Michael J. “Mike” Nelson, 69, Green Bay, formerly of Gillett, died comfortably Friday afternoon, Feb. 2, 2018, at home. He was born Jan. 7, 1949, in Oconto Falls to Alfred “Swede” and Jeannette (Backhaus) Nelson. Mike grew up on the family farm in the Town of Underhill and attended Gillett public schools, graduating from high school with the class of 1967. Not long after graduation, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and proudly served in Vietnam.

Mike lived in the Gillett area for most of his life where he was employed at the local canning factory until a disability forced an early retirement. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and working in the woods on his CAT. Mike was a lifelong member of Christ Lutheran Church in Hintz.

Survivors are his seven siblings, Sandy Wilson, Gillett; Barbara (Soren) Sorlie, Cecil; Bill (Barb) Nelson, Hintz; Judy Nelson, Green Bay; Marsha (James) Mahan, Appleton; Pat (Rhonda) Nelson, Hintz; Debbie Nelson, Hintz; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law Sidney Wilson.

Visitation will be held 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2018, at Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls. Visitation will continue after 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2018, at Christ Lutheran Church in the Town of Underhill (Hintz) until the time of service. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday at the church with the Rev. Michael Paholke officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Liam Michael Zahn, 17 months, earned his angel wings on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018. He was born Aug. 25, 2016, to Adam and Liz (Madero) Zahn. A nookie in his hand and a giggle was how he started his day, and he had a smile that could light up a room and blue eyes that could melt your heart. He loved and adored his big brother Wesley, and tried to do whatever he was doing. Liam loved his monkey and blankie, and made sure he had them at nap and bedtime. He was a huge fan of Mickey Mouse, and loved to dance whenever sung to.

He is survived by his parents, Adam and Liz, and big brother Wesley, Grandma Kathy Zahn, Grandpa Craig Pulley, Grandma Christine Madero, Grandpa Mark Madero, as well as Great-Grandmas Shirley Pacala, Diana Madero and Norma Frank. Numerous aunts, uncles and cousins survive him.

Liam was preceded in death by his Grandpa Michael Zahn, and Great-Grandpas Gilbert Pacala, David Madero and Edward Frank.

Family and friends visited Friday, Feb. 2, 2018, at Ryan Funeral Home, 305 N. 10th Street, De Pere, and services were held Saturday at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, De Pere, with Deacon Mike Vander Bloomen officiating. Please go to www.ryanfh.com to send online condolences to the family.

Special thanks to all those who were there for Liam, and our family.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund for Liam will be established.

Judith A. Ondik, 72, of Gillett, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, Feb. 5, 2018. Judy was born on June 26, 1945, to the late Arnold and Evangeline (Zill) Krause.

She attended Gillett schools and eventually married her high school sweetheart, Bob Ondik on Sept. 12, 1964, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Suring.

Living in Gillett, Judy enjoyed being a homemaker and raising their family of four. Later in life, she worked part-time at Yancy’s Restaurant and the Gillett Shell Station. Over the years, the things most important to her were being close to home with her family, friends and dogs.

Judy is survived by her husband of 54 years, Bob; three sons, Tracy (Trisha) Ondik, Terry (Amanda) Ondik, and Corey (Heather) Ondik; four grandchildren, Brady, Isabella, Wyatt and Hunter; one sister, Barb (Don) Kroening; one brother-in-law, Joseph Ondik; two sisters-in-law, Rose Kreischer and Betty Ondik. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; mother- and father-in-law, Joseph and Rose Ondik; daughter Cindy; brothers-in-law Tony Kreischer, Julius Ondik, Maynard (Sonny) Benson; and sisters-in-law Anne Benson and Norma Ondik.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Volk, Holly Spletzer, NP, and all the staff at Green Bay Oncology as well as Katie, Jenny and the Heartland Hospice Team for their wonderfully compassionate care.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 101 W. Main St., Gillett, from 9 a.m. until the funeral service at 11 a.m. with Pastor Kent Wallace officiating. Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com.

Steven “Steve” C. Wirtz, 54, Oconto Falls, died suddenly Wednesday afternoon, Feb. 7, 2018, at home following complications from a recently diagnosed illness. The oldest of four children born to Chester “Chet” J. and Janice (Hansen) Wirtz was born May 22, 1963, in Oconto Falls. Steve attended Oconto Falls public schools, graduating from high school with the class of 1982.

On June 1, 1991, he married Joanne Taycher. Steve was a self-employed farmer and for the past 10 years employed at Gaertig Farms in the Town of Morgan, until having to take a leave of absence due to declining health.

