Obituaries

Obituary: Bradley “Brad” Dean Wessels, DDS, 69 of Appleton

Bradley “Brad” Dean Wessels, DDS, age 69 of Appleton, WI passed away on November 15, 2025.  A memorial visitation will be held for Brad from 2-3 PM on Saturday, November 29, 2025 at Fargo Funeral Home, 400 W. Wisconsin Ave, Kaukauna, WI 54130 with a memorial service led by his sister, Carol at 3 PM. Brad will be laid to rest privately with his parents at Redeemer United Church of Christ Cemetery in Sussex, WI.  For more information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.wichmannfuneralhomes.com.

Obituary: Norman Lee Lauer, 73

Norman Lee Lauer, age 73, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Skaalen Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Stoughton. Norman was born on October 21, 1952, to Willis and Virginia (Godfrey) Lauer in Edgerton, WI.

Norman (“Norm”) cared for and loved others with deep generosity. His ability to strike up a conversation with almost anyone was rooted in his joy in human connection. He was good-natured and had an excellent sense of humor, no matter the circumstances.

After graduating from Whitewater High School, Norm built the dairy operation on the family farm in Milton, WI. He cared deeply for the well-being of the animals and approached farming with careful planning and strategy, even within an unpredictable market and economy. His four children grew up surrounded by the same strong agricultural communities of his youth, including Rock County 4-H and the Whitewater FFA program. Through his example, he cultivated in his children a thirst for knowledge, a desire to care for others, and a commitment to being stewards of the land.

Norm was generous and thought of all youth in the agricultural community as his own. He showed his support through active participation in the Whitewater FFA Alumni as a lifetime member, especially through the annual FFA toy show. The county fair was always a familiar place to find Norm—first as a young boy showing his well-cared-for beef cattle, later supporting his own children’s projects, and in recent decades contributing generous bids for community youth and his grandchildren’s animals at fair auctions.

His community and neighbors were the fabric of his life. “I have everything I need right here” was a common phrase from Norm. He frequently stopped by to socialize and connect with neighbors, sharing news of both joys and challenges.

After more than 40 years of farming, Norm joined the NASCO family, where he connected with co-workers almost immediately. His favorite season was fall, when he looked forward to celebrating his birthday along with the turning of the leaves. Dreaming up his annual Halloween costumes—such as the “Sun-Maid Raisin Girl,” “Shrek,” or “Uncle Fester”—gave him a creative outlet he had enjoyed since childhood.

Norm spent countless hours maintaining the farm and nurtured his love for nature through stewardship of the land. Together with his brother-in-law, he planted hundreds of trees. He cherished time outdoors—whether “checking on the land” or spending time in the woods during deer hunting season. Being in nature brought him a deep sense of peace.

Norm is survived by his three children: Lee Ann (Rocky) Klitzke, William (Rebekah) Lauer, and Elizabeth (Ross) White; his siblings: Rod (Patsy) Lauer and Laurie (Bill) Garbe; his brother-in-law: Lee (Rita) Arnold; and nine grandchildren: Ezekiel, Elizabeth, Ben, Annika, Amelia, Audrey, Josiah, Lilyana, and John. He was preceded in death by his parents, Willis and Virginia Lauer; his sister, Christine Arnold; and his son, Timothy Lauer.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at Albrecht Funeral Homes & Cremation Services in Milton with Pastor Sam Massey officiating. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., and again on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Burial will follow immediately at Milton East Cemetery. Memorial contributions are preferred to Whitewater FFA Alumni and Supporters. Albrecht Funeral Homes & Cremation Services is assisting the family.

For online condolences and guestbook, please visit www.albrechtfuneralhomes.com.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the caregivers and providers at Skaalen Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Agrace Hospice, and UW Health.

Obituary: Frank J. Sauter, 65, of Palmyra

Frank J. Sauter, age 65, of Palmyra, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2025 at Waukesha Memorial Hospital surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on June 21, 1960 in Madison, Frank was the cherished son of Richard and Marion (Lute) Sauter.  Frank grew up in Palmyra and graduated from Palmyra High School in 1978. On July 25, 1992, he married the love of his life, Dawn Haas, and built a deep union with devotion, laughter, and unwavering partnership.

Frank’s life was defined by service, integrity, and heart. From his early days working on the family farm, he developed a strong work ethic and a love for the land. He later served as a police officer for the Village of Palmyra and also for the Village of Sharon, where his calm presence and dedication earned the respect of many.  Frank also built a successful career working for AFLAC insurance company for many years, helping others protect what mattered most to them. Whether in uniform, behind a desk, or leading as the Chairman for the Town of Palmyra, Frank’s guiding principle was always the same: to take care of people.

