Jessica L. “Jessie” Kowalski, 42 of Milwaukee passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, September 11, 2024.
Jessie was born on September 13, 1981 to Edwin and Ruth (Mach) Kowalski. She grew up and lived in the Whitewater area most of her life and attended Whitewater schools. Jessie furthered her education through MATC where she earned her CNA and she enjoyed working with her clients through assisted living centers.
She enjoyed watching the Milwaukee Bucks and Green Bay Packers, doings arts and crafts, and had fun learning science. Jess had a collection and passion for big hoop earrings, oversized sunglasses, and most things Michael Kors and Coach.
Jessica is survived by her parents, Ed and Ruth Kowalski; daughters, Brianna Kowalski, Ciarra Ortega; brothers, Scott (Ashley) Kowalski, Mark (Connie) Kowalski; grandson, Caden; several nieces and nephews that she adored, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.
She is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Frank and Emmaline Mach; paternal grandparents, Walter and Vivian Kowalski; as well as several uncles and aunts.
A funeral service will take place at 7 PM on Friday, September 20, 2024 at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 N. Newcomb St., Whitewater, WI 53190. A visitation will take place at 4 PM until the time of service. A cremation burial will take place at a later date at Hillside Cemetery in Whitewater.
Doris Jean (Greene) McQuillin, age 87, died Sept 11, 2024 in Whitewater, Wisconsin.
She was born June 11,1937 in Hayward Wisconsin, the daughter of Melvin and Anna Greene. Doris graduated from Hayward High School in 1955. Doris was awarded a full scholarship to UW Whitewater, where she pursued a BS degree in education, graduated in 1959 and eventually earned a master’s degree in education. Doris began her teaching career in Roscoe, Illinois, eventually teaching for 42 years in the Whitewater Unified School District. Doris had a passion for the education profession and enjoyed working with young children. She taught second grade at Washington Elementary in Whitewater for most of her career. Doris retired in 2003, having inspired and touched the lives of hundreds of students during her career. It was rare for Doris to go anywhere in Whitewater without her former students recognizing her and thanking her for having had such a positive impact on their lives. Doris enjoyed traveling and would spend most summers taking wonderful trips to all parts of the world.
She is survived by her brother Kenneth (Dianne) of Surprise, AZ as well as many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her sister Evelyn Wingert, brother Melvin P. Greene, and sister Donna Paddock. She will be missed dearly by all who knew her. A very special thank you to the wonderful staff at Hearthstone Memory Care and Rainbow Hospice in Whitewater. The loving care they provided was deeply appreciated by Doris and her family. Per Doris’s request, there will be no formal funeral services.
On Thursday, August 29, 2024, Joan Dolores Bray peacefully moved to her Heavenly home. Joan was a godly woman who cherished the Lord and her family with all her heart, setting a lasting example for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Joan was born in Melrose Park, IL, on November 16, 1932, to the late Robert Weaver and Martha Shear Weaver. She graduated as salutatorian from Whitewater College High School in 1950, where she was also crowned homecoming queen, escorted by her future husband, Tom, who was the king. In 1954, Joan and Tom moved to Syracuse, NY, and later settled in Clay, NY where they raised their seven children. In 1972, they relocated to Brookfield, WI, where Joan spent nearly 20 years before moving to Cedarburg, WI; there she lived for most of the remainder of her life.
Joan’s love for her Savior, the Lord Jesus, and God’s Word was profound. Though she was humble and gentle, she was a powerful prayer warrior, and the impact of her years of faithful prayer for her family, friends, and the world at large is immeasurable.
Joan had a passion for animals, music, and gardening, which she passed down through generations. She was an accomplished seamstress, creating all her daughters’ wedding dresses and many intricate counted-cross stitch pictures. Her fruit cake recipe is renowned (even by those who never thought they liked fruit cake). Joan adored all dogs, and they naturally gravitated towards her. She was a gifted piano player and even continued to play in her 91st year. Joan never raised her voice to her children but giving them “the look” was enough to convey her thoughts. Despite her age and her memory loss, Joan always made time to help who she called “the older people,” even though most were younger than she was. And though memory loss is often a painful journey, Joan’s family was exceedingly blessed that she always recognized every one of them!
Joan is survived by Tom Bray, the father of their children: Mary Walker, Tom (Kathy) Bray, Steve (Beate) Bray, Julie (Dick) D’Agostini, Lynn (Pete) Dickinson, and Nancy (Ron) Epling. She is also survived by 16 grandchildren: Stephanie (Greg Hoffman) Walker, Matthew Walker, Tommy (Brenda) Bray, Nate (Natasha) Siebert, Ben (Nickie) Siebert, Luke (Jazz) Siebert, Christine (Mike) French, Nick D’Agostini, Vinny D’Agostini, Rachel (Jerod) Madala, Ruth (Bill) Weber, Anna (Justin) Lecher, Stephen (Morgan) Fischer, Amanda (Tony) Stockhausen, Brandon (Emily) Epling, and Mitch Epling, as well as 22 great-grandchildren: Owen, Eli, Evan, Ian, Loken, Jonas, Finn, Esten, Mason, Max, Grace, Noah, Elijah, Addison, Cam, Leighton, Willa, Cole, Madelyn, Elizabeth, McKenzie, and Landen (born 9/2/24). Joan is also survived by her sister Kathy (Doug) Markley, her son-in-law John Siebert, her sister-in-law Colleen Reddy, her niece Tara Coffman, and her great-nephew Gabe Coffman.
