Obituaries

Obituary: James Allen Jacobson, 80

James Allen Jacobson, 80, of Whitewater, WI passed away on Saturday, March 12th, 2022 at Fairhaven Nursing and Rehab in Whitewater, WI.

Jim was born on February 20th, 1942 in Marquette, MI to Albert and Madeline Jacobson. He is survived by his wife Patricia Bureau Jacobson of Whitewater, WI, two sisters Judy Cook of Big Rapids, MI and Nancy Nelson of Golden Valley, MN, three daughters Colleen (Steve) Hebert of Whitewater, WI, Tammy (Steve) Fisher of Elkhorn, WI, and Wendy (Rich) Schneller of Oconomowoc, WI, eight grandchildren, one great granddaughter, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Albert and Madeline and his brother Ron Jacobson.

Jim lived his young years in Marquette, Michigan, where he played football, baseball, and senior hockey. He did not have any high school hockey background, but he received a Warrior Hockey scholarship to Michigan State University in East Lansing. After graduation, he went on to play in the US hockey league for the Green Bay Bobcats and the Marquette Rangers.

He later taught high school and coached the track and basketball teams at Eben High School. He eventually received the Mott Foundation fellowship to get his masters in Flint, Michigan. Jim then went on to work in community education, becoming a principal in Hilbert, Wisconsin, and coaching the football team there. From there he became the junior high principal for 25 years in Whitewater, Wisconsin. His final education years were spent in Adams Friendship, Wisconsin, as a high school principal.

After retirement, Jim enjoyed going hunting with friends, working at the Whitewater food pantry and serving on its board. He also served on the church council at First English Lutheran Church and headed the Meals on Wheels program for several years. Helping out with ushering was a big part of his life. He loved to travel, play tennis, and play hockey until he was 70. He was instrumental in setting up senior pickleball for the Whitewater senior center.

The family would like to express their gratitude to all the doctors and nurses who worked with him as he battled MDS. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim name may be made to the Whitewater Food Pantry, First English Lutheran Church, or Agrace Hospice. No funeral will be held in honor of Jim’s wishes. A celebration of life is planned for June 4, 2022 from 12 to 3 p.m. at Prairie Village community center, 925 Burr Oak Trail, Whitewater, WI. Please join us in celebrating Jake.

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

Obituary: Maxine Dennis, 94, of DePere, WI

Maxine Dennis, 94, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2022.  She was the third child born to Henry (Franklin) Klosterman and Nora (Humbert) Klosterman July 27, 1927, in Platteville, Wisconsin.  She married Clifford J Dennis August 30, 1946. He preceded her in death December 18, 1993. 

Maxine was devoted to her family. She helped her entomologist husband collect insects for his research. He discovered a new species of tree hopper and named it after her for her many hours of help with his research.  She enjoyed knitting and sewing, making clothing, quilts and toys for family and upholstery and draperies for her home. Many of her creations are still being enjoyed by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Maxine loved music. She played clarinet, violin, piano, and was in the handbell choir at her church.  She was active in her church groups in various cities she lived in throughout her life. She loved to play cards, enjoying weekly euchre games with friends for many years. Maxine liked traveling so much that her car license plate was “travlbug.” After her husband Cliff’s retirement, they traveled to Norway where they did genealogy research for the Dennis side of the family. She traveled with friends to Austria, Germany, Italy, Australia, Japan, England, Scotland, and Wales as well as to many states in the U.S.  

She is survived by her children: Alan (Kathy) Dennis, Mt Vernon, WA; Roy (Sandra) Dennis Puyallup, WA; Mark Dennis, Seattle, WA; Nancy (George) Ravnsborg, Everett, WA; Karen (Dennis) Langenberg, Pound, WI; Karl Dennis, West St. Paul, MN; Wade Dennis, Wauwatosa, WI; son-in-law, Gordy (Judy) Peterson, Tecumseh, MI; eleven grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren; one sister, Beth (Arnold) Willis, Madison, WI; one brother, John Klosterman, Springfield, Illinois. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Patricia (Gordy) Peterson; brothers: Max Klosterman, Dale Klosterman; sisters-in-law:  Barbara (Dale) Klosterman, Wilma (Max) Klosterman, Marilyn (Max) Klosterman, Sally (John) Klosterman, and Patricia (John) Klosterman. 

A private family service will be held in April 2022 at Hillside Cemetery in Platteville, WI.  Online condolences are welcome at www.prokowall.com.  In lieu of any floral expressions please consider making a donation to Habitat for Humanity, a favorite charity of both Cliff and Maxine.

We want to extend our thanks to the team at Rennes Health and Rehab, DePere, WI who cared for Maxine the last four and 1/2 years of her life.  Their kindness and compassion, to the end, will not be forgotten.

