Obituaries

Robert Yetman Perinchief joined the heavenly choir on Monday, February 1, 2021, at home surrounded by family in Silver Springs, Florida

Robert Yetman Perinchief, born Jan. 31, 1931 (a palindrome) in Spring Lake Heights, New Jersey, joined the heavenly choir on Monday, Feb. 1, 2021, at home surrounded by family in Silver Springs, Florida.

He was preceded in death by his parents, the Rev. Kenneth and Mrs. Mabel Perinchief; and brother, G. Kenneth Perinchief.

Survived by wife, Dawn Perinchief of Silver Springs, Florida; daughters, Jessica Banks (Cam) of New Zealand, and Jen Pasch (Thomas) of Ocala, Florida; son, Timmy Boyle of Silver Springs, Florida; son, Paul; daughter, Karen; and son, Glenn; brother and sister-in-law, Dr. Burt and Mrs. Hazel Perinchief of Lake Mary, Florida; sister-in-law, Joan Perinchief of Canby, Oregon; grandchildren Michael, Connor, and Griffin; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and “adopted” family through church, education, travel, and charity work through the 501st Legion.

He served in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1954; received a bachelor’s degree from The College of New Jersey (formerly Trenton State College) in 1957; a master’s degree in 1958 and an education doctorate degree in 1964 from Teachers College/Columbia University (New York) – all in music education.

Dr. Bob’s teaching career spanned five decades as professor and teacher of music and humanities. It included teaching future educators and elementary school children in New Jersey, UW-Whitewater (1966-1990), St. Leo’s and Marion County Public Schools. He retired for the final time at age 84 in 2015.

At the same time he also was minister/director of music at various United Methodist, Lutheran, Episcopal and Presbyterian churches in New Jersey, Wisconsin (including First United Methodist, Congregational Church-United, and St. Luke’s Episcopal Church – all of Whitewater), and Ocala, Florida.

Bob lived a life of service. He loved mission work and saying daily prayers while out walking.

He dedicated his life to teaching – not only music, but also through drug prevention programs (worldwide), writing children’s books and by example. He loved comparing life experiences with everyone he met. His curiosity and gregarious nature knew no bounds. Bob lived a life of advocacy. He marched on Washington with MLK, Jr.; he met great musicians of all colors and backgrounds. Bob saw no color or disability in anyone and he taught others to look beyond to what makes us all alike.

Dr. Bob wrote thousands of poems, several books and he created entirely new ways of teaching.

He was a lifetime member of National Education Association, National Association for Music Education (formerly MENC), American Choral Directors Association (life member #4) and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia.

Bob’s love of people, music and culture led him to all of the continents, all 50 states, most of the islands, and all corners of Canada and Mexico.

He came, he saw, he lived.

Services will be held at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 800 SE 41st AVE. Ocala, FL 34471 at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021.

Cary Douglas Mickelson, 77, Fort Atkinson, passed away on Sunday, February 7, 2021 at the Rainbow Hospice Inpatient Center

Cary Douglas Mickelson, 77, Fort Atkinson, passed away on Sunday, February 7, 2021 at the Rainbow Hospice Inpatient Center in Johnson Creek, WI.

Cary was born on November 23, 1943 in Stoughton, WI to Iver and Audrey (Grass) Mickelson. He attended high school in Port Washington, WI. Cary married Lucille Kramer on June 22, 1985 in Whitewater, WI. He was employed by McLay Auto Parts, Stritzel Heating and Cooling and for the last 12 years at Winchester True Value Hardware Store. Cary loved to tinker and work on old cars, hunt and fish and pitch horseshoes.

He is survived by his wife Lucy, Fort Atkinson; daughters Shelly (William) Jones, Greenville, TN, Laura (Todd) Roller, Mukwonago, WI; step-children Randy (Jasmine) Morkved, Arkansas, Valerie (Mike) Merriner, Palmyra, WI, Andrew Morkved, Neenah, WI, Matthew (Amanda) Morkved, Whitewater, WI, Jonathan Morkved, DeForest, WI; sisters Barb (Dave) Jensen, Random Lake, WI, Sherry (Jim) Schuh, Saukville, WI, Elaine Pierre, Adell; brother-in-law Rodney Ardisana, Sheboygan Falls, WI. He was preceded in death by his parents; step-daughters Roxanne Hall and Sonja Isaacson; sister, Patricia Ardisana.