Joan was preceded in death by her daughter, Susanne Siebert; her granddaughter, Melissa Bray; her grandson, Daniel Bray; her son-in-law, Bob Walker; and her brother-in-law, Jack Bray.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. memorial service at Bridge Church, 1314 S. Grand Avenue, Waukesha, WI 53186.
In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to: Bridge Church – Kingdom Builders – to support missionary families and invest in global mission projects (1300 S. Grand Ave., Waukesha, WI), or Wildlife in Need – to rehabilitate wildlife to release into their native habitat (W349 S1480 Waterville Rd, Oconomowoc, WI 53066).
Joan’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to The Waters of Pewaukee memory care team, as well as Brighton Hospice-Wisconsin, for their kind, loving, and compassionate care of Joan.
John Dynkowski, 73, of Whitewater, Wisconsin, passed away on September 1, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.
John leaves behind a wife of 46 years, Nancy Dynkowski (nee Furlong), children Beth Baker (Peter) and Michael Dynkowski (Margaret). He was also a proud Poppa to his granddaughter, Julianne and grand-dog, Lou. He is also survived by his twin brother, James and many other family members.
He was preceded in death by his father, Chester Dynkowski, his mother Josephine Dynkowski, and brother, Robert Dowey.
John was born on August 31, 1951, in Chicago and grew up on the Northwest side on Moody Ave. He pursued his studies at Illinois State University and later earned his MBA from Illinois Benedictine University. He had a successful 40+ year career in IT in various roles and companies.
John met his wife, Nancy, through a setup from mutual friends and they were married on July 15, 1978. Shortly after they moved to Naperville, Illinois and raised their children in the Brookdale subdivision, where they met many of their lifelong friends. After retirement, they moved to Whitewater, Wisconsin and immersed themselves in “lake life.” The lake was John’s happy place, and you could always find him putzing around outside, helping neighbors or cruising around the lake.
John loved spending time with his friends and family and took great pride in maintaining relationships that spanned all eras of his life. John kept himself busy with projects, as well as serving as “Dad the Handy Man” for his children. He also loved traveling, especially visiting National Parks and road tripping with their camper. John’s legacy of love and dedication to his family and friends will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.
A celebration of life will be held at Mickey Finns Brewery (Libertyville, Illinois), on Sunday, September 8th with visitation hours 12-2 pm and a short ceremony to follow.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all of John’s friends and family for their love, support, and condolences during this difficult time.
Donald James Voeller was born April 11, 1937 at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Rugby, North Dakota and passed away peacefully August 28, 2024 at home in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, after 87 fulfilling years. He was the beloved son of Edward P. Voeller and Margaret Axtman Voeller.
From an early age, Don exhibited a profound love for learning and education. His academic journey began at Little Flower School, continued at Rugby High School where he was active in sports, FFA, and music and led him to North Dakota Agricultural College and North Dakota School of Forestry, where he played football. He further pursued his passion for geography at the University of Idaho. After a spring and summer of mapping campgrounds in the American Fork Canyon of the Uinta National Forest, back to school for Masters Degree from the University of Oklahoma and ultimately earning a Ph.D. in Geography from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 1971.
Don’s dedication to education was evident throughout his career. He taught geography at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater for 34 years, where he also served as University Men’s Golf Coach for 15 years and department chair for 7. His commitment to teaching and mentorship influenced countless students and colleagues.
In June 1996, Don retired to Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, where he continued to pursue his love for golf, a passion that spanned over 50 years. In 2002, he discovered a new interest in fishing and exploring the magnificent Lake Ouachita; embracing another learning experience.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Margaret, and his brother Duane and sister-in–law Helga of Otterbruin, Germany. He is survived by his wife of 55 years Christine (Ehrhardt), son Mark and daughter-in-law Kara of Pewaukee, Wisconsin, two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, and his brother David and Jean Kurtz of Rapid City, South Dakota.
Don’s love of life, commitment to education, and warm spirit will be remembered by all who knew him. He will be greatly missed, leaving behind a legacy of knowledge, kindness and love. Arrangements are under the direction of CedarVale Funeral Home inside Hot Springs Village. Guests may register at cedarvalefuneralhome.com
Anna M. Wachal, 60, of Jefferson passed away on Saturday, August 31, 2024 at her home surrounded by her family.
