Obituaries

Obituary: J. Paul Green, Jr., 91, of Milton

J. Paul Green, Jr., age 91, of Milton, WI, passed away on September 23rd, 2025. Son of J. Paul and Elizabeth (Johnson) Green, Paul was born in Cambridge, NY on March 8, 1934. Paul grew up first in Salem, NY, where his father taught agriculture. Soon they moved to Corning and then to Trumansburg, both in New York. In 1944 the family moved to Milton, WI, where Paul lived until 1955, except for five months in 1945 when he lived with his grandparents, Paul and Alyce Johnson, in Clarkston, WA. He had many good memories of growing up on farms in New York and Wisconsin. He graduated from Milton Union High School in 1951 and Milton College in 1955 with a double major in biology and chemistry.

Immediately following graduation, Paul married Denise Kagarise of Salemville, PA, at the Milton Seventh Day Baptist Church. Paul felt the call of God to serve in the Christian ministry, so the newlyweds went to Alfred, NY where both attended Alfred University. Paul graduated from the School of Theology in 1960.

He served as pastor of Seventh Day Baptist Churches at Alfred Station, NY, Bridgeton, NJ (Marlboro Church), and Salem WV. Paul and Denise moved to Wisconsin in 1981, where he served as Dean of Ministry for the Seventh Day Baptist General Conference at Janesville, WI and finally as pastor of North Lima Presbyterian Church, Lima Center, WI. All of the churches he served were rural or small-town churches.

Paul especially enjoyed telling stories to children, youth work, church camping and singing with quartets and other singing groups. Through the years, he and Denise sang with: Singing City of Philadelphia, PA; Madrigal Singers of Clarksburg, WV; Sanborn Festival Singers and Choral Union of Janesville, WI, and church choirs. He was always singing or whistling and had a song for every occasion.

During his retirement years he enjoyed singing with his quartet, working in his yard and garden, going on Natural Resources Field Trips with his brother, and trips with Denise to visit their children and grandchildren. He also served on several boards of directors.

Paul was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife Denise and their children: Carl Green, Columbus, OH; Steve (Cindy Bielke) Green, St. Paul, MN; and Laurie (Debbie) Green-Lauber, Columbus, OH; five grandchildren: Richard (Emily) and Charles Dornfeld of Minnesota; Sam (Arianna Semilia); Luke (Ashley Stephens); and Ione Green-Lauber of Ohio; a great-grandson: Clark Dornfeld; and a brother, Frank Green (Liz) of Milton. He was predeceased by his parents and sisters Helen Ruth and Georgia (Colflesh).

Funeral services will be held Sunday, Oct. 5 at 11:00 a.m. with visitation preceding starting at 10:30 a.m. at the Milton Seventh Day Baptist Church, with Rev. Nate Crandall officiating. Paul will be interred at Milton Junction Cemetery privately by the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Seventh Day Baptist Historical Society (contact sdbhistory.org) or the Janesville Choral Union (contact janesvillechoralunion.org).  The Albrecht Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Milton is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Obituary: Daniel J. Braun, 78

On Friday, September 19, 2025 surrounded by loved ones, Daniel “Dan” Braun passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.

Dan was born on February 7, 1947 in Bad Axe, Michigan to Clarence and Lorraine Braun. Dan was the oldest of fifteen children. Growing up on the family farm provided memories that Dan cherished until the end. And even after moving to Illinois, Dan would return every year to the family farm to help with harvesting, and more importantly, making memories with his family.

Dan began his career in the automotive industry before finding his true passion in carpentry. When he wasn’t ‘working’ building homes, you could often find Dan out in his shop building jewelry chests, cabinets, tables, benches and other gifts for those he loved. Dan’s generosity was felt by all who knew him. Whether volunteering at church or helping a friend in need, Dan was always the first one to show up.

