Obituaries

Lucille M. Tueller, 70, of Milwaukee, WI passed away on Friday, August 4, 2023 at Vitas Hospice in West Allis.

Luci was born on March 16, 1953 in Fort Atkinson, WI the daughter of Lou Pitt and Iona (Barton) Papcke. She grew up in the Whitewater area and graduated from Whitewater High School. She was united in marriage to Michael Tueller on May 20, 1972 in Whitewater and the Lord blessed their union with 2 loving daughters, Sarah and Kristin. Luci worked as an accountant for the majority of her working career and enjoyed her work very much. She loved to work with numbers and enjoyed interacting with her clients and co-workers. Luci had a very kind and outgoing personality and had no problem striking up a conversation with just about anyone. She liked to keep busy with crafts such as cross-stitching and also enjoyed sewing. Luci was a talented seamstress; she could make and repair all kinds of clothing for her friends and family. Cooking and baking was also a joy for Luci and she kept her friends and family well fed with her delicious meals and desserts. Above all else in Luci’s life was her love for her family. She was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother and she will be dearly missed.

She is survived by: her husband of 51 years, Michael Tueller of Milwaukee; her two daughters, Sarah (Melvin) Smith of West Allis and Kristin Tueller of Milwaukee; her grandchildren, Viviette Smith, Michael Smith, Andrinay Smith, Timothy Smith, Lazandria Smith, Danayah Smith, and Emil Tueller; her great-grandchildren, Sarah Wilder, Desmond Wilder, Iris Wilder, and Iliana Wilder; and her brother, Lawrence (Mary) Palmer of Utah. She is also survived by a number of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her stepfather, Russell Papcke, and her 4 siblings, Lou Pitt, Jr., Leona Renee (Pitt) Belt, Leonard “Rusty” Pitt and Krystal (Papcke) Sawyer. Luci will be laid to rest in Prairie Home Cemetery of Waukesha, WI during a private family service.

Gibson Family Funeral Homes of Eagle and Palmyra, WI is serving the family. To place an online condolence please visit gibsonfuneral.com.

Instead of contributing with flowers, please consider donating to the ASPCA charity Luci supported.

James W. Benes III (Jimmie), 88, of Whitewater (formerly of Middleton) passed peacefully from this life into the next on August 2, 2023, with his loving wife of 70 years by his side.

Jim was born on March 22, 1935, to James and Marion (Johnson) Benes in Chicago, IL. The family later moved to Whitewater, WI, where he met the love of his life, Lois Anderson.

After their marriage, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, proud to serve his country and with the full support of Lois and their families. Jim highly valued education, so upon completion of his service, he enrolled in the UW-Madison College of Agriculture and Life Science. He graduated (with honors) with a bachelor’s degree in Dairy Science. His career path led him to focus on the growing field of computer science.

Along the way, Jim and Lois, with three of their own, fostered over sixty children. They both felt it was important that all children have a good start to life. Jim also had a great sense of community, as shown in his many activities – Scouting with his children; poll worker for elections; Census worker; Meals On Wheels; avid recycler; member of the Waunakee VFW; Westport Squares Square Dancing Club; Harbor Athletic Club, family genealogy, etc.

During all these years, both agriculture and giving back to the land were always a priority. Jim leaves a legacy of love and respect for his country, the land (including their own native prairie) and, above all, love for his family.

He is survived by his wife, Lois; daughters Diane (Paul) Shiveler and Kay Benes; and son Gary (Sherrie); 5 grandchildren; 2 step-grandchildren; 3 great-granddaughters and 1 step-great-granddaughter. He is also survived by his two sisters, Marilynne (Jack) Albrecht and Sherri Benes (Kevin Coursey).

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Terry and Gary.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Fairhaven and Rainbow Hospice for their compassionate care. A very special thank you is extended to our dear Elder Care Advocate, June Partoll.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Kettle Moraine Land Trust, c/o Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 N. Newcomb Street, Whitewater, WI 53190

John R. Faytus, 30, of Whitewater passed away on Friday, August 4, 2023 unexpectedly.

John was born on July 6, 1993 in Fort Atkinson to Lenny and Stacie Faytus. During high school, John was active in the wrestling club and in Richmond 4-H. In 4-H, John was very competitive in the shooting sports and shot in the Junior Olympic PPP match in Kentucky. He graduated from Whitewater High School in 2011. John was a member of Laborer’s Union 464 in Madison for several years. He was employed with JP Cullen, Klobucar Construction, and several other union contractors. John currently ran his own contracting business that he was very proud of. John was married in 2019.

He loved to fish, work on vehicles, going out on his boat, completing yard work, and loved his children. John also loved carpentry and working with his hands. He loved solving problems and always gave a helping hand for anybody. He was very proud of his ancestry and karate.

John will be deeply missed by his parents, Lenny and Stacie Faytus; children, Kylie, Bentley; siblings, Lewis, Christine Faytus; grandparents, Mary Werdin, Pete and Ruriko Faytus; nieces, Brynn, Amara; nephew, Arthur; special friends, Uniqua and Mason; many cousins and friends.

