Obituaries

David B. “Dave” Varsos, 67, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Monday, October 14, 2024.

Dave was born on February 21, 1957 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was enrolled in the United States Army and was Honorably Discharged in 1974. After the Army, Dave made a career as a laborer. He enjoyed Harley Davidson motorcycles, a clean pressed black t shirt, and a hot cup of Folgers coffee.

Dave is survived by his daughter, Paige (Travis) Heyer. He will leave behind many friends, family, and neighbors who will miss his long winded chats over a glass of Maker’s Mark.

He is preceded in death by his partner of almost 20 years, Sylvia Johnson.

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

Dominick Vincent Antol passed away Friday, October 11, 2024 due to complications with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. He was born on July 24th, 2003. He was survived by his mother Roseanna Antol and fathers Javier Lara and Avery Blackwell. Grandparents Charles and Florence Antol and Darnelle Blackwell. Brothers Johnathan Rodriguez Isiah Antol and Gabriel Lara. Also brother Marchant and Ziona Blackwell. Uncle Chuckie and Aunts Nicole Johnson Elizabeth Antol and Misty Oswald. Many other uncles and aunts and 14 cousins.

Dominick enjoyed playing video games till the sun came up, watching YouTube videos and Packers games while eating chicken wings. Dominick loved Michael Jackson, Bruno Mars and country music. He also loved law enforcement, the army and classic cars. Dominick had a warm heart and a smile of gold that would light up any room he entered. He always made people feel loved no matter who they were. He will forever be missed and loved in the Whitewater community.

The celebration of life services will be at
The Chapel Whitewater
445 Warner Rd
Whitewater Wi 53190
November 16th, 2024
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

John Martin Hanekamp, 75, passed away at his home in Whitewater on October 16, 2024 after a courageous year and a half long battle with cancer.

 John is survived by his amazing and loving wife of 52 years, Susan (Steck) Hanekamp, brother Mike (Tina) Hanekamp, sister Ann Manzella, sister-in-law Rebecca Turley, a son Stephen (Alyssa) Hanekamp, a daughter Michelle (Jon) Marshall and 7 wonderful grandchildren, Jacob, Joshua, Emily, Makenzie, Caitlyn, Tucker and Tanner. He was proceeded in death by his brother Robert, sister Carol and brother-in-law Doug Turley. 

John was born February 16, 1949 in Evanston, Illinois.  John graduated from Des Plaines High School in 1968.  He then attended UW-Whitewater before deciding to work at Art Lien’s Menswear in Whitewater, where he met the love of his life, Susan. The rest was history. They were married in 1972. With John’s entrepreneurial abilities, John and Sue opened and ran a very successful business, Sassy Shirts in Whitewater for 30 years. 

In 2010 they sold Sassy Shirts and moved to Miramar Beach, Florida. John loved walking and biking along the beach and enjoying the sunshine. John always looked forward to his walks with Tucker and Tanner and early morning breakfast runs with Jacob and Joshua when they visited.

In March 2023, John discovered the tickle in his throat was cancer and he began his fight with chemo and radiation. The cancer became too aggressive and with other health complications his body just gave out. 

John will always be remembered by his family for his love of his grandchildren. He absolutely adored talking to them, watching them play sports and attending their school activities. He was the best “Papa.” 

A visitation will be held at Nitardy Funeral Home in Whitewater on October 26, 2024 at 11:00 am with a service to follow at 12:30 pm. The family would like to invite you for a light luncheon at 841 Brewhouse following the service. 

The family would like to extend their thanks to Rainbow Hospice and the many doctors, nurses, and staff at UW Hospital in Madison.  In lieu of flowers, the family would request a donation be made to the UW Carbone Cancer
Center in memory of John. Online condolences may be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

“Whenever you see a rainbow, know that it’s Papa looking down and smiling at you.”

Mark Hoffman, 64, Jefferson, passed away on Monday, October 14, 2024  due to complications from cancer.  He was born on June 7, 1960. He is survived by his wife Lori Roach, stepdaughter Michelle Roach (Tyler Wellnitz) and granddaughter Eva. He is also survived by his many siblings.  Brothers Mike, Dan, Bill, Kenneth, Dave, Tom and John. Sisters Sharon, Mary, Anne (Roger Lindl), Susan (Mark Muehlhausen) and many nieces and nephews.  Mark was predeceased by his parents Donald and Dorothy.

Mark enjoyed fishing with his friends and they tried to get together for an annual ice fishing trip.  They may have never brought home many fish but they always had a good time. He also looked forward to a summer vacation to Chetek, Wisconsin every year. His whole family will miss him every day.  

