthered his education by attending Mercy Medical Center School of Anesthesia, graduating with his CRNA degree in 1979.

On Aug. 18, 1973, he married Jeannie Pagel at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Oconto. Following their marriage, the couple lived in Oshkosh and Waupun before settling in Oconto Falls where Jay worked for Community Memorial Hospital for a few years. Jay was employed for over 30 years as a CRNA at St. Mary’s Hospital in Green Bay until retiring in February 2015. He also freelanced at other hospitals in Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. Jay and Jeannie enjoyed spending time in Copper Harbor, Michigan, where they made a community of friends. Jay also enjoyed a good old fashioned or vodka tonic, cooking and grilling, following all Wisconsin sports, caring for his dogs Maggie and Lucy and being with his family and grandchildren.

Survivors are his wife of 45 years, Jeannie Daul, Oconto Falls; their three children, Amanda (Jeremiah) Plansky, Little Suamico, Jon (Jessica) Daul, Howard, and Alyssa (Robert) St. Louis, Lena; five grandchildren, twin daughters Ellei and Clare and brother Grant Plansky, and Kaitlyn and Hailey Daul; Robert’s children, Blake and Morgan St. Louis; his mother, Joyce (Skip) Eberly, Oconto; four brothers, Michael (Louise) Daul, Jim (fiancé Margie) Daul, Francis “Tony” (Pattie) Daul and Ronney Daul, all of Oconto; two sisters, Peggy Ann (Robyn) Rhode, Pound, and JoAnn (P.T.) Resch, Appleton; many aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Francis Daul; his toddler sister, Susie Daul; one brother, Charles Daul; one brother-in-law, Randy Pagel; and in-laws, William “Bud” and Leitha Pagel.

Visitation will be held 3-8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 17, 2019, at Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls. Visitation will continue after 9 a.m. Friday, Jan. 18, 2019, at St. Anthony Catholic Church until the time of service. Mass of Christian burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 18, 2019, at the church with the Rev. Joel Sember officiating. Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery, Little Suamico.

The Daul family would like to thank the nurses and staff of the St. Vincent CVICU for the devoted and compassionate care given to Jay and treating him like family.

As you walk down the open road of life, one must smell the flowers, hold hands, look at the trees, eat a thimbleberry or two, laugh and embrace a dog. For you only get one seed to plant, and with a lot of love and an amazing ray of light, it is incredible what you can grow.

Agnes C. Bridger-Bast, 89, Oconto Falls, died suddenly Monday morning, Jan. 14, 2019, at St. Clare Memorial Hospital. She was born March 5, 1929, in Oconto Falls to Andrew and Jane (Berton) Konitzer. She attended St. Anthony Catholic grade school and graduated from Oconto Falls High School with the class of 1948.

On Aug. 13, 1949, she married Donald J. Bridger. The couple lived in Milwaukee for 30 years until moving to Sarasota, Florida, in 1979. Agnes had a heart to care for the elderly and did so by working in hospitals and nursing homes while living in Wisconsin and private residences in Florida. On Oct. 10, 1999, Donald preceded her in death.

On Dec. 13, 2003, she married Victor E. Bast in Florida. While living in Florida, she was a member of the Church of the Incarnation in Sarasota and St. Anthony Catholic Church in Oconto Falls while in Wisconsin. She was a member of PCCW at church and the American Legion Auxiliary.

Survivors are her six children, Daniel Bridger, Wisconsin; Russell Bridger, Minnesota; Charles (Lynn) Bridger, Wisconsin; Cynthia (David Jones) Boyd, Gene (Sherry) Bridger and Karin Bridger, all of Florida; many grandchildren; one brother, Edward (Lillian) Konitzer and one sister, Magdalene Tisch, all of Wisconsin.

Besides her parents and two husbands, she was also preceded in death by seven brothers and six sisters.

Visitation with urn present will be held after 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Oconto Falls until the time of service. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Saturday at the church with the Rev. Fr. Joel Sember officiating. Burial will take place in Oconto Catholic Cemetery. Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls is serving the family.

