Daniel K. Loften “Loft,” age 71, of Whitewater, passed away peacefully Friday, December 25, 2020 at the Wm. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital surrounded by his wife and children

Daniel K. Loften “Loft”, age 71, of Whitewater, passed away peacefully Friday, December 25, 2020 at the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital surrounded by his wife and children. He was born in Janesville on September 3, 1949, the son of the late Jim and LaDean (Butt) Loften. Dan graduated from Milton High School in 1967.

Dan married Barbara Wright on June 19, 1971. He worked for Plymouth Tube in East Troy for nearly 40 years. His love for the outdoors, hunting, and fishing was instilled at a young age by his father and continued throughout his life.  He had a green thumb, enjoying his garden for many years while listening to his favorite music.  His line of prized potatoes will continue in his children’s gardens for years to come.  He was an athlete in his younger days and his love of sports carried with him, rooting on the Chicago Cubs and Bears.

Dan proudly served his country in the US Army, including a year in Vietnam.

He is survived by his high school sweetheart and loving wife of 49 ½ years, Barb; children: Travis (Dayna) Loften of Oconomowoc, Amanda (Josh) Firgens of Evansville; grandchildren: Aiden and Lillian Loften, and Clara and Rylan Firgens; brother: Bruce (Kathy) Loften of Albany; in-laws and many cousins with whom he made countless memories. He is preceded in death by his parents.

A special thank you to the staff for their care at the VA Hospital in Madison.

A Celebration of Life to share Dan’s many memories will be planned for a later date. Ward-Hurtley Funeral Home, Evansville is assisting the family.  In lieu of flowers or gifts, a donation in Dan’s name can be given to the Irvin L Young Memorial Library in Whitewater, WI.​

 Condolences may be expressed at wardhurtley.com

Dennis Glen Knuteson, long time resident of Whitewater, passed away peacefully in the early morning on December 24, 2020, at Meriter Hospital

Dennis Glen Knuteson, long time resident of Whitewater, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully in the early morning on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2020, at Meriter Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin.

Dennis was born on July 1, 1941 in Whitewater, Wisconsin to Glen and Beatrice Knuteson. He graduated from Whitewater High School in 1959. Following graduation, Dennis served in the United States Navy for three years, where he received his one and only tattoo of an anchor on his forearm.

Dennis found himself back in Whitewater to help on his family’s dairy farm after his time in the service and took over full-time after his father passed away. After years of hard work, he sold the cows and finished his working days as a pioneer of the road, a big-rig truck driver. Dennis enjoyed long conversations with friends and family while putting back a few cold ones. He had an immense love for a good hamburger and would boldly proclaim satisfaction with wide eyes and a nod of his head with each bite. His belly laugh was contagious and love for life was equally charming.

Dennis is survived by his three children; Son, Cameron Knuteson; Daughter, Caitlyn Knuteson; Daughter, Amanda Bauer; and his siblings; Sister, Pat Williams; Brother John Knuteson. He is preceded in death by his parents, Glen and Beatrice Knuteson; Sister, Lori Lee Knuteson.

Memorials can be made in Dennis’ name to Fairhaven Nursing Home, 435 W Starin Road, Whitewater WI 53190.

The family would like to give a special thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Meriter Hospital and Fairhaven Nursing Home for their exceptional care.

A celebration of life will take place at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at Nitardy Funeral Home 550 N Newcomb St., Whitewater, Wisconsin with his daughter, Caitlyn Knuteson, officiating. A visitation will take place at 1 p.m. until the time of the services at the funeral home.

Madeleine (Lanier) Isch, 94, of Whitewater passed away on December 23, 2020 at The Glenwood at Mulberry

Madeleine (Lanier) Isch, 94, of Whitewater passed away on December 23, 2020 at The Glenwood at Mulberry.

Madeleine was born on February 20, 1926 in France to Pierre and Marie Lanier. She started her working career in Paris as a cashier for the National Post Office. She immigrated to the US with her husband, Georges, in the early 50’s and worked several different jobs over the years. She was a gourmet cook, diligent home maker, a gardener who grew and preserved a magnitude for the family. She refinished furniture, wallpapered and worked alongside Georges in all their endeavors and remodels. She was an artist with crochet, knitting, reupholstering, and a master seamstress, creating and teaching her crafts. She is remembered for clothing her children, decorating their houses, many wedding dresses and outfits for others. She worked for the UW-Whitewater theater dept. creating authentic costumes for Shakespearian performances, researching and creating her own patterns for authenticity. Many of her friends were her colleagues at American Optical, where she ended her work career.

