Life Events

Kenneth I. Mach, 66, passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Fort Memorial Hospital in Fort Atkinson, WI. Ken was born on October 22, 1958, in Fort Atkinson, WI, to Emmaline (Fronek) and Frank Mach. He married Deanne (Dee) Zoesch on August 15, 1981.

Ken was funny. He loved to make people laugh. With his “Allllrighty then!” Ace Ventura impression, and so many others, he always had us laughing. His kids got their sense of humor from him.

Ken was passionate and hard-working. His first passion was fishing. He caught more walleye and blue gill than we could count, which led to wonderful weekly family fish fries. He was THE BEST cook. He loved making huge meals for the family for any occasion. He was happiest when we were all around the table, enjoying food and sharing laughs.

Ken was good at everything he did. Years ago, I wanted to try painting and bought all the materials and an instruction book on painting birds. While I was at work one day, Ken decided to give it a shot. Of course, they were beautiful. We still have all of his paintings on our walls.

When we remodeled our first home, Ken dove into landscaping with passion. He worked tirelessly until the yard was filled with flower beds that attracted hummingbirds and butterflies. He hand-dug a pond, installed a waterfall, and even had koi delivered from Japan. His flower gardens were breathtaking, so much so that strangers would knock on our door to compliment him. Inspired by this, Ken decided to start his own landscaping business.

When he had an illness a few years ago and wasn’t able to fish or be as active as he wanted, he set up an aquarium to keep him occupied. One tank led to two, which led to seven.

Ken was so proud of his son and daughter. He wasn’t just proud of what they had accomplished professionally; he was proud of the wonderful people they had become. He was happiest when “the kids” were home but enjoyed texting with Bryan during Cubs/Bucks/Packers games. He lit up when Jami called him after every Green Bay Packers touchdown and answered every call with, “Did you like that one??” He loved his daughter-in-law Caitlyn as his own and would say, “She’s a sweetie,” every time she left the house. Ken had a hard time thinking anyone was good enough for his daughter but realized Jami had found an amazing man in her husband Dave and couldn’t help but love him.

But most of all, Ken was kind and loved his family and friends unconditionally. Ken lived for the time with his brothers, sisters, and family. They weren’t just his family, they were his friends. Whether it was fishing, playing cards, or a large family gathering, Ken was always the last one to leave because he didn’t want it to end. He had a special place in his heart for his nephew, Alex Fero, who was there for him (and me) during very tough times. We couldn’t have gotten through those times without Alex.

I’ll never forget how Ken loved and cared for me during all the years when I was working too many hours. Supper was ready for me whether I got home at 8 p.m. or 3 a.m., and he brought it to me on a warm plate. He cooked, cleaned, and did laundry—whatever needed to be done.

We would like to thank the Whitewater Police Department and Whitewater EMS. Special thanks to Dr. Frazier and his team for trying so hard to bring Ken back to us and for the kindness and hugs they offered so freely.

Ken is survived by his wife Dee of 42 years and his children: Bryan Mach and his wife Caitlyn Williamson of Madison, WI, and Jami Mach and her husband David Costello of Pueblo West, CO.

He is also survived by his siblings: Frank Mach of Fort Atkinson, WI; David (Teresa) Mach of Sycamore, IL; Mike (Deb) Mach of Sugar Camp, WI; Cheryl Eisner of Whitewater; Ruth (Ed) Kowalski of Whitewater; Lynn Mach of Madison, WI; and Carey (Mark) Fero of Whitewater.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Dennis Mach; his sister-in-law, Lois Mach; and his brother-in-law, Pat Eisner.

A memorial visitation will take place from 3 PM until 5 PM on Monday, February 24, 2025 at Nitardy Funeral Home in Whitewater.

You will never be forgotten, honey. Xoxo

Charlotte Ellen Perkins, 84, of Whitewater passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, February 13, 2025 at her home in Whitewater.

