Shawano Area Obituaries

Michael “Mike” Thiel Sr., 66, of Tigerton, passed away Sunday, Nov. 2, 2014 at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Marshfield.

Michael John Thiel was born on Aug. 12, 1948, in Shawano to Wilbur and Dolores (Malueg) Thiel. His father was career military so the family moved around, but Mike graduated from Tigerton High School in 1966. He entered the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam from November 1967 to July 1969.

Mike was united in marriage on Oct. 4, 1969, to Kathleen M. Redman at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Tigerton. After marriage, the couple lived in New City, New York, where Mike worked as a switchman with the local telephone company. They returned to Tigerton, and he was employed as a foreman at Marathon Electric, Wausau, for close to 17 years. Then Mike started with the village of Tigerton as the director of public works. After close to 20 years, he retired in 2010.

He was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, the Lions Club and American Legion Post 239, all of Tigerton. Mike enjoyed helping coach Tigerton High School baseball and football. He was an avid Packers fan and always played to win. Mike liked to play golf any chance he had, and he also liked coaching Legion baseball for some time. The couple traveled, and he especially loved spending time with his family.

Survivors include his wife of 45 years, Kathy, and three children, Michael (Sarah) Thiel Jr., of Tigerton, Ryan Thiel, of Wausau, and Nichole (Bret) Delfosse, of Oshkosh. There are eight grandchildren: Anthony, Jackson, Olivia, Ava and Alli Thiel, Madelyn and Mollie Delfosse, and Xao Yang. There are three sisters: Sally (Dominic) Delibertis, of New City, New York, Jean (Fred) Woods, of Columbus, Georgia, and Peggy (David) Ridley, of Phenix City, Alabama. There are four brothers: Patrick (Stephanie) Thiel, of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Richard (Georgia) Thiel, of Sharpsburg, Georgia, Jeff (Angie) Thiel, of Midland, Georgia, and Steven (Stephanie) Thiel, of Midland, Georgia. Mike is further survived by many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, retired U.S. Army Col. Wilbur and Dolores Thiel.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, Nov. 7, at 11 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Tigerton. Deacon Michael Brandt will officiate, and inurnment will follow at Union Cemetery, Tigerton. Military honors will be provided at the cemetery by members of American Legion Post 239, Tigerton. Friends may call on Thursday from 4-7 p.m. at the Beil-Didier Funeral Home, Tigerton, and on Friday from 10 a.m. until time of service at the church.

Online condolences may be sent via www.beil-didier.com.

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

William Peter “Bill” Steichen, 85, of Shawano, passed away Monday, Nov. 3, 2014, at Theda Clark in Neenah surrounded by his loving family.

Bill was born on Sept. 17, 1929, to the late William R. and Nina L. (Sondergaard) Steichen in Dwight, Illinois. After attending Dwight Township schools and graduating in 1947, he left the family farm to pursue other opportunities. Bill was united in marriage to Doris Kline on Oct. 7, 1950, in Dwight. He worked at the Reiber Construction Company building roads and bridges. He then had the opportunity to operate his own Sinclair Gas Station in Dwight. He did that for a few years and then was asked to work for P.L. Murphy Construction Company burying natural gas lines. This job brought Bill and his family to Shawano in 1960, where they settled and made this their home.

After working in many communities and making many friends along the way, he began a new career in 1977. He built his barn and his business from the ground up and began raising veal calves. He did this until 1993 when he sold the barn.

Bill enjoyed taking care of his large garden, nurturing his many beautiful flowers and feeding the many birds that visited his unique bird feeders. Bill attended many auctions and sales to find that “special item” to add to his modest collection.

Family was always at the center of his attention. He attended the many golfing events, Christmas get-togethers, Fourth of July fish fries and other functions he deemed necessary for an important get-together. He will be missed at the nightly sessions at Howie’s, where he rarely gave his own opinion, but rather listened to the vast knowledge that was exchanged each evening. Bill enjoyed watching the Brewers and Packers. He would often share his ideas on how each team should be coached and what play the Packers should run. He will be deeply missed by his family and his many friends.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Doris Steichen, of Shawano; his children, Bob (Geri) Steichen, of Cecil; Barbara (Mark) Wawrzyn, of Green Bay; Brent (special friend, Jan Raddant), of Shawano; and Brian (special friend, Julie Zajas) Steichen, of Shawano; his grandchildren, Rob Steichen, Brad Steichen, Ann Jacobson, Amy Erickson, Jason Steichen, Jennifer Steichen, Jeff Steichen, Amber Steichen, Cassie Steichen, Jamie Steichen, Stacy Hooyman and Steffany Steichen; nine great-grandchildren, Sophia, Tyler, Drew, Zack, J.J., Maccee, Danny, Aiden and Lily.

