Life Events

Obituary: Candace Lea (Kuhnke) Roeker, 73, of Portage

Candace Lea Roeker, age 73, of Portage, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at Tivoli Community in Portage.

Candace was born on August 10, 1951, in Whitewater, the daughter of Harvey and Elaine Kuhnke (Hopp). She attended UW Whitewater, graduating with a degree in education in 1973. After graduation she began teaching special education in Portage. Candy earned her master’s in special education in 1980. She worked for 33 years in the Portage school district helping hundreds of students, retiring in 2006.

After retirement, Candy helped to establish the River Haven homeless shelter in Portage and volunteered there for several years helping women and families. Helping people was a life-long passion for Candy. Candy enjoyed dancing, including clogging, singing karaoke, golfing, traveling and spending time with her family.

She is survived by her husband Donald Roeker; children, Will (Leslie) Trojanowski, Scott (Adam Olson) Trojanowski, and Keith (Cassie) Trojanowski; step-children, Julie Prudom and Eric Roeker; her grandchildren, Nicholas Trojanowski, Lucas Trojanowski, Noah Trojanowski, Jacob Prudom, Austin Prudom, and Brandon Roeker; her brother, Joseph Kuhnke; her sister, Susan (Jeff) Homan; her brother-in- law, Paul Roemer; and many loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her
sister, Alice Roemer; her sister-in-law, Mae Kuhnke; and her former husband, Jerold Trojanowski.

Visitation and Service will be at Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage on January 24th, 2025. Visitation from 9:30 AM-11:30 AM with service at 11:30. There will be a luncheon to follow at the KC Hall Portage.

The family would like to thank Dr. Susan Kreckman and the staff of Tivoli Community and Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital for their care and concern.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to River Haven Homeless Shelter.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage (www.pmmfh.com), is assisting the family.

Obituary: June Ruby Gnatzig, 95

June Gnatzig, age 95, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2025, at Mulberry Glen in her hometown of Whitewater, WI.

June was born on June 24, 1929, to Mary (Voight) Stelse and Gustave Stelse. June married Roger Gnatzig on January 21, 1951, in Whitewater, WI. June worked at Franklin Junior High for most of her working life. She was a proud servant member of the First United Methodist Church for over 70 years where she enjoyed preparing meals for celebrations, funerals and activities. In addition, she loved participating in her Church Circle and teaching Sunday School.

June loved baking and cooking for her family and friends, watching her soap operas, 2-mile walks-well into her 90’s, reading, doing puzzles, watching her sons’ sporting events and then her grandchildren’s sporting events and activities. Everyone knew the best place to be during the holidays—“snitching the widest variety of homemade Christmas treats from the three-season porch cookie table!”

June enjoyed infinite time with loved ones.

June is survived by Sons: Hugh (Susan) Gnatzig, Larry (Deborah) Gnatzig, Brian (Sam) Gnatzig, Brent (Pat) Gnatzig. Grandchildren: Vanessa (Danny) Byrd, Daniel (Elizabeth) Gnatzig, Gina (Corey) Meredith, Caroline (Bobby) Gonzales, Amber (Kirkland) Rivers, Lyndsey (Kyle) Serres, Abby Gnatzig and Kelsey Gnatzig and 15 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents Mary (Voight) Stelse, Gustave Stelse and her brothers Loren Stelse and Verson Stelse.

A visitation will be held at First United Methodist Church in Whitewater, WI on January 27, 2025, from 10:30 am– 12:00 pm with service to follow. Nitardy Funeral Home is assisting the Family with arrangements.

A heartfelt thank you to Rainbow Hospice, the staff at Mulberry Glen and Patty Tarpley.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First United Methodist Church or the Whitewater Fire Department.

You will live in our hearts forever. We love you. Online condolences may be made at nitardyfuneralhome.com

Death Notice: Dr. Chilukuri Rao, 88

Dr. Chilukuri Rao, 88, of Whitewater, passed away December 26, 2024, at a local care facility. A memorial visitation for Dr. Rao will be held Tuesday, February 4, 2025, from 2:00 pm until 3:00 pm at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 North Newcomb Street, Whitewater, WI.

Obituary: Bradford L. “Brad” Tuttle, 75

Bradford L. “Brad” Tuttle, 75, passed away on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at Fort Memorial Hospital.

Brad was born on November 4, 1949 in Ohio to Charles and Jean (Homstad) Tuttle.  Brad graduated from Warren G. Harding High School.  After high school he enlisted in the United States Air Force.  On August 3rd, 1974 he married the love of his life, Beth.  They were happily married for 50 years.  Brad was also employed by the City of Whitewater for over 30 years. 

He enjoyed rooting for his Ohio State Buckeyes and Cleveland Browns with his family.  He was also an avid bowler, fisherman and golfer.