There will be no formal service but a celebration of his life will be held at Dig N Kats Bar, W1605 County Road F, Sullivan, WI 53178 on Sunday November 10th from 1 – 4 PM.

In lieu of flowers if you would like to donate to the American Cancer Society or your local humane society.  Nitardy Funeral Home, Fort Atkinson is assisting the family.

Martin Jack Martinelli – a devoted man of God and a beacon of love for his family, affectionately known for his kind, tender, and rock n’ roll personality – joined his family in Heaven on Thursday, September 26, 2024, in the arms of his devoted bride, Clarissa. Compassionate and humble, with a contagious smile and infectious laugh, Martin was a good, gentle man, who turned heads every time he talked. Martin’s legacy of kindness and spiritual strength will forever inspire us, and he will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved him.

Born on September 13, 1960, in San Mateo, California to the late Jack and Betty (née Tingle) Martinelli. Martin lived a life filled with tremendous passion and service towards others. Following high school, he worked various jobs before dedicating his life to serving others by answering God’s summons with the simple utterance, “Here I am, send me.” With passionate commitment, Martin enlisted in the United States Navy in February 1979. After graduating from Boot Camp in San Diego, California, Martin completed Hospital Corpsman “A” School in San Diego, California. After graduation, Martin was assigned to Naval Branch Health Clinic aboard Naval Air Station El Centro in El Centro, California. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Martin Martinelli had a loyal and meritorious service at the branch hospital and was heading to a new duty assignment aboard the USS Sacramento (AOE-1). However, this assignment was waylaid due to a life-changing accident.

Martin was reassigned to Naval Regional Medical Center (NRMC) Bremerton, Washington. Unbeknown to Martin, divine fate had stepped in for this is where Martin would receive his eternal gift from God. On April 2, 1982, Hospitalman Apprentice Clarissa Griffin began her naval career at NRMC Bremerton, where she would meet her best friend and the love of her life.

The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” On February 17, 1983, God created the Martin and Clarissa love story; seeing each other as God’s personal, perfect provision!

Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame. Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one’s house for love, it would be utterly scorned. – Song of Solomon 8:6-7

Martin was honorably retired from the United States Navy in 1982 and began his role as Military Spouse and a stellar career as a Civil Servant. As a Military Spouse, he kept the home fires burning as Clarissa honorably served the U. S. Navy for nearly 25 years. Through long tours, frequent moves, and constant demands, Martin remained unwavering, representing the very best of our American spirit. As a Military Spouse, Martin was highly respected for his resilient, courageous, and committed service and sacrifice for our Nation. His incredible contributions to our country and communities, even as he shouldered the unique demands of family and military life. Martin exuded patience and selflessness during uncertainty and unpredictability.  In ways big and small, Martin answered the call to serve every day – being both the backbone of our family and the steel spine of our Nation.

Concurrently, Martin began his Civil Servant vocation. Martin served the people of the United States through diverse jobs he held with the federal government for over 17 years. He enjoyed every minute of it, and felt he did his part to make the world a better place. Martin received exceptional performance awards, letters of commendation and appreciation every year during his exceptional years as a Civil Servant. At the end of 2000, Martin made a career shift. With hard work, integrity, energy, innovation, and service as his foundational ethics, Martin began a profession in car sales that would catapult him to top-rated expert sales associate cumulating to Business Development Center (BDC) Manager for Ford Motors. Friendly and ambitious, topped with Martin’s exemplary managerial experience, led to him being recognized for outstanding meritorious service as BDC Manager; consistently performing these demanding duties in a highly professional manner, directly leading to the successful relevant and effective business growth of several Ford dealerships and exceptional customer satisfaction.

Martin was a lifelong rock ‘n’ roll fan, especially of Ozzy Osborn, KISS and Metallica. He had a passion for Chicago Blackhawks and Oakland Athletics. His interests also extended to golf, board games, darts, movies, and bowling. Martin was a bright light in the world and had a big heart to match his radiant smile. Out of all the things that Martin loved, nothing meant more than simple days shared with Clarissa “Clair,” The Daughters, Amme, and his furry Girls and Boy.

Martin leaves behind to cherish memory his beloved wife of 41 years, Rev. Clarissa Martinelli; daughters, Biancha Martinelli and Sophia Martinelli; son, Nicolas Martinelli; beloved granddaughter, Amme Joy; siblings, Cindy Hinds and Kim (Kurt) Davidson; Eric (Mary) Griffin; Anthony (Maggie) Griffin; Janice (Mario) Owens; uncle, Michael Martinelli, furry daughters, Cookie and Sadie Mae; grand-pups, Hachi and Rocco; many nephews, nieces and other much-loved relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Martin was preceded in death by his daddy and mother, Rev. Willie and Sis. Emma Griffin; and treasured daughter, Interior Communication Specialist Third Class Marissa Martinelli; brother-in-law, Mike Hinds.