He is preceded in death by his grandfather, Howard Werdin; uncle, John Nora; and cousin, Jasmine Saxby.

A service will take place at 11 a.m. on Sunday, August 13, 2023 at John’s grandmother’s house, W8183 Elkhorn Rd., Whitewater, WI. A celebration of life will take place after the service at 11:30 a.m. Luncheon will follow the celebration of life. Parking can be accessed through Old Highway P.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the family to assist with funeral arrangements.

Nitardy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Arlen Gilbert (Arlo) Butt passed away peacefully on August 6, 2023, surrounded by his family. Arlo was born on June 20, 1951, in Elkhorn, WI, to the late Orville and Jessie Butt. He was a man of great patience, kindness, and humility. Arlo’s gentle nature and unwavering positivity made him deeply loved by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Arlo is survived by his beloved wife, Dianne Butt, who stood by his side throughout their 40-year journey of love, friendship, dancing and many mischievous escapades. He is also survived by his two children, Carmen (Thomas) Thornton, and Chester (Jennie) Larson. Arlo was a loving and devoted dad to them, always providing guidance and support. They, along with his three grandchildren, Nolan Larson, Savannah Chesser Thornton and Keyon’Dre Thornton were his pride and joy.

In addition to his immediate family, Arlo is survived by his dearest sister, Elaine (Dan) Kelleher, and their two children, Casey (Ashley) Kelleher and Corey (Bryony) Kelleher who shared many cherished memories, an occasional Arlo (Early) Times, and much laughter throughout their lives.

Arlo was also preceded in death by his baby sister, Carla Jean Butt who died in infancy.

Arlo lived his whole life in Whitewater, Wisconsin. He started his education at Lakeview Elementary and Whitewater Middle School, setting the foundation for his future success. He graduated from Whitewater High School in the class of 1969, carrying with him a strong work ethic.

Arlo proudly served his country as a member of the Army National Guard for six years. His commitment to duty and honor was unwavering, and he served with distinction.

After dedicating 45 years of his life to Trent Tube in East Troy, WI, Arlo retired in 2016. His dedication and hard work contributed to the success of the company, and he was highly respected by his colleagues.

Outside of his professional life, Arlo found joy and relaxation in various hobbies. He was an avid supporter of the Green Bay Packers, always cheering them on with enthusiasm. Arlo also enjoyed engaging in friendly competition through activities such as fishing, euchre, pickleball, bowling, and volleyball. He had many lifelong friends who were always there to support him through the good times and bad.

A private burial service will be held at a later date for immediate family members to honor Arlo’s life. A celebration of life will take place on August 19 from 1-3 p.m. at Staller Winery, W8896 County Road A,
Delavan, WI. This gathering will provide an opportunity for friends and extended family to come together, celebrate him with an Arlo (Early) Times and share stories and memories of Arlo’s remarkable journey.

Arlo will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His gentle spirit, unwavering kindness, and humble nature will forever be remembered and cherished.

May you rest in peace our sweet Buttman. We miss you so much already.

Editor’s note: Updated on 8/7/23 to add survivor names.

Paul D. Stader, 69, passed away Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at SSM St. Mary Hospital-Janesville. He was born October 14, 1953, in Ft. Atkinson, WI to the late George A. and Leona L. (Schmidt) Stader.

Paul was a 1975 graduate of Glen Oaks. He enjoyed riding his bike, watching television and being a Chicago Bears and Cubs fan. Paul worked at Kandu Industries and was known to have a huge heart, very easy going, and not too much really bothered him.

Paul is survived by his sister Christine (Craig) LeRette of Aurora, IL; nephews: Michael Kersten and Scott Kersten both of Janesville; nieces: Beth Kaderly of Arlington, TX and Kari Kersten of Beloit; five great nieces and nephews; and four great great nieces; special friends, Sandy Borck, Joy Sarnow, Jody Nichols, Scott Spangler, Deb Murphy and staff at Rem Bond Place; and numerous cousins. He was preceded by his parents George and Leona Stader.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 5, 2023, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at the Apfel Wolfe Funeral Home, Janesville. Funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Brad Urlaub officiating. Paul will be laid to rest next to his parents at the Milton Lawns Memorial Park Mausoleum, Janesville at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Kandu Industries, Inc. in Paul’s name.

A very huge thank you from Paul’s family to the staff members at Rem Bond Place and also his former group living home on Gershwin for the absolutely wonderful care given to Paul over all these years.

Marlene “Granny” Brunckhorst (Smelzer), 86, of Whitewater, WI, passed away on Friday, July 14, 2023 in Whitewater, WI.

Marlene was born on December 18, 1936, to Harold and Pearl (Adams) Smelzer of Dodgeville, WI. She married William Brunckhorst at the First Congregational Church in Spring Green, WI on August 16, 1958. Marlene began her education in Highland, WI and graduated high school in 1953. She went on to study education, receiving her Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and her Master’s in education from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.

