Life Events

On January 5, 2020, Karl John Skindingsrude, 62, peacefully went home to be with the Lord

On January 5, 2020, Karl John Skindingsrude, 62, peacefully went home to be with the Lord. Earth lost a great man and Heaven gained quite the entertainer.

He was born in Fort Atkinson, WI on April 28,1957 to Russell and Ann Skindingsrude.  He displayed a love for cars (and anything with a motor) from an early age, knowing every make and model on the road. His happy childhood included working in the family businesses, Skindingsrude Furniture Store and Skindingsrude Funeral Home, both in Whitewater, WI. Graduating from Whitewater High School in 1975, he went to work at the Hawthorne Mellody dairy plant in his hometown. After moving to Reedsburg, WI, Karl worked deliveries and the parts counter at Hartje Implement. After a one week trip out west, Karl heard the call of the mountains. At 24, he packed his GMC pickup and drove west, settling in Columbia Falls, MT. Continuing his extreme work ethic, he found a job the next day at Courtesy Motors in Whitefish, resulting in his long and successful career in parts. He became co-owner of NAPA Auto Parts in Columbia Falls in 1992.  He “turned in his keys” in 2013, retiring to enjoy life and time with family and friends.

Karl John Skindingsrude

Everyone knows that Karl loved anything that used gasoline! However, his love for people, staying in touch with friends old and new, making people smile, remembering faces, names, and facts about YOU, and making others feel special was his hobby and personal calling. His commitment to others included being a Lifetime Blood Donor.  His extreme contribution to the Columbia Falls community earned him countless citizen achievement awards. His instantly recognizable voice resounded through the radio making locally famous the slogan…NAPA NAPA NAPA and cheering on the Wildcats with winning pride. If you didn’t know Karl, you didn’t live in Columbia Falls. Karl will truly be missed…

Karl loved Nascar before it became popular and enjoyed trips to Florida for the Daytona 500.  He participated in 4×4 clubs, taking photos for memories on film, playing tour guide, and traveling to class reunions in Whitewater. His greatest achievement and highlight of his life were his daughters, Keshia Jo and Karly Jean.   Every heartbeat was an expression of love for his girls…and then his grandchildren, Noeley, Harper, Kingston, Deacon and baby Clarke. We will miss you, Dad…Grandpa…

Karl is preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Ann Skindingsrude, as well as his paternal and maternal grandparents. He is survived by his beloved daughters, Keshia (Christopher) Fisher of Coram, MT, and Karly Skindingsrude of Columbia Falls, MT; sister, Krista (Harry) Davis of Janesville, WI; brothers, Kirk (Mindy) Skindingsrude of Eagle River, WI and Eddie (Becky) Skindingsrude of Whitewater, WI; his grandchildren Noeley, Harper, Kingston, Deacon, and Clarke Fisher of Coram, MT; aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews; and an unknown but large number of loving friends.

Join his family in celebrating his life at Columbia Falls High School gymnasium at 1 p.m., Sunday, January 26, 2020. A private burial is being held.  

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that gifts be sent payable to: Karly Skindingsrude (memo: Karl Skindingsrude’s Memorial Fund) PO Box 130139 Coram MT 59913 or Freedom Bank, P.O. Box 2076, Columbia Falls, MT 59912. A donation to his community will be done at a later date in his honor.

Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls, Montana is caring for Karl’s family.

https://www.hungryhorsenews.com/breaking_news/20200109/karl_skindingsrude_the_voice_of_columbia_falls_passes_away

Dorothy Louise Nelson, 86, of Whitewater passed away on Monday, January 6, 2020.

Dorothy Louise Nelson, 86, of Whitewater passed away on Monday, January 6, 2020  at Fairhaven Retirement Community.

Dorothy was born on January 26, 1934 to Harold W. Trewyn and Blanche Louise Zimmerman. She was a graduate of College High in 1951 and remained close friends with many from her small class.  Dorothy married Lawrence F. Nelson, M.D. in 1955 and together they had 3 children, Lori, Ryan and Lynn.  She was the devoted longtime secretary for the Congregational United Church of Christ in Whitewater. 

Dorothy was a world-traveler; her photo albums are replete with pictures and mementos from her many adventures with family and her best friend, Donna Stevenson. 