He loved intently, was loved deeply, and will truly be missed.

Fair Winds and Following Seas.

Martin’s family will greet relatives and friends from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Faceville United Methodist Church on Saturday, October 12, 2024. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at Faceville United Methodist Church on Saturday, October 12, 2024. with Rev. Clarissa Martinelli officiating. A Celebration Memorial Service will be held on November 16, 2024, from 12:00-4:00 p.m. at Whitewater First United Methodist Church.

The family would like to extend thanks to the staff of Agrace Hospice, for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project,(https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/) in memory of Martin J. Martinelli.

Nitardy Funeral Homes                                                               Bruton Mortuary

550 N Newcomb St., Whitewater, WI 53190      635 Bruton St., Bainbridge, GA 39819

(262) 208-4495                                                                                (229) 246-6042

December 28, 1939 – September 16, 2024

Dorothy Diane Duffin Saylor, “Duffy,” passed away on the evening of September 16, 2024, in Shavano Park, Texas. She was 84. She had been suffering from Alzheimer’s for the last several years.

Duffy was born in December 1939, in Whitewater, Wisconsin to a farmer and his wife, Laurel and Winifred Duffin. She was their fourth child and the only girl in a family with four brothers. Tommy died in childhood, and the other three, John, David, and Doug, preceded her in death.

Duffy graduated from Whitewater High School in 1957 and attended the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. She later attended and graduated from Chicago’s Masonic Hospital’s Nursing School. While a young nurse in Chicago, she met and married an Air Force medical doctor, Jack Saylor in 1963. Duffy and Jack were first stationed at Biggs Air Force Base in El Paso, Texas. In 1966, Duffy and Jack moved to their next assignment, Letterman Army Medical Center in San Francisco where Duffy worked shifts at area hospitals. In 1967, while in the Bay area, Duffy and Jack welcomed Michele “Shelly” Jacqueline and a year later Michael Riley Saylor.

Duffy and Jack moved halfway across the country to Scott Air Force Base in Belleville, Illinois in 1969. Two years later Angelin Eve Saylor was born. While living in Belleville, Duffy had a very successful real estate career, winning multiple sales awards culminating in Century 21’s exclusive Million Dollar Club for which she was a multi-year award winner.

In 1982 military life brought change and the Saylor family moved to Fort Worth, Texas, where Jack became the Hospital Commander at Carswell Air Force Base. As a commanding officer’s wife, Duffy, had the honored tradition of leading in supporting the wives and families of the troops under her husband’s command, a role that she continued until Jack’s retirement in 1996.

The family once again moved in 1986, but for the last time, to Randolph AFB in San Antonio, Texas. Duffy and Jack lived on base for the first four years. Throughout these years, in addition to accomplishing so much in her service to others, Duffy devoted herself to her family, raising three grateful children and supporting Jack who loved her deeply.

In 1990, Duffy and Jack set up their forever home in Shavano Park, Texas. During those years, Duffy enjoyed the marriage of her children, the addition to the family of her grandchildren, and she and Jack celebrated her 60^th wedding anniversary among many other joyous events. That home hosted many happy Saylor family birthdays, holidays, and celebrations. Duffy was an incredible cook and hostess, always making others feel special while in their home.

For many years, Duffy was active in the Military-Civilian Club (Mil-Civ) and served on the Board of the Youth Orchestra of San Antonio (YOSA). She also worked estate sales part-time where she was a valued member of those teams. For many of the post-retirement years, she and Jack had a consistent group of friends who greatly enjoyed each other’s company. They traveled throughout North and South America on many cruises that created even more entertaining stories. Duffy very often brought the comic relief to any event. She had the rare gift of sharp humor and wit that could make anyone laugh but also drop a few jaws. Duffy even had the rarer gift of putting others first and making everyone she met feel valued.

Duffy Saylor is survived by her three children, Shelly Saylor Wyles of Battle Ground, Washington, Michael Saylor of San Antonio, and Angelin Saylor Cole of Austin; their spouses, Channing Wyles, Jennifer Bryant Saylor, and Jonathan Cole; and her five grandchildren, Hallie Wyles, Hana Wyles, Jackson Saylor, Kailey Saylor, and Avery Cole.

The family will receive friends from 4:00-5:00 P.M., Monday, October 7, 2024 at Porter Loring Mortuary North, 2102 North Loop 1604 East, San Antonio, Texas.

FUNERAL SERVICE
MONDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2024
5:00 PM
PORTER LORING MORTUARY NORTH
2101 NORTH LOOP 1604 EAST

We will hold a procession from Porter Loring Mortuary North on Tuesday, October 8^th, 2024, at 10:45 A.M. to Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery for interment at 11:30 A.M.