Dan is survived by his partner of 29 years, Joan Simes, his daughter-in-law Kelly Braun and her two sons Connor and Devin, his son Keith and his wife Amy Braun along with their children Alyssa, Ashley, Cody and Shaylyn, his daughter Kim Braun and her three children MacKenzie, Jax and Cole, his stepdaughter Kim Simes and her wife Robin Fox along with their children Brennan and Sanibel. Dan is also survived by several great grandchildren, his 14 siblings and their families, a large extended family, and of course, his furry friend Niko.

Dan was preceded in death by his son Danny and his parents.

The family would like to thank the incredible staff at Our House Senior Living Memory Care in Whitewater who provided Dan a safe and happy place to spend this last chapter of his life.

All services will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at St. Patrick’s Church, 1225 W. Main St. in Whitewater, WI. Visitation will be from 9:00-11:00am, funeral mass following, concluding with a luncheon at 841 Brewhouse, 841 E. Milwaukee St., Whitewater, WI.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Our House Senior Living Memory Care in memory of Dan, 945 E. Chicago St., Whitewater, WI 53190. These donations will go towards the activities and fun, including ice cream treats that Dan enjoyed during his time there.

Obituary: Julie Jane (Oldenburg) Cooper, 72

Julie Jane (Oldenburg) Cooper died unexpectedly in a car accident on Wednesday, September 17. While her death was tragic, she died on her way to do one of the things she loved most–spending time with her church family while she shared her faith and with her husband of 51 years, Greg.

Julie was born on September 15, 1953, in Onalaska, WI and married Gregory Owen Cooper on April 6, 1974. Julie was happiest when she had her very large kitchen table filled with friends and family, which is also why she required a very large quantity of special dishes. She loved any event with a theme and had a gift for serving others through hospitality. She showed her love for Jesus by making others feel welcome and loved always. She loved her husband, her kids, and her eleven grandkids with her entire heart and was always ready to share about where their lives were currently taking them.

Julie was joined in death by her husband, Greg, and preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Jewell Oldenburg and her sister Cheryl Andriacchi. She is survived by her daughter and son and daughter-in-law, Sarah (Cooper) Olson and Owen and Staci Cooper; and eleven grandkids Kathryn Olson, Virginia Cooper, Lillian Olson, Joseph Cooper, Cooper Olson, Moriah Cooper, Finton Olson, Julia Cooper, Ruth Cooper, Joyeux Cooper, and Anya Cooper; her brother Randy (Pat) Oldenburg, her brother John (Lynn) Oldenburg, and her sister Cindy Oldenburg.

Julie’s life will be celebrated on Friday, September 26, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Willerup Church in Cambridge, WI. There will be a visitation before the service from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  The interment service will occur immediately after with lunch to follow at Willerup Church.

Obituary: Gregory Owen Cooper, 74

Gregory Owen Cooper died unexpectedly in a car accident on Wednesday, September 17. While his death was tragic, he died on his way to do one of the things he loved most– volunteering with kids and sharing his faith and with his wife of 51 years, Julie. 

Greg was born in Belvidere, IL on May 10, 1951, and married Julie Jane (Oldenburg) Cooper on April 6, 1974. Greg preferred to be known as the funniest guy we’ve ever known. He was an amazing carpenter, a solver of problems, a more sensitive man than he sometimes cared to admit, but most of all a person who cared for those around him and quietly served others in any way he could. He loved his wife, his kids, all eleven of his grandkids, and Jesus.  

Greg was joined in death by his wife, Julie, and preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Ruby Cooper. He is survived by his daughter and son and daughter-in-law, Sarah (Cooper) Olson and Owen and Staci Cooper; and eleven grandkids Kathryn Olson, Virginia Cooper, Lillian Olson, Joseph Cooper, Cooper Olson, Moriah Cooper, Finton Olson, Julia Cooper, Ruth Cooper, Joyeux Cooper, and Anya Cooper; and his sister Christine (Cooper) Rink. 