He is further survived by his brother, Richard (Beverly) Steichen, of Sun City, Arizona; sister, Martha (Joe) Polito, of Joliet, Illinois; nephew, Todd Polito; and nieces, Audra Nyquist and Emily Davies.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Nina and Bill; his son, Alan Steichen; and his father-in-law, Clarence Kline, and mother-in-law, Hazel Kline.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 7, 2014, at the Swedberg Funeral Home in Shawano with the Rev. Keith Swanson officiating. Burial will be in the Jerusalem Cemetery. Visitation will be held at Swedberg Funeral Home in Shawano on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2014, from 4-7 p.m. and again on Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

A special thank you to Theda Clark second floor South nurses and doctors.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

On Oct. 25, 2014, Yvonne Kieslich gracefully departed friends and family to join her parents, Vincent Schiltz and Margaret (Henrickson) Schiltz, and her son, Timothy Fairchild. Yvonne was born Aug. 14, 1943, in South Milwaukee. She enjoyed gardening, hatpins, and her dog, Abbey.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Kieslich, her children, Scott Fairchild and Keith and Sarah Fairchild, her three grandchildren: Nick, Travis, and Tyler. She is further survived by two brothers, James Schiltz and Ronald Schiltz and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 9, 2014, at St. John’s Episcopal Church at 141 S. Smalley St, Shawano. A visitation for family and friends will take place from 1-1:45 p.m. Swedberg Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

Kenneth W. Manthei, 71, of Cecil, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2014.

Ken was born on Nov. 14, 1942, to the late Edwin and Lora (Boerst) Manthei in Shawano. He was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church White Clay Lake, Cecil. Ken attended grades 1-8 at Immanuel Lutheran School White Clay Lake, Cecil. He attended Bonduel High School and graduated in 1960. Ken married Judith Fischer on Sept. 28, 1963, at Immanuel Lutheran Church White Clay Lake, Cecil.

Ken was an avid reader and very mechanically inclined. He liked to discuss with his sons many different subjects. He loved it when his grandchildren came.

He is survived by his wife, Judith Manthei, Cecil; two sons, Scott Manthei, Two Rivers, Glenn Manthei, Freedom; two grandchildren, Christopher and Connor Manthei; a brother-in-law, Donald (Deloris) Fischer, Appleton; a sister-in-law, Mavis (Myron) Herman, Kenosha.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Lora Manthei; and his father and mother-in-law, Carl and Ida Fischer.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2014, at 11 a.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church White Clay Lake, Cecil, with Rev. Steven Pockat officiating. Family and friends may call on Friday from 4-8 p.m. at Zastrow Funeral Home in Cecil and Saturday at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Interment will be held at Immanuel Church Cemetery, Cecil.

In lieu of flowers, memorials be given to Wolf River Lutheran High School or Immanuel Lutheran Church White Clay Lake building fund.

Zastrow Funeral Home is assisting the family.

www.zastrowfuneralhome.com

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

A. H. “Stormy” Storma, 90, of Shawano, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2014, at Good Shepherd Nursing Home in Seymour. He was born March 15, 1924, son of the late Albert and Emma (Helms) Storma at Route 2, Seymour.

He graduated from Seymour High School in 1944. After graduation he traveled the state of Wisconsin doing sales work until he got his real estate license in 1949.

Al sold real estate in Outagamie, Shawano, and Brown counties for 46 years until his retirement in 1994, and held many auctions. He had many good memories and friends.

He married Caroline Blohm on Dec. 24, 1966, in the United Methodist Church in Seymour. They worked together renting cottages on Shawano Lake from 1968 to 2008 where they made many lifetime friends.

Al is survived by his wife Caroline; sister, Ila Mae (Bob Weyenberg); brother, Allan Storma; sister-in-law, Lucille Storma; nieces, Sarah (Bruce) Stephani, Marie (Robert) Houston, Roxanne (Paul) Herman, Amme (Rob) Storma, April (David) Schoeppel; nephews, Randall (Carin) Sigl, Mitchell (Sallye) Storma, Marvin Storma and all their children. He is further survived by sisters-in-law, Joyce Sherman and Betty Blohm; nieces, Penny (Jim) Much and Cheryl (John) Stegert; nephews, Bruce (Beverly), Scott (Cindy), Greg (Connie), Ken (Darlene), Kevin (Amanda), Sherman and Rodney (Cindy) Blohm.