Marlene worked as a third grade teacher at East Troy Elementary School in East Troy, WI for a number of years where she met some of her lifelong friends. Marlene enjoyed traveling the world and spending time with her family on Squirrel Lake in Minocqua, WI. She also loved shopping at TJ Maxx, going out for a delicious meal and spending time with friends.

Marlene is survived by her daughter Jane (Joe) Loizzo of Minocqua, WI; grandchildren: Lauren Bailey of Woodbridge, VA, Jackson Bailey (Evie) of Fond Du Lac, WI, Andy Loizzo of Oconomowoc, WI, and Alison (John) Bohl of Beaver Dam, WI; great-grandchildren: Violet and Cecelia Loizzo and Morgan and Blake Bohl; nephews: Michael (Tara) Cotherman, and Steve Cotherman; niece, Michelle (Mark) Humbert. She was preceded in death by her husband, William; daughters: Anne and Mary; parents: Harold and Pearl; sister Sandra; brother Ronald and sister-in-law Marge.

A Celebration of life honoring Marlene will take place from 2-5 p.m. on August 18, 2023, at the Fuzzy Pig, N8660 Clover Valley Rd., Whitewater, WI 53190. Please feel free to come and go during this time to celebrate Marlene with her family.

Memorials may be made to the Bill and Marlene Bruckhorst Endowment Scholarship for International Students at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. Online condolences may be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Stanley W. “Stan” Trewyn, 79, of Fort Atkinson passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 23, 2023 at Marquardt Health Center in Watertown.

Stan was born on April 4, 1944 to John and Nellie (Gray) Trewyn, and was one of seventeen children. He grew up in Whitewater and later worked as a mechanic at Nestle Purina in Jefferson.

Stan enjoyed fishing on Trippe Lake, gardening, riding around in his Camaro, and spending time with his cat.

He is survived by his children, Earl (Crystal) Trewyn of Necedah, WI, Sheila (Terry) Wolf of Whitewater; grandchildren, Remington Trewyn, Kendra Trewyn, Connor Wolf, Dakota Wolf; great-grandson, Kaysen; siblings, Roger Trewyn, Tom Trewyn, Pearl Luebke, Kathy Laskowski, Richard Trewyn, Clarence Trewyn; and many nieces and nephews.

Stan is preceded in death by his parents, John and Nellie Trewyn; 10 siblings, Janice Garrett, Elroy Trewyn, Earl Trewyn, Merrill Trewyn, Roy Trewyn, Lulur Hartwig, David Trewyn, James Trewyn, Betsy Welters, and Gerald Trewyn.

A graveside service will take place at Cold Spring Cemetery on Saturday, August 19, 2023 at 11 a.m.

Nitardy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Teresa Ann (McDonald) Hering left this world on July 9, 2023 due to complications from Alzheimer ’s disease. Terry was born February 16, 1947, to Keith and Mildred (Northrup) McDonald in Canton, IL. She was the youngest of 7 and spent her childhood on the family farm near Genoa City, WI helping care for chickens, cows, cats, and dogs. 

Terry studied education at the University of Wisconsin, Whitewater (UWW), where she met Timothy Hering. They married on August 2, 1969, and started their family in Whitewater, WI.

Terry worked many different jobs, but her favorite was being a mom. She spent 20 years at the UWW and retired after 11 years in the library. In retirement she was able to follow her passion of sharing her paintings with the world.

Tere was a ray of sunshine throughout her life. She loved cats and dogs, music, singing, art, beauty, the ocean, travel, gardening, laughing, and being Ama to her grandchildren. She was a talented artist, and the best at supporting her family and friends. Tere loved to share her fun and was quite often goofy and helped to keep those around her looking on the bright side of life.

She is survived by daughters, Amy Hering Randall of St. Paul, MN, Kelly (Chad) Murray of Eau Claire, WI, and Laura (Joe) Granger of Duluth, MN, grandchildren, Vida, Elsa, Zen, Daniel, Iris, and Violet, siblings Mary Miller, and Paul (Sue) McDonald, many loving nieces and nephews, and many friends made during her journey through this life.

Tere was preceded in death by her parents, Keith and Mildred McDonald, husband, Tim Hering, and siblings Gary MacDonald, Sabra Burkoth, William McDonald, and Sandy McDonald.

We wish Tere many more happy adventures, and will always try to carry her love of beauty, nature, laughter, and kindness with us.

Teresa’s family wishes to thank her loving caregivers at Azura Memory Care and with St. Croix Hospice and asks that memorials be sent to the Stand in the Light Memory Choir of Eau Claire, WI (https://www.standinthelightmemorychoir.org) or the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (https://www.adrc.wisc.edu/give). A Celebration of Life is being planned for a later date.

Cremation Society of Wisconsin is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationsociety-wi.com.