Editor’s note: We understand that Maxine Dennis was a former resident of Whitewater whose husband was a professor at UW-Whitewater, and their children attended Whitewater schools.

Obituary: Dr. Roger Dean Coppenbarger, 90, of Arden, NC

It is with great sadness that the Coppenbarger family announces the passing of Dr. Roger Dean Coppenbarger, 90, on March 27, 2022, in Arden, NC. Dr. Coppenbarger was born May 28, 1931, in Pittsburg, Kansas, to E.M and Ina Coppenbarger. He grew up in Pittsburg, KS, attending Pittsburg State University as an undergraduate. He received his Master of Music degree from the University of Wichita and a Doctor of Musical Arts in Music Education from the University of Missouri at Kansas City.

Dr. Coppenbarger was Professor Emeritus at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, where he taught clarinet and saxophone for over 30 years. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Lavonne of Arden, NC; his sons Brent (Sonja) of Taylors, SC; Curt (Katie) of Hudson, WI; Casey (Nancy) of Arden, NC; and grandchildren Sarah, Nate, Ethan, Cole, Rebecca, and William.

Obituary: Dr. Paul Bennett

Dr. Paul Bennett of Whitewater, formerly of Beloit, died March 27, 2022.

Although born in Waterloo, Iowa, Paul spent most of his youth and young adulthood in the Chicago area. He attended New Trier high school, Northwestern University (1956), Northwestern University Medical School (1960). He did his internship and residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas. Dr. Bennett’s specialty training was interrupted by a stint in the U. S. Army, stationed at Fort Meade, Maryland and Fort Greeley, Alaska. He returned to UTMB to finish his training and remained there as an instructor until he joined the Beloit Clinic as an Obstetrician/Gynecologist in 1967.

In 1960, Dr. Bennett married Barbara (Bobbi) Metcalf in Milford, NH. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, daughters Patty (Dr. Steve) Stroman, Egg Harbor, WI., Kathy Bennett, Lebanon, NH, and son, Michael (Jennifer), DePere, WI.

Known as “Oomba” (grandfather) to Jon (Cara) Stroman, Allison (Kieran McCabe) Stroman and Andrew Stroman; Morgan and Haden Bennett, he followed their accomplishments as they developed into delightful and responsible adults. Further survivors include sister Deborah (Bill) Parks, cousin Wendell (Carol) Drew and several nieces and nephews. Paul was predeceased by a sister and his parents.

Per Dr. Bennett’s wishes, there will be neither a visitation or service. At a later date, the family will gather to celebrate his life on the rural acreage he nurtured and enjoyed in his retirement.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in his name to: Lauderdale-LaGrange Fire and Rescue – W6080 Highway 12, Whitewater, WI 53190, Golden Years Health Care Scholarship – 270 Ridge Road, Walworth, WI 53184, or Aurora at Home Burlington/Walworth Hospice Care Team ATTN: VJ – 116 N Dodge St. Burlington, WI 53105.

An overwhelming THANK YOU to the entire staff at Golden Years in Walworth, WI and the Aurora Burlington/Walworth hospice team: Kay, Kelly and Kim.

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

Obituary: Betty J. Schneible, 93

Betty J. Schneible, 93, of Whitewater, WI passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 23, 2022 at Fairhaven of Whitewater.

Betty was born on December 11, 1928 in Waukesha, WI the daughter of Earl and Edna (Detlof) Lander. She grew up in the Waukesha area and graduated from Waukesha High School. Betty was blessed with a son, Curt. She worked as a Test inspector for General Electric Corporation for the majority of her working career. She was a long time member of Jerusalem Presbyterian Church of Wales, WI. Betty was outgoing and kind. She was at her best when spending time with her family and friends. She was a social person and enjoyed a good game of Sheepshead or Euchre. She also had a special love for music and even wrote a few songs.  Betty will be missed by those she leaves behind.

She is survived by her nephew, Sam Lander and her dear friend, Mary (Michael) Schuetz. She is also survived by other relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her loving son, Curt and her ex-husband, Bill Schneible.

A Funeral Service will be held to honor Betty’s life at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 31, 2022 at the Gibson Family Funeral Home in Palmyra, WI (320 W. Main St. Palmyra, WI 53156). The Rev. Ken Casey will officiate the service. Betty will be laid to rest next to her son immediately following the service in Hillside Cemetery of Palmyra.