He is preceded in death by his parents; mother and father-in-law, George and Kathleen Blohm; two brothers, Ivan (Arlene) and Harlan Storma; sister-in-law, Carmelita Storma and brother-in-law, Bill Blohm.

Friends may call at Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home, Seymour on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2014 from 5-8 p.m. and will continue at the funeral home on Monday, Nov. 3, 2014 from 9:30 a.m. until services at 11 a.m. with Pastor Loretta Waegli officiating. Entombment will take place at Highland Memorial Park, Appleton. Online condolences may be expressed at www.muehlboettcher.com

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Al’s memory to the Seymour Museum or the United Methodist Church in Seymour.

A special thank you to the staff at Good Shepherd Nursing Home in Seymour and our neighbor David Yunk for all your care and concern.

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

Mary Jane Gruentzel, 84, of 5601 Downtown Lane, Gillett, loving wife, mother, grandma, great-grandma, sister and aunt, earned her angel wings on Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2014, surrounded by her loving family.

The former Mary Jane Borchardt was born Feb. 12, 1930, in Appleton. She met the love of her life, Chuck Gruentzel, and they were united in marriage on Sept. 5, 1948, in Little Chute. He preceded her in death on June 10, 2006. She was a member at St. John’s Catholic Church in Gillett. She loved cooking and canning produce from her garden. She loved to travel with her husband, Chuck. In later years she enjoyed spending all her time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her two sons, Mark (Brenda) Gruentzel, of Shawano, and Allan Gruentzel, of Green Bay; her sister and best friend, Lois Linskins, of Little Chute; Mark and Brenda’s children, Mike (Janet) Gruentzel and Jaylee, Brittany Huss, Michael Huss, Samantha (Phillip) Kropp; Allan’s children, Angel Van Den Heuvel, John (Katrina) Gruentzel; great-grandchildren, Dominic and Kyle Kox, Coraline and Olivia Kropp; niece, Christi Linskins.

Friends may call from 9:30-11 a.m. Friday at St. John’s Catholic Church in Gillett. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday at St. John’s Catholic Church in Gillett, with the Rev. Dean Dombroski officiating. Burial will be in St. John’s Catholic Cemetery.

Kuehl Funeral Home, 920-855-2144, of Gillett, is serving the family of Mary Jane Gruentzel.

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

Dave Olson passed away peacefully Thursday, Oct. 23, at the age of 60 in Joplin, Missouri.

He was born Feb. 9, 1954, in Sheboygan. He was raised in Shawano and was a graduate of Bonduel High School. He enjoyed working on cars and spent 25 years racing them. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, and the Green Bay Packers, as well as spending time with his grandson.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Ruth Olson, of Shawano, and is survived by his two children, Neal Olson, of Engelwood, Colorado, and Amanda Olson, of Milwaukee, and a grandchild, Oliver Greer.

Private services will be held at a later date.

Memorials to the Salvation Army in Joplin, Missouri, are greatly appreciated.

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

William B. Summers Jr., 68, of Appleton, passed away Thursday, Oct. 23, 2014. Born Jan. 22, 1946, in Red Springs, he was the son of the late William and Imelda (Miller) Summers Sr.

William worked at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Appleton, and in his free time, he enjoyed doing word puzzles, cooking, baking, photography, and going to powwows. He also loved wolves and was a Milwaukee Brewers fan.

William is survived by four brothers, Keith (Claudette) Rudesill, Henry (Shirley) Rudesill Sr., Mike (Yvonne) Rudesill and Andy (Sue) Summers. He is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, including close friend Melinda Shriner.

William was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Thomas Rudesill Jr.; a sister, Bette Tousey; and a nephew, William Liebe.

A funeral service was held for William at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 27, 2014, at the Lutheran Church of the Wilderness on Moh He Con Nuck Road near Bowler with the Rev. Melinda Shriner officiating. Burial was in Red Springs Cemetery with military honors by the Mohican Veterans. Visitation was held at the church Sunday from 4-8 p.m. and again on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.