Greg’s life will be celebrated on Friday, September 26, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Willerup Church in Cambridge, WI. There will be a visitation before the service from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  The interment service will occur immediately after with lunch to follow at Willerup Church. 

Obituary: Carol Miller

Carol Lynn (Rogers) Miller passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, August 31, 2025, in Loveland, Colo., surrounded by her family. 

She was born December 18, 1952, to Mary Lou (Joosten) and Alan Rogers in Fort Atkinson, Wis., and grew up in Whitewater as the oldest of their four children. Carol graduated from Whitewater High School in 1971, where she met the love of her life, David Miller. They married on May 27, 1972, in Ogden, Kansas, where he was stationed in the U.S. Army. The couple returned to Whitewater where they raised two sons, Ryan and Todd.

Carol took her responsibilities as a stay-at-home mom seriously and was fiercely loyal, especially with family. She was a beloved favorite aunt and a quilt artist, creating dozens of extraordinary quilts for family and friends. She was smart and witty, taking charge of family holidays and events, and vetting her brothers’ girlfriends and wives.

In her professional life, Carol was a business woman, operating the local Ranch House restaurant with her husband Dave. She later worked at Fort Atkinson Memorial Hospital and volunteered with the Whitewater Rescue Squad. Upon retirement, Carol and Dave saw the United States, living for a time in The Villages, Fla., and traveling in their RV, eventually settling in Loveland to be near family.

Carol is survived by her loving husband of 52 years, Dave, Loveland; her son Ryan, Loveland; and son Todd (Megan), Riner, Va; grandsons Jackson, Bodhi, and Eamon; her three brothers, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents. 

A private celebration of life for family members will be held at a later date.

Obituary: Ryan J. Oezer, 48

Ryan Jay Oezer
July 19, 1977 – September 7, 2025

Ryan Jay Oezer, 48, of Whitewater, WI, unexpectedly passed away on September 7, 2025. He was born in Racine, WI, to Joel and Patsy Oezer. Ryan graduated from Horlick High School in Racine in 1995. He worked for Target for over 18 years before becoming co-owner of Reynolds Heating and Cooling, LLC, in 2020.

Ryan was a devoted foster and adoptive parent for more than 13 years through Walworth County DHHS and Milwaukee Children’s Services. He enjoyed spending time with his children, traveling, and attending events at the Jefferson County Speedway.

He is survived by his mother, Patsy (Trish) Oezer of Kissimmee, FL; his sister, Allison Oezer of Las Vegas, NV; his brother, Jordan (Mackenzie) Oezer of Madison, WI; and several nieces and nephews.

He is also survived by his former wife, Katie Reynolds of Whitewater, WI; his children, Carolina Oezer of Nashotah, WI, Leonid Oezer of Elkhorn, WI, Topanga Reynolds-Oezer of Whitewater, WI, Aiden Reynolds, Lawson Reynolds, Espyn Oezer, Isaiah Oezer, Anastasia Oezer, Anthony Oezer, and Antonia Oezer, all of Whitewater, WI; his three grandchildren; his significant other, Brenda Leader of West Allis, WI; and many other friends and relatives.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joel K. Oezer, and his niece, Taylor N. Oezer.

A memorial visitation will take place on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 841 Brewhouse in Whitewater, WI, from 4–6 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, an account has been established at First Citizens State Bank in Whitewater, WI, for “The Family of Ryan Oezer.”

Obituary: James J. Grabowski, 87

James J. Grabowski, 87, of Whitewater, passed away Sunday, August 31, 2025, at his home.

James was born on May 6, 1938, in Chicago, IL, son of the late Anthony and Hildegard (Bowe) Grabowski.

He loved airplanes and going to the EAA. He would take the family to go watch planes take off and land at Midway Airport in Chicago. He enjoyed wood and woodworking and made many cabinets and pieces of furniture. He had a passion for cars and had a few Porsches & Mercedes and loved God and the beauty of creation.