Survivors are his wife of 27 years, Joanne Wirtz, Oconto Falls; one sister, Nancy (Mark) Brye, Oconto Falls; three brothers, Tim (Renee) Wirtz, Oconto, Jeff (Veronica) Wirtz, Suring, Joe (Erin) Miller, Little Suamico; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Frank (Jane) Taycher, Appleton; Dan (Shelley) Taycher, Menasha; Jolene (Gary) Zahn, Oconto; many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, paternal grandparents Chester R. and Anna Wirtz, maternal grandparents Carl and Mary Hansen, and his in-laws Barney and Shirley Taycher.

There will be no visitation. Private family services will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery in Oconto Falls. Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls is serving the Wirtz family.

Agatha Mae “Gaye” Tietyen, 84, formerly of Gillett and resident of Atrium Post Acute Care, Oconto Falls, since 2014, went to be with her Lord on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2018.

Gaye was born in Gillett on Feb. 14, 1933, a daughter of the late Arthur and Lydia (Kasten) Ruege. She attended Gillett schools and married Glenroy Harvey “Tony” Tietyen on Oct. 21, 1950. They were blessed with three children: Gary and twins Jan and Jill. The family lived in Milwaukee until 1965, returning to Gillett to raise their family. Gaye was employed locally at Miller’s Gift Shop, Witt’s Market (Gillett) and later for Wagner Gas in billing until she retired. Gaye and her family attended St. John’s Lutheran Church in Gillett.

Gaye and Tony enjoyed keeping each other company and taking daily drives together throughout the Gillett area. Spending time with their family and relatives was a major part of their social lives. A special joy was making memories with their precious grandchildren. Gaye and Tony celebrated 67 years of marriage before her passing.

Gaye is survived by her treasured husband, Tony, and their twins Jan (the late Jane) Tietyen of Amery and Jill (Joseph) Tranetzke of Wausau. She also leaves her grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Tyler (Rachel) Tietyen, Jared Tranetzke, Jereme (special friend Nichole) Tranetzke and Keyanna; Erik (Emily) Tietyenand Charlotte and Merrick; Tony (Jennifer) Tietyen; her daughters-in-law Kathy and Dawn Tietyen. Gaye is also survived by her sister Carolyn (Larry) Gipp and former sister-in-law Helene Ruege, her nieces: Lisa Gipp, Erika (Craig) Saffold and Debra (Douglas) Schroeder, a nephew Colin (Alicia) Gipp as well as many other dear relatives and friends.

Gaye was preceded in death by her parents; son Gary; her brothers Ronald and Arthur James “Jakes” Ruege; and her sister Betty Marie (Richard Carl) Hill.

Family and friends called on Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2018, from 9-10:45 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 101 W. Main St., Gillett, WI 54124. A funeral service followed at 11 a.m. with the Reverend Kent Wallace officiating. Interment will be in Wanderer’s Rest Cemetery.

The family sends special thanks to the staff of Atrium Post Acute Care, Oconto Falls, Bellin Hospital and Dr. Genadi Maltinski.

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

Oriean Gertrude Quandt, 87, of Gillett, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, Feb. 16, 2018. Oriean was born in Oconto Falls on March 5, 1930, the daughter of the late Reynold and Exzina (Fonder) Lambrecht. Oriean was united in marriage to John C. Quandt on Sept. 4, 1948, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Suring. John preceded her in death on Dec. 24, 2016. In 1955, the couple moved to Appleton, where they resided for 30 years, moving back to the Suring area in 1984. She was a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Suring, active in the Ladies Aide, a member of the V.F.W. Auxiliary of Mountain and taught Sunday school in Appleton for nine years.

Oriean is survived by: her daughter, Lori (Stacen) Rhine of Missouri; two grandsons, John (Dasha) Quandt of Oshkosh and Daniel (special friend, Diane) Sommerfeld of Dale; two great-granddaughters and three great-grandsons. She is further survived by her brother, Milon Lambrecht of Mountain, and numerous other relatives.

She was preceded in death by: her husband, John; a son, Keith in 1982; grandson, Robert in 1984; her parents; and four brothers and two sisters.

Funeral services for Oriean will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday Feb. 22, 2018, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Suring with Pastor Paul Scheunemann officiating. Burial will be in Breed Union Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church on Thursday, Feb. 22, 2018, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service. Swedberg Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Oriean’s family would like to thank Serenity Gardens for all the care and support they have given.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

Ruth O. Behnke, 97, Oconto Falls, died Tuesday afternoon, Feb. 20, 2018. She was born in the Town of Stiles to Ole and May (Erickson) Fredrickson. Ruth grew up on the family farm, graduating from Lena High School with the class of 1938. She graduated from Marinette County Normal in 1942 earning her teaching certificate and in 1966 earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education at UW-Oshkosh. Ruth taught school for 31 years, first in rural schools, then Lena Grade School and Jefferson Elementary in Oconto Falls, retiring in 1986.