Swedberg Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

Henry “Hank” A. Mandel, 77, of Shawano, passed away on Oct. 27, 2014, after a year and a half battle with cancer. He was born on Feb. 9, 1937, in Two Rivers to the late Henry and Mabel (Kappelman) Mandel.

On Oct. 16, 1998, Henry was united in marriage to Carol Niesen. Henry served in the National Guard and was a member of Peace United Church of Christ. Henry was also an avid bowler and golfer.

Henry is survived by his wife, Carol; his children and stepchildren, Scott (Sue) Mandel, Debra (Paul) Schmidt, Peter (Jean) Mandel, Pam (Brian) Schmidt, Todd (Karen) Mandel, Todd (Andrea) Williamson, Pauline (Derek) Ho, Julie (Gene) Wild and Mark (Lisa) Williamson; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is further survived by his sister, Joyce Sinkula; his sister-in-law, Pat Mandel; a special aunt, Bernice (the late Bernie) Sinkula; and other relatives and friends.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Paul Mandel; one brother-in-law, Leonard Sinkula; stepson, Willy Williamson; and a great-grandson, Korik Rauen.

A funeral service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, 2014, at the Peace United Church of Christ with the Rev. Marty Black officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Saturday from 12 p.m. until the time of the service.

Swedberg Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

The family wishes to thank the first responders and ambulance staff, especially Erin and Terry, and Dr. Yao and staff for the wonderful care.

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

Mary A. Stieber, 82, Marathon, died Saturday, Oct. 25, 2014, at her home under the care of her family and Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services.

She was born May 8, 1932, in the town of Belle Plaine, daughter of the late Joseph and Mary (Dillenburg) Brunner. On July 2, 1955, she married Jerome H. Stieber at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Shawano. He preceded her in death on Aug. 28, 2012.

Mary graduated from Shawano High School in 1949 and from St. Mary’s Hospital School of Nursing in 1955. For 33 years, Mary was a nurse, which to her meant going above and beyond in caring for others. Providing nursing care to members of the community allowed Mary to share the many gifts God gave her. Our mom was happiest when she was able to provide care and comfort to those who needed it. She was born to be a nurse. Through the years, Mary was an active member of St. Mary’s Parish, Marathon, where she had served as a Eucharistic minister, sang in the adult choir and was a member of the Parish Council of Catholic Women.

Survivors include her five children, Scott (Beth) Stieber, Wausau, Brian Stieber, Marathon, Lori (Scott) Schutte, Rib Mountain, Lisa (Joseph) Breaman, Merrill, and Beth (Mike) Martin, Madison; 13 grandchildren, Erik Moore and Sarah (Brien) Neudeck, Marissa and Brad Stieber and Adam McKaig, Kate (Derek) Hilmershausen and William Schutte, Joseph, David, John and Nicholas Breaman and Alyssa (Jacob) Anderson, and Benjamin Martin; three great-grandchildren, Aiden and Ava Neudeck and Ledger Breaman; two brothers, Martin Brunner and Michael (Darla) Brunner, all of Shawano; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by five sisters and four brothers.

The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 31, 2014, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Marathon. Monsignor Joseph Diermeier will preside. Interment will be in the parish cemetery. Friends may call on Thursday from 5-7 p.m. at the Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Marathon, and again on Friday from 9 a.m. until the time of service at the church. There will be a parish rosary at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Marathon funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Mary’s School or the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.

The family wishes to express their sincere thanks to Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services and the caregivers from TLC. Their services allowed our mom to remain in the comfort of her home during her last days. The family would also like to recognize the friendship and assistance provided by Diane and Keith Borchardt and Mary Pilgrim. Heartfelt appreciation to Father Joe for his support as well as the thoughts, prayers and visits he gave so freely to Mary and her family.

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

Edna C. Rusch, 98, Oconto Falls, died peacefully Sunday morning, Oct. 26, 2014, at Sharpe Care. She was born Jan. 25, 1916, at the family home near Pulcifer to Frank and Elsie (Strei) Zastrow.

Edna grew up in Pulcifer, where she attended school and enjoyed being a good student. On Dec. 14, 1932, she married Walter O. Rusch in Gillett. Following their marriage, the couple lived in Gillett before moving in 1951 to Oconto Falls, where Edna was a very active member of Grace Lutheran Church.

Edna will be lovingly remembered as a great seamstress who made quilts for all of her grandchildren. She enjoyed cooking and baking and always canned fruits and vegetables and provided many delicious holiday feasts. As a member of her church, she remained active in all ladies of the church activities, especially the sewing ministry. Edna also enjoyed playing cards of all kinds with many friends and family members.

