Obituary: Mrs. Susan Mary Gebhardt-Schweitzer, 88

Mrs. Susan Mary Gebhardt-Schweitzer, 88, Whitewater, Wisconsin passed away on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at the Fairhaven Residential Facility.

Susan was born on August 22, 1936 in Racine, Wisconsin to the parents F. Don & Georgia Gebhardt. Susan attended William Horlick High School and graduated in 1955. Susan married Thomas J. Larsen in Racine on June 29, 1957 before moving to Cicero, Illinois and having 3 children, Thomas, Steven, and Linda. During her time in Illinois, Susan became an EMT working in the emergency room at Alexian Brothers Medical Center. Later in life, Susan met Edward Joseph Schweitzer and they were happily married on May 30, 1988 in Roselle, Illinois. After selling their house in Fox Lake, Illinois in 2014, Susan and Edward moved back to Wisconsin residing at Fairhaven Residential Facility.

Susan is survived by her loving husband of 26 years Edward Joseph Schweitzer, brother Richard F. Gebhardt, son Steven R Larsen, daughter Linda S Olson, and 3 grandchildren.

No services will be held at this time. Online condolences may be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Obituary: Richard H. Grandt, 88, of Amery, WI

RICHARD H. GRANDT, age 88, of Amery, WI died Saturday, September 21, 2024, at Regions
Hospital in St. Paul surrounded by his loving family. He suffered a fall at home on Tuesday resulting in a severely broken back with extended health complications. He was born June 2, 1936, in Will County, Illinois the son of the late George H. and Elsie (Rowoldt) Grandt. Rich married Rose M. Dempsey on June 15, 1957, and they raised 3 children in the Whitewater, WI area. He graduated from Whitewater College High School in 1955 where he excelled in athletics, lettering in four sports.

In 1943, when Rich was 7 years old, his life changed when his 12-year-old brother was paralyzed with an unknown disease later called polio. In 1946, the family moved from Illinois to a farm in Whitewater, WI. Rich was 16 when his father passed, taking on even greater family responsibility as the oldest boy at home. After high school he married Rose, and they farmed together in Whitewater until retirement. In 2001, they fulfilled their life wish and moved to a home they built on Lake Wapogasset near Amery.

Rich was a skilled wood craftsman with training starting in 4th grade through high school at the campus schools. He enjoyed creating unique wood items for family, friends and others. In addition to farming, he also was a Purina Feed Specialist at Millard Feed Mill and due to an accident, he was forced to change employment; eventually he retired from a facilities repair position at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. He excelled as a winemaker and raised silver fox for marketing as pelts. He was an avid fisherman, hunter, trapper and sports enthusiast. He was a loyal Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs fan following his Illinois roots.

Rich was humble and had a huge heart. Without merit he assisted many young people both financially and with advice. He was ‘Dad’ and ‘Grandpa’ to many people beyond his immediate family. He was a member of First English Lutheran Church, Whitewater, serving as a board member and in charge of the high school youth group. In Amery, he was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church of Garfield. Giving and helping others was his motto either with a smile or otherwise. Above all, he truly cherished his family and especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife Rose; 1 son, Tom (Patsy) Grandt of New Richmond, WI; 2 daughters Tammy (Steve) Huth of Janesville, WI, and Tina (Tim) Honigschmidt of Menasha, WI; 4 grandchildren, Elizabeth (Ben) Daniel of Greendale, WI; Kimberly (Bill Welker) Grandt of New Richmond, WI; Michael Huth of Grass Valley, CA; and Kelly (Jon) Stelter of Dowagiac, MI; 6 great-grandchildren, Aiden, Hailey, Railyn, Laina and Saidee Daniel of Greendale; and Cora Welker of New Richmond; a brother, Ralph of Davis, IL; sisters-in-law Cathy Garvin of Janesville, WI and Donna Lee of New Holstein, WI; as well as numerous loving nephews, nieces and friends. He was predeceased by his parents; his brothers Lawrence, George, and Harold; and his sisters LaVerne Anderson, Irene Pevonka, and Evelyn who died shortly after birth.