He was a natural leader with a magnetic personality—larger than life, yet deeply grounded in kindness. Frank had a gift for making others feel seen and supported, and he poured that energy into his community, friendships, and above all, his family.

Frank found joy in the simple pleasures and grand adventures of life. He loved traveling to sunny destinations, taking Caribbean cruises, hunting, snowmobiling and atv’ing  with family and friends, and enjoying a well- earned Miami Vice cocktail. But his greatest happiness came from being a devoted husband, a proud father, and an adoring grandfather. His laughter, stories, and presence, will echo in the hearts of those who knew him best.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 33 years, Dawn Sauter of Palmyra: his children Richard (Jessica) Sauter of Jefferson, Lucas (Sadie) Sauter of Palmyra, Jason Rossbach (Jessica Kusch) of Eagle, Jennelle (Tony) Aranda of Whitewater, and Timothy (Maria) Rossbach of Pewaukee.  His grandchildren, Rhett, Reese, Audrina, Samantha, Makenzie, Allie, Grey, Antonio and Cruz. He is also remembered fondly by many other relatives and dear friends.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Debby.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Frank’s honor made be made to the AFLAC Children’s Cancer Center or to Palmyra United Methodist Church.

Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at the Palmyra United Methodist Church with Pastor Thomas Alverson officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM and continue until the time of service. Frank will be laid to rest at Hillside Cemetery in Palmyra immediately following the service.

Gibson Family Funeral Homes of Palmyra & Eagle, WI is serving the family. To share a memory or offer condolences, please visit gibsonfuneral.com

Obituary: Dale Duane Pieper, 91

It is with great sadness that the family of Dale Duane Pieper of Whitewater, Wisconsin announce his passing on October 23, 2025, at age 91. Dale was born in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin on August 3, 1934, to Fern & Melvin Pieper. He moved to Whitewater, WI with his family at age 9 and remained a lifelong resident. He graduated from Whitewater High School in 1953 and served as captain of the football team and Homecoming King during his senior year. While attending school, he began learning the trade of auto body repair from his father and built his first car, a roadster with a rumble seat. 

After graduating high school, Dale started working at his father’s auto body shop, Fort Body in Whitewater. After his father retired, he took over management of the shop with his two younger brothers, Daryl & Jim. Dale was a perfectionist at his craft and was a truly exceptional automobile painter and refinisher. As a businessperson, he was as honest as he was hard-working, and refused to retire until he was in his late 70’s.  

Dale married his high school sweetheart, Dorothy (Dotty) Saxe, in 1955. They had four daughters, Linda, Rosann, Connie, & Lori. When it came to caring for his family, he was unstoppable. No matter how arduous family life became, he never gave up on any of us. Dale worked as hard at home as he did at his job. Now that we are older, we recognize just how exceptional his visual-spatial skills were. The man could build or fix anything. Soon after turning 20, he single-handedly designed and built the family home where he & Dotty raised their girls. 

Dale was very physically active & took his daughters snowmobiling, hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. He loved the outdoors and wanted to share that love with his family. It is hard to believe he was crazy enough to take four girls & their friends camping all by himself every summer. Dale was an active member of the snowmobile club for many years and enjoyed taking family members for long motorcycle rides in the country.  

He & Dotty instilled a love of animals in all their daughters, putting up with pet turtles, mice, guinea pigs, rabbits, cats, dogs & ponies. To the delight of his daughters & neighborhood kids, he taught their two ponies to pull a sled and wagon. Under the influence of two of his daughters, Dale later got hooked on horses, buying a horse of his own and riding with his youngest daughter in Kettle Moraine for many years. Even in his late 80’s, Dale could be seen walking his dog(s) around town and often walked his daughters’ dogs as well.  

Those close to Dale knew he was a man of few words. But he was always there to listen and lend a helping hand. He adored his two granddaughters, Katie and Liz, and enjoyed giving them rides on his horse, babysitting, and chaperoning birthday parties when they were young. Even after his children and grandchildren became adults, his desire to be there for them never faded. Dale was so proud of becoming a great-grandfather to Katie’s daughter, Emma, and was looking forward to Liz having the first boy in the family.  

Everything Dale did, he did for his family. He was our rock. We will miss seeing his smile, hearing his voice, & feeling his hand in ours. However, our souls will forever remain connected. We hope he is experiencing freedom and peace beyond anything he could have ever imagined on this earth.  

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Dorothy, 4 siblings, Pat, Delmar, Daryl, & John, & his oldest daughter, Linda. He is survived by his sister, Ronette, brother, Jim, daughters, Rosann, Connie, & Lori, granddaughters, Katie and Liz, and great-granddaughter, Emma. A public memorial has not been planned at this time. 