On Aug. 23, 1947, she married Lloyd Behnke and the couple resided in Oconto Falls. Along with her husband, they enjoyed camping and traveling the United States, Norway and Canada. She also enjoyed quilting, growing things and was an avid gardener. Ruth was a longtime member of Grace Lutheran Church where she served as past superintendent and teacher of Sunday School, Vacation Bible School coordinator and officer of the WELCA (women’s bible study). She served as an officer of the Retired Teachers Association, NORTA, AARP and the Oconto Falls Women’s Club. In the past, she was also active in the Community Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, the Friends of the Library and Friends of the Arts in Oconto Falls.

Survivors are her two daughters, Barbara (Thomas) Herald, Green Bay; Donna (Willie) Fabry, Oconto Falls; nine grandchildren, who she loved and enjoyed, Brian, Katie and Mike Herald; Jennifer (Jason) Reis, Cheryl (Mitchell) Ellwanger, Brenda Fabry, Melissa (Adam) Calewarts, Kim (Joe) St. Louis and John Fabry; six great-grandchildren, Taylor and Easton Reis, Logan, Wyatt and Stella Ellwanger, Parker St. Louis; one brother-in-law and sisters-in-law, Floyd (Charmaine) Behnke, Lena; Shirley Fredrickson, Plymouth; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by Lloyd, her husband of 69 years, on Sept. 24, 2016, two sisters Ethel (Robert) Christopherson and Anne (John) McClure and one brother Alan Fredrickson.

Visitation will be held after 9 a.m. Thursday, March 1, 2018, at Grace Lutheran Church in Oconto Falls until the time of service. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Thursday 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 Behnke family.

Special thank you to the staff of Atrium Post Acute Care and Unity Hospice for their kindness and support.

Myles H. Wellnitz, 60, Morgan, died Thursday evening, Feb. 22, 2018, at home surrounded by his family following a hard-fought battle with cancer. He was born Jan. 31, 1958, in Oconto Falls to Harvey and Betty (VanDenElzen) Wellnitz. Myles attended Oconto Falls Public Schools, graduating high school with the class of 1976. Shortly after graduation, he went to work for Mid-Central Tool.

On Sept. 13, 1980, he married Dawn Gomber in Gillett. The couple has lived in the Oconto Falls area for all their married lives where Myles’ employment with S&M Machines lasted until this past September, when he couldn’t work because of his health. He was a member of the Oconto Falls United Methodist Church. Myles will be fondly remembered for his knack for inventing things, helping others and his love of a cold Busch Light next to a bonfire.

Survivors are his wife of 38 years, Dawn Wellnitz, Morgan; their two children, Kip (Nikki) Wellnitz, Morgan; Bridget (Brian) Befay, Abrams; four grandchildren, Jager Rinehard and Mason Wellnitz, Haily and Peyten Befay; was Pa-Pa to Ian Van Kauwenberg and many others; his mother, Betty Wellnitz, Oconto Falls; one brother, John (fiancé Sarah Bauman) Wellnitz, Morgan; two sisters, Rose (Tim) VanSchyndel, New London; Jane Wellnitz, Lena; his father-in-law, W. Peter Gomber, Gillett; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Harry (Gail) Gomber, Susan (Norman) Peterson, Anton (Sue) Gomber and Jane Keshemberg, all of Gillett; Barb (Ray) Christensen, Kellnersville; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Harvey, on Feb. 20, 2017; a sister-in-law, Sharon Wellnitz; his grandparents, John and Molly Wellnitz and Harold and Lavina VanDenElzen; and mother-in-law, Patricia Kosner-Gomber.

Visitation will be held 4-8 p.m. Thursday, March 1, 2018, at Jones Funeral Service in Oconto Falls. Visitation will continue after 9 a.m. Friday, March 2, 2018, at the Oconto Falls United Methodist Church until the time of service. Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday at the church with Pastor David Henke officiating. Burial will follow in the Town of Morgan Cemetery.

Dale M. Mikkelson, 94, of Gillett, passed away on Monday, Feb. 26, 2018. Dale was born on April 7, 1923, to the late Nels Peters and Martha (Arveson) Mikkelson in Suring. Dale married Ethel “Teddy” Anderson on Oct. 27, 1951, at Section Eight Baptist Church in Pound. The couple farmed in the Town of Maple Valley until moving to Brillion in 1964. While in Brillion, Dale drove gas truck. Dale retired from Larsen Co./Dean’s Foods as a field mechanic. In 1988, Dale and Ethel retired and the couple lived in the City of Gillett from 1993 until Ethel’s passing in 2014. Dale and Ethel performed as a family duet for many weddings and funerals over the years. As their two sons developed their musical talents, they formed a Family Gospel String Band. Dale was a member of Maple Valley Community Church.

