Obituaries

Barbara Ellen Walenton, age 77, of Whitewater passed away unexpectedly at home on the family farm on Tuesday, July 28, 2020 surrounded by her loving family

Barbara Ellen Walenton, age 77, of Whitewater, Wisconsin passed away unexpectedly at home on the family farm on Tuesday, July 28, 2020 surrounded by her loving family.

Barbara was born in Whitewater on December 30, 1942 to Donald and Eleanor (Rutoski) Vail. She received her education at Whitewater High School and was a member of the Girls Scouts and Rainbow Girls. On January 2, 1960, Barbara married Robert E. Walenton at the First United Methodist Church in Whitewater, recently celebrating their 60th anniversary.

Barbara was a homemaker at heart and enjoyed spending time with family and friends on the Farm. As a young woman, she worked as a CNA and medical records technician. Her need to be a stay-at-home mom inspired her to become a business woman so she became an Avon representative. Her love of children inspired her to open her own licensed daycare provider. To this day, those daycare children have grown to become family.

Family was her foundation, but her passion was always horses, a passion she shared with her husband. Bob and Barb raised quarterhorses on the Farm and, for many years, along with their six children and other family and friends, they hosted hundreds of riders and barrel racers at the Walenton Speed Shows on the Farm, also known as the “Rockin ‘B’ Ranch.” Inevitably, the shows outgrew the Farm, so they took the shows on the road. For over a decade Bob, Barb and crew held the Walenton Speed Shows at the Walworth County Fair in Elkhorn. It was only natural that was an active member of the Boots and Saddle Club of Walworth County and the Kettle Moraine Saddle Club.

Barb enjoyed cooking, gardening, bird watching, reading, doing puzzles and gambling. You will often find family and friends gathered at the Farm for game nights, cookouts and bonfires. She loved playing cards and learning new games. Barb loved to dance and go to concerts, especially if the music was country music. Her love of traveling often took them “Up North,” and it seemed that every year, you would find her “on the road again” to faraway places like Arizona, Colorado, Minnesota, Michigan, Tennessee, Kentucky, North Carolina and Virginia. Her favorites were Nashville, Dollywood, Loretta Lynn’s Farm and the occasional casino in between.

Barbara is survived by her husband Bob, three beloved sons: John E. Walenton of Whitewater, Donald J. (Cindy) Walenton of Smiths Grove, KY, and Robert D. Walenton of Rhinelander; three beloved daughters: Susan R. (Brent) Nelson of Janesville, Michelle M. (Chris) Haferman of Whitewater and Carrie E. (Scott) St. Clair of Whitewater; grandchildren: Jennifer (Quinn) Walenton, Samantha Bluhm, Catherine Nelson, Melissa Walenton, Nicholas Haferman, David Nelson, Cheyenne St. Clair, Canyon St. Clair, Jodi Harris, Jozie Reed, Jamie Reed, Nicki Olds, Emily Olds, and Chad Olds; great-grandchildren: Angelita Walenton-Garnica, Kiana Walenton-Garnica, Jay Schwartz, Braxton West-Olds and Ophelia Diaz; sisters: Karen (Bob) Fadness of Colorado, Bonnie (Tom) Miller of Whitewater, and Nancy (Perry) Kairis of North Carolina; brother-in-law: Raymond (Jan) Walenton of Whitewater; sister‑in‑law Avril Walenton of Menominee Falls, WI; nieces: Debora Austin (and her son Elijah) of Friendship, WI, Amy Austin of Milwaukee, WI, Amanda (Daniel) Travis of Walkertown, NC, Ashley Kairis of Cary, NC, Lisa Burk of Longmont, Colorado, Geila Frevele of Menominee Falls, Lori Lang of Menominee Falls and Robin Walenton; nephews: Andy Fadness of St. Croix Falls, WI, Rodney Walenton and Ronald Walenton, both of Whitewater; and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents Donald and Eleanor Vail.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Farm at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, Barb’s family would like to suggest a donation to the Muscular Dystrophy Association or to the family at: Walentons, P.O. Box 818, East Troy, WI 53120-0818.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the Whitewater Rescue Squad, the Rock County Sheriff’s Department, and the Mercy Hospital Paramedics for their assistance and compassion.

The Nitardy Funeral Home of Whitewater is assisting the family. Online condolences may be given to the family at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Dorothy Jean (Bulkiewicz) Hoogstra, 83, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 23, 2020

Dorothy Jean (Bulkiewicz) Hoogstra, 83, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 23, 2020.