James is survived by his wife of 16 years, Patricia Grabowski; children, Paul Grabowski, Dean (Tina) Grabowski and Adam Grabowski; stepson, Vaughn M. (Julie) Lueker and grandchildren, Vaughn S. Lueker and Xavier M. Lueker. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Anthony Grabowski Jr., Ronald Grabowski and Joseph Grabowski and his adopted daughter, Tabitha Sazma.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Dunlap Memorial Home in Fort Atkinson. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Rainbow Hospice or Arbor Day Foundation and plant a tree in his honor.

A special thank you to Rainbow Hospice and Visiting Angels for the wonderful care given to James.

www.DunlapMemorialHome.com

Obituary: Colleen Marie Eissens, 63

Colleen Marie Eissens
June 18, 1962 – September 3, 2025

Colleen Marie Eissens passed away on September 3rd, 2025 surrounded by her loved ones at home. Colleen was born on June 18, 1962, in Wayne County, Michigan. A passionate lover of science and the mysteries of the unknown, Colleen carried an enduring curiosity and spirit of discovery throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jeff Halko, and her parents, Alice Acker and Alvin Eissens.

She is survived by her devoted children: Chloe (Jesus) Barbosa, Skylar (Danya) Gabel-Eissens, and Sean (Estefani) Gabel-Eissens; her grandson Tybalt, her loving stepmother, Rose Eissens; her cherished siblings, Jodi Anderson, Rodney Eissens, and Kimberly McMahon; and her loyal dog, Kira.

Colleen was the proud co-owner of Picture Perfect Window Cleaning alongside Jeff. Together, they built not just a business but a life full of shared dreams and daily joys.

She will be remembered for her sharp mind, her boundless curiosity, and the warmth she brought to those around her.

“Life is no brief candle. It is a splendid torch of which I got to hold for a moment.” — George Bernard Shaw

A memorial to celebrate Colleen’s life will be held next spring.

Obituary: Gerald Robert “Jerry” Vannoy, 85

Gerald Robert “Jerry” Vannoy
January 23, 1940 – August 30, 2025

Gerald Robert Vannoy, known fondly as Jerry, passed away peacefully at home on August 30, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on a farm in Kearny, Nebraska, in 1940, Jerry was the second of four children of Robert William and Helen (Lobb) Vannoy.

Jerry’s early years were spent in Nebraska before the family moved to Woodstock, Illinois, and later to Whitewater, Wisconsin. A graduate of Whitewater High School, he played football and served as captain of a team remembered as “The Team with Heart.” That same spirit of determination and loyalty stayed with him throughout life, and the friendships he built on the field endured for decades, with teammates continuing to gather faithfully to this day. Jerry carried his love of sports throughout his life—he was an avid fan of the Packers and the Badgers, and he especially enjoyed watching his children compete and his grandchildren perform at games, concerts, and recitals. He did his best to be there, no matter the distance or the time.

After high school, Jerry attended the Farm Short Course at UW-Madison and went on to run his own farm. It was during these years that he met the love of his life, Carol Louise O’Donald, on a blind date arranged by his sister Patti. Jerry and Carol were married soon after, beginning 62 years of marriage built on love and devotion. Their honeymoon was spent at a fishing cabin, a fitting start to a life filled with farming, family, fishing, hunting, and countless outdoor adventures.

Jerry’s life was marked by adventure and simplicity. He loved early mornings in the woods, peaceful days on the water, and the satisfaction of hard work and watching things grow. He traveled widely, creating cherished memories with friends and family across the country.

While his roots were in farming, Jerry later built a second career in the insurance business.

Jerry was a man of action more than words—he lived out his faith in the way he treated people and the way he worked every day. His life itself was his greatest testimony, showing what it meant to live with generosity and quiet strength. In his final days, the many stories shared by friends and acquaintances revealed how deeply he had touched lives far beyond his immediate family.