Brad is survived by his wife, Beth Tuttle; children, Natalie (Allan) of Fort Myers, Florida, Erin (Steve) of Whitewater, Wisconsin, Michael of Fort Myers, Florida; and brother Mark Tuttle of Arizona.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Jean Tuttle.

A memorial service will take place at 1 PM on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at Nitardy Funeral Home in Whitewater.  A visitation will take place from 11 AM until the time of service. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Humane Society of Jefferson County.

Online condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Obituary: Kandi Lynn Kincaid (Cardinal)

In Loving Memory of Kandi Lynn Kincaid (Cardinal)
Beloved Daughter, Sister, Mother, Grandmother, and Friend

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kandi Lynn Kincaid, daughter of Eunice and Richard Kincaid, on December 28th at 7 PM. Kandi passed away peacefully in bed, enjoying one of her favorite pastimes—watching crime shows.

Kandi was a woman of many passions. She was a devoted fan of the Chicago Bears, found joy in listening to 2Pac, and had an unwavering love for animals, always standing against cruelty of any kind. Her smile could light up a room, and her warmth and humor touched the lives of all who knew her.

As a mother, Kandi worked tirelessly to provide for her four children: Jason, Nate, Thor, and Sara. Her love extended to her grandchildren—Karman, Ashlyn, Aiden, Ella, and Ashton—and her great-grandchild, Jordan, all of whom she cherished.

Kandi’s kindness, strength, and compassion will be remembered and celebrated by her family and friends. She leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience.

She will be forever missed and always remembered.

Obituary: Dr. George Harold Seeburger, 89, of Lake Mills

Dr. George Harold Seeburger, 89, of Lake Mills passed away on Friday, January 3, 2025 at Lilac Springs Assisted Living in Lake Mills.

George was born on July 20, 1935 in Phillips, Wisconsin to George and Nellie (Knight) Seeburger.  He graduated from Phillips High School and received an undergraduate degree from UW Stevens Point and went on to earn his PhD from the University of Georgia Athens. He was a biology professor at UW Whitewater up until his retirement.

George married Nancy Carole Skalitzky on November 6, 1959 in Waukegan, Illinois. Nancy passed on November 13, 2021.  They enjoyed traveling to Rockport, Texas, where they were snowbirds for thirty years.

He enjoyed hunting and fishing in Phillips and yearly trips to Canada,

George is survived by his children, Mark Seeburger of Menomonie; Kurt (Linda) Seeburger of Lake Mills; granddaughter, Ashley Seeburger of Janesville; siblings, James Seeburger of Tyler, TX, Phil Seeburger of San Marcos, CA; many nieces and nephews.

At this time, no formal services for George are arranged.

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

Obituary: William J. “Bill” West, 75

William J. “Bill” West, 75, of Whitewater passed away on Tuesday, December 24, 2024 at Fort Memorial Hospital in Fort Atkinson.

Bill was born on September 8, 1949 to John and Bessie (Sutherland) West in Fort Atkinson. He worked at the University of Wisconsin at Whitewater for twelve years.

Bill enjoyed watching the Packers and NASCAR.

He is survived by his girlfriend, Sandy Hahn; and many friends and family.

A memorial visitation will take place on Thursday, January 16, 2025 from 11 AM until 1 PM at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 N. Newcomb St., Whitewater, WI 53190. Inurnment will take place at Hillside Cemetery in Whitewater.

Online condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Obituary: David Harold Baker Jr., 61, of Portland, OR

David Harold Baker Jr., beloved husband, father, stepfather, son, and brother, passed away on December 16, 2024, in Portland, Oregon, at the age of 61. Born on August 10, 1963, in Beaufort, South Carolina, David was the firstborn child of David Baker Sr. and the late Betty Jean Baker (née Wickham) while his father served in the United States Marine Corps.

David spent his early years in Wyoming, where the family lived until his parents divorced. In 1976, David moved to Oregon with his father, and he graduated from high school in 1982. Shortly after, he moved to Wisconsin to be near his mother, sisters, and extended family of nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. During his time in Wisconsin, David met Teresa Geller, with whom he welcomed his first son, Thomas Geller.

In 1988, David returned to Oregon, where he settled permanently. It was there he met Lisa, and he welcomed his second son, Jason Baker.

David was a quiet and thoughtful man with a creative spirit and a love for precision and detail. A gifted sketch artist, his drawings were often intricate and expressive, capturing the world through his unique perspective. He also loved assembling model cars, showcasing his patience and meticulous craftsmanship. He was always willing to lend a hand with rebuilding cars, remodeling homes, or tackling projects like roofing and adding decks, displaying his resourcefulness and ability to turn ideas into reality.