Dorothy was the dear daughter of the late Roman (Red) and the late Helen (Biga) Bulkiewicz. She was the last surviving of their six children.

Dorothy leaves behind her loving family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Hoogstra.

At Dorothy’s request, services will be limited and private.

Nitardy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Marsha (Priewe) Lawton, 70, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Friday, July 24, 2020 at the Glenwood

Marsha (Priewe) Lawton, 70, of Whitewater passed away peacefully on Friday, July 24, 2020 at the Glenwood in Whitewater. 

Marsha was born on November 25,1949 to Herbert and Edna (Hicks) Priewe.  Marsha was a lifelong resident of Whitewater and a 1968 graduate of Whitewater High School.  Marsha was very passionate about her work with Primerica Financial Services and made many friends throughout her career.   She loved spending time with family and friends and enjoyed cooking for them.

Marsha is survived by two sons and six grandchildren; Dirk (Becky) Lawton of Whitewater and their children Will (19), Izzy (10), Sam (8), and  Jason (Katie) Lawton of La Crosse, WI and their children Jack (16), Luke (15), Josephine (13). 

She is preceded in death by her parents and her daughter Jenny Lawton. 

A private burial will be held at Round Prairie Cemetery.  A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date when family and friends are able to gather. 

Nitardy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Online condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com.

Joan Marie Wagie was called home by the Lord on July 23, 2020, following a brief illness

       Joan Marie Wagie was called home by the Lord on July 23 , 2020,  following a brief illness.  Joan passed away in her Adult Family Home in Janesville, WI.

       Joan was born on February 13, 1947,  in Whitewater, WI to Walter “Butch” and Jean (Ebert) Wagie.  At 18 months old Joan had measles, which led to a high fever that caused complications resulting in intellectual and physical developmental disabilities.  She lived at home with her family until 11 years old at which time she was placed in various facilities and homes that could better address her special needs.  Her family was always there to visit and support her through the years.  Joan was a true example to all who knew her that we can find joy and meaning in our day no matter what our circumstances happen to be.

       Joan was preceded in death by her parents, two nieces Stacie Lee Rogers and Nicole Marie Wagie and her great niece Payton McKinney.  She is survived by her brother William “Bill” (Jane) Wagie and sisters Dorothy (Stan) Waga, Eileen (Fred) Laatsch, Mary (Russ) Rogers and Betty (Dave) Schelb.  Joan is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.   Private services will be held with her family in attendance at a future date.  Internment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Whitewater. 

       Joan’s family would like to thank Dawn and the Aptiv home care staff for their compassionate care and the Aptiv Day Service program for the activities they provided her which added quality to Joan’s life.  They also thank Agrace Hospice service for helping care for Joan in her illness.  Joan’s family is also very grateful to Father Mark and St. Patrick’s church. 

      In lieu of flowers Joan’s family would like to suggest a donation to Agrace Hospice of Janesville, Saint Patrick Catholic Church of Whitewater, the Alzheimer’s Association, or to a charity of your choice.  

 Nitardy Funeral Home is assisting the family, www.nitardyfuneralhome.com.

Fred A. Beck, 77, beloved husband, father, brother and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home on July 20, 2020 (Updated)


Fred A Beck, 77, beloved husband, father, brother and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home on July 20, 2020.

Fred was born on June 11, 1943 to LeRoy Beck and Adaline (Schroeder) Boyce.

In his early years, Fred loved motorcycles, trap shooting, hunting, fishing and woodworking.

Fred is survived by his five children; Lisa (Tom) Meitzner, Julie (Peter) Urdahl, Doug (Amy) Root, Wade (Lisa) Root, and Tammy (Scott) Wiedenhoeft; sisters, Barb (Bob) Moore and Diane (Al) Thorman. He also has several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Fred is preceded in death by his wife, Judy, brother, Wayne Beck, and his parents.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the Jefferson County Humane Society.

Nitardy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences can be made to www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Gordon “Doc” Donnelly Friedrichs, of Waukesha, Wisconsin, passed away on July 10, 2020 at the age of 91 at the WI Veterans Home in Union Grove

Gordon “Doc” Donnelly Friedrichs, of Waukesha, Wisconsin, was born on June 10, 1929, and passed away on July 10, 2020, at the age of 91 at the Wisconsin Veterans Home at Union Grove, WI

Formerly of Whitewater and raised in Lake Geneva, Gordon graduated from Lake Geneva High School in 1947, having lettered three years each in football and basketball. After playing freshman basketball at Oberlin College during the 1947-’48 season, “Doc” joined the US Marine Corps and earned a berth on the Parris Island Basketball tour team. Between 1950 and 1952 the team won consecutive All-Marine championships on both East and West coasts, posting season records against collegiate and military teams of 55-6 and 41-8.