Dale is survived by his two sons, Rodney (Laine) Mikkelson of Oshkosh and Kent (Vickie) Mikkelson of Benton, Arkansas; nine grandchildren, Erin (Peter) Franzen, Melissa (Trent) Thomas, Kelly Mikkelson, Ben (Karissa) Mikkelson, Jill Mikkelson, Corey (Stefanie) Mikkelson, Derek (Lauren) Mikkelson, Bryce (Casey) Mikkelson, and Katie Thompson; nine great-grandchildren. Dale is further survived by many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Ethel; his parents; two sisters and his half-brother.

Visitation will be held at Maple Valley Community Church on Saturday March 3, 2018, from 1 p.m. until the funeral service at 2:30 p.m. with Pastor Bill Krauss officiating. Dale will be interred in Hickory Cemetery next to his wife. Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com.

Oconto Falls – Audrey A. (Kramer) Piper died on Friday evening, March 2, surrounded by her family. The youngest of 14 brothers and sisters, Audrey was born June 25, 1932, to Paul and Josephine (Matuzeski) Kramer at the family farm near Lena and graduated from Lena High School. On June 23, 1951, she married Earl Piper at St. Charles (now St. Anne’s) Catholic Church in Lena. Audrey worked at the Oconto Falls High School cafeteria for six years and retired as a clerk from the Oconto Falls Post Office after 24 years. She was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church and Altar Rosary Society. An interesting fun fact about Audrey is that she was in attendance at the infamous Ice Bowl in 1967 cheering for her favorite team, the Packers.

Audrey was known for her generosity and charitable works, and was a recent recipient of the H.P. Heckendorf Community Service Award for exemplary community service and volunteering. The organizations she supports include the Steven Drees Foundation for active servicemen and books for kids distributed through Rainbow House. She also recently donated 350 dolls to children in Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

Audrey is survived by her three children and their spouses: Janet (Dave) Delvoye, Patrice (Randall) Siefert and Jeffrey (Karen) Piper; four grandchildren: Mitchell (Kate Luskin) Siefert, Ashley Siefert (Michael) Nunes, Kyle Piper (and girlfriend Sierra Smith) and Kjersten Piper (and boyfriend Evan Gresk).

She is also survived by her sisters Madeline “Manny” Kobes, Charity “Cherry” (Charles) Kroeger and Margaret Wesling; special niece Dolores “Lala” Redding Hansen; special niece and goddaughter Deborah Wilson; two special nephews—Curt Kroger and Mark Kramer—who were especially supportive of their aunt; many other treasured nieces, nephews and cousins; and special neighbors Tony and Shelby Neta.

In addition to her husband and parents, Audrey was preceded in death by brothers and sisters-in-law Richard (Ella) Kramer, Anthony (Norma) Kramer, Bernard (Maybelle) Kramer and Charles (Irene) Kramer; sisters and brothers-in-law Dolores (Kenneth) Brown, Robert Wesling, Martha (Joseph) Bintz, Katherine (Jerome) McGowan, Melvin Kobes, Irene Redding, Mary Sinacola and Theresa Severa; her parents-in-law Everett and Elna Piper; and her husband’s sisters and their spouses Lucille (Milton) Blahnik and Carol (Harvey) Jossie.

Special thanks to the staff and doctors at St. Clare Memorial Hospital, Unity Hospice, Green Bay Oncology, Atrium Post Acute Care of Oconto Falls, and Jones Funeral Service for their care and concern.

Visitation will be Tuesday, March 6, 2018, from 8:30-10:45 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, 253 N. Franklin St., Oconto Falls, until the time of service. Mass of Christian Burial will take place 11 a.m. Tuesday at the church with the Rev. Fr. Joel Sember officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to K9s for Warriors, the Oconto Falls Fire Department or St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. Jones Funeral Service is handling the arrangements.

The Rev. Paul Wesley Iwig, 85, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2018, at Midland Hospice House in Topeka, Kansas. He was born on Sept. 28, 1932, in Huscher, Kansas, the son of the Rev. Herbert and Ethel Jones Iwig.

Paul graduated from Longford High School in 1950, then attended Kansas State for two years before attending North Central Illinois University. He received his Master of Divinity in 1956. Paul served churches as an EUB and later as a United Methodist minister ​at​ Coal Creek, Alida, Emporia, Olpe, Madison, Big Springs, Stull and Lyndon, Kansas. He was a member of the Lyndon United Methodist Church and the Lyndon Lions Club.

On Aug. 18, 1956, Paul was united in marriage to Joyce Jones in Gillett. To this union four daughters were born.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Ethel; and by his sister, Carolyn Forney.