Survivors include her children, Lori Nelson-Schmidt, Whitewater, Ryan Nelson, Bellingham, WA and Lynn Miller, Fort Atkinson. Grandchildren include Megan (Schmidt) Milgrim, Anthony Schmidt, Kelli Miller, and Annie Nelson. Dorothy is also survived by one brother, Ron Trewyn (Marcia) of Manhattan, KS. 

Dorothy is preceded in death by her parents and sister, Nancy (Trewyn) Prosser.

A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, January 14, 2020 at the Congregational United Church of Christ in Whitewater, WI. Visitation will take place from 3 p.m. until the time of services at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Fairhaven Retirement Community in Whitewater.

Nitardy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Lori Ann Turner, 55, of Whitewater passed away unexpectedly on Monday, December 9, 2019 (Updated on 1/8/20 with revised arrangements.)

Lori Ann Turner, 55 of Whitewater, WI, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, December 9, 2019 at her home in Whitewater. She was born July 1, 1964 in Beloit, WI, the daughter of Larry and Carlene (Ast) Summers. Lori graduated from South Beloit High School and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from University of Wisconsin Madison. She was an adventurer and free spirit as she was a foreign exchange student to Turkey, traveled to Africa and did a walking tour of England. Lori served in the Peace Corps. in the Dominican Republic. She was an avid gardener and a regular produce vendor at the Whitewater Farmer’s Market. Lori participated in a Farmer’s exchange program with South America. Lori was a very giving, hardworking and talented person who could accomplish anything she set her mind to. She not only enjoyed cooking but was an excellent chef and loved trying new cuisines from around the world.

Lori was a loving and devoted mother and daughter, who will be deeply missed by her daughter, Katherine “Katie” Kapp, mother, Carlene Summers, brother, Jeffrey (Renee) Summers, father of their daughter, Andrew (Amy Naish) Kapp, beloved companion, Nigel Turner, her nieces and nephews, many extended family members, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Larry.

Celebration of Lori’s Life will be held 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 11, 2020 at Haase-Lockwood & Associates Funeral Home, 730 N Wisconsin St., Elkhorn, WI.  Memorials may be made in Lori’s name to: Touched by a Paw Cat Shelter, 182 W. Main Street, Whitewater, WI 53190.  Online guestbook at www.haaselockwoodfhs.com. Haase-Lockwood & Associates Funeral Homes and Crematory completed arrangements for Lori’s Family.  

Charles (Cork) Howard Boelkow, age 76, moved on to his heavenly home on Sunday, January 5, 2020

Charles (Cork) Howard Boelkow, age 76, moved on to his heavenly home on Sunday, January 5, 2020, surrounded by his family and friends. Charles was born on November 16, 1943, in Elkhorn, WI the son of Frederick and Carol (Longstaff) Boelkow. Charles married Bonnie L. Bittner on July 14, 1962. He was the owner of Belco Construction and Lima Concrete and a member of Local 344 Carpenter’s Union. He worked his entire life in the construction trade and retired in 2003.

Cork enjoyed hunting, shooting sports, fishing, racing snowmobiles, and building with his hands. He was a regular at the morning social circle at the local restaurant where he liked spending time discussing current events with lifelong friends. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who enjoyed spending time with his family. He was especially involved with his children and his grandchildren who were his pride and joy. Cork was actively involved in his church. He was a Scoutmaster in the Boy Scouts, Youth Group leader, and a 4-H leader for many years.

Cork is survived by his four children Robert (Colleen) Boelkow of Hartford, WI; Randy (Michele) Boelkow of Cudahy, WI; Charles Jr. (Donna) Boelkow of Milwaukee, WI; and Rebecca (Michael) Matteson of Whitewater, WI and his eight grandchildren Jacqueline, Meghan, Matthew, Mitchell, Jacob, Brett, Abigail, and Makenna. Cork is also survived by his sister Patricia (Donn) Renning of Tucson, AZ; sister Nancy (Morton) Hertel of Brookfield, WI; cousin Donn (Barb) Renning of Madison,WI; Sister-in-law Katie (Fred) Boelkow Walker; and many other family members and friends. Charles was preceded in death by wife Bonnie, parents Frederick and Carol, brother Frederick (Katie) Edward Boelkow Jr., and brother-in-law Donn Wesley Renning. In lieu of flowers a memorial donation can be made to Rainbow Hospice, Johnson Creek, WI.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 9, 2020 at 12:00 p.m. at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 N. Newcomb Street, Whitewater, WI with Rev. Jerald Wendt officiating. Burial will follow at the Richmond Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. 