Survivors are her three children, Walter A. (Jane) Rusch, Clyde J. Rusch, Rellen R. (Chuck) Hayes; 10 grandchildren, Dawn (Steve) Murphy, Debra Rusch, Karen (Chris) Patton, LuAnn Rusch, Janice (Mike) Tassoul, Kevin (Chris) Rusch, Bill (Kelly) Rusch, Darren (Lynn) Rusch, Jennifer (Jon) Rentmeester and Beth (Pat) Richter; 23 great-grandchildren and 16 great-great-grandchildren; two sisters, Elda Miller and Linda Haag; one brother, Ted Zastrow; many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband, she was also preceded in death by one daughter, Janet Asby-Webb; one sister, Doris Steiner; one grandson, Mark E. Rusch; and one great-grandson, Christopher P. Murphy.

Visitation will be held after 3 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, at Grace Lutheran Church in Oconto Falls until the time of service. Funeral services will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday at the church with Pastor Larry Bong officiating. Burial will take place in Woodlawn Cemetery, Oconto Falls.

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

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

Richard L. Williams, 79, of Cecil, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014.

Richard was born on June 8, 1935, in Combined Locks, the son of Daniel and Ada (Piepenberg) Williams. He owned and operated Dick & Joan’s Supper Club in Little Chute and Appleton for 30 years. He was a hard worker and at times held down as many as three jobs. His motto was work hard and play hard.

Dick was a guy with many friends. He loved vacationing. Vegas was a favorite. He must have made “50” trips, but he needed to be back by Wednesday because that was his day off. He loved his children and grandchildren and supported them in everything they did. He was an avid Packers and Brewers fan.

Dick is survived by his very, very special friend and partner, Becky M. Stedl; children, Jay (Susie) Williams, Kelly (Keeter) Hietpas, Amy (Dave) Sturm, Pat Williams (Bobbie Rettler); nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; his buddy Jonny Dee, who happens to have fur; brothers, Jim (Joyce) Williams, Roger (Pat) Williams, Chuck (Maxine) Williams and Jack Williams.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan (Fries) Williams, and a son, Daniel Williams.

Dick’s many friends are invited to join with his family for a celebration of life that will be held at Dick & Joan’s Supper Club in Appleton on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2014, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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

Thanks for the memories, Dad!

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

Karen Lou (Boll) Matthias was born in Allegan, Michigan, on May 14, 1945, and died peacefully in her sleep with the Lord on Oct. 20, 2014. She was 69 years old.

She is survived by her husband of 49 years, Bill (William) Matthias; four children, Mark, Gregory, Kristin (Matthias) Bitz and Jeffery. Karen is also survived by daughter-in-law Kristine (Jones) Matthias, son-in-law Nicholas Bitz and daughter-in-law Jessica (Bagnall) Matthias. The grandchildren she loved so much are Malia (5) and Kira (1) Matthias, Noah (5) and Tyler (3) Bitz, and Jack Matthias (1). She is also survived by her sister, Julie, nephew, Mike Killingsworth, and niece, Carrie. Karen is survived by her sister-in-law Donna (Matthias) Weihofen, brother-in-law Raymond Weihofen and their children, Wendy (Weihofen) Mortimore, Wayne Weihofen and Vicki (Weihofen) Mutchler, as well as Donna’s five grandchildren. She is also survived by Dick Koop, husband of Bill’s late sister, Beverly.

Family members who preceded her in death are Richard and Viola Boll, parents; Vilas (Matt) and Gladys Matthias, father- and mother-in law; and sister in-law Beverly (Matthias) Koop.

Karen graduated from Allegan High School with a pre-college curriculum and sang soprano in the choir and played oboe in the band. One week after graduating from high school, she visited her Aunt Lucy Buss and first cousins Chuck and Mary Lynn Buss in Madison. This is where she met Bill Matthias, who was a high school friend of Chuck. The rest is history. She was together with Bill for over 50 years. Their wedding was on Sept. 11, 1965, in Madison at the UW-Madison Lutheran Chapel on State Street. Karen and Bill were married while still in school at Valparaiso University in Valparaiso, Indiana. She received her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Valparaiso in 1967. Their first teaching jobs were in southwest Michigan at Gobles and Bangor Schools. They had a 14-acre hobby farm with dogs, horses, a cat and a pet raccoon that showed up when hungry.