Madeleine was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She enjoyed time spent with family and was known for her wonderful devotion to making, doing, providing and loving care. She will always be remembered for her warmth, sweetness and generosity.

Madeleine is survived by her daughter, Noele S. Condon (G.R. “Joe” Condon) of Wisconsin Rapids and son Mark G. Isch (Cecelia McCoppin) of Winthrop Harbor. She is also survived by 7 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; sisters, Jeanine in Waukesha and Claudine in France.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Pierre and Marie; and husband, Georges A. Isch.

There will be no public funeral services. A family celebration of life will be held at a later time. To those who wish to contribute, please donate to your local food bank or Feeding America.

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

James Edward Ney, MD passed on to Eternal Life at his home in Delavan, WI on Tuesday, December 22, 2020 at the age of 91

James Edward Ney, MD passed on to Eternal Life at his home in Delavan, WI on Tuesday, December 22, 2020 at the age of 91. Beloved husband of Kathleen (nee Bruks). Loving father to daughters Debra (Richard) Acker, Michelle (Thomas) Masson II, and Sara (William) O’Reilly. Proud grandfather of Dr. Christopher (Ashley) Acker, Sarah (Frank) Cummins, Samantha Masson, Taylor Masson, Jonathan O’Reilly, Caitlin O’Reilly, and great-grandfather to Jude Acker. James is survived by brother Luke (Barbara) Ney, sisters Connie (Alfred) Pilz, Louise (Robert) Kohls, Nancy (Robert) Harris, and Mary McAllister. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and friends. James was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Olivia Ney, and brothers Earl and John, and brother-in-law Thomas McAlister.

James enjoyed a long medical career as an ophthalmologist in Milwaukee and Oconomowoc, WI. He was a passionate gardener and a skilled luthier. An accomplished musician, James played with several local orchestra and musical groups. His wife and three daughters meant everything to him. He offered all the guidance he could, but time was always valued as his most precious gift. He will be dearly missed.

On Monday, December 28, 2020, visitation will be at 10:00 a.m., followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m., at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Whitewater, WI. Interment at Calvary Cemetery to follow.

Due to COVID-19 and the safety of all, we will follow the Archdiocese and St. Patrick’s restrictions and guidelines:

* All attendees must wear a mask and practice social distancing.

* Seating is limited, please respond to massresponse2020@gmail.com if you are planning to attend in person for seat availability.

For your convenience, mass will also be live streamed at this link on Monday, December 28th beginning with a pre-service prayer at 10:45 a.m. and Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. This stream will be archived and available to view for the next three months at Nitardy Funeral Homes’ website.

There will be no reception after the graveside service. Please join us for a Celebration of Life gathering in August 2021. Details will be available mid-summer.

In lieu of flowers, we suggest a Memorial in the name James E. Ney, with a check made payable to ProHealth Care Foundation and indicate in the memo field that this is a donation in memory of James E. Ney. Checks can be mailed to ProHealth Care Foundation at 725 American Ave, Waukesha, WI  53188.

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

Joanne Elaine Jacobs, 88, formerly of Galesburg, Illinois, died of COVID Wednesday, December 16, 2020 at Fairhaven

Joanne Elaine Jacobs, 88, formerly of Galesburg, Illinois, died of COVID Wednesday, December 16, 2020, at Fairhaven Retirement Community in Whitewater, Wisconsin.

She was born September 15, 1932, in Dixon, Illinois, the daughter of William and Alma (Frye) Foster.  She married Melvin P. Jacobs on April 5, 1952, in Dixon, Illinois.  He preceded her in death on July 11, 1997 after more than 45 years of marriage.

She is survived by two children, Susan (Ken) Kidd of LaValle, Wisconsin and Charles (Chrissy) Jacobs of Bristow, Virginia; five grandchildren; six great grandchildren; a brother, Jack (Peg) Foster of Lexington, Kentucky; a sister, Marilyn (Jim) McVay of Bluffton, South Carolina; four nieces and nephews as well as great and great-great nieces and nephews.