Scott A. Astin, age 66, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2019

Scott A. Astin, age 66, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2019.

Born in Fort Atkinson on June 21, 1953 to Albert and Ruth (nee Foelker) Astin, Scott is survived by his beloved wife Georgianne ‘Tutty’ (nee Lenardos), loving son Andrew, brother Charles (Barb), brother-in-law Robert Kraiss, sister-in-law Evie Lenardos, nephews Steven (Sandra) Zach and Justin Astin and many cousins and friends.

Scott A. Astin

During his retirement he enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, traveling, and especially vacationing in Gulf Shores, AL. Something very near and dear to his heart was the Brewer Community Foundation. Scott is known for his compassion, kindness, love, and above all his sense of humor.

There will be a gathering at Krause Funeral Home, 21600 West Capitol Drive, Brookfield, Wisconsin  on Monday, January 6th from 10 a.m. until time of Memorial Service at 11:30 a.m., with a celebration of Life, to follow, at Alioto’s Restaurant on Mayfair Road. In lieu of flowers, memorials appreciated to the Brewer Community Foundation, One Brewers Way Milwaukee, WI 53214 or a charity of your choice.

Krause Funeral Homes and Cremation Services
(414) 464-4640

Jeffery Evans Nelson, 70, of Milton, passed away on December 10, 2019

Jeffery Evans Nelson
December 2, 1947-December 10, 2019

Jeffery Nelson, 70, of Milton, passed away at Oak Park Place of Janesville with loved ones by his side. He was born in Frankfort, IL to Marvin and Naomi Nelson. The family came to Wisconsin and settled in Whitewater from Indiana in 1952. Jeff then graduated from Fort Atkinson H.S. In 1966 and the following year was drafted into the United States Army, serving in Germany during the Vietnam War.

Jeffery Evans Nelson

Jeff became a plumber for Bryan Nelson Plbg. And later had a partnership with his nephew Brent under J & B Nelson Plbg out of Milton.

All the Nelson family, including Jeff, loved to play cards and he especially enjoyed golfing and bowling, having a “300” game once. Jeff could also be found heading to a casino to gamble when looking for something to do.

Jeff is survived by a sister, Sherry Plucinski and brother, Wesley Nelson both of Elkhorn and sisters-in-law Joan Nelson and Jeanette Nelson-Milleson, along with many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews that he was quite close to. Those who preceded him in death were both his parents, his brothers Dale and Bryan, sister Karen Dinsmore, and brother-in-law Robert Plucinski.

The family wishes to thank Agrace Hospice of Janesville for helping with Jeff’s care near the end.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 12, 2020 at The Real MacCoys, N1431 County Rd N, Whitewater, WI 53190.  Albrecht Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Milton is assisting the family with arrangements.

Victor F. Shober, age 94, formerly of Whitewater, passed away Sunday, December 29, 2019 in Appleton

Victor F. Shober, age 94, formerly of Whitewater, WI, passed away Sunday, December 29, 2019 in Appleton, WI.

Victor was born on July 14, 1925 in Monroe, WI. He spent his early life in Southeastern Wisconsin and Whitewater with his parents, Harry O. and Martha L. (Wolfe) Shober. He graduated from College High and was inducted into the Army Air Corp on October 5, 1943. He served with the 8th Fighter Group in the South Pacific during WWII until he was honorably discharged January 6, 1946. He was a member of the VFW.

On June 12, 1948 Victor was united in marriage to Lorena May Adams at the Whitewater Bible Church.

Following their marriage Victor went to work for Hawthorne Melody Dairy. After completing his course work in Radio and TV electronics at the Illinois Technology Institute he opened his own TV and Appliance business, initially out of his home, then on West Main Street and eventually several locations. In the 60’s he branched out into real estate, fixing up properties for sale or rent, including apartment complexes, farms, recreational properties, motels, and hotels.

He and Lorena enjoyed gardening, hiking, boating, camping, and flying around the state to meet friends for breakfast. Victor loved flying and had various planes through the years such as Luscomes, Cessnas, and Pipers.

He had a deep faith, and church was a big part of his life. He was a past member of Whitewater Bible Church, Fond du lac Bible Church, and Bethel Baptist Church. Victor served as an elder, deacon, and trustee. He enjoyed attending missions and Bible conferences. He gave gifts to start churches in Southeast Asia and Central America and would supply pastors with reference libraries in Africa and a small Bible school and orphanage in Myanmar.