Entering UW-Whitewater in 1954, Doc was chosen President of his Sophomore class and won three letters in basketball, being honorably mentioned Little All-American his Senior year. Gordon received the Citizen of the Year award in 1961 from the Whitewater Chamber of Commerce. He received the Hall of Fame award in 1982 for Basketball at UW-Whitewater.

Upon graduation in 1957, Doc entered the insurance business and in his role as a Northwestern Mutual Life agent, he was named one of the company’s three Young Men of Distinction in 1959. Gordon is a past-present of the Whitewater Jaycees and was presented the Distinguished Service Award by that organization in 1965.

In 1967, Gordon joined a professional management consulting firm and moved to Brookfield, WI, where he coached three years in the Elmbrook Little League Baseball and Bucketeer Basketball recreation programs. He remained a partner in the firm for 31 years while serving as Vice President and retired in 1998.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy (nee Torrent), of 58 years, of Waukesha, WI; his children, Elizabeth (Louie) Vasquez, Waukesha, WI; James (Elaine) Friedrichs, Weeki Wachee, FL; Heidi Friedrichs; Wauwatosa, WI; and John Friedrichs, Waukesha, WI. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hans and Gladys Friedrichs, brothers Donald (Esther) Friedrichs, Robert (Pauline) Friedrichs, and Edward (Lucy) Friedrichs; his son, Peter G. Friedrichs; and his brother-in-law, Frederick (Patricia) Torrent, Brooksville, FL. He is survived by 11 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, and many more relatives throughout the country.

He wishes God’s blessings to you all. “Be not afraid – “Semper Fi.”

A private burial will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Lake Geneva, WI.

Church & Chapel Funeral Service Serving the Family
Milw. 262-827-0659 Wauk. 262-549-0659
Online Obit, Condolences, Directions
www.churchandchapel.com

Banner Obituaries Aren’t Disappearing; They’ll Just be Part of a New Section

The Banner staff wishes to extend the services of our publication by welcoming announcements from readers of what might be called “life events,” such as births/adoptions, engagements, weddings, special birthdays/anniversaries including quinceaneras, retirements, achieving citizenship, and the like. Consequently we will be merging obituaries into a new category on our homepage called “life events.” This change will probably occur around next Monday, July 20. Please consider sharing your or your family’s special events with the community in this way. Photos will, of course, be welcome.

Linda Kay Niemuth, 69, of Hustisford, passed away July 11, 2020 at UW Hospital in Madison

Linda Kay Niemuth, 69, of Hustisford, passed away July 11, 2020 at UW Hospital in Madison.

A private service will be held on the shore of Lake Sinissippi on Thursday, July 16th for family and close friends. Memorials, if desired, may be directed to UW Carbone Cancer Center (600 Highland Avenue, K4/658, Madison, WI 53792-6164). Hafemeister Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Watertown is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.hafemeisterfh.com.

Linda Kay Kuehni was born June 29, 1951 in Stanley, WI, daughter of Warner and Jennie (nee Thoreson) Kuehni. She graduated from Cadott High School. Linda married Daniel Niemuth on October 19, 1968 in Cadott, WI. Together, they shared 51 blessed, wonderful years. Linda worked at Spacesaver in Fort Atkinson and then Fairhaven in Whitewater, where she retired.

Linda was a member of the Garden Club in Hustisford, and was in the various ladies’ circles at church. She was known for her smile that lit up a room. She crocheted countless blankets and gifted them to her family and loved ones. In her spare time, she enjoyed reading and baking pies and cookies. She loved being on the water and watching the lake. Linda appreciated a well-made bed. She helped people without needing to be asked and could make friends with anyone. Together, Linda and Dan attended the Packers Super Bowl victory in 1997 in New Orleans. Most of all, Linda loved spending time with her grandkids and granddogs.