Charlotte was born on August 29, 1940 to Allan and Florence (Bishop) Agen.  She graduated from Palmyra High School. Charlotte married Douglas Congdon on June 11,1960 and together they raised four daughters: Elizabeth, Mary, Laura & Amy in Mukwonago, WI. 

She worked as a CNA in Fairhaven’s Skilled Nursing while completing her education and becoming a Certified Medical Assistant, she worked for a time at Orthopedic Associates and then returned to Fairhaven in Whitewater to work in Fairhaven’s Memory Care facility.

Later, Charlotte met Forrest Perkins and the two were married on February 27, 2002 in Gulf Shores, AL.

Family was very important to Char and she spent as much time as possible with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren as they were growing up. She also enjoyed her flower beds (especially her Hostas), playing Mahjong at the Whitewater Senior Center and with her friends at Blackhawk, swimming, puzzles, nature walks, traveling, curling up with a good book and of course, Warhawk Football.

Charlotte is survived by her brother, Gordy (Sue) Agen, daughters: Beth (Dave) Johnson, Mary (Dave) Ludwig, Laura (Jerry) Stapleton, Amy (Scott) Bartlett; Grandchildren: David (Jenny), Alex (Bess), Eric (Joe), Emily, Sean (Angie), Leah (Korie), Elliott, Carter, Liam, Christopher & Hailey. Great-grandchildren: Stacy, Brett, Arianna, Tyler, Scout, Ezekiel, Hayden, Haylee, Jaxon, Ryder & Saige

She was preceded in death by her parents, Allan and Florence Agen; husband, Forrest Perkins; brother Richard, grandsons: Bradley and Matt, granddaughter, Julie.

A memorial service will take place at 12 PM on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at Nitardy Funeral Home in Whitewater.  A visitation will take place from 10 AM until the time of service.  An inurnment will take place at a later date at Hillside Cemetery in Palmyra.

The family would like to give special thanks to our RN, Dennis and the ProHealth Hospice Team.

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

Melvin E. “Sliver” Storck, 86, of Whitewater passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2025 surrounded by his loving family in his home of 63 years.

Melvin was born on May 11, 1938 to Emil and Anna (Kreger) Storck.  After courting for several years, he married Deloris Peplinkski on June 17, 1959 and had 39 years together, until her passing on June 29, 1998.  He then married Judy (Cramer) Jones on August 10, 2013.  Melvin was a longtime member of the Whitewater Fire Department and fought the fire of 1970 of Old Main.  He retired from the Whitewater Fire Department after 26 years.  In 1992, Melvin retired from Hawthorn Melody.  In his early years, Melvin owned the Sliver’s Enco station.

Melvin took great pride in his lawn, and enjoyed caring for his lawn and made sure all steps were done to make it stand out. He also enjoyed putzing, weekends rides with Judy, hobby farming, and weekday visits with “the Boys.”  Melvin was an avid Packer fan.  In earlier years, Melvin enjoyed playing softball and pool.

Melvin is survived by his wife, Judy Storck; children, Meladee (Gene) Carey, Michael (LeAnn) Storck; grandchildren, Justin (Nicole) Petitt, Lee (Jenna) Storck, Nick (Tara) Storck, Kayla  (Pat) Carey, Shawn Carey; great-grandchildren, Carson Petitt, Ayden Schoonover, Cashton Storck, Kailyn Storck, Deegan Storck, Daxton Storck, Dozier Storck, Kyler Storck, Darby Storck; step-children, Mike (Deidre) Jones and families, Tim (Erika) Jones and families, Brian (Rhonda) Jones and families, Brad (Patty) Jones and families, Debbie (Rob) Church and families; and sister-in-law, Susan Storck.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Emil and Anna Storck; late wife, Deloris Storck; grandson, Donny Storck; great-grandson, Donny Joseph “DJ” Storck; granddaughter-in-law, Laura Petitt; siblings, Phyllis Butke; Genny Goehl; Lawrence Storck, Rosie Peyer; and brothers-in-law, Harley Butke, Walter Goehl, and Gordy Peyer.