Following Rich’s caring ways, due to traveling distance for family and friends, there will be no funeral services. Following cremation, a private Celebration of Life will be held for family and close friends in the spring. Memorials to the family will be used to establish a family scholarship fund for nontraditional students who want to improve their life by pursuing a higher education program later in life.

To sign an online guestbook, please visit www.williamsonwhite.com. Arrangements were made with the Williamson-White Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Amery, Wisconsin.

Obituary: Barbara Saladin, 87, of Dousman

Barbara L. Saladin, 87, of Dousman passed away on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at Angels Grace in Oconomowoc surrounded by her loving family.

Barbara was born on August 24, 1937 to Edith Doxtator.  She married Richard Laing and together they had two daughters.  They were wed until his passing in 1987.  Barbara retired from the Crestwood Bakery in West Allis.  After retirement, Barbara continued to decorate cakes for bakeries.  Barbara remarried to Joe Saladin until his passing in 2015.

She was a singer with the Oneida Singers.

Barbara enjoyed singing especially Oneida songs, baking Christmas cookies, and most of all spending time with family.  She also enjoyed camping and traveling to Las Vegas with her family.  Barbara loved animals, cats and dogs both.  

Barbara is survived by her daughters, Faith (Jay Dusenbury) Shattuck, Barbara (Jack) Reich; grandchildren, Dustin (Courtney) Shattuck, Brandon Shattuck, Greg (Christy) Loeffler, Angel (Scott) Loose; great-grandchildren, Oliver Shattuck, Lance Freeman, Adrian Loeffler, Milani Loose, Gage Loose; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Edith Doxtator and Reinie Baake; and husbands, Richard Laing and Joe Saladin.

A memorial service will take place at 4 PM on Saturday, October 12, 2024 at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 N. Newcomb St., Whitewater, WI 53190.  A visitation will take place from 2 PM until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Association.

The family would like to give special thanks to the staff at Angels Grace for their exceptional care for Barbara.

Online condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Obituary: Rosemary “Rose” Ann Schuenke (Hansen), 73

Rosemary “Rose” Ann Schuenke (Hansen), age 73, of Whitewater passed away on September 14, 2024 at her residence.

Rosemary was born on May 14, 1951 in Milwaukee to Eugene and Shirley (nee Unke) Hansen. Rose married Richard R. Schuenke on August 23, 1969 in Milwaukee.

Rose spent the majority of her life working in assisted living or food service jobs with her favorite job being George Webb. Rose enjoyed going to local diners on a regular basis and chatting with the waitresses making new friends. She looked forward to the yearly family gathering where she got to see all her family, she was famous for her German potato salad. Most recently in her retirement Rose enjoyed spending time with her friends at Blackhawk drinking coffee, going to movies and playing card games or pennies.

Rose is survived by her children, Christina (Justin) Meisenheimer of Whitewater, Nicole (Fiancé Jeff) Schuenke of Colfax, Iowa, Sean Schuenke of Horicon; 8 grandchildren, Tyler Bjeloshevich, Cody Seiser, Alex Freeman, Dylan Schuenke, Savanna (Ryan) Seiser, Kaeline (Justin) Hansen, Brayden Schuenke, Landon Lee; 3 great-grandchildren, Summer Hansen, Jonah Hansen, June Garrison (due to arrive in December 2024); sister, Sandy Siejekowski; sister-in-law, Jan Lubasz; sister-in-law, Lori Hansen. She is
further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Rose is preceded in death by her husband, Richard; son, Anthony; father, Eugene; mother, Shirley Unke- Hansen; mother-in-law, Alice Earsley-Barton; father-in-law, Ralph Barton; brothers, Ron Hansen, Jim Hansen; brother-in-law, Michael Siejekowski; brother-in-law, Jim Schuenke; sister-in-law, Betty Schuenke; and niece, Traci Lubasz.

A celebration of Life memorial gathering will be held on Saturday October 5, 2024 from 1 PM to 5 PM at the farm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the charity of one’s choice are appreciated.