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” — Colossians 3:23–24. His legacy of family, faith, and love for the outdoors will live on in all who knew him.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Helen Vannoy. He is survived by his devoted wife, Carol, and his sisters Patti (Vannoy) Vochatzer, Barbara Jean (Vannoy) Jones, and Nancy (Vannoy) Schippers. Together, Jerry and Carol raised four children: Tamberlyn Louise (Jon) Dickinson, Kimberlyn Sue (Todd) Harrington, Michael Gerald (Ashlea) Vannoy, and Julie Ann (Josh) Nelson. He was also the proud grandfather of twelve grandchildren: Christopher, Austin, Jack, Corrin, Zoey, Joelle, Cecilia, Charlotte, Kaitlyn, Grace, Isabella, and Robert.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Agrace for their compassionate care, which made it possible for Jerry to spend his final days in the comfort of home surrounded by family. 

Funeral Services for Gerald will take place at Nitardy Funeral Homes in Whitewater, WI on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Visitation will take place from 9:30 AM. until the time of the service.

Memorials in Gerald’s name can be made to Agrace Hospice.

Nitardy Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family.

Obituary: Jay Thomas Silvernail, 81, of Phillips, WI

Our family is deeply saddened by the sudden death of Jay. He was born on January 18, 1944, in Morganfield, KY to Jack Fredrick Silvernail and Helen Carter Silvernail.

Jay grew up in Whitewater, WI where he graduated from Whitewater HS in 1962. He received a bachelor’s degree (1966) and master’s degree (1971) at UW-Platteville. He later received his Administration Degree at UW-Madison (1980).

Jay was an Industrial Arts Teacher, track & cross-country coach at Palmyra WI HS 1966-1968. Industrial Arts Teacher, Assistant Principal, track & cross-country coach at Elkhorn WI HS 1968-1983. High School Principal and Athletic Director at Elk Mound High School in Elk Mound WI from 1983 to June 2001, where he started the Elk Mound Booster Club and was inducted into the Elk Mound Booster Hall of Fame, and the High School Principal at Phillips WI from 2001 – 2003.

Jay was a Member of Whitewater, WI Volunteer Fire Dept. from 1972-1983, Past President (10 years) of Price County Snowmobile Trails and Secretary Treasurer of Elk River Pioneers Snowmobile Club for 13 years.

Jay Married Judith Ann Jones, his high school sweetheart, November 26, 1966, in Whitewater, WI They had one son, Jon.

Jay is survived by his wife of 58 years, one son, Jon Carter Silvernail (Ann), Jim Falls, WI; One grandson, Jaron (Tianna) Silvernail Chippewa Falls, WI; 2 granddaughters: Kylie (Adam) Brahmstadt, Chippewa Falls, WI; Kerena (Mat) Burpo, Chippewa Falls, WI; 3 great-grandchildren: Zelda Rae Ann Burpo, Thorin Jon Burpo, and Valerie Jay Silvernail.

He is further survived by: Sisters-in-law: Louise (Bill) Lassner, Sparks, NV Kathy (Dave) Stafseth, the Woodlands, TX Rita (Brad) Gabel, Tempe, AZ; Brothers-in-law: Tom (Stephanie) Jones, Gold Canyon, AZ & Gerry Jones Aurora, CO and many nieces, nephew, and cousins.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents Jack & Helen and father & mother-in-law Leland & Margaret Jones.

Jay loved music, especially bluegrass, and was a member of the Elk River String Band. He was a member of Saint Therese of Lisieux Catholic Church in Phillips where he was a member of the quartet playing music for weekend Masses. He loved hunting and enjoyed many years hunting at “deer camp” at “the 40” with his son, grandson, and friends. He also enjoyed working in his woodshop and reading. He kept busy in the winter months by grooming snowmobile trails twice a week for over 20 years.

A celebration of life is planned for a later date.