Funeral services will take place at 12 PM on Friday, February 21, 2025 at Nitardy Funeral Home in Whitewater.  Visitation will take place from 10 AM until the time of service.  A burial will follow immediately after services at Hillside Cemetery.

The family would like to give special thanks to Rainbow Hospice for their exceptional care for Melvin.

Online condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Kenneth D. Konvalinka, age 81, died at home surrounded by family on Monday, January 27, 2025. Ken was born on July 14, 1943 to Charles and Josephine (Novotny) Konvalinka in Chicago, IL. Ken was married to the love of his life MaryAnn Gladish in 1964.

Ken is survived by his wife MaryAnn of Columbus; children Mike (Stacy) Konvalinka of Sun Prairie, Diane, (Jim) Ross of Grafton; sister JoAnn (Jim) Riha of Berwyn, IL; brother Donald (Darlene) Konvalinka of Elmwood Park, IL; other relatives and friends.

Ken is preceded in death by his parents.

We encourage you to share your online condolences with Ken’s family at
jensenfuneralandcremation.com

Karen Ruth Kuss, 85, of Jefferson, Wisconsin, crossed over into the next life on February 4, 2025, after a long illness. She was surrounded by the love of her family and friends–near and far, here and in spirit at Mulberry Glen in Whitewater, Wisconsin.

She was born on November 7, 1939, to Henry and Lucille Smith in Lake Mills. She was a member of the class of 1958 at Lake Mills High School and attended the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater where she studied education.

Karen lived a full and eclectic life. In her younger days, she worked at Schoenberger’s Drug Store in Lake Mills. After a brief period of living and working in Milwaukee, she was a Head Start teacher with Lake Mills Public Schools. She later worked at APV Crepaco in Lake Mills for 27 years until she retired. Bored from not working, she held a position at the Koret clothing store at the Johnson Creek Outlet Mall. When the store closed, she decided to relax and embrace retirement. She volunteered in the Special Education classroom of her son Michael at Washington Elementary School in Whitewater. The children always looked forward to spending time with “Mrs. K.”

Karen was a voracious crafter, running a ceramics store in Jefferson. She was also an expert knitter, creative crafter, fan of adult coloring books, savvy Sudoku solver, sharp Scrabble player, and sneaky Uno player (who hated to lose–especially to her son-in-law). She loved Christmas and often worked closely with Christmas Neighbors. Her musical tastes ranged from country music to the classics of the big band era, to opera, particularly being a fan of Luciano Pavarotti and Placido Domingo. She passed with Johnny Cash in the background.

One of the highlights of Karen’s life were the annual trips to Montana visiting her son Pat and his family. She loved exploring the wilderness and history of the area, developing an interest in Native American music, culture, and lore. She was particularly fond of her collection of various Kokopelli objects and jewelry. She passed wrapped in her Kokopelli jacket. A portion of her cremains will be returned to the earth of Glacier National Park and the Bob Marshall Wilderness in Montana. Among her fondest memories are the long and adventurous train rides out to Montana and back.

Karen will always be remembered as a kind and caring friend and neighbor, maintaining ties with people going back to grade school.

Karen is survived by her son Michael Van Eimeren (Virgil Miller) of Whitewater, son Pat Van Eimeren (Colleen Owen) of Whitefish, Montana; sisters, Janice Langer (Ralph) of Menominee Falls, Vicki McKee of Hebron; sister-in-law, Karen Smith Swader (Steve) of Whitewater; grandsons, Kyle Van Eimeren of Kalispel, Montana, and Nolan Van Eimeren (Shakala) of Williston, North Dakota. More recently she became a great grandma to Penelope Van Eimeren, daughter of Nolan. She is further survived by Patti Charbonneau, the daughter of her heart and mother of her grandsons; as well as six nephews, one niece, numerous cousins, and countless friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Lucille Smith of Lake Mills; and brother Monte Smith of Fort Atkinson. She will be greeted at the Rainbow Bridge by cats Riggie, Carmen, Oliver, Princess Moo; and grand dogs Luna, Sass, and Mac.