A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, February 15, 2021 at 12:00 p.m. at the Nitardy Funeral Home 1008 Madison Ave, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538. Friends may call at the funeral home on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service.

Maud Lou (nee Colby) Key, 93, of East Troy was called home to be with her Lord on Saturday, February 6, 2021

East Troy – Maud Lou (nee Colby) Key, 93, of East Troy, WI was called home to be with her Lord on Saturday, February 6, 2021.  She passed peacefully at East Troy Manor.  She was born in Whitewater, Wisconsin on November 13, 1927 to Roy and Ruth (nee Billings) Colby.

Maud joined Rainbow in Whitewater and was the treasurer for Madison.  She received a Rainbow locket for not missing a meeting.

After graduating high school and completing two years of college at UW Whitewater, she worked in Milwaukee at AO Smith as a typist for 10 years.

Maud Joined Eastern Star in 1947 and has been a loyal, faithful member ever since.

Maud married Joseph Key in 1957 in Whitewater, WI.  The couple lived life together on the Key Family Farm in East Troy for the next 58 years.  Maud loved raising her chickens and gathering the eggs, you could sometimes even find her talking to the chickens.

Maud was an active member of Saint James United Methodist Church in East Troy for 64 years.  She was a member of the Woman group and served on the finance committee and participated in many other groups and committees over her 64 years.  She often talked about Come-Double Group and how much fun they always had.

Maud will be greatly missed by the countless people she met throughout her life.  Her goal every day was to make at least one person smile.  She loved to meet people and talk, play bingo, especially when she won a prize. She also loved a good party and enjoyed seeing so many friends and catching up at the parties.  When you would ask Maud how she was doing, her answer always was “Kicking.”

Left to cherish her memory: daughter Ruth (Bob) Miller; granddaughter Tera (Nick) Theroux; grandsons David Key, Kevin Key; great grandchildren Natalie and Blake Theroux; sister-in-law Marion Henry; niece Carol (Pat) Dier; nephews Bill (Chris) Henry, Paul (Barb) Henry and many, many friends.

Maud was preceded in death by husband Joseph and son Ray.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 20th at St. James United Methodist Church (2945 Main St. East Troy) from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Service at 12 NOON.  Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in the Town of Troy.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. James United Methodist Church or East Troy Manor.

SCHMIDT & BARTELT Funeral and Cremation Services, Mukwonago – 262-363-7126
www.schmidtandbartelt.com

Obituary: Michael J. O’Connor

Michael J. O’Connor

Mike was born to Henry James (Jim) and Kathleen (Peg) O’Connor in 1952 at Fort Atkinson Hospital. The son of an Army officer, he moved over ten times, returning to Whitewater to graduate from high school. At just 17 years old, Mike enlisted as an Army Infantryman. Initially stationed in Germany, he soon volunteered to go to Vietnam, where he served with the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile).

Mike spent the majority of his career working for the state in facilities management and rounded out his career with time at UW-Madison and UW-Whitewater. While Mike took great pride in his work, his passions laid with family, friends, reading and golf. Throughout their 28 year journey, Mike and Rudy enjoyed spending time together on projects both inside and outside their house. Known to lend a helping hand to friends and strangers alike, Mike also enjoyed spending time with his granddaughters and his weekly golf league at Spring Creek with lifelong friends.

Mike passed away after an aggressive battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife Rudy (Meinel), son Shawn (Tracy) O’Connor, daughter Shanna O’Connor, granddaughters (Anna Kate and Audrey, Hailey and Mallory), his brother Pat (Karen) O’Connor, nephew Tommy and niece Anna. Mike was preceded in death by his parents and his granddaughter Mary Carol.

As an avid reader, memorials are welcomed to the Whitewater Public Library and to honor his giving nature to Whitewater Food Pantry.