Anna was born on June 23, 1964 in Fort Atkinson to Merlin and Mildred (Gildemeister) Schaller. At a young age, Anna’s father, Merlin, passed and Ernest Haban raised her as his own. She grew up in the Aztalan and Lake Mills area. As a young girl, Anna enjoyed fishing and riding her bike around that area. She attended Lake Mills High School. On May 9, 1986 Anna married John James Wachal Jr. and together they had two children. John passed on May 26, 2008. For 18 years, Anna worked at McCain’s in Fort Atkinson. She also worked at Jones Dairy Farm for eight years, after McCain’s closing. On June 13, 2018 Anna married Chip Pierce. Anna always said how lucky she was to find two great loves during her lifetime.
She enjoyed gardening, being outdoors, tanning in her pool, and spending time with her family especially her cherished grandchildren.
Anna is survived by her husband, Chip Pierce; children, Leane (Stephen Glascock) Wachal; Brandon (Tegen Buchli) Wachal; grandchildren, Alicia (Steven Shelly) Wachal, Olivia (Riley Thedens), Alexander Eimers, Willow Piper, Noah Wachal, Mason Wachal, Sterling Wachal, Adeline Wachal, Scarlett Wachal; sisters, Barbara (John) Firkus, Fern Dehnert, and Kathy Newkirk; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Merlin Schaller, Ernest and Mildred Haban; husband, John Wachal Jr.; siblings, Nancy Benson, Merlin “Butch” Schaller, Rick Schaller, Nick Schaller; and four-legged companions, Gizmo, Bella, and Maggie the dogs.
The family would like to give special thanks to Rainbow Hospice staff for their exceptional care for Anna.
A memorial visitation will take place on Friday, September 6, 2024 from 12 PM until 2 PM at Schneider-Michaelis Funeral Home.
Ernest Walter Regelein, 93, Fort Atkinson, formerly of Whitewater passed away on Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at Wellington Meadows in Fort Atkinson.
Ernie was born on March 14, 1931 in Fort Atkinson to Benjamin and Ana (Busche) Regelein. He served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Ernie married Mary Clark on March 23, 1985. She preceded him in death on June 26, 1987. He was a home builder and worked for 28 years with the United States Post Office. Ernie also owned and operated the Western Aire Supper Club in Oconomowoc. He was a lover of fine wine, stamp collecting, Owen Gromme prints, gardening, the Milwaukee Brewers. He was known for causing good natured trouble. He was a member of First English Lutheran Church.
He is survived by his nieces and nephews Jerry Wolfram, James (Rose Schroeder) Wolfram, John (Beverly) Wolfram, Tom (Helene) Regelein, Ray Regelein. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife, brothers Richard (Beverly) Regelein, Harvey (Connie) Regelein, sister Florence (Harold) Wolfram.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2024 at 11:00 am at First English Lutheran Church, 401 W. Main St., Whitewater, WI 53190 followed by military rites. Friends may call at the church on Saturday from 10 am until the time of the service.
The family would like to thank Wellington Meadows staff and Rainbow Hospice for the care they provided Ernie. Online condolences may be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com
Tania Ann Bowden, age 48, Delavan, Wi., passed away unexpectedly on August 1, 2024. Born September 16, 1975, to John Bowden and Irene Bowden (Proc) originally from Chicago, IL. Came to Wisconsin from Chicago in 1979. Tania attended Whitewater High School.
Tania is survived by her Mom, Irene and James Osgood, Delavan, WI., three daughters Casandra Harris (Casey), Fort Atkinson, WI., Samantha Dohms (Sammy), Cheyenne, Wyoming, Mariah Flynn, Slinger, WI., Laura, Sandy, Bonnie Bowden and many nieces and nephews, Fayetteville TN., and the list goes on.
Private visitation and the celebration of life will be held at her Mom’s residence.
Lee Spencer Murray, 92, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 18, 2024 at Fairhaven in Whitewater.
Lee was born on September 24, 1931 in Princeville, Illinois to Harlow and Grace (Larson) Murray. He graduated from Princeville High School in 1949 and the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana with his bachelor’s degree Agriculture-Agronomy in 1957. Lee served in the United States Army from 1951-1953 and received a purple heart during his service in the Korean War.
He was a proud member of the Whitewater American Legion, Princeville Masonic Lodge, Whitewater Jaycees and Wisconsin Fertilizer Association.
Lee is survived by his wife, Betty Murray, of Whitewater; children, Carla Buchanan of Janesville, and Ken Murray of Madison.
The family would like to give special thanks to the staffs of Fort Memorial Hospital, Fairhaven and Rainbow Hospice.
Funeral services will take place at 11am on Monday, August 26, 2024 at Nitardy Funeral Home in Whitewater. Visitation will begin at 9am until the time of service. A burial will follow services immediately at Hillside Cemetery in Whitewater.