Karen requested there be no service, but her family encourages friends to gather and share their memories. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Rainbow Hospice, to which the family is eternally grateful for their compassionate and loving care over the last pages of Karen’s story. The family would like to thank the staff of Mulberry Glen. Their care was first class. The Schneider-Michaelis Funeral Home of Jefferson is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.schneidermichaelisfuneralhome.com.

Andrew S. “Drew” Bingner, 39, of Edgerton passed away on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family after a 17-month battle with ALS.

Drew was born on January 11, 1986, in Marietta, Georgia to Eric and Laura (Share) Bingner. The family moved to Fort Atkinson in 1997 where Drew attended Fort Atkinson schools. He played the cello in the orchestra as well as participating in Odyssey of the Mind. He excelled in football, wrestling and track, going to State in both wrestling and track. He was selected Athlete of the Year his senior year. Drew graduated from Fort Atkinson High School in 2004 and attended UW-Eau Claire for one year where he lettered in wrestling and track. He then transferred to East Carolina University earning a BS in Nursing in 2008. He was employed as an
Emergency Department Nurse at Fort Memorial Hospital and Meriter Hospital in Madison. Drew married Jordan Spear in 2019, and they were blessed with two energetic and handsome sons.

Drew’s greatest joy in life was his wife Jordan and his two boys, Wyatt (6) and Owen (4). He was a renaissance man who enjoyed hunting, fishing, cross country skiing, and boating. He liked woodworking, gardening, stained glass, crocheting, and many other activities.

From dragging cousins, nieces and nephews around the lake on a tube, to setting up Olympic or Survivor games, Drew was always in charge of fun-time activities earning the honorary title of “Fun Czar.” He especially loved to play board games, always bringing the newest games, ready to teach “almost all of the game strategy” to his eager challengers.

Drew is survived by his wife, Jordan; sons, Wyatt and Owen; parents, Eric and Laura Bingner; brothers Derik (TingTing) and Charles; and several nieces and nephews. He is further survived by his mother-in-law, Lory Spear; his sister-in-law Andrea (Garrett) Rawson and brother-in-law, Sam (Cheila) Moran; his grandmothers, Florence Bingner and Mary Share; as well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his grandfathers, Charles Bingner and James Share and his father-in-law, Jeffery Spear.

A memorial service will take place at 12 PM on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Fort Atkinson. A memorial visitation will take place from 10 AM until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Drew’s name to the ALS Association – Wisconsin (ALSAW) or Agrace Hospice.

The family would like to give special thanks to Agrace Hospice staff for their exceptional care for Drew.

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

Phyllis Heesch, 98, residing in Whitewater, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2025.

Phyllis was born in Pipestone, Minnesota on July 11,1926. She lived much of her life in Southern California, including many years working as executive assistant to the president of Harvey Mudd College, before moving to Loveland, Colorado and Whitewater in retirement. She loved gardening, arts and crafts, and was an excellent cook and baker. She always had time to play board games with her grandchild and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her granddaughter, Ashleigh (Corey) Bruns; great-granddaughter, Emilie Bruns, and great-grandson, Dean Bruns, all of Whitewater. She was preceded in death by her son Larry Heesch and parents Emil and Elsie Heesch.

A special thank-you to the staff at Fairhaven and Rainbow Hospice who lovingly cared for Phyllis as she prepared to join her Father in Heaven.

Richard P. Hickey, 83, of Palmyra, WI passed away on Thursday, February 5, 2025 at his home.