Paul is survived by his wife of 61 years, Joyce, of the home; his four daughters, Becky (Jim) Galbraith, of Climax Springs, Missouri, Deb (Gene) Koepke, of Columbia, Missouri, Judy Iwig, of Topeka, and Angie (Mike) Peterson, of Vassar; his brother, the Rev. Jim (Myrna) Iwig, of Newton; seven grandchildren, Chris (Josh) Kobuszewski, Joe Landis, Caity Hermann, Jackson Hermann, Shelby Sellers, A.J. Sellers and Sadie Sellers; four great-grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; 10 step-great-grandchildren; nephew Paul Forney and great nephew, Brandon Fanders.

Funeral services for Paul w​ere held on Saturday, March 3, in Lyndon, Kansas​. Burial w​as​ in the Lyndon Cemetery. ​

M​emorial contributions​ may be made to the Lyndon United Methodist Church or Lions Club International Foundation, sent in care of Feltner Funeral Home, 818 Topeka Avenue, Lyndon, KS 66451.

Online condolences for the family may be left at feltnerfuneralhome.com.

Harold St. Louis, 82, Lena, formerly of Shawano, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2018. He was born May 21, 1935, in Windsor, Ontario, Canada to Eugene and Maria (Laporte) St. Louis. Harold left Canada at an early age and moved to California. He eventually moved to Waukegan, Illinois, where he met and married Kathleen Alto. In 1970, they moved to Lena where they owned and operated a dairy farm until parting ways in 1983. He later met his longtime friend and companion, Delores Pashek, and moved to Shawano in 1988, then later returning to Lena in 2013 so they could be closer to family. He commuted from Shawano to Illinois, where he worked as a cement finisher. Harold especially enjoyed his employment with Redstone in Gurnee, Drake Concrete in Libertyville, and Circle Concrete in Zion. Harold was a proud member of the Cement Finishers Union since 1965 and attended many of their meetings. After retiring in 1997, he continued to stay active in pouring concrete. He also enjoyed his great passion of restoring antique tractors.

Harold is survived by a daughter, DeAnne (the late Joseph) Glime, of Florida; five sons, Randy (Christi) St. Louis, of Oconto Falls, Greg St. Louis, of Fond du Lac, Andrew (Laurie) St. Louis, of Coleman, Kris St. Louis, of Bonduel, and Daniel (Tanya) St. Louis, of Fond du Lac. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Matthew (Shelly), Kaitlyn, Laikyn, Brailyn, Hailyn, Brianna (Ian), Cassie, Ethan, Lincoln, Harrison and Arthur. Harold is further survived by a great-granddaughter, Alice; two brothers, Norbert and Larry St. Louis; a sister, Kathryn; longtime friend and companion, Delores Pashek and her family; his canine companion, Hershey; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Maria and many brothers and sisters.

Friends may call at Rhodes-Charapata Funeral Home, 438 W. Main St., Lena, on Wednesday, March 7, 2018, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. A funeral service will be held at 11:30 Wednesday at the funeral home with Kathy Schroeder of St. Anthony Parish officiating. Burial will take place at later date.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rhodescharapata.com

Harold’s family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to Delores and her family for their many years of care and friendship. Thanks also to all of the family and friends and the nurses and staff at Unity Hospice who helped us and Harold along the way.

Joan Lillian Harris, age 81 of Suamico, went to her eternal resting place on Feb. 24, 2018, after a long and hard-fought battle with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Joan was born Sept. 22, 1936, in Mountain to the late Bernard and Alice Bowman.

Joan graduated from Mountain High School with the Class of 1954. She went on to attend the Milwaukee College of Cosmetology and became a beautician for several years. Joan was one of the first residents of Mountain to start the Mountain Ambulance Service in 1971. She was also a member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary and a past 4-H club leader.

Joan was extremely passionate about anything horse-related and loved the 40-acre farm her parents once owned. She greatly enjoyed gardening and was an avid cake decorator. Joan was an enthusiastic, longtime member of the T&T Builders bowling team, driver for Lamers Bus Lines and longtime employee of Bob & Lottie’s Restaurant. She enjoyed numerous camping and fishing trips to Lake Gogebic. Joan was a member of the Walkie Talkies Ladies Group. Later in life, Joan became interested in hand-sewn quilt making, took classes in drawing and oil painting and became an avid Packers fan.