He is survived by his son Philip F. (Jan) Shober of Appleton, WI and family; Arnold F. (Megan) of Appleton, WI and their children Clara, Gretchen, Naomi, and Josiah; Alicia M (Brad) Coffey, Colorado Springs, CO and Charles (Kim) Shober of Fort Collins, CO.

Son Robert L. (Stacey) Shober and son Kolton Witkowski of Brandon, WI and Robert’s family, Jason W. (Sarah) Shober of North Fond du lac, WI and their children William, Dillan and Spencer; Mandy L. (Jeff) Griffin of North Fond du lac, WI and their children Haily, Eric, Hannah, and Tanner; and Robyn P. Shober of Lomira, WI and her children Carson, and Beau Grace.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Lorena.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 3, 2020 at 11 a.m. at the Nitardy Funeral Home 550 N. Newcomb St., Whitewater, WI. Friends may meet the family from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. He will be laid to rest at the Hillside Cemetery, Whitewater, WI.

Nitardy Funeral home is serving the family.
www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Rodney Dean Berg, 84, died peacefully at home on December 10th, 2019

Rodney Dean Berg, 84, died peacefully at home on December 10th with his wife and daughters at his side. He was born on December 13, 1934 to Chester and Irene (Sievert) Berg. He was raised on the family farm on Berg Road, Lima Township in Rock County. The second of four children, he went to Lima Center School then on to Whitewater High School graduating in 1952.

Rod joined the Wisconsin National Guard, then volunteered for the draft in 1954 and served in the army for two years in Europe. Upon his return, he worked on the family farm for a time, but his earlier interest in woodworking led him to the construction business in 1961.

Rodney Dean Berg

On June 24th, 1961 he married the former Donna Matson of Eagle River, WI. They made their home in Whitewater, raising two daughters there. He built an enviable reputation as a respected home builder, being hands on until he was 70 years old.

His building craft also led to building 2 boats, neighborhood floats and elaborate decorations for his daughter’s proms and homecoming dances. These included a stagecoach, carousel and paddle wheel boat to name a few. Always a car enthusiast, he built motorized cars for his kids as well as a Model T truck. In addition to all his building projects, Rod was a volunteer firefighter with the Whitewater Fire Department for 25 years, head usher and church council president at First English Lutheran Church. As Rod loved sports, he enjoyed playing softball, golf and went snowmobiling in his younger years. He then became a fan supporting UWW men’s athletics, and loved watching his daughters and later, granddaughter compete in sports. The family enjoyed many spring break trips to Florida.

Although he was known for his built in cabinetry in the homes he constructed, in retirement he took the furniture building to another level.  A charitable man, he donated many chests, often engraved, and other items to organizations around the community including Whitewater High School, UW-Whitewater, First English Lutheran Church, Milton FFA, Evansville FFA and even fundraisers for people he didn’t know. He was rewarded for some of this charity work when inducted into the UW-Whitewater Hall of Fame with the Distinguished Service Award in 2003.

Rod appreciated good music and enjoyed going to concerts. His interests ranged from ABBA to Engelbert, Tom Jones to Mickey Gilley and he looked forward to trips to Branson to see several entertainers in a few days’ time. 

Rod is survived by his wife of 58 years, Donna of Whitewater, daughter Brenda Lowry and only grandchild, Logan Lowry of Appleton, and daughter Sandra Miller of Fitchburg. He is further survived by his sister, Audrey Kaasa, Phoenix, AZ, brothers Alan (Barbara) Berg, Dacula, GA and Bill (Cindy) Berg, LaCrosse, WI.  Cousin, Robert (Mary) Berg, Oak Park, IL and Cousin through marriage, Diana Berg (Richard dec.), Oak Brook, IL. Sisters-in-law Lolita Kachel, Whitewater, Bunny (Rolf) Grimsrud, Superior and Mia Matson, Poway, CA. He had several nieces and nephews and had the pleasure of seeing many of them, as well as his three siblings, just this past September.  He was predeceased by his parents, Chet & Irene, father & mother-in-law, John and Laura Matson, brothers-in-law John Matson and David Kachel, cousin, Richard Berg and both sons-in-law, Judson Lowry and Matthew Miller.