Richard was born on August 13, 1941 in Madison the son of Stanley and Harriet (Harder) Hickey. He grew up in Whitewater, WI and was a 1959 graduate of Whitewater High School. Richard married Joyce Becker and had two children, Steven Page Hickey and Lisa Ann (Hickey) Christenson. He later married Mary Jane (Davis) Hickey. In his youth, he worked for farmers, also Whitewater Canning Company. Richard was a talented machine operator and worked for the A. O. Smith Corporation for over 27 years. He also worked for over 9 years at High Pro Corporation and 6 years at Hudapack Metal Treating. Richard was an avid Green Bay Packers fan and an avid outdoorsman.

Richard is survived by: his son, Steven Page Hickey; daughter, Lisa (Tim) Christenson, step-daughters, Susan (Jay) Maritz, Diane (John) Sharine, Donna (Paul) Hennig, and Denise (Paul) McDermit; a daughter-in-law, Laura Huebner and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other relatives.

Thank you to all our family and friends for your generous support. Peace and love to you all.

“Don’t grieve for me, for I am free. I took God’s hand when I heard Him call. If my parting has left a void in your heart, then fill it with remembered joy. My life has been full, I savored much – good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, oh yes, these things I too will miss. Perhaps my time seemed all too brief, don’t lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your hearts and share with me. God wanted me now, He set me free!”

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

Edwin George Gerner, 81 of Arena, WI/Mesa, AZ and formerly New Glarus/Blanchardville, WI, passed away on January 31, 2025, at Citadel Post Acute in Mesa, AZ shortly after being diagnosed with cancer. He spent his last days with his children, Steve (Jody), Jennifer, Becky and sister, Sally. Ed was born on November 25, 1943, to Leslie & Enola (Schultz) Gerner in West Bend, WI and was named after both of his grandfathers. When he was five, the family moved to Whitewater, WI and Ed graduated from Whitewater High School in 1961. Then, attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison Farm & Industry Short Course. Ed married Bonnie J. Stricker on October 22, 1966, celebrating their 53rd wedding anniversary before her passing on June 12, 2020. Ed & Bonnie started their farming career on the family home farm for a short time before moving to a farm outside of Monticello where Steve & Jennifer were born. In 1974, they made a move to Blanchardville, WI where they purchased their first farm. And then came along Becky, their third child. After he retired from farming, he enjoyed driving semi cross country and loved his runs to Texas. He was a cowboy at heart. Ed was a member of the Adams Lutheran Church and volunteered his time on the church board, served as a leader for the York 4-H club in Blanchardville, mentored many youths in the dairy industry along with helping out the Green County Ag Chest. Ed loved dancing with his wife to polka music, spending time with family, playing card games & enjoyed football, basketball & volleyball, especially the Packers and Badgers. He always looked forward to March Madness while being a snowbird in Mesa, AZ. He loved to work in his shop with his woodworking for “Papa’s Creations” and selling his work at farmers markets in neighboring towns. He enjoyed his Sunday morning coffee with the guys (Duane, Doug, & John).  Ed made many friends from across the country and Canada; he was loved by many for his humor and could be counted on to make you smile. 

Ed is survived by his children, Steve (Jody) Gerner, Jennifer (Brian) Engstad and Becky Sturdevant. Grandchildren, Toni, Max (Emma), Jacob, Lucas, Thomas, Taylor (Malcolm) & Abigail. Great-grandchildren, Amaya & Amyre. A brother, Dan (Ann) Gerner, Richland Center; four sisters, Nancy Gerner, Madison; Gayle (Allen) Pierce; Lacrosse; Debbie (Tom) Ferguson, Janesville; Sally (Dennis) Wellnitz, Whitewater. Sister-in-law, Judy Wilhelmi, Houston, TX & brother-in-law Jim (Linda) Stricker, Monroe. Many nieces and nephews and extended families. 

He is preceded in death by his wife, parents, a son-in-law, Chad, a sister, Vicki, a brother, Mike, and a brother-in-law, Peter.

A gathering and memorial service is planned for late spring at the Adams Lutheran Church, Argyle, WI.

The Becker-Beal Funeral Home of Belleville is assisting the family.

Online condolences may be given at www.bealfuneralhomes.com