Joanne was raised and attended schools in Dixon, Illinois.  She was a homemaker who enjoyed laughing and being with people as well as someone who greatly enjoyed music with singing and playing intuitively the piano, guitar, and accordion.   She was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Galesburg, Illinois.

Private burial will be in East Linwood Cemetery in Galesburg, Illinois.  Memorial contributions may be made to Fairhaven Retirement Community or to a charity of one’s choosing.  Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel is honored to serve the family.  Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.


Ruth (Sidona) Klemke Kelling, 85, of East Troy, passed away on Friday, Dec. 11, 2020 at Fairhaven after succumbing to the coronavirus and other complications

Ruth (Sidona) Klemke Kelling, 85, of East Troy, Wisconsin passed away on Friday, December 11th , 2020 at Fairhaven Senior Residence in Whitewater, WI after succumbing to the coronavirus and other complications.

Ruth was born on Wednesday, February 27th,1935 to Fred William and Evelyn Louise (Gehl) Klemke at St. Anne’s Hospital in Chicago, IL. She spent her early years in Chicago before moving to Johnson Creek, graduating from Johnson Creek High School in 1952. She went on to attend Wisconsin State College at Whitewater and earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Business Education, and Mathematics in 1956. In 1958, she married her sweetheart, Frank Ferd Kelling, on Flag Day: Saturday, June 14th , 1958 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Johnson Creek, WI. She then earned a Master of Science Degree in Business Education in 1960 from UW-Madison. She began her career as a business education and mathematics teacher at East Troy High School, and was recognized as the youngest teacher in Walworth County, WI at the time of her hiring. Occasionally, she also taught typing at the Divine Word Seminary. After her children were born, she stayed home to raise and care for them before later substitute teaching for many years, teaching HeadStart during summer school, and working at the community child care center. At the time of her retirement in February 1994, Ruth was employed by the Village of East Troy, as an assistant to the clerk-treasurer. 

Ruth took the United States Civil Service Commission examination and was deemed eligible for her skills as a typist and stenographer. When grandchildren visited, she would capture a conversation in shorthand, then amaze them by accurately repeating the conversation while looking at all those little curly lines. She was a member of St. James United Methodist Church in East Troy, WI, and, at one time, the Martha-Mary circle and visited elderly members in their homes with a partner from the circle. She loved to sew and completed countless projects for her family and household, from everyday clothes to dresses for special events, shirts, drapes, sleeping bag sheets, travel pillows, Barbie clothes and Halloween costumes. She also kept her family warm, knitting sweaters, vests, mittens, gloves, and stocking caps. She learned how to card, spin, and ply wool as a member of the Spinners and Weavers Guild, in Whitewater, WI. Ruth also lovingly knit Christmas stockings, hooded sweaters, blankets, a christening cap and gown and other projects for her grandchildren, like the pairs of white mittens she knit to go along with the book, The Mitten. She crocheted afghans for her children when they headed off to college. Later, she became part of a quilting circle and enjoyed meeting new friends in the process. She taught herself calligraphy and often hand-lettered certificates, recipe book title pages, and other projects.

Annually, Frank and Ruth made Christmas ornaments for each grandchild, a combination project for the woodworker and the painter/calligrapher.  In later years, she enjoyed reading, games, crafts, and the challenge of Sudoku puzzles as she tried to keep her brain sharp. With her family raised and the nest empty, Ruth doted on her pets – especially her Westies: Alex, Morley, and Sophie in turn. Hand fed, “noodling the goose,” as she would say. She sure loved those little “whities.” Throughout her life, Ruth often found herself in the role of caregiver. Each member of her immediate family required some level of support and care prior to their passing, followed in later years by her husband, Frank, after a series of injuries made mobility more difficult. They stuck together, through thick and thin, for better or worse, in sickness and in health. 

Ruth is survived by her son, Christopher K. Kelling (Laurie E. Lambert) of Morrow, OH; her daughter, Renée K. Barr (Charles B. Barr) of Fort Atkinson, WI; her grandchildren Molly C. Barr of Oakdale, MN, Kate L. Barr of Madison, WI, Owen L. Kelling of Cincinnati, OH, Claire E. Kelling of State College, PA, and Hannah E. Kelling of Lakewood, OH; her sisters-in-law Joyce Konkol of West Allis, WI and Gail Frasier of Lake Mills, WI; and many other nieces, nephews, and friends. She was survived by her husband of 62 years, Frank, by only about 48 hours. She was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Evelyn, her brother Kenneth G. Klemke, and other aunts, uncles, and friends; particularly in the Chicago area.