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

Obituary: Richard Lee “Dick” Moyse, 81

Richard Lee “Dick” Moyse, 81, of Whitewater passed away on September 14, 2024.

Richard was the first-born son of Earle J.H. and Alice Fern (Talbert) Moyse. He grew up on the family farm in Cold Spring. Dick graduated from Whitewater High School in 1961 and WSU Whitewater in 1969. His college education was paused by his service in the United States Navy. He met Bonnie Albers, a fellow WSU Whitewater student in the fall of 1969. They married on November 28, 1970.

Dick combined mechanical/electrical skills learned from Pop on the farm with a degree in Physics. He held several engineering positions before establishing R&R Manufacturing, Inc with longtime friend, Ray Ganser in 1986. Together, they built a successful metal stamping business. They sold the company and retired in June of 2012. After retirement, Dick served for several years on the Board of Whitewater Innovation and Technology Center and the Reunion Committee of the Class of 1961.

Dick’s greatest strength was his optimism. His glass was always half full. He enjoyed traveling, was a master scuba diver, and was always ready for an outing with family or friends. Dick found joy wherever he looked.

He is survived by his wife, Bonnie Moyse; sister-in-law, Irma Moyse; nephews, Lance and Ryan Moyse; brothers-in-law, Tom (Sue) Albers, Dale (Martha) Albers, Ken (Betsy) Albers; as well as nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents; twin brothers, Duane and Douglas; nephew, Eric Moyse; and parents-in-law, Wilbert and Audrey Albers.

A funeral service will take place at 11 AM on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at Nitardy Funeral Home in Whitewater. A visitation will take place from 9:30 until the time of service. A burial with military honors will take place immediately after services at Hillside Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Jefferson County Humane Society, Touched by a Paw, or the Whitewater Food Pantry.

Dick’s wish was to be remembered as someone who was fun-loving, and happy; someone who enjoyed life to the fullest. He was successful.

Online condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Obituary: Jessica L. “Jessie” Kowalski, 42, of Milwaukee

Jessica L. “Jessie” Kowalski, 42 of Milwaukee passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, September 11, 2024.

Jessie was born on September 13, 1981 to Edwin and Ruth (Mach) Kowalski. She grew up and lived in the Whitewater area most of her life and attended Whitewater schools. Jessie furthered her education through MATC where she earned her CNA and she enjoyed working with her clients through assisted living centers.

She enjoyed watching the Milwaukee Bucks and Green Bay Packers, doings arts and crafts, and had fun learning science. Jess had a collection and passion for big hoop earrings, oversized sunglasses, and most things Michael Kors and Coach.

Jessica is survived by her parents, Ed and Ruth Kowalski; daughters, Brianna Kowalski, Ciarra Ortega; brothers, Scott (Ashley) Kowalski, Mark (Connie) Kowalski; grandson, Caden; several nieces and nephews that she adored, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Frank and Emmaline Mach; paternal grandparents, Walter and Vivian Kowalski; as well as several uncles and aunts.

A funeral service will take place at 7 PM on Friday, September 20, 2024 at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 N. Newcomb St., Whitewater, WI 53190. A visitation will take place at 4 PM until the time of service. A cremation burial will take place at a later date at Hillside Cemetery in Whitewater.

Online condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Obituary: Doris Jean (Greene) McQuillin, 87

Doris Jean (Greene) McQuillin, age 87, died Sept 11, 2024 in Whitewater, Wisconsin. 

She was born June 11,1937 in Hayward Wisconsin, the daughter of Melvin and Anna Greene. Doris graduated from Hayward High School in 1955. Doris was awarded a full scholarship to UW Whitewater, where she pursued a BS degree in education, graduated in 1959 and eventually earned a master’s degree in education. Doris began her teaching career in Roscoe, Illinois, eventually teaching for 42 years in the Whitewater Unified School District. Doris had a passion for the education profession and enjoyed working with young children. She taught second grade at Washington Elementary in Whitewater for most of her career. Doris retired in 2003, having inspired and touched the lives of hundreds of students during her career. It was rare for Doris to go anywhere in Whitewater without her former students recognizing her and thanking her for having had such a positive impact on their lives. Doris enjoyed traveling and would spend most summers taking wonderful trips to all parts of the world. 