After three years on this farm and teaching, they launched off to Hawaii to teach in Honolulu for a year. Following that year they moved to western Wisconsin to Hammond, where Bill was the principal and Karen started studying for her master’s degree from UW-Eau Claire in special education. Their first child, Mark, came along while in Hammond. During these three years they built their cabin on Bill’s parents’ land on Bond Lake, Wascott. After three years in Hammond, they moved for a year to Tripoli, Libya, North Africa, where Bill was the principal of the Oil Companies School and Karen was a stay-at-home mom in their villa on the Mediterranean. Second son Gregory was due to show up, so Bill and Karen left North Africa and moved to Bond Lake when Bill became the superintendent of the Northwood School District in Minong. Karen taught elementary grades in Solon Springs School for two years. She then had the great opportunity to stay home and raise her wonderful children, Mark, Greg, Kristin and Jeff for the next 10 years.

Karen earned her master’s degree from UW-Superior in 1982 in special education. After 12 years in Wascott on the lake, they moved to Shawano for 13 years. Bill was the assistant superintendent of the Shawano-Gresham School District, and Karen taught for those years at the Menominee Indian School District in the special education program at the Neopit Middle School on the Menominee Reservation. Karen and Bill both retired in the year 2000 and enjoyed almost 15 years of fun in the sun at their Englewood, Florida, home as well as their Bond Lake property and home.

Karen loved Jesus, her children, her grandchildren, her dogs and cats, and her trees, shrubs, flowers and garden. In Florida, she turned an open double lot into a forest of citrus and palm trees as well as 20 other varieties of plants with salt and drought tolerances. She was outside every day and shunned air conditioning if at all possible. On Bond Lake she loved her vegetable garden and many flower beds. She was the family expert on advice for a happy Christian life, painting walls and ceilings, wall papering, cupboard refinishing, and floor and bathroom wall tiling. She generously shared her skills with every member of the family.

Her last five years were her best. It is called being a grandmother. Five beautiful grandchildren were born within five years and it transformed her life for the better. Her love expanded beyond her husband and four children to these little precious babies and she was so happy helping them all grow and develop their independent personalities. She went from Karen to “Ammy” and she loved every minute of that special experience.

Her service of life in Christ was at the Calvary Lutheran Church in Minong on Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014. Visitation at 11 a.m., church service at noon, followed by lunch in the church basement at 12:45 p.m.

In place of flowers, we suggest memorials go to Wascott Volunteer Fire Department Foundation, P.O. Box 22, Wascott, WI 54890.

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

William Baptise Summers Jr., 68, of Appleton, passed away Thursday, Oct. 23, 2014. Born Jan. 22, 1946 in Red Springs, he was the son of the late William and Imelda (Miller) Summers Sr.

William worked at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Appleton and in his free time he enjoyed doing word puzzles, cooking, baking, photography, and going to powwows. He also loved wolves and was a Milwaukee Brewers fan.

William is survived by four brothers, Keith (Claudette) Rudesill, Henry (Shirley) Rudesill Sr., Mike (Yvonne) Rudesill and Andy (Sue) Summers. He is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, including close friend Melinda Shriner.

William was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Thomas Rudesill Jr.; a sister, Bette Tousey; and a nephew, William Liebe.

A funeral service will be held for William at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 27, 2014, at the Lutheran Church of the Wilderness on Moh He Con Nuck Road near Bowler with the Rev. Melinda Shriner officiating. Burial will be in Red Springs Cemetery with military honors by the Mohican Veterans. Visitation was held at the church Sunday from 4-8 p.m. and again on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.

Swedberg Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

Darryl J. Ternouth, 72, of Shawano, formerly of Hayward, passed away on Oct. 24, 2014, after a long illness.

Darryl is survived by his wife, Beverly; two sons, Mike and Craig Ternouth; his brother, Ron Ternouth; as well as other relatives.

Private family services will be held at the Swedberg Funeral Home in Shawano. Burial will be in Friendship Cemetery with military honors conducted by American Legion Post 117.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

Russell L. Cummings, 69, of Bowler, formerly of Shawano, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 22, 2014, while working on the farm with his son.

Russell was born Jan. 18, 1945, in Antigo, a son of the late Melvin and Velma (Brandt) Cummings. He attended the Antigo schools and was a graduate of Antigo High School. Following graduation from high school, he farmed his family’s homestead in Birnamwood. Russell was later employed as a lead man at Warvel’s Wood Working Mill in Gillett for over 22 years.