Obituary: Karla Jean Masterson Goodman, 72, of MD

Karla Jean Masterson Goodman, 72, of Severna Park, Maryland passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025, due to complications of multiple sclerosis. She was surrounded by loved ones in her final hours.

Karla was born on March 11, 1953, in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, the daughter of parents William and Phyllis (Chamberlain) Masterson. She grew up in Whitewater, Wisconsin, graduated from Whitewater High School, and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from University of Wisconsin at Whitewater. Karla found great enjoyment working at the Delafield Public Library among the books she loved. She moved to Maryland later in life to be with her son Mike and his family.

A true cat lover verging on crazy cat lady, Karla raised and loved many felines. She was well known for the cat sweaters and pins she wore, as well as the many cat pictures and figurines decorating her living spaces. Karla also loved games, puzzles, TV game shows, going to the movies, Coca-Cola, the color purple, and chocolate. She adored music and spent decades singing alto in various choirs and playing the piano, clarinet, and handbells, especially at Delafield Presbyterian Church.

Karla was a follower of Jesus and a member of Woods Presbyterian Church in Severna Park, MD, where she sang in the choir for years. Karla was a proud member of Delta Zeta Sorority, which she joined at UW-Whitewater. She cultivated lifelong friendships from her chapter and they had regular get-togethers until Karla moved away from Wisconsin. She was also a member of P.E.O. International and remained close with the organization until her death.

Remaining to cherish Karla’s memory are sons Michael (Jessica) Goodman and Brian (Ashley) Goodman, grandchildren Ella Ruth Goodman and Ziggy Goodman, and brothers Kim Masterson and Bruce Masterson, along with several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her grandson Theodore Goodman, parents, and sisters- in-law Pam Schmit-Masterson and Debbie Masterson.

A celebration of Karla’s life will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 10:00 am at First United Methodist Church in Whitewater, WI, with Pastor Martinelli officiating. The service will be followed by burial at Hillside Cemetery. We will then share memories of Karla over Gus’ pizza, Coca-Cola, and chocolate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Karla’s name can be made to Alley Cat Allies (www.alleycat.org) under the Ways to Give and Tributes tabs.

Online condolences may be shared at Nitardy Funeral Home in Whitewater, WI.

Obituary: Peggy Kay Mickel, 82

Peggy Kay Mickel, age 82, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2025, at her daughter’s home in Waukesha, Wisconsin, after a courageous battle with stomach cancer. For the past 30 years, Peggy made her home in Whitewater, Wisconsin, but spent her final weeks surrounded by family and love.

Born on September 14, 1943, in Waukesha, Peggy was the daughter of Phoebe Eloise (Vick) and Ralph K. Jones. She was raised by her mother and stepfather, Ronald G. Nufer. Peggy spent her childhood in the Oconomowoc and Chenequa areas before settling in Hartland, where she lived for a little over two decades. Her deep affection for children was evident in the many she cared for as a babysitter during those years.

Family was the cornerstone of Peggy’s life. She was a devoted mother to her three daughters, and her pride in them was unwavering. After a time living in Arlington, Texas, Peggy and her daughters returned to Wisconsin, eventually settling in Whitewater. Her love and support were constants in their lives, and she never missed an opportunity to express how proud she was of them.

Peggy found joy in the simple pleasures—reading mystery novels, experimenting with recipes, and sharing her culinary creations. She was baptized in the Episcopal Church and found comfort in listening to services online when she could no longer attend in person. Above all, her greatest joy came from her grandchildren, with whom she shared a special bond. She played an essential role in their upbringing and cherished every moment spent with them.

Peggy is preceded in death by her parents, Ralph K. Jones, Phoebe Eloise (Vick) Nufer, and Ronald G. Nufer; her sisters Vicki (Nufer) Jako and Christine Jones; and her sister-in-law Diane Jones.

She is survived by her brothers Daniel (Sharon) Nufer of Monroe, WI, David (Julie) Nufer of Whitewater, WI, and Larry Jones of Milwaukee, WI; her daughters Barbara Henderson of Waukesha, WI, Janet (Matt) Bills of Fort Atkinson, WI, and Susan Johnson of Stevens Point, WI; her grandchildren Karissa Henderson of Joshua, TX, Michael Bills, and Joshua Bills; her great-grandchildren Mason, Corbin, and Camden; and her beloved nieces and nephews.