George Vandling, age 70, of Winneconne, formerly of Whitewater, died February 2, 2021 at his home

George Vandling, age 70, of Winneconne, formerly of Whitewater, died February 2, 2021 at his home.

George was born in Michigan on December 6, 1950 to Earl George and Carolyn Jean Vandling. The family lived in Villa Park, Illinois, and then moved to Whitewater where George graduated from high school in 1969.

George graduated from Sam Houston State University, and spent most of his life working in sales. He married Helen in 1974 and they had two children, Jessica and Joshua. He later married Heidi Sandner and they were married for 20 years before her death in 2015.

He loved history, and he loved to read. He was smart and witty and would drive his kids crazy in his antics to avoid asking them for anything. He could laugh at himself, and tell a good story, though he was a man of few words. He loved to fish and we find solace that he was able to buy a house on the water in the past few years to spend time doing what he loved.

He is survived by his children, Jessica (Shawn) Shiveler and his son, Joshua (Suzanne) Vandling and his three grandchildren, who hung the moon in his eyes, Molly Jean, and Embry Taylor and Parker Mason. He’s also survived by his sister Debora and brother in law Larry Gnatzig, and his nieces Vanessa and Caroline and their families.

We will plan a time to be together to share stories later this year. We think dad would like that, even though he’d probably say not to bother. Please email vandlingkids@gmail.com if you would like to be invited, or to simply let us know that you knew and remember him.

To honor him, a donation to your local animal shelter or to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, two organizations that were important to Heidi, and therefore important to him, are welcome. You could also cheer on the Cubs or Bears in memory of him, he’d like that.

Robin Marie Stradinger, 59, of Whitewater passed away on February 3rd, 2021 at home surrounded by her loving family

Robin Marie Stradinger, 59, of Whitewater passed away on February 3rd, 2021 at home surrounded by her loving family.

Robin was born on June 6, 1961 to John and Jane Evers. She grew up in Columbus and graduated from Columbus High School. On October 1, 1983, Robin married her beloved husband Theodore “Ted” Stradinger and together they had two daughters.

She enjoyed gardening, line-dancing, crafting, camping, listening to country music, and most of all spending time with her grandchildren. She also worked for thirty years in personal banking at BMO Harris in Janesville and Madison.

Robin is survived by her parents, John and Jane Evers; husband, Ted Stradinger; daughters, Lindsay (Chad) Wicker, Cara (Joe Smith) Stradinger; grandchildren, Tristan Wicker, Brody Stradinger, Gracelynn Wicker, Owen Smith, Case Smith; brother, Rick (Dianne) Evers; two nephews, Austin Evers, Jake Evers; two nieces, Mallory Stidmen, Sierra Evers; and five great-nieces, Lizzie, Olivia, Hailey, Emma, and Ellie Stidmen.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents; and brother, Lee Evers.

At this time there are no services.

The family would like to give special thanks to SSM Hospice and Jody Ritsch for their exceptional care for Robin.

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

Norman H. Wegner Jr. passed away Friday, Sept. 18, 2020 at the age of 82 in Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. Norman H. Wegner Jr. passed away Friday Sept. 18, 2020 at the age of 82. He was the son of Norman H. Wegner and Vivian A. Patrick Wegner formerly of Whitewater, WI. Sister Sigrid S Wegner Gimla of Davidson, NC. Daughter Jinny Wegner 45, Victoria Wegner 44. Three grandchildren, Noah 11, Demi 10, and Ivory 2, all of Florida.

Norman was born in Manitowoc, WI. In 1938 at the beginning of WWII, Norman Sr. was a welder who worked on the submarines that served in the war effort. The love of the sea would ultimately be a constant presence in both father and son.

The family moved to Milton, WI and shortly then moved to Whitewater. Norman attended Whitewater State Teachers College. After graduating in 1956 Norman joined the Navy. Thus began the lure of the open road and sea.

After 3 yrs. Norman returned to Whitewater to attend college. During this period he would take a semester off and travel the world, Europe, Scandinavia, middle east, Orient and beyond. He always returned home to finish school. At one point after graduation, Norman joined the Merchant Marines on the upper peninsulas of the Great Lakes.