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

Obituary: Joy S. Stuckey, 78, of Fort Atkinson

Joy S. Stuckey, a loving mother, ascended peacefully on butterfly wings to the gates of heaven on Tuesday, March 22, 2022 surrounded by family. She was born in Berwyn, IL on May 27, 1943, the daughter of the late Raymond and Helen (Zuetel) Rode. On January 19th, 1963 she was united in marriage to the late Bruce Stuckey at Faith Lutheran Church in Brookfield, Illinois. She was currently residing in Fort Atkinson, WI.

Joy worked as an administrative assistant at Jefferson County Human Services, Parsons Chiropractic Services, and Dr. Moulton’s Dental Clinic. She made many friends over the years that brought laughter and smiles to those around her. She loved any and all flowers, especially lavender, lilacs, lilies, and tulips. Watching her houseplants and flower gardens bloom as well as the butterflies, squirrels and birds that visit would bring her great pleasure. She enjoyed watercolor painting, sewing, knitting, crafting, and traveling the states. Joy loved all animals, especially cats. 

Joy’s passion was devoting her life to her family. She is survived by her two daughters; Sharon (Steven) Olson and Susan Stuckey, both of Fort Atkinson, WI. She has five grandchildren: Candice (Jonathan) Franks, Dawn (Mark) Wokasch, Matthew (Libby) Stahl, Craig Olson, and Maxwell Stuckey. She was also well loved by her eight great grandchildren: Emma Wokasch, Hailey Olson, Sophia Wokasch, Alyvia Olson, Madelynn Franks, Oliver Stuckey, Lainey Franks, and Ryleigh Olson. She is survived by her sister Loralee Gerrietts.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and son, Robert Stuckey.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date and time to better appreciate her love for nature and gardening.

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

Obituary: Carolyn Marie Ferriano

Carolyn Marie Ferriano is at peace, after a years-long battle with debilitating health issues. Carolyn spent her last 8.5 months receiving wonderful care at Agrace Hospice in Fitchburg.  She never lost her incredible will to live or her sense of humor.

Carolyn is survived by her loving family: husband Frank, daughter Sharon, son-in-law Greg and grandchildren, Samuel and Anna. She is also survived by her brother Bob Hofstetter and his wife Susie, and their kids/grandkids, and by many members of Frank’s family – his sister Annette, nieces, nephews. Carolyn adored them all.

Along with family, Carolyn had so many beautiful friends. She loved them all dearly, including Maureen and Lowell Youngs and Greg’s parents, Barbara and George Mischio.  If Carolyn loved anything more than her friends and family, it was animals. In particular, their cat Sir Arthur, whom we believe was waiting for her as she passed.

Carolyn met Frank Ferriano, in 1963 in New Jersey. They were married in 1965 and moved to Wisconsin in 1968.  They had 57 wonderful years together, many of them spent attending concerts, shows, plays and movies. They also enjoyed their gourmet dinner club and bridge club.  But their favorite thing to do together was to travel.  Carolyn and Frank enjoyed many cruises, trips to Europe, Alaska and Hawaii.  They also made time to visit family in various parts of the country.

Carolyn had a wonderful career as a nurse, and did it all, from teaching nursing to hospital nursing, nursing home, doctors office and home health care. She was incredibly intelligent and caring.  She never stopped teaching.  The staff at Agrace all talked about how much they learned from her.

After Carolyn retired from nursing, she and Frank returned from living part of the year in Florida so they could fully participate in their grandkids’ lives. They were at all their activities/sports/dance/music programs, etc. We looked forward to our Anna Maria Island trips together every year. That was Carolyn’s favorite place. She loved the beach, sunsets and looking for shells. We will treasure every moment we had with her there.

Carolyn was a talented seamstress, who also did needlepoint, crochet and knitting.  She made countless gorgeous blankets, shawls, scarves, bags, and decorative items.

We could not have gotten through these last 8 months without Agrace.  It is where Carolyn always said she wanted to end up, and it was beautiful to see the friendships she developed with the staff.  We are forever grateful for the loving care she received there.

We will have a memorial gathering for mom in the spring – date TBD.

Donations can be made to either Agrace Hospice or the Dane County Humane Society in Carolyn Ferriano’s name.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Services, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison, WI

Obituary: Michael Kelly, 59

Michael Kelly was born on an army base in Kansas on July 24, 1962. He lived some of his childhood in Germany, where his mother was born. Michael peacefully transitioned into pure spirit with his Divine Source whom he chose to call Tunkashila on the first day of spring, 3-20-22. He went peacefully on a hospice bed with dear friend, Jude Christensen at his side. She provided emotional and physical support throughout his illness. He was not alone.

Michael was the third and youngest son of Ann Elizabeth and James Gary Kelly. He is survived by his special friend, Bob. Bob and Michael met at a time where they contributed to each other’s strengths and care. Bob was a primary loving support during his cancer journey. Everyone whom he called a friend knew they were special to Michael. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Bill. His one surviving brother, Jim, lives in Mexico.