Peggy’s family extends heartfelt thanks to ProHealthCare Hospice for their compassionate care during her final days. They also wish to express gratitude to the Kachel family and the community at Brookdale Manor in Whitewater, where Peggy found a warm and welcoming home for the past 16 years.

Peggy will be remembered for her gentle spirit, unwavering love, and the legacy of kindness she leaves behind.

Funeral Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 from 4:00 PM until the time of Funeral Service at 6:00 PM at CHURCH AND CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME, 380 Bluemound Road, Waukesha, WI.

Obituary: Kathleen “Kaye” Kinateder, 83, of Jefferson

On October 20, Kathleen “Kaye” Kinateder, age 83, of Jefferson, passed away peacefully at home from kidney disease. 

She was born on December 7, 1941, in Palmyra, WI, to Daniel and Lucille Szymkowski (Walton). She graduated from Palmyra High School in 1959 and Marvels Cosmetology School, Milwaukee, in 1960. Kaye married Walter Kinateder on February 4, 1961 in Whitewater. They settled in Palmyra, and while raising their 4 boys, she provided childcare out of her home for local Palmyra families and teachers. After moving to Jefferson, she worked at the school lunch program and Cold Storage. Kaye earned an accounting degree and worked at Morgan and Meyer. Eventually, she was employed at Brownberry Bread in Oconomowoc until she retired. Kaye was an amazing baker, especially at Christmas time, when she would make platters of Christmas cookies, and Cherry Coffee Cake. Through the years Kaye enjoyed many family gatherings and going on adventures with her sisters. She and Wally took a retirement trip to Switzerland and went on historical bus tours together. Later in life she enjoyed her regular breakfasts with the pool ladies, a Vegas trip to celebrate her 80th birthday in style, and overnight Midwest casino trips with the Fort Senior Center. 

Kaye is survived by three sons, Gary (Melanie) Kinateder, Aurora, CO; Steven (Debbie) Kinateder, Helenville; Bruce (Shareen) Kinateder, Whitewater. She is also survived by her grandchildren Adam, Alex, Andrew, Lucas (Lindsay), Emily (Corey), Megan, Alisha, Tasha (Anthony), Alexander (Rebekah), and Talia (Ryan). Kaye is also survived by her first great-grandchild, Grayson Kinateder, and her bonus great-grandchildren, Farrah, Elias, Ardath, Noemi, Louisa, Rosalie, Daisy, Hewitt, Lilia, Lucas, and cousins, nieces,
and nephews.

Kaye is preceded in death by her husband Wally, son Philip Kinateder, parents, and siblings, James, Dorothy, Christine, Mary Jane and Francis, who she always considered another sister.
 
A visitation for Kathleen will be held from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm on Monday, October 27, 2025 at Schneider-Michaelis Funeral Home – 900 W. Racine St. Jefferson, WI. Services for Kathleen will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at St. John’s the Baptist Catholic Church in Jefferson, WI. Visitation will be held from 10:30 am until the time of the service. Kathleen will be laid to rest in St. John’s Catholic Cemetery.

Thank you to Kaye’s friends & family who kept in touch through letters, calls and occasional visits. A special thank you to the best neighbors for all the generous, spontaneous help and friendship they provided for Wally and Kaye, especially these last few years! A big thank you to Family Connections LLC of Watertown and their special caregivers, and the SSM Palliative & Hospice nurses for their support. Thank you to Fr. Tom Coyle and Fr. John Silva for their visits and prayers for Kaye.

Obituary: Marilyn Anne Bittner, 77, of Milton

Marilyn Anne Bittner age 77 of Milton passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family on October 21, 2025. Marilyn was the daughter of Vern and Alma Sellnow, born May 14, 1948, in Wiedman Maternity home in Whitewater, Wisconsin. Marilyn grew up in Whitewater enjoying family, brothers Phil, Bill and sister Mary and friends. She was active in the band playing the flute. A devoted member of First English Lutheran Church in Whitewater and graduated from Whitewater High School in 1966.  Marilyn attended the University of Wisconsin, Whitewater from 1966 to 1968 where she met John F. Bittner. Marilyn and John dated for three years and were married in the First Lutheran Church, Whitewater on June 14, 1969. They began their journey in the U.S. Air Force family making many friends and enjoying several adventures of which skiing became their family sport. After the military, they both worked several jobs until settling in Milton, Wisconsin. Marilyn gave birth to their only son Kristopher John Bittner on May 17, 1974. Marilyn loved being a wife, mother and homemaker. Marilyn was very active in Hope Lutheran Church, Milton with Sunday School and children’s choir. A member of several committees, she loved quilting with her church friends and being a den mother for Cub Scouts. Marilyn was a secretary for Walworth County Counseling Center, not to mention having full-time jobs one of them being a library assistant for Fort Atkinson High School, and another being a bookkeeper for Accounts Receivable for LeMans Corporation until retirement. She loved family and holiday traditions, enjoying times with their wonderful son and daughter-in-law, two wonderful granddaughters, her brother and sister’s families and their many friends and families. She loved to ski, travel, dine out, dance, as well as support their son and his family in all their activities, sports and events. She cherished life and family. She led a life truly blessed with Love, Family and Friends. 