Curtis R. Strehlow, 78, of Suring, passed away suddenly at home on Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2019. Curtis was born on the Strehlow Farm on June 8, 1940, to the late William and Clara (Guelker) Strehlow. He graduated from Suring High School with the Class of 1958. Curtis played fullback on the Suring High School football team. On Oct. 28, 1961, he married Audrey Schneider at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Gillett. In his early years, he worked as a pin setter at the Suring Bowling Alley, hauled milk for various cheese factories, and also worked for Muehl Ehlinger Lumber Company. Curtis worked for and retired from the Oconto County Highway Department.

As a longtime member of the Suring United Methodist Church, he served in various church offices and as the Sexton of the church cemetery.

He served on the board of the Suring Farmer’s Mercantile Co. and as a Town of How Supervisor. For many years, he was treasurer for the Union of the Oconto County Highway Department Employees, and he was instrumental, along with other union officials, in bringing the NEW Credit Union to Suring.

Curtis and Audrey enjoyed traveling with family and friends throughout the U.S., with many notable trips in Wisconsin and Alaska. He was especially proud to make many trips to South Dakota to watch Chad play for the SDSU Jack Rabbits.

Curtis played in and managed many softball teams and enjoyed bowling. He loved hunting and fishing, visiting local hot spots, up north at the hunting shack and visiting numerous states, including Canada, Minnesota, Wyoming, Colorado, and most recently a hunting trip to Montana with his dear friend Dale Hischke.

He was happy to keep up the family traditions of family reunions, Memorial Day, deer hunting, and making sausage and maple syrup. Curtis was especially proud of “his” garden and generously shared his homemade wine on many occasions.

He will be greatly missed by the BP morning coffee club.

Curtis is survived by his wife of 57 years, Audrey; three children, Jill (Mark) Baldwin of Green Bay, Mark (Carrie) Strehlow of Suring, and Tim (Theresa Johnson) Strehlow of Suring; four grandchildren, Adam (Jesse) Baldwin, Alicia Baldwin, Abby (Cory) Kibar, and Chad (Danica) Strehlow; a brother, Pete (Clara) Strehlow; two sisters, Fern Cramer and Faye (Tom) Stache; a brother-in-law, Norman Saffron. He is further survived by Audrey’s family members, Arnie (Delores) Schneider, Marv (Ruby) Schneider, Oz (Donna) Schneider, Adele Hansen, and Betty (Lenny Goodrich) Schneider. Curtis is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Lew (Virginia) Strehlow, Bub (Melanie) Strehlow, and Park (Helen) Strehlow; three sisters, Buelah Lazansky, “Poots” Saffron, and Kaye (Tom) Dhein; four brothers-in-law, Chum Yakel, John Cramer, Will Hansen, and Roger Schneider; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, Jan. 19, 2019, at Suring United Methodist Church from 9 a.m. until the funeral service at noon with Pastor David Lyman officiating. 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 extend a special thank you to the Gillett Area Ambulance and Theresa Johnson and the Emergency Room at Thedacare Hospital in Shawano. A special measure of gratitude to Gloria Pyatskowit, Dad’s guardian angel, for all the love, kindness and care she gave to dad.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established in Curtis’s memory.

Dora Van Dreel, 100, Oconto Falls, died Saturday afternoon, Jan. 19, 2019, at Atrium Post Acute Care of Oconto Falls surrounded by many of her family members. She was born Dec. 17, 1918, in Dyckesville to Louis and Mayme (Barrette) Borlee.

On Oct. 15, 1934, she married Lester Van Dreel at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Green Bay. The couple lived in Green Bay until moving to Oconto Falls in 1953 where Dora worked at the local Ben Franklin Store for 36 years, retiring in 1992. She was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Oconto Falls.

Survivors are her four children, Jean (Donald) Graef, Oconto Falls; Nancy (Charles) Yost, Green Bay; Barbara (Eugene) Duffy, Howard; Lester (Marilyn) Van Dreel Jr., Krakow; 23 grandchildren, 55 great-grandchildren, 57 great-great-grandchildren; one brother-in-law, Michael Blasczyk, Green Bay; many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Lester in 1981, five sisters, Irene Jolly, Rose Barrette, Marie Wishart, Jackie Maus and Betty Blasczyk, two granddaughters Carol Jean Graef and Connie Jefrey, and one great-grandson, Steven Graef.

Visitation will be held after 9 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 24, 2019, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Oconto Falls until the time of service. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Thursday at the church with the Rev. Fr. Joel Sember officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls is serving the Van Dreel family.