No visitation or funeral service will be held at this time due, in part, to the current public health situation, but also her personal wishes. Ruth indicated that she would like her ashes to be placed, at an appropriate time, with her mother, father and brother in the Evergreen Cemetery in Johnson Creek, WI.

In lieu of flowers, please consider: a donation in her name to an animal rescue organization or humane society; helping a neighbor; enjoying conversation with friends over a cup of coffee; remembering someone’s birthday with a card (and maybe a number of coins or dollar bills to match their age); eating some chocolate or other “forbidden” treat; sharing a heavy banana shake from Lauber’s or simply saying hello and waving to someone watching the world from a front window or stoop. Other expressions of sympathy can be sent to her daughter, Renée (620 W. Cramer Street) who will share them with the rest of Ruth’s family.

Thank you to Ruth’s (and Frank’s) friends and neighbors in Lynndale Subdivision, who watched over them and helped in any way they could; coffee friends at the red (or green) door and McDonald’s; members of the United Methodist Women’s (UMW) group from St. James United Methodist Church; staff of Home Helpers of Burlington, WI; so many fellow teachers, former students, and friends in East Troy and beyond, and finally, the many thoughtful, caring and dedicated employees at the Fairhaven Senior Residence who provided care, comfort and compassion during her stay.

Though they were both fiercely independent and somewhat private individuals, Ruth and Frank always shared their appreciation for the support and assistance they received from family members and friends. Ruth frequently asked Renée, “What would I do without you?” Well Ruthie, now your family is asking the same question…Ruth really missed her little dog and loved “Sophie Saturdays” when the pup came to visit Fairhaven, but also knew Sophie was comfortable and suitably spoiled by “her Renée” and family. In recent months, Ruth would often say, “what a mess,” as she just wanted to go back home and “start over,” but doubted if that would ever happen. While not exactly what Ruth meant, she is, once again, home.

Wilfred Ogden Roe Jr., 88, Whitewater, passed away on Thursday, December 17, 2020 at Fairhaven Senior Living

Wilfred Ogden Roe Jr., 88, Whitewater, passed away on Thursday, December 17, 2020 at
Fairhaven Senior Living in Whitewater, WI.

Wilfred was born on April 17, 1932 in Oconomowoc, WI to Wilfred Sr and Virginia (Howard)
Roe. He was a graduate of Whitewater City High School. On July 31, 1954 Wilfred married
Marie Graul. She preceded him in death on November 10, 2018. Wilfred operated a farm in
Whitewater and also was employed by the Whitewater Unified School District as a custodian.
He was very active with his children in 4-H and was a member of the Fairfield Grange. Wilfred
was an active member of the Congregational United Church of Christ in Whitewater.


He is survived by his children, Debra (Brett) Borden, Royal Oaks, CA, Denise (Russell) Riley,
Chandler, AZ, David (Janelle) Roe, Whitewater, WI, Diane (James) Holtz, Janesville, WI,
DeWayne (Cheryl) Roe, Chetek, WI, Dale (Tammy) Roe, Whitewater, WI, Douglas (Brenda)
Roe, Iron Ridge, WI, Donna (Brett) Banner, Oconomowoc, WI, Dawn Nell, Watertown, WI; 19
grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; sister Judy Triebold, Whitewater, WI; brothers Dean
(Colleen) Roe, Kewauskum, WI, and Donald (Mary) Roe, Monticello, WI. Brother-in-law Everett
(Roxana) Graul, Janesville, WI and sister-in-law Evelyn (Bill) Doan, Kearney, MO. He was
preceded in death by his parents and wife. A Private Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 9, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at the Congregational United Church of Christ in Whitewater. For those that wish to watch Wilfred’s service you may do so by a livestream provided by Nitardy Funeral Home. A link will be provided via Wilfred’s obituary on Nitardy Funeral Home’s website. Online condolences may also be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com Inurnment will be in the Hillside Cemetery, Whitewater, WI