Michael lived with cancer for five and a half years. He was grateful for his heath care team from St Mary’s Hospital in Madison, Froedert in Milwaukee, and his overnight hospice team at Ft. Memorial Hospital. He trusted and accepted cancer treatments and did not project future outcomes as he fully lived in the present with a positive attitude.


Michael was a strong advocate for recovery from addictions. He shared his addiction and recovery experience, strength, and hope with people in the recovery community for nearly 30 years. He was an asset to people in recovery. It was an honor for him to be the assistant director of the SABLE House 15 years. He had a strong impact on those living there for the purpose of recovery support.


Michael had a passion for creating beauty with interior, flower, and landscape design. His passion was that of a special events designer and coordinator. He enjoyed hiking, helping others, spirituality, meditation, Myofascial Release Bodywork, and laughing, especially being snarky.

Michael’s brother Jim wrote the following for a eulogy:
“…I’m sorry I can’t be with you all to pay respect and honor Mike. I think all of us who knew Mike would agree he was a kind giving soul. This was not the likely outcome for someone who went through some of the experiences Mike was confronted with in his life. As his brother I know Mike as a person who overcame many obstacles to become the giving person he became. He used his mishaps and tragedies that happened to him in his life to help others. Many of you who knew Mike on a personal level know this well. The people who knew him are the better for it. Sometimes he could be quite serious, but considerate in what he was trying to accomplish. I will miss Mike as I’m sure all of you will. He became an enlightened being despite all the dark times he went through in his life. This is what Mike has left us with, the realization that we can overcome darkness and transform into the light. This was Mike’s gift to us all. Wherever you are Mike thank you for everything, thank you for being my brother and thank you for all the people you touched in your life.”


Please join in to celebrate Michael with a memorial brunch to share memories on 3-26-22 from 10 a.m. until noon, at his favorite, Jessica’s Restaurant, at 140 W Main St in Whitewater, Wisconsin. For those who choose to make a financial donation, Michael’s wishes were that donations go to the Dave Gallup Foundation which supports individuals in early recovery. You can use Cash App: $DaveGallupFoundation
As another option, you can donate in Michael’s honor to a charity or non-profit of your choice. Thank you.

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Laurie L. Kant-Hull, 64, of Delavan

Laurie L. Kant-Hull, 64, of Delavan, WI died on March 20, 2022, at UW Hospital in Madison, WI. Laurie was born on August 3, 1957, daughter of the late Erwin and Janice (Green) Kant. Laurie was a very active person and touched the lives of many people. Laurie married her husband, Ronald Hull on February 14, 1988, at the First Congregational Church of Elkhorn, WI. She was a founding member of the Lakes Shores Library System and held a seat on their board for over thirty years. At the time of her passing, she held the title of President of the Lakes Shore Library System Board. Laurie spent much of her career as a Librarian, between being a medical librarian at Medical Associates of Wisconsin and a children’s librarian in Burlington. Laurie was a very talented crafter, working in painting, gardening, scrapbooking, knitting, crocheting, and taught as a quilting instructor at Blackhawk Technical College. She was a champion of women’s rights, helping those who needed it, and fighting the good fight no matter the cost or how hopeless the cause. A pacifist who was in ROTC during her college years, repelling off buildings and reassembling M-16s with parts left over. A lover of fast cars but rarely went above the speed limit, a protector to all animals who needed a home, and thought that Clark Griswold was an amateur when it came to holiday decorations. In her later years she grew to have a passion for fitness and weightlifting and encourage everyone around her to get active because, “if I can do it, anyone can do it.” Laurie loved all things Disney, Disco music, and was well known for curling up on a gloomy day to watch Hallmark Christmas movies regardless of the month. Through all her life she loved and taught those around her to love without question, with the saddest fate, according to her, being “an obituary that doesn’t make you wish you knew them.” Loved by many and feared by some, she will be deeply missed by those who were able to get to know her. Laurie is preceded in death by her parents; brother-in-law Michael Craney; and great nephew; Benjamin Grossen. She is survived by her husband, Ron; son Daniel (Sarah Defranco) Kant-Hull; and sisters, Kathleen Craney, Alison (Richard) Madero, and Melinda (John) Allen. A Memorial Service will be held for Laurie on Thursday, March 31, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at First Congregational Church of Christ, 54 S. Jackson Street, Janesville, WI 53548. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Wisconsin Dental Association Foundation Mission of Mercy; Wisconsin Library Association Foundation; Walworth County Humane Society; Twin Oaks Homeless Shelter; or Open Arms Free Clinic. Online guestbook can be found at www.haaselockwoodfhs.com.