Norman married in 1974 to Johanna Vacchonie whom he met in Paris, France. Johanna was from New York, N.Y. and so they were married there. Norman was a Marine Insurance adjuster for Dole Foods. They moved to Florida and remained there.

Norman’s adventurous spirit remained a constant throughout his life. He was forever remodeling, repairing and adding on to his home. Gardening was also a passion as growing up in Wisconsin he had that rich black soil as a fond memory. The open road, sky and sea remained a strong part of Norman’s life to the very end. He will be missed by many as he was loved by many.

His wish was to be cremated and ashes spread at sea. Service will be planned at a later date.

Dolores Ann Schroeder, 86, of Fort Atkinson passed away peacefully after a lengthy battle with irreversible pulmonary hypertension on Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2021 surrounded by her loving children at home

Dolores Ann Schroeder, 86, of Fort Atkinson passed away peacefully after a lengthy battle with irreversible pulmonary hypertension on Tuesday, February 2, 2021 surrounded by her loving children at home.


Dolores was born on March 30, 1934 in Milwaukee to Bernard and Anna (Niessen) Konczal. She attended Pulaski High School. Dolores met the love of her life and married Thomas F. Schroeder on February 11, 1961. Together they had four children.

Dolores’ hobbies included reading, knitting, gardening, quilting, bird-watching, embroidering, as well as being a dedicated homemaker to her family. Music was also a big passion of hers and she loved to sing and play the piano and enjoyed her husband’s polka band music. Dolores and Thomas loved to travel and take “road trips,” especially to Door County, which was one of their favorite destinations. She was a faithful member at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Whitewater. Dolores will be deeply missed by all.

Dolores is survived by her children, Andrew Schroeder, Rose (Kevin) Fritz of Whitewater, Theresa (Jonathan) Hartwig of Fort Atkinson, Stephen (Jennifer) Schroeder of Milton; six grandchildren, Carl, Sarah and Jessica Fritz, Michael (Shelby Graffin) Hartwig, Kimberly (Tyler) Gailloreto, Amy (Donald) Anderson; great-grandchildren, Caspen Fritz, Dominic and Leo Gailloreto, as well as three soon-to-be great-grandchildren due this spring; and sister, Elaine Hammer.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bernard and Anna; husband, Thomas; brother, Donald; sisters, Barbara and Christine.

A mass of Christian burial will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 5, 2021 at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Whitewater. A visitation will take place from 10 a.m. until the time of mass. The family asks that guests practice social distancing and dress casually for the services.

Memorials may be made to St. Patrick Catholic Church in Whitewater or Rainbow Hospice.

The family would like to give special thank-you to all of the medical staff, Rainbow Hospice, and Nitardy Funeral Homes for the exceptional care of their mom.

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

“Rub-a-dub-dub” 🙂

Diane Elizabeth Gessler, 72, of Fort Atkinson passed away on January 23, 2021 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison

Diane Elizabeth Gessler, 72, of Fort Atkinson passed away on January 23, 2021 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison.

Diane was born on July 1, 1948 in Fort Atkinson to James George and Grace Elizabeth (Vondras) Gessler. She spent most of her early life in Whitewater, graduating from Whitewater High School and going on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree from UW-Whitewater. She then went on to maintain a career as an auditor for the Department of Revenue for 37 years until her retirement. She had many hobbies, including gardening, canning, reading, and cooking. She was also passionate about donating to charities and spending time with her family.

Diane is survived by her mother, Grace; her sister, Linda Pellmann and her husband Lee; her nieces and nephews, Tammy (Jeff) Miller, Teri (Jay) Tallman, Jamie Petrasek, Jason (Trisha) Pellmann; her great nieces and nephews, David, Kaila, Jacob, Noah, Brionna, Lukas, Riley, Cejay, Josh, Ethan, Lily, Macy, and Sienna.

She was preceded in death by her father, James; and Staff Sergeant David James Gessler.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, February 8, 2021 at Hillside Cemetery in Whitewater.

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