Joan is survived by her husband of 36 years, Glenn (Jack) Harris of Gillett; a brother, Gerald Bowman of Mountain; two sons, Jack (Michele) Smith of Blairsville, Ga., and Bernard (Darcy) Smith of Mountain; three daughters, Leslie (David) Brown of Lena, Lisa (Larry) Behrend of Suamico, and Lanita (Lawrence) Mauritz III of Mountain; two step-daughters, Cindy (Marty) Sutton of Newport, N.H., and Debra (Richard) Watson of Las Vegas; 16 grandchildren, Justin (Sarah) Hackbarth of Edmond, Okla., Robert (Katie) Behrend of Suamico, Robert Brown (And special friend Rebecca) of Lena, Kayla (Adam) Fenlaciki of Pulaski, Lanita (Jim) Detrie of Oconto Falls, Tiphani (Ryan) Beckham of Tifton, Ga., Jordan Smith (And special friend Adam) of Green Bay, Trevor Mauritz of Mountain, Brianna Smith of Mountain, Ryan (Andrea) Blackmer of Brooklyn, N.Y., Jarrod (Angela) Blackmer of Dongguan, Guangdong (China), Matthew King of Auburn, Maine, Jeremy (Emily) King of Phoenix, Ariz., Kathryn (Malton) Prifiti of Jacksonville, Fla., Elizabeth (Lizzy) King of Gilsum, N.H., and Richard Watson of Las Vegas. Joan leaves behind 17 very special great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Joan is preceded in death by her parents, Bernard and Alice Bowman; brothers Bernard (Bud) and Kenneth Bowman; and her first husband, Robert (Bob) Smith.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 17, 2018, at Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring from 9 a.m. until the memorial service at 11 a.m. with Pastor Bill Krauss officiating. Joan will be interred in Mountain Cemetery in the spring. Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com.

Our family would like to extend a special thank you to the staffs of Alpha Senior Concepts on Velp Avenue, Suamico; Heartland Hospice (especially Sherri and Jenna); Serenity Gardens, Gillett; and Tracey BeFay PAC, of Bellin Health-Oconto Falls, for their wonderfully compassionate care for our mother during this difficult time.

Irene J. (Radke) Baker, 93, formerly of Gillett, passed away on Saturday, March 10, 2018, surrounded by family.

Irene was born in Oconto Falls on June 24, 1924, a daughter of the late William and Wanda (Schmidt) Radke. She attended Elm Lawn School and was a graduate of Oconto Falls High School. Irene was married to Edward C. Baker, and together they raised four children. Irene worked for Quade’s 5 & 10 and later in local factories. She was a lifetime active member of St. John’s Lutheran Church. She served on various committees, including bulletins, finance, quilting, the Women of the Church, and was also part of a singing group that would visit area nursing homes. Irene loved both polka and country music and was an avid Packers, Badgers and Brewers fan; however, her greatest love was for her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister. Irene will be sadly missed.

Irene is survived by her children: Don (Cecelia) Baker of Rhinelander, David (Krisan) Baker of Appleton, Karen (Greg) Haines of Abrams, and Kathy (Dean) Tappa of Lena. She leaves her grandchildren: Brock (Lynette) Baker, Derek (Meagan) Baker, Ross (Stephanie) Baker, Claire Baker, Brynn Baker and Matthew Tappa; her great-grandchildren Mikayla, Malia, Catherine, Benjamin, Sloane and Reese. Irene also leaves her siblings: Martha (the late Robert) Schroeder, Helen (the late Joseph) Wiese, Rollyn (Ruth) Radke, Roger Radke, Reuben (Lorraine) Radke, Donald (Jean) Radke, Patricia (the late Thomas) and Bruce (Ann) Radke. She also leaves a sister-in-law, Carol Radke, numerous nieces and nephews, as well as grandnieces and grandnephews, other relatives and friends.

Irene was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, Edward, and her siblings: Arthur (Mary) Radke, Florence (Lawrence) Radke, Frederich (his wives Lydia and Delores) Radke, Kenneth (Lois) Radke and Alfred Radke.

The family sends special thanks to the staff of Sun Valley Homes II-Nine Acres of Oconto and particularly to Irene’s sister, Patsy, who took such exceptional care of Irene in her final years.

Friends and relatives called on the family from 9-10:45 a.m. Tuesday, March 13, 2018, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 101 W. Main St., Gillett, WI 54124. A funeral service followed at 11 with Pastor Kent Wallace officiating. Interment will be in Wanderer’s Rest Cemetery.

For those wishing, memorials are appreciated to St. John’s Lutheran Church at the above address.

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

John E. Elbe, age 64, passed away on March 5, 2018, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Appleton with his family by his side. He was born April 20, 1953, to the late Kenneth and OraBelle Elbe of Gillett.

John graduated from Gillett High School Class of 1971. He attended UW-Stevens Point and received an Associate Degree from NWTC-Green Bay. He was previously employed by Ferguson Inc. in Appleton until his retirement. In his earlier years, John traveled to Virginia and worked in the Virginia shipyards constructing oil tankers. He also traveled to Missouri and was employed by the Missouri State Parks System.

John became a very accomplished musician in high school where he received many awards for his musicianship; his love of music continued throughout his life. He played both the drums and guitar; and in his earlier years, he played in several area musical groups. He was an avid sports fan, especially baseball, umpiring in many area baseball games and also for baseball and softball leagues for the City of Green Bay. John also enjoyed reading and was a bird watching enthusiast.