James F. Carter age 86 of Darien, WI died December 17, 2020 in his home

James F. Carter age 86 of Darien, WI died Thursday December 17, 2020 in his home. He was born April 21, 1934 to the late Joseph F. and Helen A. (Nicholson) Carter of Ottawa, IL. Jim attended Ottawa High School. Jim met Myrna while delivering dry cleaning to her residence in 1954. Jim later admitted “she was the prettiest girl he’d ever seen, who answered the door in her shorty pajamas!” He married Myrna Rae Loeb on in 1954 in Ottawa, IL. Jim was a member of First United Methodist Church in Whitewater and served as a Trustee for many years. He worked at GM from 1957 as a pipefitter until his retirement 35 years later in 1992. Jim was also a member of the Beloit Rifle Club and the UAW. He enjoyed blacksmithing, woodworking, welding, hunting, fishing, cards and competing in the pool league. Jim was an avid Brewer and Packer fan. He also enjoyed a brandy old fashion with olives!

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Myrna Carter; two sons, James S. (Wendy) Carter and Gregory A. (Linda) Carter; a daughter, Renae S. (Terry) Boydston; his grandchildren, Steven, Rhiannon (Ben), Michael (Caroline), Aron, Ryan (Jenny), Megan (Noah), Kohldon (Hilary), Cassie, and Callie; his great grandchildren, Evey, Jackson, Keenan, Elly Moon, Verity, Preslie, Phoenix, and Macy; his sister, Dorothy Murray; his sister in law, Karen Loeb; his faithful little buddy, Yody and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, two sisters and several brothers in law.

The family would like to thank Agrace Hospice for the care they gave Jim. He was able to spend his final days in the house he built overlooking the Turtle Creek.

Jim’s Private Funeral Service in the BRIAN MARK FUNERAL HOME, 504 Milwaukee has been held. His private family burial took place in Emerald Grove Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First United Methodist Church of Whitewater, WI. Please share a memory or a condolence with the Carter family on our website.

BRIAN MARK FUNERAL & CREMATION CARE
504 Milwaukee Road, Clinton   362-2000
www.brianmarkfh.com

Pasquale “Pat” Castelvecchi, 90, Whitewater, passed away on Thursday, December 17, 2020

Pasquale “Pat” Castelvecchi, 90, Whitewater, passed away on Thursday, December 17, 2020.

Pat was born on March 9, 1930 in Chicago, IL to Nello and Francis (Plattis) Castelvecchi. He was a Chicago man through and through and enjoyed watching the Bears and the Cubs. Pat loved golfing, boating and spending time at his vacation home in Naples, FL with his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife Sophia; daughter Geralyn (Mike) Stewart; son Thomas Castelvecchi; grandchildren Dana Traynere, Austin Castelvecchi, Joelle Traynere; many nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Nello and John Castelvecchi.

There are no services planned at this time.

Nitardy Funeral Home, Whitewater is assisting the family. Condolences may be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Betty (M) Sanders (Farrar), 89 of Whitewater, passed peacefully to eternal life on December 15, 2020 at Glenwood, Mulberry Memory Care

Betty (M) Sanders (Farrar), 89 of Whitewater, passed peacefully to eternal life on December 15, 2020 at Glenwood, Mulberry Memory Care in Whitewater, WI.  Betty Mae was born on May 20, 1931 in Chicago, IL to Russell and Genevieve Farrar (Mitchell). Betty Mae was a devoted loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

Betty was a Bookkeeper for Chaney Tire Service in Darien, WI 

She loved tending to and sharing her flowers and caring for her birds and kitties. She enjoyed crocheting and playing the organ, loved and collected Pandas and was an avid puzzler for many years.  Betty was a longtime member of First United Methodist Church of Whitewater.

Betty is survived by her three daughters: Darlene (Jack) Gill of Spring Grove, IL; Holly (Everett) Smith of Whitewater, WI; April (John) Munson of West Bend, WI; and one son, Eric (Mary) Hayden of Beloit, WI.  She is also survived by her granddaughter, Barbara (Shannon) Smith-Hicks; her great-granddaughters, Trinity and Aviva Smith-Hicks, nephews and nieces and her very special friend Bob.

She was preceded in death by her daughter Shelly, parents, Russell and Genevieve, two brothers, Russ and Bill, and nephew Rusty.

A Private Family Celebration of life will be held at a later date.

The family would like to say a special Thank You to the entire staff at Glenwood, Mulberry Memory Care and Rainbow Hospice for their exceptional loving, kind and considerate care. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to First United Methodist Church of Whitewater or Touched by a Paw of Whitewater.