In lieu of flowers please make contributions to 4-H.

Patricia Sue Cruse, 74, Whitewater, passed away on Monday, September 30, 2024.

Pat was born on June 11, 1950 in Chicago, IL to Raymond and Mary (Ziliak) Foote. She graduated from York High School in Elmhurst, IL and from UW-Whitewater with a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s degree in Elementary Counseling. She started her career as a teacher and elementary counselor in the Mukwonago school district. Pat met Randy Cruse at a fraternity party and quickly knew they would spend their lives together. They married on January 23, 1971.

Six months later, together, they took a risk and opened a restaurant – Randy’s Supper Club. While Randy’s name was on the front door, there was little doubt that Pat was a driving force behind the restaurant’s long-term success. Tuesday through Sunday Pat was elegantly dressed, greeting patrons and seamlessly entertaining hundreds of guests. She spent her Mondays creating special memories with her family. Randy’s was the location of many happy memories for Pat, Randy and the surrounding community for 43 years.

Pat’s commitment to the community and her alma mater continued outside the restaurant, earning her the Distinguished Service Award and induction into the UW-Whitewater Hall of Fame. Pat enjoyed cocktail hour, practical jokes and sunset cruises on the lake with her “capitan,” earning her the title “Director of Late Night Fun.” Pat was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2018 and battled the ultimately fatal disease with her final two years residing at Glenwood Memory Care in Whitewater. Randy was by her side when she finally succumbed to the disease.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 53 years Randy; daughters Kristina (Mike) Sobolewski, Whitewater, Stacey (Dan) Barrins, Northfield, IL; grandchildren Matt, Kelsy, Lillian, Everly, and Vincent. She was preceded in death by her parents. Randy and the rest of the family want to thank the staff at Glenwood for their compassionate and loving care through this difficult journey. Memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association. Friends and family are invited to a celebration of Pat’s life that will be held on Friday, October 4, 2024 at 5:00 pm at 841 Brewhouse in Whitewater.

Online condolences may be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Mrs. Susan Mary Gebhardt-Schweitzer, 88, Whitewater, Wisconsin passed away on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at the Fairhaven Residential Facility.

Susan was born on August 22, 1936 in Racine, Wisconsin to the parents F. Don & Georgia Gebhardt. Susan attended William Horlick High School and graduated in 1955. Susan married Thomas J. Larsen in Racine on June 29, 1957 before moving to Cicero, Illinois and having 3 children, Thomas, Steven, and Linda. During her time in Illinois, Susan became an EMT working in the emergency room at Alexian Brothers Medical Center. Later in life, Susan met Edward Joseph Schweitzer and they were happily married on May 30, 1988 in Roselle, Illinois. After selling their house in Fox Lake, Illinois in 2014, Susan and Edward moved back to Wisconsin residing at Fairhaven Residential Facility.

Susan is survived by her loving husband of 26 years Edward Joseph Schweitzer, brother Richard F. Gebhardt, son Steven R Larsen, daughter Linda S Olson, and 3 grandchildren.

No services will be held at this time. Online condolences may be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Barbara L. Saladin, 87, of Dousman passed away on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at Angels Grace in Oconomowoc surrounded by her loving family.

Barbara was born on August 24, 1937 to Edith Doxtator.  She married Richard Laing and together they had two daughters.  They were wed until his passing in 1987.  Barbara retired from the Crestwood Bakery in West Allis.  After retirement, Barbara continued to decorate cakes for bakeries.  Barbara remarried to Joe Saladin until his passing in 2015.

She was a singer with the Oneida Singers.

Barbara enjoyed singing especially Oneida songs, baking Christmas cookies, and most of all spending time with family.  She also enjoyed camping and traveling to Las Vegas with her family.  Barbara loved animals, cats and dogs both.  

Barbara is survived by her daughters, Faith (Jay Dusenbury) Shattuck, Barbara (Jack) Reich; grandchildren, Dustin (Courtney) Shattuck, Brandon Shattuck, Greg (Christy) Loeffler, Angel (Scott) Loose; great-grandchildren, Oliver Shattuck, Lance Freeman, Adrian Loeffler, Milani Loose, Gage Loose; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Edith Doxtator and Reinie Baake; and husbands, Richard Laing and Joe Saladin.

A memorial service will take place at 4 PM on Saturday, October 12, 2024 at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 N. Newcomb St., Whitewater, WI 53190.  A visitation will take place from 2 PM until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Association.

The family would like to give special thanks to the staff at Angels Grace for their exceptional care for Barbara.

Online condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com