On July 1, 2017, David married Mary Fleming (née Nathan), who became his steadfast partner and companion. Together, they shared years of love and support. As part of this union, David also became a devoted stepfather to Brian and Shawn Fleming, embracing the bond they shared. Shawn introduced him to deep-sea fishing, a pastime that became one of his greatest passions. David found peace and fulfillment on the open water, treasuring the time he spent fishing with Shawn.

David is survived by his wife, Mary; his sons, Thomas Geller and Jason Baker; his stepson, Shawn Fleming; his father, David Baker Sr.; and his three sisters, Beth Copeland, Cindy Killian, and Pam Rosinsky. He was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Jean Baker, and his stepson, Brian Fleming.

Though shy and reserved, David’s steadfast presence, creative gifts, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on those who knew him. His family and friends will forever cherish the memories of his thoughtful nature, artistic talents, and love for life’s simple joys.

David will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May he rest in peace.

…

Obituary: Allen C. Hicks, 85

Allen C. Hicks, 85 of Whitewater passed away on Saturday, January 4th, 2025 at Huntington Memory Care in Janesville.

Al, the oldest of seven boys, was born on July 5th, 1939, in Belvidere, Illinois to Walt and Laura (Keller) Hicks. A few years later, the family bought a dairy farm in Whitewater and became very active in the Whitewater community. There was always work to be done or something to be repaired on the farm which led to Al’s lifelong love of tinkering. He was very active in high school sports which continued on into his adult years playing in a softball and basketball league for many years. Building many friendships along the way, this also led to Al’s love of golfing and fishing.

Al married Norene Agnew on August 4th, 1962, in Whitewater. Soon after he opened his own insurance agency which he continued for over 45 years. Earning many awards throughout his years as an agent also provided many vacation opportunities. This in turn also became a love of Al’s and he was very well known for wanting to meander this way or sashay that way no matter the trip.

Al was an active member of the Whitewater Jaycee’s, Rotary Club and a faithful member of St. Patrick Catholic Church.

He was preceded in death by his wife Norene, parents Walt and Laura Hicks and brothers Dean and Jim.

He is survived by his daughter Lynne (Ken) Rogers and their son Josh (Savanna), his son Larry (Mo) Hicks and their daughters Rachel (Tanner) Perry and Natalie Hicks. In April of this year, he would’ve been a great-grandfather to Baby Perry. He is further survived by his brothers Richard, Dale, Terry and Jan and their families, numerous extended family and friends.

A memorial mass of Christian burial will take place at 12 pm on Friday, January 10th, 2025 at St. Patrick Catholic Church. Visitation will take place from 10:30 am until the time of mass.

The family would like to give special thanks to the staff at Huntington Memory Care for their exceptional care of Al along with Agrace Hospice particularly his nurse Brooke.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org or a charity of your choice.

While the walk down this path was difficult, we are eternally grateful that Dad’s sense of humor never left him.

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

Obituary: Jeanette Ila Hansen, 91

Jeanette Ila Hansen, 91, Whitewater passed away on December 24, 2024 at Rainbow Hospice Inpatient Center in Johnson Creek, WI, having lived independently almost all her later life.

Jeanette was born on May 12, 1933 in Whitewater, WI to Alvin and Maybell (Maasz) Cox.  She married Norman Hansen on November 2, 1950 and they were married for 59 years.  Jeanette enjoyed fishing, reading, indoor gardening, collecting dolls, and cooking; and she made many beautiful items with crocheting, knitting, and sewing.  She was generous and seemed to have a good word to say about almost everyone she met. She especially loved decorating and preparing a feast at Christmas time, filling the house with the smell of lots of cookies and other goodies.

Jeanette is preceded in death by her husband, her parents and her two brothers, Dean and Duane “Dewey.”

She is survived by her five sons, Michael of Waukesha, WI; Norman (Gloria) of Fort Wayne, IN; Jeff (Maria) of Phoenix, AZ; Dennis of Whitewater, WI; Steven of Janesville, WI; 14 grandchildren: Norman, David, Jeremy, Elizabeth, Katherine, Michael, Timothy, Deborah, Jonathan, Stephanie, Sophie, Sam, Isabella, and Lucy; and 20 great-grandchildren.

Honorariums may be made to Baptist Mid-Missions, 7749 Webster Rd., PO Box 308011, Middleburg Heights, OH 44130; or to SIM USA, 14830 Choate Circle, Charlotte, NC 28273.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, January 10, 2025 at 11:00 am at the Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 N. Newcomb St., Whitewater, WI. Friends may call on Friday, January 10, 2025 from 10:00 am until the time of the service.  Burial will be in the Hillside Cemetery, Whitewater. 

Online condolences may be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com