Rod was most proud of his farming roots, his service to his country, and his attention to detail in his construction of homes and later furniture. He treasured his family, friends, and work partners over the years. He enjoyed weeknight visits to local watering holes to catch up with friends as well as dinner out on Saturday night. His favorite night of the year became the ‘Rod & Wally’s Warhawk Auction’ that he started with his late friend, Wally Schilberg, 24 years ago.

The family sincerely thanks the many friends, family and neighbors for their calls and visits these last several months. Thank you to Drs. Kontny and Porter, and the nurses at SSM Health Oncology in Fort Atkinson for your tremendous care and concern for Rod. Many thanks to Agrace Hospice Care for helping our family keep dad at home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First English Lutheran Church or the Whitewater Food Pantry.

Visitation will take place on Friday, January 3, 2020 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 N. Newcomb St., Whitewater, WI.  A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 4, 2020 at First English Lutheran Church, 401 W Main St, Whitewater, WI.  Visitation will take place on Saturday, January 4, 2020 from 10 a.m. until the time of services. 

Nitardy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

Teresa M. Messier, 59, passed away on December 14, 2019

Teresa M. Messier, 59, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of December 14, 2019, at the Rainbow Hospice Center in Johnson Creek, with her loved ones by her side. Terry was born in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, on October 31, 1960 to Blaine and Shirley Messier. From that time forward, Terry, who was one of her Grandma Messier’s favorite grandchildren, acquired many nicknames, one of which was “pumpkin.”

Terry was considered a tomboy during her younger years, and one time broke her arm while using her swing set as a piece of gymnastics equipment. Terry had a great interest in cars, and as a High School student, Terry began working at Frawley Oil in Whitewater. After she graduated from Whitewater High School in 1979, Terry continued to work for the family she had become so close to until 2015, when she was diagnosed with an uncommon form of Parkinson’s disease, and was no longer able to work. Terry was a homebody, and took great pride in her cooking. Terry had an insatiable sweet tooth. To receive a plate of her homemade cookies was a treat indeed. Terry also enjoyed spending time with her many close friends.

Terry was preceded in death by her father, Blaine Messier, and her very dear friend, Vern Koch. Terry is survived by her life partner, Ron Thomas of Fort Atkinson; her Mother, Shirley Messier of Whitewater; two sisters, Michele Smith (Bill Smith) of Whitewater; and Karen Messier (Mark Simdon) of Fort Atkinson; and one niece, Alaina Smith (Jason Barajas) of Whitewater. Terry is also survived by numerous friends who have supported her immensely during her illness.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Rainbow Hospice and Visiting Angels. A special thank you is also extended to Bud Jones of Whitewater, who was instrumental in transporting Terry to her numerous Doctor appointments in Madison, and to Carol Messier of Fort Atkinson, who spent countless hours helping Terry with every-day tasks. The volunteers made dealing with her debilitating disease much easier to bear.

Nitardy Funeral Home of Fort Atkinson is assisting the family. Per Terry’s request, there will be no formal service. A small graveside burial service will be held on Friday, December 20, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Melendys Prairie Cemetery in Eagle, Wisconsin.

Marilyn (Mike) Taylor (born Marilyn Jane Wiemer) died on Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Marilyn (Mike) Taylor (born Marilyn Jane Wiemer) died surrounded by family on Tuesday, November 26, 2019. She was born in Burlington, WI on March 19, 1932 to Carolyn and Raymond Wiemer. At 18, she married her high school sweetheart, Merwyn (Mert) Taylor and moved to the family farm where they raised five children. They were later blessed with 16 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren all of whom she loved dearly.

Marilyn loved refinishing furniture, gardening, and sewing, but most of all quilting. It was her passion. When she ran out of children, their spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to give her quilts to, she donated them to people she never met and would never know. She was thrilled to see photos of Columbian children waking up from surgery wrapped in one of her quilts.

She was a quiet woman of great patience, gentle kindness, and self-giving. We are all richer for her loving example.

Marilyn is survived by her husband, Mert, sister, Joyce Zimmerman, children, Dianne (Dick) Dunham, Sally (Steve) Watson, Donna (Scott) Allenstein, Steve (Chelli) Taylor, Frank (Lisa) Taylor, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Services will be held Saturday, December 7 at Nitardy Funeral Home, Whitewater. Visitation begins at 10:00 with service at 11:00. Burial will follow at the LaGrange cemetery.

Memorials can be made to the Milwaukee Medical Mission.

Special thanks for the kindness of the emergency room staff at Mercy Hospital, Janesville.

Nitardy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

www.nitardyfuneralhome.com