John is survived by his son, Jake (fiancée Laci Dorn) of Neenah, and one grandson, Jordan; further survived by two sisters: Constance Lopez, Sparks, Md., and Deborah Erickson, Gillett; two brothers: Randy (Kathleen) Elbe, Sacramento, Calif., and Ken Elbe, Green Bay; two nieces: Elise Elbe, Los Angeles, and Elizabeth (Chad) Montour, Shawano; two nephews: Tim (Kelly) Lopez, York, Pa., and David (Trisha) Lopez, Pittsburgh; one great-niece, McKenna Montour; four great-nephews: Nicholas and Evan Lopez, Damon and Alex Montour. He is also survived by one aunt, Lois Elbe, Green Bay.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and OraBelle Elbe, and many aunts and uncles.

Per John’s request, a private service will be held at a future date. Online condolences may be offered at www.valleyfh.com

Leo S. Thielke, 89, of Suring, passed away on Sunday, March 11, 2018. Leo was born on July 2, 1928, to the late James and Catherine Thielke in Suring and graduated from Suring High School with the Class of 1946. Leo married Dolores Hermann in February 1951 in Coleman. Leo and Dolores enjoyed many fishing dates, along with spending winter days building birdhouses. Leo greatly enjoyed hunting and fishing, and he was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church.

Leo is survived by his six children, Ruth (Ron) Bucheger, Jerry (Yvonne) Thielke, Jim (Kathy) Thielke, Joe (Sharri) Thielke, Jo Ann (Tom) Usiak, and Sue Loberger; 10 grandchildren, James Bucheger, Nicholas Bucheger, Jessica Thielke, Jarvis (Jamie) Thielke, Jake Thielke, Jared Thielke, Jensen Thielke, Andy (Alina) Shallow, Amanda (Chris) Schuler, and Sonya Loberger; five great-grandchildren, Skyler Thielke, Drew Shallow, Charlotte Shallow, Leo Schuler, and Cora Schuler. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Dolores; his parents; five brothers, Lawrence, Clarence, George, Art and Milton; son-in-law, Rich Loberger.

Visitation will be held at Gruetzmacher Funeral Home on Friday, March 16, 2018, from 4-8 p.m. with a Prayer Vigil at 7:30 p.m. Visitation continues on Saturday, March 17, 2018, at St. Michael Catholic Church in Suring from 9:30 a.m. until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with Father Rico Eclar officiating. Interment will follow at St. Michael Catholic Cemetery. 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 staff of Woodland Village Nursing Home in Suring for the compassionate care offered to Leo and his family during their time of need.

Kitty (Herta) L. Sandgren (Radke), 98, of Suring, passed away on Sunday, March 11, 2018, with her family by her side. Kitty was born Nov. 9, 1919, to the late Albert Radke and Clara Radke (Bobert) in Marshfield and grew up in Stratford as the youngest of eight children.

She was a graduate of Stratford High School and married Dr. Gilbert Sandgren in 1936, a physician who provided medical care to the Suring area throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Kitty worked to support her husband through his medical schooling and provided administrative and nursing support to his medical practice until his passing in 1967. Afterwards, she lived and worked in Palm Desert, California, for a number of years.

Throughout her life, Kitty was a wonderful hostess, cook and baker. She enjoyed her lake cottage immensely, and family and friends are left with many fond memories of swimming and water-skiing, playing badminton and cards, and of course, eating many large, delicious meals prepared by Kitty. She loved the outdoors and spent much of her time connecting with her grandchildren, who affectionately addressed every birthday card, postcard and package to “The Best Grandma in the Entire World” for decades.

Kitty was a member of Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Suring. She will be remembered as a selfless, caring, thoughtful, smart and loving grandmother, mother, wife, sister, daughter and friend.

Kitty is survived by her son, Gilbert (Karen) Sandgren; grandson, John Sandgren; and granddaughter, Melissa Sandgren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gilbert, and siblings Herald, Adele, Betty, Anne, Claire, Walter and Elsie.

Visitation will be held Friday, March 16, 2018, at Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Suring from 9 a.m. until the funeral service at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Michael Paholke officiating. Kitty will be interred in Mount Olive Lutheran Cemetery. 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 Kitty’s personal caregivers, Tina, Jean, Megan and Kimberly, her special friend and helper at the cottage, Gina, her mailwoman Lori, the staff at Baycare Medical Center, and all of those who helped Kitty live a full and independent life for many years.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation and/or the Mount Olive Lutheran Church in the name of Kitty Sandgren.

John A. Olson, 92, of Gillett, died Saturday, March 10, 2018. He was born May 13, 1925, to Charles and Clara (Hoeffs) Olson in Belle Plaine. In the 1920s, the Olsons bought a farm near Underhill, where John lived much of his life.