On Sept. 15, 2011, he was united in marriage to Ruth Lindner in Shawano. The couple made their home in Bowler. He, along with his wife, attended St. Jakobi Lutheran Church in the town of Richmond. He was an avid gardener who grew vegetables to share with his family. Russell recently took up the role of becoming a chicken farmer, a gift to his wife, Ruth.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Ruth, of Bowler; three daughters, Cindy (Dave) Yonker, of Tigerton, Jill Gutt, of Bowler, and Nancy (Kevin) Hitt, of Antigo; one son, Wayne (Diane McKinney) Cummings, of Mattoon; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Russell is further survived by one sister, Sharon (Gary) Popek, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Russell was preceded in death by a brother, Aaron Cummings.

In keeping with Russell’s wishes, there will be no public visitation or funeral services.

Mickelson Funeral and Cremation Service of Shawano is in charge of the service arrangements.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mickelsonfs.com.

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

Carolina M. Glover, 48, Wittenberg, died Thursday, Oct. 23, 2014, at her home, under the care of her family and Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services.

She was born on Oct. 28, 1965, in Tigerton, the daughter of the late Louis Jensen and Katherine (Hartshorn) Jensen.

On Aug. 6, 1988, Carolina was united in marriage to Michael Glover at St. John Lutheran Church, Tigerton. He survives.

Carolina worked for the family business, Glover’s Manufacturing Inc., in Wittenberg. Carolina’s hobbies included spending time with her family, traveling, gardening and sewing. One of her last labors of love was making a quilt for 32 special people in her life. She loved traveling to spend time with her children and grandchildren. She loved exploring the back roads of the United States, taking in the sights and visiting waterfalls with her husband.

Survivors include her husband, Michael Glover, Wittenberg; three daughters, Crystal (Ryan) Holder, Buford, Georgia, Kelly (Marcus) Lorge, Wittenberg, and Courtney Glover, Parma Heights, Ohio; two grandchildren, Ian and Ella Holder; her mother, Katherine Jensen, Tigerton; her siblings, Henry (Virginia) Jensen, Antigo, Patricia (James) Hauke, Oak Creek, Katherine Susnowski, La Crosse, Thomas Jensen, Tigerton, Barbara Jensen, Shiocton, Dorothy (Scott) Suehring, Tigerton; father and mother-in-law, Tony and Karen Glover, Wittenberg; and two brothers-in-law, Ronald (Sharon) Glover and Timothy (Cheri) Glover, all of Wittenberg. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and many friends.

In addition to her father, Carolina was preceded in death by one niece, Jessica Glover, and one nephew, Louis Jensen.

The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 27, 2014, at St. John Lutheran Church, Tigerton. The Rev. Matthew Uttenreither will officiate. Interment will be in Union Cemetery, Tigerton. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 5-7 p.m. at Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Wittenberg, and on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of services at the church.

The family guestbook and condolences are available at schmidtschulta.com.

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

Cody “CodeMan” Borsche, 17, Shawano, formerly of Appleton, passed away peacefully on Oct. 21, 2014, as the result of an automobile accident.

Cody was a very special flower, and every now and then God picks a flower.

Cody was born on Jan. 20, 1997, in Appleton to Wayne Jr. and Wanda (Roberts) Borsche. He attended Foster Elementary School and James Madison. After his family moved to Shawano, he attended Shawano High School. Cody was a “nice guy” with a beautiful soul. He had a very kind, warm heart and was always there for anyone who needed anything. He was a member of the Tri-County 4-H Club, Waupaca County, where he served as an officer and received many awards. He loved being part of the 4-H club. He enjoyed woodworking, doing models, showing rabbits and goats. Cody enjoyed all sports but especially enjoyed playing basketball, hunting and fishing.

Cody will be sadly missed by many. He is survived by his parents, Wayne Jr. and Wanda Borsche; brothers, Christopher Ritchie and Michael Ritchie; nieces, Olivia and Mina, and their mother, Tia; grandparents, Wayne Sr. and Nancy Borsche, Richard and Helen Roberts; grandpa, Bob Heffner; uncles, Rob and Sue Roberts and family, and Randy and Betty Roberts and family; one uncle with whom he had a very special bond, Woody; as well as other aunts, uncles and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandma, Dorothy “Dot” Heffner; aunt, Robin Lee Borsche; and his cousin, Adam Roberts. He was joined in his passing by his best friend, Tyler Welch.