Linda is survived by her husband, Daniel Niemuth; children, Jeremy (Cori) Niemuth, Melissa (John) Seamonson, Jason (Kerry) Niemuth, Laura (Seth) Nagy; Grandchildren, Chelsea and Tyler Niemuth, David and Joshua Seamonson, Savannah and Charlotte Nagy; siblings, Ruth Ramsier, Karen (Ken) Habedank, Clarence (Eileen) Kuehni, Rodney (Darlene) Kuehni, Jon (Ruth) Kuehni, David (Carla) Kuehni; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Janet (Roman) Bourget; brother, Jerry Kuehni and sister-in-law Betty Jacobson; brother-in-law Ronnie Ramsier.

Wayne A. Saxe, 88, went to be with the Lord on July 8, 2020 at his home with his loving wife by his side

Wayne A. Saxe, 88, went to be with the Lord on July 8, 2020 at his home with his loving wife by his side.

Wayne was born in his grandparent’s house on September 5, 1931 in Lima Center, WI the son of Glenn and Kathryn (Hunt) Saxe. The Saxe farm was a homestead that Wayne’s grandparents bought from the State of Wisconsin. Wayne was very proud of his home farm. He went to grade school in a one room school house in Lima Center and attended high school in Whitewater, WI, graduating in 1949. While Wayne was in high school, he was able to take the train from Lima Center in to Whitewater for 10 cents. After graduating high school, Wayne enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1950 and was stationed in Las Vegas, NV. While in Las Vegas, Wayne met Patsy Scott and the two were married. After an honorable discharge, the couple purchased a farm that neighbored his parents’ farm. The couple farmed together until Patsy’s death on January 20, 1975. Wayne was given the honor of Farmer of the Year two times during his farming career. In the 1950’s Wayne and some of his friends formed a snowmobile club called the Snow Seekers. After his 25 year farming career, Wayne purchased the Lone Star Inn of Twinkling Star Road and operated the bar and restaurant for 35 years. In 1991, Wayne met Edith Allen and the two were married in 1999. The couple ran the bar together until their retirement. They loved to attend NASCAR races, and were season ticket holders for the Badgers and the famous Green Bay Packers. The two traveled to Hawaii and all across the United States to the Meadowlands, attending two Rose Bowls. They also attended a host of Packer games, including the 1998 Super Bowl. Wayne and Edith also enjoyed a trip together to Las Vegas with a highlight being their visit to Nellis Air Force Base. For leisure, Wayne enjoyed playing cards, especially with his family. He was a member of the Whitewater Country Club for a number of years and golfed very well. It must be mentioned that for 25 years, the Lone Star hosted the UW-Whitewater Quarterback Club and Tip Off Club for their meetings and socials. In 2017, UW-Whitewater awarded Wayne and Edith a Distinguished Service Award for their support over the years. Wayne lived a full life and he will be dearly missed.

Wayne is survived by: his loving wife, Edith Saxe; his daughter, Nancy (Mike Ilg) DeSpain; his daughter-in-law, Kandie (Reed) Fulton; 3 stepsons, Kyle (Lori) Allen, Karl (Jessica Thorson) Allen, Joe (Becky Palmer) Allen; 5 grandchildren, Nathan (Jordan) DeSpain, Summer (Bobby) DeSpain, Mary (Chase) Ervin, Michael (Alisha) Saxe, and Hunter Allen; 6 great-grandchildren, Payton, Jayci and Dayvee DeSpain, and Charlie, Bailey and Emerson Ervin; and a sister, Dorothy (Dale) Pieper. Wayne is also survived by a number of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Patsy, and his dear son, Scott Saxe.

The family would like to extend a special, heartfelt thanks to Rainbow Hospice for the loving care they provided to Wayne and his family the last few months.

A Friends and Family Gathering will be held to honor Wayne’s life at a later date.

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

Nancy A. Cassano, 77, of Whitewater passed away on Wednesday, July 8, 2020 at home after a mercifully short illness from cancer

Nancy A. Cassano, 77, of Whitewater passed away on Wednesday, July 8, 2020 at home after a mercifully short illness from cancer.

Nancy is survived by her children Brad Cassano, Scott Cassano, and Kim Cassano.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Dennis Cassano, sisters Mary DeSobe and Barbara Harkonen, and sister-in-law Barbara Lewis.

Per Nancy’s wishes, there will be no funeral services.

The family would like to give special thanks to Nancy’s family and many friends in Monticello, Prairie Village, the Ice Age Trail Alliance, the League of Women Voters, Lauderdale Lakes, Monticello High School, the Friends of Lake Maria, and the Class of ’61.

In honor of Nancy, donations may be made to:

In Wisconsin:
Ice Age Trail Alliance
Community Space
Bethel House

In Minnesota:
Lake Maria State Park
Monticello High School