She is survived by her brother Kenneth (Dianne) of Surprise, AZ as well as many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her sister Evelyn Wingert, brother Melvin P. Greene, and sister Donna Paddock. She will be missed dearly by all who knew her. A very special thank you to the wonderful staff at Hearthstone Memory Care and Rainbow Hospice in Whitewater. The loving care they provided was deeply appreciated by Doris and her family. Per Doris’s request, there will be no formal funeral services.

Online condolences may be made at http://www.nitardyfuneralhome.comwww.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Obituary: Joan Dolores Bray, 91

On Thursday, August 29, 2024, Joan Dolores Bray peacefully moved to her Heavenly home. Joan was a godly woman who cherished the Lord and her family with all her heart, setting a lasting example for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Joan was born in Melrose Park, IL, on November 16, 1932, to the late Robert Weaver and Martha Shear Weaver. She graduated as salutatorian from Whitewater College High School in 1950, where she was also crowned homecoming queen, escorted by her future husband, Tom, who was the king. In 1954, Joan and Tom moved to Syracuse, NY, and later settled in Clay, NY where they raised their seven children. In 1972, they relocated to Brookfield, WI, where Joan spent nearly 20 years before moving to Cedarburg, WI; there she lived for most of the remainder of her life.

Joan’s love for her Savior, the Lord Jesus, and God’s Word was profound. Though she was humble and gentle, she was a powerful prayer warrior, and the impact of her years of faithful prayer for her family, friends, and the world at large is immeasurable.

Joan had a passion for animals, music, and gardening, which she passed down through generations. She was an accomplished seamstress, creating all her daughters’ wedding dresses and many intricate counted-cross stitch pictures. Her fruit cake recipe is renowned (even by those who never thought they liked fruit cake). Joan adored all dogs, and they naturally gravitated towards her. She was a gifted piano player and even continued to play in her 91st year. Joan never raised her voice to her children but giving
them “the look” was enough to convey her thoughts. Despite her age and her memory loss, Joan always made time to help who she called “the older people,” even though most were younger than she was. And though memory loss is often a painful journey, Joan’s family was exceedingly blessed that she always recognized every one of them!

Joan is survived by Tom Bray, the father of their children: Mary Walker, Tom (Kathy) Bray, Steve (Beate) Bray, Julie (Dick) D’Agostini, Lynn (Pete) Dickinson, and Nancy (Ron) Epling. She is also survived by 16 grandchildren: Stephanie (Greg Hoffman) Walker, Matthew Walker, Tommy (Brenda) Bray, Nate (Natasha) Siebert, Ben (Nickie) Siebert, Luke (Jazz) Siebert, Christine (Mike) French, Nick D’Agostini, Vinny D’Agostini, Rachel (Jerod) Madala, Ruth (Bill) Weber, Anna (Justin) Lecher, Stephen (Morgan) Fischer, Amanda (Tony) Stockhausen, Brandon (Emily) Epling, and Mitch Epling, as well as 22 great-grandchildren: Owen, Eli, Evan, Ian, Loken, Jonas, Finn, Esten, Mason, Max, Grace, Noah, Elijah, Addison, Cam, Leighton, Willa, Cole, Madelyn, Elizabeth, McKenzie, and Landen (born 9/2/24). Joan is also survived by her sister Kathy (Doug) Markley, her son-in-law John Siebert, her sister-in-law Colleen Reddy, her niece Tara Coffman, and her great-nephew Gabe Coffman.