Marilyn is survived by her husband John, son Kristopher (Kendra) Bittner, grandchildren Morgan (Christian Pope) and Natalie Bittner. She is further survived by her sister Mary (Clary) Nash and brother Bill (Sandy) Sellnow, as well as many special nieces and nephews.  She is preceded in death by her parents and brother Philip Sellnow.

Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday October 30, 2025 at Hope Lutheran Church, Milton. Visitation time will be from 9:30 A.M. until time of services at the church.  Burial to follow at Milton Cemetery.  The Albrecht Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Milton is assisting the family with arrangements.

Obituary: Dolly Hoffer, 90

Dolly Hoffer, age 90, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 28, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on January 2, 1935, to Benjamin and Mable Blair at their home in Burnett County, Wisconsin, Dolly grew up in a lively household with five brothers and one sister. From a young age, she carried a deep love for family and faith that guided her throughout her life. On March 22, 1953, Dolly married the love of her life, Ronald Hoffer, in South Dakota. Together, they shared 10 children and a lifetime of devotion, laughter, and hard work. Dolly’s greatest pride was raising her children and watching her family grow through the generations.

Later in life, Dolly worked at the local hospital caring for newborns — a role that perfectly matched her gentle and nurturing spirit. She also dedicated 15 years to H&R Block in Mukwonago, Wisconsin, before retiring. Retirement didn’t slow her down; instead, she spent her time caring for her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and countless others who lovingly knew her as “Everyone’s Grandma.” Dolly was known for her warm heart and generous spirit. She loved cooking big meals for family gatherings, puzzles and word searches, and traveling whenever she could. We cannot forget her love for the game show network! Her kitchen was always open, her hugs always ready, and her laughter always contagious.

She is survived by her children Mary Jean Robertson, Rhonda (Gary) Seraphine, Michael Hoffer, Bradley (Amanda) Hoffer, Randall (Karen) Hoffer, Troy Hoffer, and Tami (Tim) Germundson; her siblings Robert (Charlotte) Blair, Louis (Audrey) Blair, Donald Blair, and her sister Joy Watson; along with her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Joe Blair and Richard Blair, her beloved husband Ronald Hoffer, children Richard Hoffer, Carol Rinehart, and Jonathan Hoffer, and five cherished grandsons.

A private family service will be held at a later date at her final resting place beside her husband and son in South Dakota. Dolly’s legacy of love, kindness, and care will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew her.

To post an online condolence please visit www.derrickfuneralhome.com

Obituary: Cecelia Jane (Larkin) Krahn, 93

Cecelia Jane (Larkin) Krahn, 93, of Whitewater, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, October 16, 2025, surrounded by the comfort of her adoring family. She was born July 5, 1932, in Whitewater, to Philip and Marie (McCune) Larkin. She was a graduate of the Whitewater College High School’s class of 1950.

On September 18, 1954, she was joined in marriage to the love of her life, Sidney Krahn. This union was blessed with their four children, Nancy, Paul, Steven, and Marie.

During her working years, Cecelia was employed at the Whitewater Raincoat Company, American Optical Company, and was the co-owner of CK’s Keg Liquor Store from 1980 to 1990.

She was proudly a lifetime resident of Whitewater and was faithfully a lifetime member of St. Patrick Catholic Church. She was also formerly a member of the Lioness Club.

Cecelia was preceded in death by her parents, Philip and Marie; her husband, Sid; her sisters: Roberta Fero, Monica Luebke, Genevive Langer, and Nora Meisner; her brothers: Lambert Larkin and Bernard “Stu” Larkin; and her grandson, Nathan Krahn.

She is survived by her children: Nancy Boyer, Paul (Sandy) Krahn, Steven (Darcie) Krahn, and Marie (David) Manthey; her 14 grandchildren; and her 15 great-grandchildren.

A visitation for Cecelia will be held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM, at Nitardy Funeral Home- Whitewater, 550 N. Newcomb Street, Whitewater, WI 53190. The funeral for Cecilia will begin at 11:00 AM at the funeral home. She will be laid to rest in Calvary Cemetery in Whitewater.

Nitardy Funeral Home- Whitewater is assisting the family.