John attended Mosling Grade School and graduated from Gillett High School in 1943. At this time, John enlisted in the Navy. After service, John attended college in Lansing, Mich., when he was recruited to help deliver a saw mill to Weippe, Idaho. While in Weippe, Mr. Olson found himself called to assist in putting out a fire in Weippe. This same evening, a 16-year-old young lady named Kathleen White stopped to see the commotion where she met the love of her life. Kathy finished high school, and John Olson went on to work for Nash Auto in Milwaukee. John and Kathleen wrote to each other during this entire time. They never forgot the fire that was kindled in their first meeting. Mr. Olson returned to the northwest to claim the love he couldn’t forget. The couple were married April 14, 1951, (Easter) and left for Wisconsin the following day.

John and Kathy raised two children on a farm near Underhill. In 1979, John sold the farm land and began working for Linwood Lumber in Mosling, and later Burkel Inc. in Oconto Falls, where he retired at the ripe age of 80 years old.

John was always interested in collecting American military memorabilia. In 2011, John had the privilege of flying to Washington, D.C., on the Honor Flight. A few years ago, John rode in a vintage Army Jeep to help lead the Fourth of July parade.

In early 2014, John and Kathy both became residents of the Woodlands Nursing Home of Gillett. Later that same year, John lost his wife of 63 years. John was relocated to Appleton to be closer to his children where he resided until his passing.

John is survived by a son, Stephen, and a daughter, Laurel, both of Appleton, sister-in-law, Anna Mae Olson (Two Rivers), nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends and extended family members.

John’s father, mother, and three brothers preceded him in death.

John and Kathy were members of the EUB church of Gillett, and later the Tabor United Methodist church for the remainder of their lives.

John was quiet and a dedicated family man, who will be missed by his loved ones.

Friends and relatives called on the family on Monday, March 12, 2018, from 10-10:45 a.m. at the Tabor United Methodist Church, 120 W. Main St., Gillett, WI 54124. A funeral service with Pastor David Farina was held at 11 a.m. Full military honors took place immediately following the service. Interment will be in Wanderer’s Rest Cemetery.

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

Dolores M. (Heling-Schmidt) Neuwirth, 96, of the Cottages at Meadowlands in Oconto Falls (formerly of Sheboygan), passed away early Thursday morning, March 15, 2018, at HSHS St. Clare Memorial Hospital in Oconto Falls. Dolores was born on July 26, 1921, in Sheboygan to the late Gustave and Wilma (Mueller) Heling. She graduated from Central High School with the Class of 1939. Dolores Heling married John Schmidt on Aug. 5, 1939, in Sheboygan. Dolores and John had two children, Janice and Barbara. John preceded her in death in 1967. After John’s death, Dolores, married Al Neuwirth in 1969. He also preceded her in death.

Dolores was caring, self-sacrificing, and always was there for her children. She loved spending time with her family and grandchildren. Dolores enjoyed playing cards, listening to music, dancing, especially to polkas, and having people around her. She also loved any type of sport, especially swimming, and just being outdoors. Dolores was a wife and mother, and worked for a short time at GNC at the Memorial Mall in Sheboygan. She was a member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Sheboygan.

Dolores is survived by her two daughters, Janice (Larry) McGray of Lena and Barbara (Harvey) Wolfert of Howards Grove; three grandchildren, Michael (Sara) Wolfert of New Franken, Jennifer (Keith) Tremblay of Abrams, and Jacqueline (Ron) Franklin of De Pere; five great-grandchildren. She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, John Schmidt and Al Neuwirth; her parents; two sisters, Betty Ubbelohde and Jeanette Gruenke; one brother, Harvey Themar.

Visitation was held Monday, March 19, 2018, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Sheboygan, 917 Mead Ave., Sheboygan, WI 53081, from 9 a.m. until the funeral service at 11 a.m. with Pastor Jim Schulz officiating. Interment followed the service at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Sheboygan. 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 staff at The Cottages at Meadowlands in Oconto Falls for the excellent care and compassion offered to Dolores and her family in their time of need.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Sheboygan.

John A. Bayer, 55, of Gillett, passed away unexpectedly at home on Friday, March 16, 2018. John was born on Oct. 10, 1962, to the late Ardell and Glendora (Deweld) Bayer in Port Washington. He attended Wausaukee High School. John worked many different restaurant jobs throughout the years and greatly enjoyed watching wrestling on TV.

John is survived by his brother, Richard Bayer Sr.; a sister, Debbie Bayer; five nephews, Scott, Richard Jr., Rory, Ryan and Adam; a niece, Tonya; 13 great-nieces and great-nephews. He is further survived by many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Roseanne.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 22, 2018, at Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring from 10 a.m. until the memorial service at 11 a.m. Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com.