The Van Dreel family would like to thank Dr. Genadi Maltinski, Atrium Post Acute Care of Oconto Falls and Fr. Joel Sember for their caring ministry shown to Dora.

Melvin “Mel” G. Raatz, 71, Gillett, died suddenly Friday morning, Jan. 18, 2019, of natural causes in St. Clare Memorial Hospital ER. He was born Aug. 6, 1947, in Milwaukee to Gustave and Tillie (Schultz) Raatz. At the age of 3 years old, he moved with his family to a farm in rural Gillett. Mel grew up in Gillett where he attended public schools, graduating from Gillett High School with the class of 1965. Following graduation, he attended Wartburg College in Iowa.

On Aug. 27, 1966, he married his high school sweetheart Sharon Kalous in Gillett. Following their marriage, the couple lived in Iowa where Mel worked in a music store, gave guitar lessons and managed a Sears Catalog store. In 1976, the family moved back to the Gillett area where they managed an egg farm and Standard Oil gas station. It was during this time his uncle Adolph Schultz introduced him to the idea of becoming a property assessor. In 1979, R&R Assessing was established with the towns of Oconto Falls and Morgan and grew under his leadership to represent 34 municipalities in five different counties. Mel retired in 2015 and the family business continues with his sons. Mel was a longtime and very active member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Gillett, serving in numerous capacities including many years as council president. He was a member of the Wisconsin Towns Association and WAAO (Wis. Association of Assessing Officers), where he served as chairman and president and on the Rural Concerns Committee. Mel also served on the Gillett School Board for several terms and as president. When his boys were young, he was a Cubmaster and leader and was once active in the Gillett Civic Club and Jaycees. Always the musician, Mel founded Thurmont Ridge, a Christian band, and has played bass guitar for the 12 years since it was started. Mel also enjoyed woodworking, hosting annual deer hunts on the farm and traveling with his wife, especially to Alaska and Maine.

Survivors are his wife of 52 years, Sharon Raatz, Gillett; their three sons, Rick (Elaine) Raatz, Gillett; Ryan (Shelly) Raatz, Sherwood; Randy Raatz, Gillett; nine grandchildren, Dustin (Erin) and Tyler (Laura) Raatz and Peyton and Georgie Buerman, Alexis, Courtney and Nathan Raatz, Brandon and Emily Raatz; his mother-in-law, Evalene Kalous, Gillett; two sisters, Bette Malinowski, Florence; Darlene (Bob) Loll, Porterfield; his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Ron (Kathy) Kalous, Suring; David (Kathy) Kalous, Lakewood; Nancy (Mike) Stark, Gillett; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and father-in-law, Muryl Kalous.

Visitation will be held 3-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 25, 2019, at Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls. Visitation will continue after 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 26, 2019, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Gillett until the time of service. Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the church with his friends and former ministers, Pastors Harvey and Doreen Jeffers, officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Mel will be fondly remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend who was always willing to share his time and talent and just liked helping people.

Arlene B. Wolfe, 97, Oconto Falls, died Monday evening, Jan. 14, 2019, at Atrium Post Acute Care in Oconto Falls. She was born June 16, 1921, in Oconto Falls to Louis and Agnes (Simpson) Szweda. Arlene grew up in Oconto Falls where she attended public schools, graduating from Oconto Falls High School with the class of 1938. Following graduation, she moved to Milwaukee where she worked as a waitress.

On Jan. 30, 1943, she married Harold K. Wolfe, and the couple made their home in Oconto Falls. Arlene was employed at Jefferson Elementary School as an aide for 20 years. She was a member of the Oconto Falls United Methodist Church and had been active in the Ladies Aide. Arlene volunteered for the local nursing home, hospital auxiliary and NEWCAP. She enjoyed gardening, feeding the birds and taking care of her home.

Survivors are three children, Robert “Bob” (Dawn) Wolfe, Kingsford, Michigan; Nancy Wolfe, Oconto Falls; Susan (Doug) Williams, Plymouth, Minnesota; seven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Harold in 1971, two children, Dave and Gary Wolfe, one sister, Doris Szweda and her in-laws, Karl and Grace Wolfe.

Private family services will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery in Oconto Falls. Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls is serving the Wolfe family.

The Wolfe family would like to thank Atrium Post Acute Care of Oconto Falls and Unity Hospice for their wonderful care given Arlene.