Visitation will be on Friday, Oct. 24, 2014, from 3-8 p.m. at the Wichmann Funeral Home, Tri County Location, 1592 Oneida St., Menasha. Visitation will continue on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2014, from 9-10:30 a.m. at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 3009 N. Meade St., Appleton. Funeral services will be Saturday at the church at 10:30 a.m. with the Rev. Dee Sim officiating.

For more information and to express online condolences, please visit www.wichmannfargo.com.

The family would like to thank the Shawano County Sheriff’s Department, the Shawano Medical Center staff and nurses, and Jody, the Shawano High School liaison officer. Also thank you to the Shawano High School faculty, staff and students as well as the Shawano area community for all their support and prayers during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers and other expressions of sympathy, a memorial fund has been established.

Cody was very much loved and will be missed.

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

Tyler D. Welch, 18, of the town of Washington, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday evening, Oct. 21, 2014, as a result of injuries sustained in an auto accident.

Tyler died with his best friend, Cody Borsche.

Tyler was born Sept. 2, 1996, in Shawano, a son of Timothy and Janie (Raeder) Welch. He attended the Shawano schools and was currently a senior at Shawano Community High School. He was an avid fisherman and also enjoyed snowmobiling and four-wheeling. While in middle school, he ran cross-country. He was an outgoing, friendly boy who got along well with others.

Survivors include his parents, Tim and Janie Welch, town of Washington; one sister, Tiffany (Curtis) Allord, of the town of Wescott; two brothers, Tim Welch, of the town of Washington, and Travis (special friend Tasha Pawlak), of Gillett. He is further survived by his maternal grandparents, Don and Nancy Raeder, of the town of Wescott; a niece, Autumn Allord and a nephew, Carson Allord, both of the town of Wescott; his girlfriend, Cerise Russell; his aunts, Pearl (Tracy), Michelle, Toni, Kelly (Pete), Lisa (Jim) and Julie (Roy); his uncles, David (Pam), Delbert, Brian (Hollie), Eugene, Brad (Jen), and Corey (Angie); special godparents, David Raeder, and Joel and Sue Hebein. He is further survived by many cousins, relatives and friends.

Tyler was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Delbert and Alice (Surprise) Welch, and an uncle, Kevin Welch.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2014, at 11 a.m. at Mickelson Funeral & Cremation Service of Shawano. Pastor Ron Raddatz will officiate. Interment will take place at Lake Drive Cemetery, town of Wescott. Friends may call at the funeral home on Friday, Oct. 24, 2014, from 3-7 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 a.m. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers and plants, the family has requested memorials in Tyler’s name.

Mickelson Funeral & Cremation Service of Shawano is assisting the family with service arrangements.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mickelsonfs.com.

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet

Darwin J. Olson Sr., 46, of Keshena, passed away Thursday, Oct. 23, 2014. Born on April 11, 1968, in Manitowoc, he was the son of Bert Lyons and Charlene Olson.

Darwin loved to “raise hell” with people and making them laugh. He was a wonderful man and loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Darwin is survived by his daughter, Jonnie Penass, of Green Bay; six grandchildren, Leo, Jennifer and Ottis, Rihauna, Reniyah and Gabriel; his parents, Charlene Rose Olson, of Suring, and Bert Lyons, of Keshena; his significant other, Lisa Crowe, of Keshena; Lisa’s children, Shaunta, Camille and Allen Grignon, all of Keshena. Darwin is further survived by his siblings, Bert Olson, Ralph Boivin, Bart Boivin, Amanda L. Lyons and Mahwassa Olson, all of Keshena; two uncles, Clifford and Richard Olson, both of South Branch; as well as many other relatives and friends.

Darwin was preceded in death by his son, Darwin Olson Jr.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, 2014, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Keshena with the Rev. Dave Barrett officiating. Inurnment will be in St. Joseph of the Lake Cemetery in South Branch. Visitation will be held at Charlene Olson’s residence, W773 East County Road M, Suring, after 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 23, 2014, until the procession leaves for the church on Saturday.

Swedberg Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

www.swedbergfuneralhome.com

Rate this article:  Select ratingGive it 1/5Give it 2/5Give it 3/5Give it 4/5Give it 5/5 No votes yet