Joan was preceded in death by her daughter, Susanne Siebert; her granddaughter, Melissa Bray; her grandson, Daniel Bray; her son-in-law, Bob Walker; and her brother-in-law, Jack Bray.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. memorial service at Bridge Church, 1314 S. Grand Avenue, Waukesha, WI 53186.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to: Bridge Church – Kingdom Builders – to support missionary families and invest in global mission projects (1300 S. Grand Ave., Waukesha, WI), or Wildlife in Need – to rehabilitate wildlife to release into their native habitat (W349 S1480 Waterville Rd, Oconomowoc, WI 53066).

Joan’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to The Waters of Pewaukee memory care team, as well as Brighton Hospice-Wisconsin, for their kind, loving, and compassionate care of Joan.

Obituary: John Dynkowski, 73

John Dynkowski, 73, of Whitewater, Wisconsin, passed away on September 1, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

John leaves behind a wife of 46 years, Nancy Dynkowski (nee Furlong), children Beth Baker (Peter) and Michael Dynkowski (Margaret). He was also a proud Poppa to his granddaughter, Julianne and grand-dog, Lou. He is also survived by his twin brother, James and many other family members.

He was preceded in death by his father, Chester Dynkowski, his mother Josephine Dynkowski, and brother, Robert Dowey.

John was born on August 31, 1951, in Chicago and grew up on the Northwest side on Moody Ave. He pursued his studies at Illinois State University and later earned his MBA from Illinois Benedictine University. He had a successful 40+ year career in IT in various roles and companies.

John met his wife, Nancy, through a setup from mutual friends and they were married on July 15, 1978. Shortly after they moved to Naperville, Illinois and raised their children in the Brookdale subdivision, where they met many of their lifelong friends. After retirement, they moved to Whitewater, Wisconsin and immersed themselves in “lake life.” The lake was John’s happy place, and you could always find him putzing around outside, helping neighbors or cruising around the lake.

John loved spending time with his friends and family and took great pride in maintaining relationships that spanned all eras of his life. John kept himself busy with projects, as well as serving as “Dad the Handy Man” for his children. He also loved traveling, especially visiting National Parks and road tripping with their camper. John’s legacy of love and dedication to his family and friends will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of life will be held at Mickey Finns Brewery (Libertyville, Illinois), on Sunday, September 8th with visitation hours 12-2 pm and a short ceremony to follow.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all of John’s friends and family for their love, support, and condolences during this difficult time.

Obituary: Donald James Voeller, 87, of Hot Springs Village, AR


Donald James Voeller was born April 11, 1937 at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Rugby, North Dakota and passed away peacefully August 28, 2024 at home in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, after 87 fulfilling years. He was the beloved son of Edward P. Voeller and Margaret Axtman Voeller.

From an early age, Don exhibited a profound love for learning and education. His academic journey began at Little Flower School, continued at Rugby High School where he was active in sports, FFA, and music and led him to North Dakota Agricultural College and North Dakota School of Forestry, where he played football. He further pursued his passion for geography at the University of Idaho. After a spring and summer of mapping campgrounds in the American Fork Canyon of the Uinta National Forest, back to school for Masters Degree from the University of Oklahoma and ultimately earning a Ph.D. in Geography from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 1971.

Don’s dedication to education was evident throughout his career. He taught geography at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater for 34 years, where he also served as University Men’s Golf Coach for 15 years and department chair for 7. His commitment to teaching and mentorship influenced countless students and colleagues.

In June 1996, Don retired to Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, where he continued to pursue his love for golf, a passion that spanned over 50 years. In 2002, he discovered a new interest in fishing and exploring the magnificent Lake Ouachita; embracing another learning experience.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Margaret, and his brother Duane and sister-in–law Helga of Otterbruin, Germany. He is survived by his wife of 55 years Christine (Ehrhardt), son Mark and daughter-in-law Kara of Pewaukee, Wisconsin, two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, and his brother David and Jean Kurtz of Rapid City, South Dakota.

Don’s love of life, commitment to education, and warm spirit will be remembered by all who knew him. He will be greatly missed, leaving behind a legacy of knowledge, kindness and love. Arrangements are under the direction of CedarVale Funeral Home inside Hot Springs Village. Guests may register at cedarvalefuneralhome.com